Disclaimers

2021 Acura RDX vs. 2021 Mazda CX-3

The compact crossover SUV segment of the automotive industry is more competitive and densely packed than ever before. Acura of Modesto customers looking for a vehicle option that falls into this class should direct their attention to the Acura RDX. While the platform is just a couple of years removed from a major redesign, the automaker has decided to introduce a new version, the PMC Edition, for the new model year – which will be covered separately.


A comparison between the 2021 Acura RDX vs. 2021 Mazda CX-3 will show potential buyers just how many differences the various vehicles have among one another. The 2021 RDX offers more power than its Mazda competitor as well as more interior cargo volume. Acura of Modesto customers will be able to choose among three accessory packages when they are outfitting their 2021 RDX, Technology, A-Spec® and Advance.  


Acura of Modesto customers can start the pre-ordering process for the 2021 Acura RDX today by calling, 209-527-7000. 

A right profile photo of the 2021 Acura RDX on the road.
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2021 Acura RDX

Vs.

2021 Mazda CX-3

Turbo., 2.0-L, 4-Cyl. 

Engine

 2.0-L, 4-Cyl. 
272/280 

Horsepower/Torque

 148/146 
10-speed Auto.

Passenger Capacity

 Six-speed Auto.
58.9 cu.-ft.

Max. Cargo Volume

 42.7 cu.-ft.

 

Performance Specs, Cargo Volume and Available Technology

The 2021 Acura RDX employs a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine attached to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive and the Acura Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ can be made available on any of the crossover SUV’s quartet of trim grades. Owners of the 2021 RDX will be able to expect the vehicle to produce 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.  


By comparison, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 is underpowered. The competing crossover SUV uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine attached to a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 148 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque.  


As clear as the performance disparity between the two crossover SUVs is, the available interior cargo volume available makes an even bigger case for the 2021 RDX. Acura owners will have two rows of seats that will be able to hold up to five passengers. When the 2021 Acura RDX has people sitting in the backseat, there will still be 29.5 cubic-feet of cargo volume to use. Folding the rear seat down will expand the available cargo volume to 58.9 cubic-feet.  


Mazda has also installed two rows of seats in the 2021 CX-3, but there will only be 17.8 cubic-feet available when people are in the back. At best, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 can make up 42.7 cubic-feet of maximum cargo volume. 


From a technology standpoint, the 2021 RDX offers a smartphone-compatible infotainment system that will deliver access to both the Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ suites of applications. Additionally, Acura makes a pair of USB ports standard equipment in the front seats of the 2021 RDX. The Mazda CX-3 has similar capabilities.  

Learn More About the Acura RDX