Best Luxury Compact SUVs
#2
The RDX is a small pup running with some big dawgs. Woof!!!
#4
10th Gear
I drove the I-Pace...very nice and blindingly quick. But then again, for $80k+, it should be. Honestly at that point I'd get a Tesla.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
#5
Instructor
I drove the I-Pace...very nice and blindingly quick. But then again, for $80k+, it should be. Honestly at that point I'd get a Tesla.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
#6
Three Wheelin'
I drove the I-Pace...very nice and blindingly quick. But then again, for $80k+, it should be. Honestly at that point I'd get a Tesla.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
#7
Instructor
Feeling better now...
Everytime I read a good review, I feel validated as a consumer. (Joking of course)
Seriously fatigued about reading about the TTI. Every infotainment unit in this modern era needs a personal tutorial. Most high end dealerships have specific persons in house just to deal with infotainment training and support.
TTI is no harder than other non-touch screen interfaces. Now with improved software, system works as advertised for me. As we have all have found, not the fasted OS, or the most reliable coding. But the touchpad and it’s concepts work.
Last edited by Marino Moutafis; 03-02-2019 at 01:27 PM.
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#8
I drove the I-Pace...very nice and blindingly quick. But then again, for $80k+, it should be. Honestly at that point I'd get a Tesla.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
Also, I'd be very wary of actually buying any electric vehicle but rather lease them. The moment battery technology makes even a modest leap, the residual value of the car will plummet. They are coming out with battery improvements almost daily.
I'm going to give the Q5 another look. When I sat in it, it didn't feel very comfy but I liked everything else about it.
When it's time for me to purchase I'm going to have a very very hard time choosing between the Q5 and RDX. Maybe Q5 for me and RDX for the wife!
#9
Drifting
Audi Q5 S-line with the virtual dashboard? Yeah, I'm sure it's nice. But then you might want to cross-shop a Porsche Macan. And then you might want the Turbo or the GT-S. And before you know it, you're at 70-80 kilobucks and climbing.
This game has been played as long as there have been cars. The German brands have price creep down to a science. More like price gallop.
This game has been played as long as there have been cars. The German brands have price creep down to a science. More like price gallop.
#10
Instructor
Love love love the new Q5! It drives soooooooooo well. Granted my loaner for the week was an S-Line model. It handled SO well, and the acceleration was downright effortless. Felt like I was driving a small go kart. The one issue I have with it (and pretty much ALL Audi products) is the seats adjust in this weird way. Like you can't raise it high enough or angle the back side low while keeping the front end up. I was still comfortable for hours though. I loved it. Every single button is amazing! Satisfying heavy click to EVERYTHING! That digital dashboard is also SO COOL!!! It's absolutely a show stopper!
When it's time for me to purchase I'm going to have a very very hard time choosing between the Q5 and RDX. Maybe Q5 for me and RDX for the wife!
When it's time for me to purchase I'm going to have a very very hard time choosing between the Q5 and RDX. Maybe Q5 for me and RDX for the wife!
I am spoiled. This AM I drove the RDX. This afternoon I took the GLC.
Overall, happy with both cars. One is fun, the other more fun.
#11
Here is the Acura concept from 2016. You can see some elements already in the new RDX. I would expect the digital dash in the next TLX or MDX.
#12
Audi Q5 S-line with the virtual dashboard? Yeah, I'm sure it's nice. But then you might want to cross-shop a Porsche Macan. And then you might want the Turbo or the GT-S. And before you know it, you're at 70-80 kilobucks and climbing.
This game has been played as long as there have been cars. The German brands have price creep down to a science. More like price gallop.
This game has been played as long as there have been cars. The German brands have price creep down to a science. More like price gallop.
I'm keeping an eye on Mercedes as well for digital dashboards. The MBUX looks really good. It has a touchpad, steering wheel touch button and the screens are still touch capable. This gives users a choice in how they control everything plus voice control. The new GLE is pricey but if I can limit the options to just a few things I absolutely want then it might be doable later in the year.
Here is the Acura concept from 2016. You can see some elements already in the new RDX. I would expect the digital dash in the next TLX or MDX.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmUE4YKPxUo
Here is the Acura concept from 2016. You can see some elements already in the new RDX. I would expect the digital dash in the next TLX or MDX.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmUE4YKPxUo
I always like when they give you the option to use either the touchscreen or a knob...etc. Granted in many vehicles the nav is too far away for that so it's pointless. I definitely definitely expect the next gen MDX to gave the virtual dash and I'm pretty sure the updated 2022 RDX will also have it!
