Acura
RDX
Infiniti
QX30
Acura RDX vs Infiniti QX30: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
The Acura RDX offers power, while the Infiniti QX30 excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the Acura RDX if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Infiniti QX30 if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
RDX
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment for first-generation model, regarded as pioneering turbocharged compact luxury SUV offering engaging driving dynamics and strong performance but compromised by turbocharger reliability concerns and aging platform limitations. Praised for powerful 2.3L turbocharged engine producing 240 hp delivering spirited acceleration (0-60 mph approximately 6.5-7.0 seconds), SH-AWD system providing excellent handling and winter capability, spacious interior with premium materials, and Honda build quality when properly maintained. However, widespread criticism centers on turbocharger failures requiring expensive replacements ($2,500-$4,000) typically 100,000-150,000 miles, dated technology even when new (no Bluetooth early years, primitive infotainment), poor fuel economy (18-20 MPG combined with premium fuel requirement), and suspension noise (strut mount bearings, control arm bushings deteriorate early).
Best version to buy
2010-2012 with Technology Package (Post-Facelift) The 2010-2012 model years preferred for refined suspension tuning, improved interior materials, and Technology Package adding navigation, rear camera, premium audio. The 2009 facelift brought updated exterior styling and minor interior improvements but mechanical components unchanged.
Known issues
- ⚠• Turbocharger failure, catastrophic turbo failure 100,000-150,000 miles (161,000-241,000 km), symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke, metal grinding noises, oil leaks, wastegate failures, affects estimated 40-60% of fleet beyond 1…
QX30
Overall
Mixed to negative sentiment overall. The vehicle is praised by some owners for its attractive design, sporty driving dynamics, good fuel economy from the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and high-quality interior materials, especially when purchased as a used value proposition. However, a very strong and recurrent theme across owner discussions is significant concern over electrical and software glitches, which manifest in numerous, often dangerous, ways.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific trim or model year as "best." Owner discussions reference various model years (2017-2019) and trims (Sport, AWD) without a clear consensus on a preferred version. The fundamental platform and powertrain are consistent across the model run.
Known issues
- ⚠Electrical and software glitches: includes dashboard randomly resetting while driving (causing car to shift to neutral and steering to lock), key fob not detected, remote start failure, infotainment screen blackouts, malfunctioning driver…
- ⚠Expensive maintenance and repair costs: parts and labor are costly because the vehicle shares many components with Mercedes-Benz; repairs like a power steering pump or engine temperature control module can cost thousands of dollars.
- ⚠Transmission issues in cold weather: harsh shifting or "dropping hard" into first gear when the transmission is cold. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti QX30 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Acura RDX, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Acura RDX is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX30?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura RDX and the Infiniti QX30. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX30?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Acura RDX is classed as a SUV, the Infiniti QX30 as a Hatchback, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX30?
The Infiniti QX30 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 6.7 L/100km combined versus 10.7 L/100km for the Acura RDX, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX30?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Infiniti QX30 than the Acura RDX. See the known issues comparison above.