3G RDX vs Mazda CX-5 Turbo
12-29-2018, 08:43 PM
#81
Part of where the Mercedes, Lexus, Infiniti, and Acura brands are trying to differentiate is in customer experience at the dealership as well. I own a Mercedes and the 2019 RDX. Either dealer will pick up my car, take it in for service, wash it and bring it back to me. As another option, a loaner car is available no matter the service. The Lexus dealer in my area will pick your car up at the airport while you are on a trip, (no service required). They keep your car at their dealership, wash it and return it to the airport before you arrive, charging you for one day of airport parking only. These things come at an extra cost of the vehicle and service. But back to the perception, what is exclusive about paying less
, the whole reason luxury brands exist in my opinion, perceived value combined with status.Last edited by acuraada; 12-29-2018 at 08:46 PM.
12-29-2018, 11:09 PM
#82
That's dealerships in your area. My MB never did that unless I especially ask for it. Even then, it would depend on the wait time of my service. I don't go into dealership enough times to consider that as part of the "luxury" experience, rather, I consider not dealing with the dealership a luxury.
12-29-2018, 11:35 PM
#83
Every car company offers luxury! What’s luxury to you???
I believe we should focus on badge more than luxury. Everyone thinks MB is luxury but did you ever sit in a CLA or 3 series base?
Mazda can offer a lot of great options for reasonable price but it will remain Mazda. That’s all!
If people question Infiniti and Acura’s positioning as luxury brands, then for sure Mazda has no chance.
I believe we should focus on badge more than luxury. Everyone thinks MB is luxury but did you ever sit in a CLA or 3 series base?
Mazda can offer a lot of great options for reasonable price but it will remain Mazda. That’s all!
If people question Infiniti and Acura’s positioning as luxury brands, then for sure Mazda has no chance.
Thanks for the photos! I too think internally the CX-5 is just a bit smaller although the exterior looks more than just a tad. The stroller comparison also help confirm my suspicion that Acura raised the floor so there are enough undercarriage storage bins. In terms of space, the biggest disadvantage is the center seating where CX-5 is still raised in the middle flooring. However, CX-5 does have a reclining backseat and 40/20/40 split seats! The only other "luxury" item it misses it's the pano sunroof...
That's dealerships in your area. My MB never did that unless I especially ask for it. Even then, it would depend on the wait time of my service. I don't go into dealership enough times to consider that as part of the "luxury" experience, rather, I consider not dealing with the dealership a luxury.
I was merely comparing the luxury interior of XC60 since it was bought up. I mentioned before that CX-5's interior feels like the X3, definitely not luxury segment leader.
I agree that it won't embarrass itself pulling up next to NX, XT, or even a X3. I think most of us here researching and hunting RDX because it's a "value" luxury. Most of us would agree that RDX gives the German's a run for their money. I would argue that CX-5 gives the RDX a run for it's money.
We are in agreement here. In my earlier threads, I wholeheartedly endorse CX-5 as a car when cross-shopping RDX. The left brain "value" hunting that led us to RDX should also lead us to 2019 CX-5. To simply dismiss based on a "Mazda" brand would be acting the same as BMW/Audi folks dismissing Acura as a cross-shop.
I agree that it won't embarrass itself pulling up next to NX, XT, or even a X3. I think most of us here researching and hunting RDX because it's a "value" luxury. Most of us would agree that RDX gives the German's a run for their money. I would argue that CX-5 gives the RDX a run for it's money.
We are in agreement here. In my earlier threads, I wholeheartedly endorse CX-5 as a car when cross-shopping RDX. The left brain "value" hunting that led us to RDX should also lead us to 2019 CX-5. To simply dismiss based on a "Mazda" brand would be acting the same as BMW/Audi folks dismissing Acura as a cross-shop.
12-30-2018, 11:22 AM
#84
I guess it’s all about where our own personal snob level and definition of luxury starts and stops. The BMW forums have traditionally been full of posts debating their X3 vs. the Mercedes, F-Pace etc. and hardly a mention of the RDX. Ours is almost always about the merits of the RDX compared to the BMW Lexus etc. I think this is the first thread where the Mazda is considered as a worthy option but it’s hard to accept it into the “club”.
