The RDX is Acura's best attempt at a driver's SUV, the SH-AWD torque vectoring really does make it corner like a sedan, and the cabin feels genuinely luxurious for the money. But the third-gen 2.0T drinks gas like a V6 (20-22 MPG in the real world), the 2019-2024 models have a rear glass shattering problem that keeps coming back even after the TSB fix, and the 2025s suffered complete power steering failures at low speeds, now under recall. If you want the handling and can live with the fuel bill, a 2022-2024 makes sense; skip the 2025 until the recall work proves durable, and know that Acura is killing the line in 2026 with no replacement for two years.
The BMW X3 reveals extreme generational fragmentation. The outgoing G01 (2018-2024) is widely praised as a beautifully designed, well-built luxury SUV with excellent driving dynamics. The new 2025+ G45 generation faces harsh criticism for its cheap plastic interior, controversial steering wheel with capacitive touch buttons, and removal of physical controls, described by multiple owners as a shocking downgrade. The electric iX3 receives positive feedback for its impressive 800km range and 400kW charging specs, nearly selling out in Europe for 2026, but the interior and steering wheel design remain contentious. Use-case fragmentation is clear: EV buyers appreciate the technical specifications, while traditional BMW enthusiasts are abandoning the brand over design direction. Sales remain strong despite online backlash, suggesting the target demographic differs significantly from the enthusiast community.