2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Nissan Armada

The 2020 Acura MDX was a stylish crossover SUV, though its design 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 its front end. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille, creating an expressive face. The MDX's sleek, low-slung profile, chiseled details, and flawless paint and chrome were hallmarks of Acura's design strength. Inside, the MDX boasted a modern and simple interior, with a centre stack highlighted by twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that exuded solidity and craftsmanship.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Armada underwent a significant facelift, aligning its design with Nissan's new signature exterior style. The Armada's redesigned exterior featured a new grille, front fenders, bumpers, and LED headlights and taillights, giving it a modern look while retaining its traditional beefy and athletic body styling. The SUV's body-colour over fenders, dark-painted roof rails, and acoustic windshield and windows were standard features, along with a power sliding sunroof and LED lighting elements. The Armada's new logo was prominently displayed on various parts of the vehicle. Despite these updates, the Armada's interior remained somewhat dated, with design choices that detracted from its overall aesthetic. However, the upper half of the centre stack was more modern, and the leather seating materials added a touch of luxury.

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 standard all-wheel drive, 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 MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its performance, providing nimble handling and torque-vectoring technology that improved cornering and overall driving dynamics. The MDX's suspension system absorbed road imperfections, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Nissan Armada was equipped with a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque when using premium fuel. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the Armada featured automatic four-wheel drive and was capable of off-road adventures. Despite its size and weight, the Armada's handling improved with each revision, making highway driving more manageable. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with high consumption figures. The Armada's towing capacity was a standout feature, with a best-in-class maximum of 3,856 kilograms. The SUV's suspension and ground clearance contributed to its off-road capabilities, while its turning radius and maneuverability in tight spaces were typical for a vehicle of its size.

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

The 2021 Nissan Armada, as a full-size SUV, offered spaciousness and practicality. Its broad interior featured a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, though some controls were distant from the driver. The Armada's front seats were power-adjustable, and the Platinum trim offered second-row captain's chairs for added comfort. The third row, while less spacious, could accommodate adults in a pinch. Cargo space was 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 1,413 litres with the third row folded and 2,692 litres with both rear rows down. The high load floor posed challenges for loading and unloading, but the Armada's centre console storage bin provided ample space for personal items.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured a range of technology options, with trim levels simplified into packages. The base model included Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, premium audio, and parking sensors, while the A-Spec Package included additional tech features and design upgrades. The Elite Package offered advanced suspension, a surround-view camera, and a rear entertainment system.

The 2021 Nissan Armada boasted a class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering navigation, a 13-speaker Bose stereo, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Standard features included Bluetooth, USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and keyless entry. The Platinum trim offered a rearview camera mirror and rear-seat entertainment system. The Armada's steering wheel, while functional, lacked the sophistication of other SUVs, but it provided control over the driver information screen and infotainment functions.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a 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 body structure was designed to absorb crash impact, earning it high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Nissan Armada featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. Additional safety technologies included adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. However, the Armada lacked advanced driving assist technologies like ProPilot Assist. The NHTSA gave the Armada a three-star rollover rating due to its calculated rollover risk.