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securityguy (12-30-2018)
12-30-2018, 03:23 PM
#85
I guess it’s all about where our own personal snob level and definition of luxury starts and stops. The BMW forums have traditionally been full of posts debating their X3 vs. the Mercedes, F-Pace etc. and hardly a mention of the RDX. Ours is almost always about the merits of the RDX compared to the BMW Lexus etc. I think this is the first thread where the Mazda is considered as a worthy option but it’s hard to accept it into the “club”.
12-30-2018, 03:43 PM
#86
Thanks for the photos! I too think internally the CX-5 is just a bit smaller although the exterior looks more than just a tad. The stroller comparison also help confirm my suspicion that Acura raised the floor so there are enough undercarriage storage bins. In terms of space, the biggest disadvantage is the center seating where CX-5 is still raised in the middle flooring. However, CX-5 does have a reclining backseat and 40/20/40 split seats! The only other "luxury" item it misses it's the pano sunroof...
The next 2 years will be really interesting in this space - Mazda has said they are working on a new 2 row SUV that's between the CX-5 and CX-9 which will be built in North America. That car will almost exactly mirror the RDX's size and performance and likely starts with a premium trim.
12-30-2018, 06:22 PM
#87
Minor additional details I discovered: CX-5 is missing heated/memory mirrors. But it does have Android Auto over the RDX.
12-30-2018, 06:27 PM
#88
Burning Brakes
12-30-2018, 07:51 PM
#90
12-30-2018, 08:16 PM
#92
12-30-2018, 08:21 PM
#93
You're so right! Very first-world discussion here. Or maybe in Ancient Greece they debated "What is luxury?" LOL.
12-31-2018, 08:54 AM
#94
It is a bit ironic that Acura posters would have a bit of “snobbery” looking at Mazda as a below tier offering. Many if not the majority of people outside this forum look down upon Acura (many even with disdain). I’m not one of them but I can understand why. Most people do not consider Acura a luxury brand just a Honda with a beak. Just like many people consider Miatas to be a “hairdresser” car; neither stereotype being true.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
12-31-2018, 09:07 AM
#95
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It is a bit ironic that Acura posters would have a bit of “snobbery” looking at Mazda as a below tier offering. Many if not the majority of people outside this forum look down upon Acura (many even with disdain). I’m not one of them but I can understand why. Most people do not consider Acura a luxury brand just a Honda with a beak. Just like many people consider Miatas to be a “hairdresser” car; neither stereotype being true.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
But mazda is not luxury.
Now when people say Acura is not luxury, they have a problem. Acura offers everything that a mainstream brand offers. As someone mentioned, the owners of a Mercedes S class will say: 3 series BMW isn’t luxury lol!
i am very happy the way Mazda is handling their lineup, they are making great cars but they need to separate their luxury and non luxury. Just like Hyundai did.
12-31-2018, 02:53 PM
#96
It is a bit ironic that Acura posters would have a bit of “snobbery” looking at Mazda as a below tier offering. Many if not the majority of people outside this forum look down upon Acura (many even with disdain). I’m not one of them but I can understand why. Most people do not consider Acura a luxury brand just a Honda with a beak. Just like many people consider Miatas to be a “hairdresser” car; neither stereotype being true.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
I would just heed Acura owners from getting snooty as their is not much heritage or basis to stand upon given the lack of recent success outside of MDX/RDX.
With that being said, it doesn't matter how nice Mazdas have become Mazda is still a mainstream brand. That is a fact, no bias being added here. Thus it is a lower tier than Acura which is technically not a mainstream brand. Like I mentioned above, unfortunately a major part of car perception is the badge. It's why people drive base CLA's vs MUCH MUCH nicer fully loaded Mazda 6's for example.
