Acura
RDX
Infiniti
QX50
Acura RDX vs Infiniti QX50: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
The Acura RDX offers fuel economy, while the Infiniti QX50 excels at power instead. Choose the Acura RDX if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Infiniti QX50 if power 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…
QX50
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that the 2016-2017 (first-generation) models are highly regarded, while the 2019+ (second-generation) models are widely criticized. The first-generation QX50, equipped with the 3.7L V6 and a 7-speed automatic transmission, is consistently praised for its powerful, reliable engine, sporty handling derived from the FM platform shared with the 370Z and G37, and strong value as a used vehicle. Owner satisfaction for these models is very high, with reports of trouble-free ownership up to high mileages.
Best version to buy
The 2016-2017 QX50 with the 3.7L V6 engine, RWD or AWD, and the 7-speed automatic transmission is overwhelmingly recommended as the best version. Specific praise is given to the 2016 model year, which received a stretched wheelbase for increased rear legroom.
Known issues
- ⚠**First Generation (2016-2017, 3.7L V6):** Cooling system leaks: radiator may fail approximately every 80,000 miles; heater hose coupler on passenger side prone to breaking. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**Second Generation (2019+, 2.0L VC-Turbo & CVT):** VC-Turbo engine reliability: catastrophic engine failures and fires due to manufacturing defects in engine bearings, leading to a major recall for 2019-2021 models.
The verdict
The Acura RDX is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Infiniti QX50, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Infiniti QX50 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX50?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura RDX and the Infiniti QX50. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX50?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX50?
The Acura RDX is more fuel-efficient on paper: 10.7 L/100km combined versus 12.1 L/100km for the Infiniti QX50, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura RDX or the Infiniti QX50?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.