VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
180hp @ 5800
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
178lb-ft @ 3700
Towing
1500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Acura Rdx and the Subaru Forester is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Rdx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the Subaru Forester produces 180hp @ 5800. Pricing starts at $52,150 for the Rdx and $38,385 for the Forester. 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
180hp @ 5800
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
178lb-ft @ 3700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
24mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27mpg
28mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.1gal
16.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.4in
182.9in
Width (in)
74.8in
72.4in
Height (in)
65.7in
69.3in
Wheelbase (in)
108.3in
104.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4040lbs
3675lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
3500lbs
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
—
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
Subaru Forester
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Forester
Practicality
Forester
Pros & Cons
Acura Rdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Subaru Forester
Lower starting price ($38,385)
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Rdx or Forester?
The Rdx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Forester delivers 180hp @ 5800 and 178lb-ft @ 3700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Rdx and Forester?
The Rdx starts from $52,150 and the Forester from $38,385. The Forester is cheaper by $13,765 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rdx or Forester?
The Rdx has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Forester can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rdx or the Forester?
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.