12-31-2018, 03:51 PM
#97
Oh man, we're thinking the same thing - the lack of a hump in the back for the RDX (and CR-V) which every other competitor has is a really nice advantage for anyone looking to carry 3 in the back. The reclining backseat is neat but I didn't find it that useful. The pano sunroof on the RDX really brightens the car up - it's a shame Mazda couldn't make that upgrade but I suspect the cost (and more likely the resources) to re-engineer the roof to support it was too costly for this generation. Re: Understorage - I believe Acura was sorta forced into that because they added a couple big support beams into the floor to make the car more rigid so they couldn't make the floor of the trunk any lower. I really love the under storage though - would be great for jumper cables, diaper bags etc.
The next 2 years will be really interesting in this space - Mazda has said they are working on a new 2 row SUV that's between the CX-5 and CX-9 which will be built in North America. That car will almost exactly mirror the RDX's size and performance and likely starts with a premium trim.
The next 2 years will be really interesting in this space - Mazda has said they are working on a new 2 row SUV that's between the CX-5 and CX-9 which will be built in North America. That car will almost exactly mirror the RDX's size and performance and likely starts with a premium trim.
However, CX-5 sold in the US are mostly made in Japan. That does speak quality of assembly line. I hate to say it but I think the 2019 RDX has too many initial issues, buying one now is like playing Russian roulette, unless you are leasing. Hopefully the new year will bring more maturity to the finish product.
12-31-2018, 05:35 PM
#98
Instructor
Russian roulette? That seems a little overstated to me. I'm not much of a gambler, and I bought (not leased) a new RDX. I understand a new model may have an issue or two, but I'm not overly concerned.
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securityguy (12-31-2018)
12-31-2018, 09:26 PM
#99
01-01-2019, 10:47 AM
#100
I've got to disagree that a major re-design automatically brings problems. I bought a new 3rd generation Toyota 4-Runner in 1996, which was the first year for that design. I still have it and it has never been in the shop for anything other than routine maintenance. And, everything works and it looks like new.
01-01-2019, 02:44 PM
#101
I've got to disagree that a major re-design automatically brings problems. I bought a new 3rd generation Toyota 4-Runner in 1996, which was the first year for that design. I still have it and it has never been in the shop for anything other than routine maintenance. And, everything works and it looks like new.
01-01-2019, 06:52 PM
#102
01-01-2019, 09:23 PM
#103
01-04-2019, 04:12 PM
#104
Mazda was going to roll out a premium brand in the 90's. Amati Cars. And they backtracked and marketed the first car that was going to be an Amati in the US as a Mazda: Mazda Millenia.
01-04-2019, 04:52 PM
#105
Ha, this post certainly jogged some memory! The Miller cycle engine!! So far by talking to past/recent owners of Mazdas (in RL) they seem to vouch for its reliability. Although few have moved on to more luxurious cars since, they did not hesitate to recommend the brand.
01-05-2019, 11:33 AM
#106
Great post and responses, finding myself in a similar comparison between RDX and CX-5 to replace the wife's 08 CRV she's not a "car person" by any means she just needs to have Apple Car Play and white exterior lol. I'm leaning towards the RDX but I like the value of the CX-5 she probably won't care either way. Will go test drive both when we are ready.
01-05-2019, 11:35 AM
#107
Burning Brakes
01-05-2019, 11:39 AM
#108
Great post and responses, finding myself in a similar comparison between RDX and CX-5 to replace the wife's 08 CRV she's not a "car person" by any means she just needs to have Apple Car Play and white exterior lol. I'm leaning towards the RDX but I like the value of the CX-5 she probably won't care either way. Will go test drive both when we are ready.
01-05-2019, 12:09 PM
#109
My wife is the same way towards car..could car eless about the "name" drives well..comfortable, she is happy....less $$$$ the better as she prefers to save $$$.....Im the spender,lol
01-05-2019, 12:49 PM
#110
So wife and I have settled on getting a RDX A-Spec over the CX-5 Signature after extended drives of both. The CX-5 was great (for the money it's actually f****** awesome) but a few things that tipped it for us:
- The extra slice of space (particularly in the back seat) in the RDX mattered. The RDX is a couple inches wider in the back meaning it would be easy to cart my in-laws plus our baby around in the back and the extra legroom is valuable. The slightly longer trunk was deemed an advantage (about the same volume though). The RDX is a true 5 seater while the CX-5 is really a 4+1 seater (for those of us of more modest stature)
- The panoramic sunroof was awesome, totally killer feature.
