No matter the quality or attractiveness of a vehicle, they all need a redesign at some point. Over time, cars, trucks, and SUVs start to look outdated and less appealing to customers. As a result, automakers change just about everything about them. Leaping into the modern era is a great way to get attention back on a certain model, boost sales, and acquire new interest. For the 2023 model year, a few outdated SUVs desperately need a redesign, like the Nissan Armada, Acura RDX, and Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

1. Acura RDX

According to HotCars, the first SUV in desperate need of a redesign is the Acura RDX. Entering the 2023 model year, nothing changed about the MDX’s design. Although it doesn’t look incredibly outdated, it’s still in need of updating. Last redesigned in 2019, the compact SUV is beginning to lag behind some of its competitors. Although it’s more affordable than the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, it’s less popular than them for a reason.

For $42,545, the RDX has plenty of interior space in the cabin and storage areas and excellent handling. Additionally, the standard features are plentiful, including a 10.2-inch infotainment system, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, simulated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Unfortunately, for the 2023 model year, there are no changes to the powertrain, styling, or features. All RDX compact SUV models use the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Experts like Edmunds say it’s underpowered compared to competitors, and fuel economy isn’t great either. On average, the RDX gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined.

2. Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Next, another SUV in desperate need of a redesign is the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The sporty SUV is beginning to show its age in the year 2023. It was last redesigned in 2018, which seems like a decade ago at this point. HC says the Stelvio is fun to drive but lacks updates its rivals have gotten in recent years. Plus, it’s attempting to compete with models like the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC, BMW X3M, and Porsche Macan, which is no small task.

For the new model year, the only changes the Stelvio received were two new trims. The Lusso and Estrema models entered the lineup as mid-tier trims. The former adds 21-inch black wheels, satin aluminum exterior trim, premium leather upholstery, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The latter has 21-inch black wheels, gloss black brake calipers, an adaptive suspension, a carbon-fiber exterior/interior trim, leather on the dashboard and door panels, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The two models are nearly identical in value.

Base models use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. However, the performance-tuned range-topping Quadrifoglio model has a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6, making 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The potent top-tier engine is one thing that doesn’t need updating in the Stelvio lineup.

3. Nissan Armada

Finally, the last SUV in desperate need of a redesign is the Nissan Armada. For 2023, the full-size SUV received no changes. Additionally, it was last redesigned in 2017, which means it’s going on six years old without many changes. Although the V8 engine is smooth and powerful and the interior is high-quality, not everything about the Armada is perfect.

According to Edmunds, the EPA estimates the Armada gets 15 mpg combined on average. That’s far worse than most competitors and even some larger pickup trucks. However, the 5.6-liter V8 makes 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, which is difficult to complain about. Additionally, base model equipment is a strong point, even if it is expensive.

For $52,095, the Armada S comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, cloth seats, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and more. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to get around the boxy, bulky exterior design that looks like it should’ve changed a while ago.

Outdated SUVs that need a redesign

In conclusion, there are a few outdated SUVs in desperate need of a redesign. For now, we think the Acura RDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and Nissan Armada could use some changes. These models either look outdated or have aging powertrains, too few options, or another issue rivals have left behind. Are there more models you’ve seen that need to be updated ASAP?