VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
261hp @ 5500
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
270lb-ft
Fuel
—
33 MPG Combined / 30 Range
Towing
1500lbs
1654lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
1.6 L/98cc
Choosing between the Acura Rdx and the KIA Sorento Plug In Hybrid is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Rdx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the KIA Sorento Plug In Hybrid produces 261hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $54,150 for the Rdx and $48,290 for the Sorento Plug In Hybrid. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
272hp @ 6500
261hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
270lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
1.6 L/98cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Plug-In Hybrid
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
6
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - Combined (mpg)
—
33 MPG Combined / 30 Range
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.1gal
12.4gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.4in
189.6in
Width (in)
74.8in
74.8in
Height (in)
65.7in
66.7in
Wheelbase (in)
108.3in
110.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4058lbs
4652lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
1654lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
KIA Sorento Plug In Hybrid
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Sorento Plug In Hybrid
Practicality
Sorento Plug In Hybrid
Pros & Cons
Acura Rdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
KIA Sorento Plug In Hybrid
Lower starting price ($48,290)
Higher towing capacity (1654lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Rdx or Sorento Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Sorento Plug In Hybrid delivers 261hp @ 5500 and 270lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Rdx and Sorento Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx starts from $54,150 and the Sorento Plug In Hybrid from $48,290. The Sorento Plug In Hybrid is cheaper by $5,860 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rdx or Sorento Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Sorento Plug In Hybrid can tow 1654lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rdx or the Sorento Plug In Hybrid?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.