2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a stylish yet understated crossover SUV. Its design was not groundbreaking, but it was certainly not lacking in appeal. The Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of sophistication to the front, complementing the trapezoidal grille and large Acura logo. The MDX's sleek, low-slung profile with chiseled details and a fast roofline gave it a modern look, while the interior maintained a simple, uncluttered aesthetic. The dual infotainment screens and high-quality materials contributed to a solid and well-built feel, making the MDX a comfortable and stylish choice for families.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner embraced a more rugged and utilitarian design. Its tall slab sides, high beltline, and short overhangs were key elements of its timeless appearance. The 4Runner's flared wheel wells and hood scoop, although mostly non-functional, added to its off-road-focused persona. Inside, the dashboard featured large, chunky knobs for easy control, and the high seating position provided a commanding view of the road. While the 4Runner offered an optional third row, it was best suited for short and occasional use, reflecting its utilitarian roots.

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 the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-litre V6 engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet 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 choice for long journeys.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner, built on a truck chassis, featured a 4-litre V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, managed by a five-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for fuel efficiency, the 4Runner excelled in off-road performance, with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. Its body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems, like crawl control and Multi-Terrain Select, made it a formidable off-road vehicle. However, on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and vague steering.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered a spacious and versatile interior, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It provided 447 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 1,229 litres with the seats folded flat, and up to 2,574 litres with the second row down. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a flexible centre console and tri-zone climate control, making it a practical choice for families seeking minivan-like functionality without the stigma.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner prioritized off-road capability, with a tall front seat position and power-retractable running boards for easier access. Its optional third row was narrow and best suited for short trips. The 4Runner's interior featured large, easy-to-use controls and a commanding driving position, ideal for tackling rough terrain. However, its utilitarian design meant less focus on passenger comfort and interior space compared to the MDX.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a range of technology features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of packages offering additional tech upgrades. The Technology Package added navigation and premium audio, while the A-Spec and Technology Plus packages offered further enhancements. The Elite Package included an Active Damper System and a rear entertainment screen, making the MDX a tech-savvy choice for families.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner, traditionally lacking in technology, received an update with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system was a welcome addition, it lagged behind competitors in terms of features and usability. The 4Runner's technological strengths lay in its off-road capabilities, with advanced traction systems providing significant benefits in challenging conditions.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, 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 Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure contributed to its high safety ratings, with the IIHS awarding it "good" ratings in most categories and the NHTSA giving it a five-star overall rating.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner benefited from Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Despite its high centre of gravity, the 4Runner's safety features provided a level of protection not seen in previous models. The NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars overall, while the IIHS gave it "Good" ratings in most crash tests, except for a "Marginal" score in the small overlap front: driver-side test.