2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Volvo XC60

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV that, while not groundbreaking in its styling, offered a sleek and low-slung appearance. Its Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of sophistication to the front, complementing the trapezoidal grille with the prominent Acura logo. The interior was modern and simple, featuring twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave the MDX a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC60 showcased a more elegant and tailored design, with its two-box crossover style and short overhangs. The Thor’s hammer LED daytime running lights and the upright grille with the Volvo iron mark logo added a distinctly Swedish touch. Inside, the XC60 exuded Scandinavian charm with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment display was a standout feature, offering a modern and user-friendly interface.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, and a Sport Hybrid version with a 3.0-litre V6 and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system enhanced its nimbleness, especially in corners, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the suspension ensured a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured a range of powertrains, starting with the T5 model's 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, while the T8 plug-in hybrid combined a gasoline engine with an electric motor for 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The T8 Polestar Engineered variant offered 415 hp and 472 lb-ft. The XC60's AWD system and torque vectoring provided excellent handling, and the cabin remained quiet and comfortable. Fuel consumption figures varied, with the T8 PHEV achieving 9.3 L/100 km combined and 4.0 Le/100 km in electric-only mode.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided ample interior space with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 447 litres of cargo 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 MDX featured numerous storage options, including a flexible centre console and tri-zone climate control for added comfort.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in comfort and practicality, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system well-suited for winter conditions. The XC60 offered 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded. It also had a towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms. The interior featured smart storage solutions and intuitive controls, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a range of technology features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added navigation, premium audio, and parking sensors, while the A-Spec and Technology Plus packages offered additional upgrades like heated and ventilated seats and an upgraded audio system.

The 2021 Volvo XC60's Sensus infotainment system featured a tablet-style touchpad interface with intuitive swipe and pinch gestures. It offered smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The system's segmented screen design allowed for easy access to various functions, though it required some familiarization.

The 2020 Acura MDX included the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 boasted a comprehensive array of safety features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping aid, and a whiplash protection system. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Volvo's Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system was also available, enhancing safety and convenience.