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Comfy (03-03-2019)
#13
Instructor
I'm keeping an eye on Mercedes as well for digital dashboards. The MBUX looks really good. It has a touchpad, steering wheel touch button and the screens are still touch capable. This gives users a choice in how they control everything plus voice control. The new GLE is pricey but if I can limit the options to just a few things I absolutely want then it might be doable later in the year.
Here is the Acura concept from 2016. You can see some elements already in the new RDX. I would expect the digital dash in the next TLX or MDX.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmUE4YKPxUo
Here is the Acura concept from 2016. You can see some elements already in the new RDX. I would expect the digital dash in the next TLX or MDX.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmUE4YKPxUo
The dynamic mode interface and pass through center council seems to be staples of the styling.
#15
The days of VW's being affordable Audis is essentially over. There's still the GTI, and the Arteon shows promise (if it ever arrives), but the rest of VW's US lineup aims no higher than mediocrity. We'll see how they do with the upcoming ID family of EV's, but it's hard to be optimistic.
#16
It's going to take more than a tune to turn the Tiguan into anything resembling a Q3, let alone a Q5. Such a disappointing vehicle.
The days of VW's being affordable Audis is essentially over. There's still the GTI, and the Arteon shows promise (if it ever arrives), but the rest of VW's US lineup aims no higher than mediocrity. We'll see how they do with the upcoming ID family of EV's, but it's hard to be optimistic.
The days of VW's being affordable Audis is essentially over. There's still the GTI, and the Arteon shows promise (if it ever arrives), but the rest of VW's US lineup aims no higher than mediocrity. We'll see how they do with the upcoming ID family of EV's, but it's hard to be optimistic.
#18
Instructor
I just priced out a Q5 that would match my RDX: $57,490. Since I wanted beige seats, ventilation is not an available option on the Q5. The cargo space is 5 cu.ft. less and it has lower hp. It is made in Mexico and the Audi CEO is in jail, all of which confirms choosing the RDX is a no-brainer, which is confirmed in this USNews ranking. Yesterday in a rare instance of my inattention while driving in the rain, I put on my turn indicator to change lanes to the right. My RDX immediately warned me with a sound I couldn't ignore that there was a car there. I have never felt safer in any other vehicle.
#19
I just priced out a Q5 that would match my RDX: $57,490. Since I wanted beige seats, ventilation is not an available option on the Q5. The cargo space is 5 cu.ft. less and it has lower hp. It is made in Mexico and the Audi CEO is in jail, all of which confirms choosing the RDX is a no-brainer, which is confirmed in this USNews ranking. Yesterday in a rare instance of my inattention while driving in the rain, I put on my turn indicator to change lanes to the right. My RDX immediately warned me with a sound I couldn't ignore that there was a car there. I have never felt safer in any other vehicle.
#20
Drifting
Join Date: Apr 2018
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Whether this or that is “worth” the extra money is purely up to the decider. To me, the stuff in the Advance was not worth it over the Tech. If the Advance had folding mirrors, it would have been worth it.
So, clearly, the extra cost for the Q5, X3, and GLC are worth the extra cost to many people. Just look around, and you see them everywhere.
So, clearly, the extra cost for the Q5, X3, and GLC are worth the extra cost to many people. Just look around, and you see them everywhere.
#21
I just priced out a Q5 that would match my RDX: $57,490. Since I wanted beige seats, ventilation is not an available option on the Q5. The cargo space is 5 cu.ft. less and it has lower hp. It is made in Mexico and the Audi CEO is in jail, all of which confirms choosing the RDX is a no-brainer, which is confirmed in this USNews ranking. Yesterday in a rare instance of my inattention while driving in the rain, I put on my turn indicator to change lanes to the right. My RDX immediately warned me with a sound I couldn't ignore that there was a car there. I have never felt safer in any other vehicle.
https://www.autoblog.com/2018/05/31/...00-volvo-xc60/
#22
Exactly, I just bought a XC60 T8 and very happy!! A no-brainer for each of us is different..pretty boring if we all drove the same cars.....then all we would have left to discuss is what oil to sue and reg vs premium gas!
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Comfy (03-03-2019)
#23
Instructor
[QUOTE=fiatlux;16392160]Regarding the cargo space number, it's actually a fair bit of gamesmanship on the part of Acura marketing. They measured it by including the rear seat footwell and moving the front passenger seat all the way forward. If you measure it the same way all the other manufacturers measure, the cargo space is actually 59 cu. ft which is smaller than almost all of its competitors.
I'm talking cargo space behind the second row of seats. This is what is important to us for everyday errands and when there are 4-5 people in the RDX. The Q5 has 25, the RDX 30.
I'm talking cargo space behind the second row of seats. This is what is important to us for everyday errands and when there are 4-5 people in the RDX. The Q5 has 25, the RDX 30.
#24
Instructor
I'm glade you had the extra $30K. Where was your XC60 made?
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Comfy (03-03-2019)
#25
Extra $30,000 how do u figure? MSRP was 69260,I got it for j$60260.....Plus I get a $5000 federal tax credit on my 2019 taxes and will get another $1100 back from Maryland., so brings it down to 54000, and the RDX I was quoted on at the end of Oct was $44500....So $9750 difference! I can charge it for free at work.....Yes I will never recover that $9750 nor was I looking to. It was made in China....which I have no issues with....Actually a guy on SwedeSpeed posted a XC60 made in Sweden and another he bought 6 months later, which was built in China....and the 1 in China had better alignment....Vehicles are made to specs....And the Chinese people I know are much smarter than I...yes not hard to do. RDX is a very nice vehicle and if it wasn't for the wife, I prob would have had 1.....We all have our likes/dislikes
#26
Burning Brakes
#27
Drifting
Regarding the cargo space number, it's actually a fair bit of gamesmanship on the part of Acura marketing. They measured it by including the rear seat footwell and moving the front passenger seat all the way forward. If you measure it the same way all the other manufacturers measure, the cargo space is actually 59 cu. ft which is smaller than almost all of its competitors.
https://www.autoblog.com/2018/05/31/...00-volvo-xc60/
https://www.autoblog.com/2018/05/31/...00-volvo-xc60/
#29
AZ Community Team
Join Date: May 2014
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Cars.usnews is one of my top sites to check vehicle ranking, reliability, cost and safety. The fact that they use multiple sources to provide you the data makes the credible to me.
Acura RDX is definitely at top at the moment. At this price point, no competitor can beat it. The RDX got good look, amazing engine and pretty decent tech.
The sales numbers prove the success of RDX.
Acura RDX is definitely at top at the moment. At this price point, no competitor can beat it. The RDX got good look, amazing engine and pretty decent tech.
The sales numbers prove the success of RDX.
#30
My parents just picked up a Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring. It lacks a bit of power compared to the luxury compacts, but otherwise I think it actually stacks up pretty well particularly against the near luxury vehicles like the RDX and Buick. It has pretty much every feature I would want, comfortable, handles well and looks good. Unless you are planning on drag racing or canyon carving, it has plenty of power too. It appears they have a turbo GT Reserve and Signature models out above the GT as well that will probably give the Luxury brands even more headaches.
#31
Instructor
"Extra $30,000 how do u figure? MSRP was 69260,I got it for j$60260"
When my wife and I first looked at the XC-60 a year ago, the dealer had a T8 in the showroom at $82, so I apologize for not being up to date. That day the Volvo set the standard for what my wife wanted for an interior, which set the bar very high. When I first sat in the RDX six months later, I knew the comfort and ergonomics would make her very happy (she still would have liked the massage feature, however). That got me off the hook for spending an additional $10K. I love the look of the front end of the XC60 and would be proud to own one, but $52K was my limit. When I found out last July that the Volvo was made in China, it took away the dream of getting the XC-60. We all have many things made in China, but I don't think I'll ever choose the China option when an American made product will give me the equivalent satisfaction at a lower cost. The 17 mile electric range of the T8 eliminated any thought of considering it since our average driving distance is much more than that.
When my wife and I first looked at the XC-60 a year ago, the dealer had a T8 in the showroom at $82, so I apologize for not being up to date. That day the Volvo set the standard for what my wife wanted for an interior, which set the bar very high. When I first sat in the RDX six months later, I knew the comfort and ergonomics would make her very happy (she still would have liked the massage feature, however). That got me off the hook for spending an additional $10K. I love the look of the front end of the XC60 and would be proud to own one, but $52K was my limit. When I found out last July that the Volvo was made in China, it took away the dream of getting the XC-60. We all have many things made in China, but I don't think I'll ever choose the China option when an American made product will give me the equivalent satisfaction at a lower cost. The 17 mile electric range of the T8 eliminated any thought of considering it since our average driving distance is much more than that.