- In Canada you can't get parking sensors on the CX-5 and while my wife thought the RDX was too big she felt she could navigate tight spots better with parking sensors on hand. My wife felt MUCH more comfortable steering the CX-5 around urban settings as the sight lines on the RDX just aren't as good.
- I liked the way the RDX hustled more than the CX-5. Both are lovely to drive and while the mountain of torque the CX-5 had down low was really nice in city driving I like my drivetrains to be really rev happy and the RDX's motor was simply more fun as was the effects of SH-AWD coming off the corners.
- The front seats in the RDX were a lot more comfortable for me. I'm a small guy (5'6") but I have "rugby" thighs and the narrower CX-5 seats squished me a bit too much and, oddly enough, gave me and my brother slight wedgies. I could never get the CX-5's seats adjusted in a way that didn't tug at my pants in the wrong way.
We don't plan on placing an order for several months (our baby doesn't arrive till Spring) but I'm looking forward to owning my 2nd Acura.
Thanks for the all the great discussion in this thread - really enjoyed how civil and thoughtful it's been here (it's been much nicer than talking in the CX-5 forum).
- The extra slice of space (particularly in the back seat) in the RDX mattered. The RDX is a couple inches wider in the back meaning it would be easy to cart my in-laws plus our baby around in the back and the extra legroom is valuable. The slightly longer trunk was deemed an advantage (about the same volume though). The RDX is a true 5 seater while the CX-5 is really a 4+1 seater (for those of us of more modest stature)
- The panoramic sunroof was awesome, totally killer feature.
- In Canada you can't get parking sensors on the CX-5 and while my wife thought the RDX was too big she felt she could navigate tight spots better with parking sensors on hand. My wife felt MUCH more comfortable steering the CX-5 around urban settings as the sight lines on the RDX just aren't as good.
- I liked the way the RDX hustled more than the CX-5. Both are lovely to drive and while the mountain of torque the CX-5 had down low was really nice in city driving I like my drivetrains to be really rev happy and the RDX's motor was simply more fun as was the effects of SH-AWD coming off the corners.
- The front seats in the RDX were a lot more comfortable for me. I'm a small guy (5'6") but I have "rugby" thighs and the narrower CX-5 seats squished me a bit too much and, oddly enough, gave me and my brother slight wedgies. I could never get the CX-5's seats adjusted in a way that didn't tug at my pants in the wrong way.
We don't plan on placing an order for several months (our baby doesn't arrive till Spring) but I'm looking forward to owning my 2nd Acura.
Thanks for the all the great discussion in this thread - really enjoyed how civil and thoughtful it's been here (it's been much nicer than talking in the CX-5 forum).
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supafamous (01-05-2019)
01-05-2019, 01:24 PM
#112
Your points are spot on. That's exactly how I feel. If it wasn't for the fear of redesign model reliability, I would probably have gone with RDX for the rear seats and pano. Although there is a lot to say about 40/20/40 split seats.
Like you, I can wait few more months and hopefully by the time we are ready, assembly would be a bit more mature.
Like you, I can wait few more months and hopefully by the time we are ready, assembly would be a bit more mature.
01-05-2019, 08:46 PM
#114
01-09-2019, 11:04 PM
#115
I just saw a thread were they were bashing Motor Trend because it picked the CR-V over the CX5....hahaha.
01-10-2019, 01:49 AM
#116
01-11-2019, 11:57 AM
#117
Subaru sells the most Koolaids
01-11-2019, 01:31 PM
#119
I've had several Subarus as well - Legacy, Forester(s), and now frequently driving a relative's Crosstrek. They are not very luxurious or comfortable, but the one thing they all have that Acura/Honda simply cannot touch, is ride and handling. FWD based SH-AWD is still not up to par to Subaru's flat-four + symmetrical AWD layout. And Subaru suspensions just handle the roads with much more robustness and compliance than Honda. I still think my RDX is better overall, but some aspects are not.
01-11-2019, 01:41 PM
#120
koolaids to me means you can't be objective, brand can do no wrong, refuse to be open minded and crucify anyone dares to say anything bad about it.