2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX was 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. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille, creating an expressive face. The MDX's exterior was sleek and low-slung for a three-row SUV, with chiseled details and a fast roofline. Inside, the MDX boasted a modern and simple design, highlighted by twin infotainment screens and a high-quality level of material selection, giving it a solid and well-built feel.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek embraced the crossover trend by incorporating rugged looks, all-wheel drive, and a tall driving position into its design. It was visually distinguished from the Impreza hatchback by black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and a taller ride height, providing 22 centimetres of ground clearance. The Crosstrek's design changes gave it more character than the base Impreza hatch, and Subaru offered vibrant colours like Plasma Yellow Pearl for added flair. Underneath, the Crosstrek shared the Subaru Global Platform with other models, contributing to its polished and refined design. The interior remained functional but somewhat plain, with water-repellant upholstery and simulated carbon-fibre trim pieces. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek maintained a comfortable ride and low wind noise.

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 gasoline engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model featured Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which enhanced cornering and handling through torque-vectoring technology. The MDX delivered impressive straight-line performance, with smooth acceleration and nimble handling, making it a comfortable companion for long drives.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek introduced a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine for the Outdoor and Limited trims, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The other trims continued with the 2.0-litre boxer-four engine, offering 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The boxer engine's lower profile contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The Crosstrek's all-wheel drive was standard across all trims, with X-Mode and hill descent control for improved off-road capability. Despite the SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek maintained predictable handling and a comfortable ride. The new 2.5-litre engine provided a modest power increase, but acceleration remained adequate, accompanied by CVT droning.

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

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo space compared to other small crossovers. It provided 588 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,565 litres with the seats folded. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder, a handy cubby hole with USB and auxiliary ports, and decent-sized bottle holders in the doors. While the driving position was higher than the Impreza's, it didn't offer the commanding view of traditional SUVs, but outward visibility was excellent.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of technology features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and a premium audio system, while the A-Spec Package included LED fog lights, heated and ventilated front seats, and 20-inch wheels. The Elite Package offered an Active Damper System, surround-view camera, and a rear entertainment screen.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured Subaru's Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The Crosstrek included large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions, and EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons.

The 2020 Acura MDX was equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. EyeSight driver-assist technology offered adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The Crosstrek's safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking.