2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that was reminiscent of its Nissan sibling. The SUV's profile, with its distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was a nod to the Armada, while the front-end styling, introduced in 2018, was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that lent the vehicle an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its luxury appeal, though the interior, despite its luxurious touches like wood trim and leather upholstery, closely mirrored the Armada's design, which might have left some buyers seeking exclusivity wanting more.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX was built on a new dedicated platform, offering a sportier and more modern exterior with a longer wheelbase and wider body. The MDX's design was enhanced by Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to its assertive stance. Inside, the MDX featured a modernized cabin with a layered dashboard that emphasized spaciousness. Authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum added to the luxury feel, while the innovative gear selection and infotainment controls provided a unique, high-tech experience. The MDX's interior was designed for comfort and flexibility, with adjustable seating and a range of interior themes to suit different tastes.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The SUV's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims, provided a comfortable ride, though it was less composed in corners. The QX80 excelled in towing and off-road capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms and a 4WD drivetrain with low range, making it a strong contender for those needing power and versatility.

The 2022 Acura MDX, equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for enhanced cornering and control. The MDX's suspension upgrades, including a double-wishbone front setup, improved ride quality and sporty handling. The SUV's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced, contributing to a solid ride feel. The MDX's performance was further refined by the Integrated Dynamics System, offering five drive modes to tailor the driving experience.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious three-row configuration, with standard seven-seat and optional eight-seat layouts. While passenger space was competitive, it wasn't class-leading, and the cargo space, though ample, trailed behind some competitors. The interior featured standard power-adjustable front seats, though they lacked thigh support, and a range of storage options, albeit with some limitations in practicality.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with a flexible seating arrangement and ample cargo space. The second row's removable centre section and sliding capability allowed for easy access to the third row, which was best suited for smaller passengers. The MDX's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 2,690 litres available with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like Hands-Free Access and customizable opening height, enhancing its practicality for everyday use.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came equipped with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was criticized for its complexity and small screen size. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience and safety, providing clear visibility and eliminating blind spots.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and the Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration enhanced connectivity, while the CabinTalk feature and head-up display added convenience. The MDX's tech offerings were comprehensive, with over-the-air updates ensuring the system remained current.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced features like Backup Collision Intervention, though the QX80 lacked testing from the IIHS.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with a focus on collision protection and pedestrian safety. The MDX's advanced safety structure and AcuraWatch suite of features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic-jam assist, provided comprehensive safety coverage. The low-speed braking control system further enhanced safety in urban environments.