VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
265hp @ 5500
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
258lb-ft
Towing
1500lbs
1653lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
1.6 L/98cc
Choosing between the Acura Rdx and the KIA Sportage 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 Sportage Plug In Hybrid produces 265hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $52,850 for the Rdx and $40,490 for the Sportage 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
265hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
258lb-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 - City (mpg)
21mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.1gal
11.1gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.4in
183.5in
Width (in)
74.8in
73.4in
Height (in)
65.7in
66.9in
Wheelbase (in)
108.3in
108.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4040lbs
—
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
1653lbs
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 Sportage Plug In Hybrid
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Sportage Plug In Hybrid
Practicality
Sportage Plug In Hybrid
Pros & Cons
Acura Rdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
KIA Sportage Plug In Hybrid
Lower starting price ($40,490)
Higher towing capacity (1653lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Rdx or Sportage Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Sportage Plug In Hybrid delivers 265hp @ 5500 and 258lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Rdx and Sportage Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx starts from $52,850 and the Sportage Plug In Hybrid from $40,490. The Sportage Plug In Hybrid is cheaper by $12,360 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rdx or Sportage Plug In Hybrid?
The Rdx has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Sportage Plug In Hybrid can tow 1653lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rdx or the Sportage 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.