2026 Honda CR-V EX vs 2026 Acura RDX Base
$20,200 less and 6 mpg better vs 82 more hp and 101 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $20,200 price gap, 190 vs 272 hp, 29 vs 23 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on $20,200 less, 6 MPG better. The RDX Base leads on 82 more hp, 101 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Honda CR-V EX | 2026 Acura RDX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,650 | $54,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 17.1 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | $2,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 4,058 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 108.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 187.4" |
| Width | 73.5" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.5" | 65.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Acura RDX Base?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX starts at $34,650, $20,200 less than the 2026 Acura RDX Base at $54,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $356/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $20,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $378/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura RDX Base?
The 2026 Acura RDX Base is the stronger pick when the extra 82 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Acura RDX Base?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX rates 29 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Acura RDX Base?
The 2026 Acura RDX Base produces 272 hp, 82 more than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX at 190 hp. The 2026 Acura RDX Base also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura RDX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2026 Acura RDX Base?
The 2026 Acura RDX Base is 2.6″ longer at 187.4″ vs 184.8″. The 2026 Acura RDX Base has a 2.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda CR-V comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Acura RDX offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Acura trims, Acura RDX trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Acura RDX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
CR-V vs RDX: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Acura RDX Base sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $20,200 gap adds up to $356/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura RDX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Acura RDX Base has 82 more hp (272 vs 190). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Acura RDX Base adds 101 more lb-ft of torque (280 vs 179), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs RDX
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $378/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,890. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Acura RDX Base weighs 442 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX when you want to keep $20,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura RDX Base when the extra 82 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $356/month more, the 2026 Acura RDX Base needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Acura or any dealership.