2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Audi Q7

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, neither embarrassing nor overly impressing its driver. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to the vehicle's front end. The sleek, low-slung design with chiseled details and a fast roofline gave the MDX a modern appearance. Inside, the MDX offered a simple yet contemporary interior, highlighted by twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials that contributed to a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2020 Audi Q7 underwent design changes that enhanced its front and rear styling, aligning it with the flagship Q8 model. The Q7's interior adopted the high-tech dashboard and instrumentation from the Q8, featuring three digital displays that replaced most physical controls. The cabin, decked out in Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash natural wood inlays, exuded an upscale and high-tech vibe. The Technik trim's standard multi-colour ambient lighting added a soothing ambiance at night. Overall, the Q7's design updates improved its visual appeal, making it a more attractive option for luxury SUV buyers.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, and the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-litre V6 gasoline engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline-only model with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system demonstrated impressive straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a reliable companion for long journeys.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI featured a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, generating 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It included a 48-volt mild-hybrid electrical system to conserve fuel. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive system, the Q7 offered several driving modes through Audi Drive Select. The Q7 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and had a maximum tow rating of just under 3,500 kilograms. The Technik trim's adaptive air suspension and 21-inch wheels contributed to a smooth and agile driving experience, while the mild-hybrid technology operated seamlessly, enhancing fuel efficiency.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided a practical and spacious interior, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 447 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 1,229 litres with the third row folded, and up to 2,574 litres with both rear rows down. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a flexible centre console, door-panel pockets, and underfloor storage. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers, making the MDX a stylish alternative to a minivan for families.

The 2020 Audi Q7, while offering three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers due to the limited space and comfort in the third row. With the third row folded, cargo capacity increased from 402 litres to 1,010 litres, and up to 1,970 litres with both rear rows down. The Q7's interior provided comfort for long journeys, with heated and ventilated front seats, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. However, practical interior storage was limited, with the centre console and door-panel bins offering minimal space for personal items.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a range of technology features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and a premium audio system. Additional packages offered further upgrades, such as heated rear seats, a surround-view camera, and a rear entertainment screen. The MDX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with twin screens and a straightforward interface.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced the new MMI Touch Response technology, featuring a 10.1-inch upper touchscreen and an 8.6-inch lower touchscreen. The system included natural voice recognition, handwriting recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay. While the interface was generally intuitive, dry fingertips occasionally caused unresponsiveness. The Technik trim included a head-up display and a Bose premium sound system, though the latter was replaced by a Bang & Olufsen system in 2021. Overall, the Q7's infotainment system offered a high-tech experience, despite some minor usability issues.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured the standard AcuraWatch suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX's ACE Body Structure enhanced crash protection, earning it high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2020 Audi Q7 boasted advanced driving-assistance systems, including Emergency Assist, Turn Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, the traffic-sign-recognition technology occasionally misinterpreted signs, leading to unexpected braking. The Q7's HD Matrix LED headlights provided excellent illumination, though they received a "poor" rating from the IIHS due to excessive glare. Despite this, the Q7 earned high safety ratings from the IIHS, except for the headlight assessment.