#32
"Extra $30,000 how do u figure? MSRP was 69260,I got it for j$60260"
When my wife and I first looked at the XC-60 a year ago, the dealer had a T8 in the showroom at $82, so I apologize for not being up to date. That day the Volvo set the standard for what my wife wanted for an interior, which set the bar very high. When I first sat in the RDX six months later, I knew the comfort and ergonomics would make her very happy (she still would have liked the massage feature, however). That got me off the hook for spending an additional $10K. I love the look of the front end of the XC60 and would be proud to own one, but $52K was my limit. When I found out last July that the Volvo was made in China, it took away the dream of getting the XC-60. We all have many things made in China, but I don't think I'll ever choose the China option when an American made product will give me the equivalent satisfaction at a lower cost. The 17 mile electric range of the T8 eliminated any thought of considering it since our average driving distance is much more than that.
When my wife and I first looked at the XC-60 a year ago, the dealer had a T8 in the showroom at $82, so I apologize for not being up to date. That day the Volvo set the standard for what my wife wanted for an interior, which set the bar very high. When I first sat in the RDX six months later, I knew the comfort and ergonomics would make her very happy (she still would have liked the massage feature, however). That got me off the hook for spending an additional $10K. I love the look of the front end of the XC60 and would be proud to own one, but $52K was my limit. When I found out last July that the Volvo was made in China, it took away the dream of getting the XC-60. We all have many things made in China, but I don't think I'll ever choose the China option when an American made product will give me the equivalent satisfaction at a lower cost. The 17 mile electric range of the T8 eliminated any thought of considering it since our average driving distance is much more than that.
#33
Yeah looking at the lower trims of the Volvo, I'm not seeing that big of a difference in price with the RDX. They offer some interesting options, but those are things that aren't even a choice with the RDX so it's not really fair to say the Volvo is more expensive if you're including features you can't even get on the Acura.
#34
Yeah looking at the lower trims of the Volvo, I'm not seeing that big of a difference in price with the RDX. They offer some interesting options, but those are things that aren't even a choice with the RDX so it's not really fair to say the Volvo is more expensive if you're including features you can't even get on the Acura.
#35
Drifting
One of my top choices was the XC60, T5 FWD inscription. I obviously eliminated it, for a few reasons. The MSRP of the one (2019) I was considering was about $53k. They were offering it at a $6k discount online, before any negotiations.. But, it just didn't feel right to me. It was undoubtedly a nice car, but it was unexciting. Kinda like Lexus (but better looking) and Toyota. Felt more like an appliance than a true driver's kind of car. I just never felt like I wouldn't enjoy it for several years. After my last test drive in the XC60, I went directly to the Acura dealer for another test drive. That's when I knew for sure, while the Volvo, was a very nice car, the RDX was for me.
I have absolutely no regrets!
I have absolutely no regrets!
#36
Just picked up a BMW M340i (x3), and I gotta say its definitely the better buy over the RDX. Can't comment on the others, like F-Pace, but I would imagine it would be hard to top BMW's luxury, power and just overall build quality. Not to mention the unbelievable tech.
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
#37
Three Wheelin'
Just picked up a BMW M340i (x3), and I gotta say its definitely the better buy over the RDX. Can't comment on the others, like F-Pace, but I would imagine it would be hard to top BMW's luxury, power and just overall build quality. Not to mention the unbelievable tech.
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
#38
Drifting
Join Date: Apr 2018
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Just picked up a BMW M340i (x3), and I gotta say its definitely the better buy over the RDX. Can't comment on the others, like F-Pace, but I would imagine it would be hard to top BMW's luxury, power and just overall build quality. Not to mention the unbelievable tech.
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
#39
maybe 10 grand more, depending on the dealer of course. Ours' was considered a demo, with only 70km on it (44 miles) and we walked out with a killer deal. I even had the balls to negotiate further lol
#40
Instructor
Just picked up a BMW M340i (x3), and I gotta say its definitely the better buy over the RDX. Can't comment on the others, like F-Pace, but I would imagine it would be hard to top BMW's luxury, power and just overall build quality. Not to mention the unbelievable tech.
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
Just a FYI, the M340i is good for 355hp and 369ft/tq
That engine alone, puts this in a different class, more of a Sport-UV and Car-UV. Similar to the AMG, Polestar, Alfa, and Macan Turbo. Once you step past the $50k mark, one should receive a significant amount of performance and luxury compared to the RDX.