2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those with a penchant for black accents. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a black grille, and black side mirror housings, all complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique appearance, as if a black Sharpie had been let loose on it. Mazda claimed that the lower body cladding provided a light and agile look, making the vehicle appear as though it was floating over the wheels. This effect was consistent, giving the CX-30 a distinct identity separate from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based.

Inside, the CX-30's cabin mirrored that of the Mazda3, offering quality materials and a sophisticated vibe. The interior featured stitched chocolate brown surfaces, chrome accents, and a standard frameless rearview mirror. Black or white leather was standard with the GT trim, where the turbocharged engine became available. The CX-30's pricing ranged from an MSRP of $24,700 to $36,400 with the turbo engine, and our test vehicle, with additional features, was priced at $38,827.

The 2022 Acura MDX, on the other hand, was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its exterior dimensions. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The exterior design was modern and sporty, with standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum. The dashboard was designed to emphasize width, and the centre console housed a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability. The MDX's exterior was available in eight colours, while the interior offered six themes, providing a luxurious and customizable experience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ AWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. Its fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a maximum range of approximately 500 kilometres. Mazda engineers focused on delivering a satisfying driving experience, with the CX-30 Turbo offering smooth acceleration and impressive traction, especially in off-road conditions. However, its added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3, though it compensated with extra ground clearance and an Off-Road mode.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which enhanced cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth performance across five drive modes. During a two-day test drive, the MDX impressed with its handling and comfort, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats. However, it lacked ventilated seats and a wider range of adjustment for the front passenger seat. The cabin's design contributed to a sense of spaciousness, but the rear seat was cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the seats folded. The location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the centre console limited its usability.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and an innovative second row with a removable centre section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX offered ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available with the seats folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available to enhance the cabin's ambiance.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trim included SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. An Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard. Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were included, along with a CabinTalk feature for communication with rear passengers. The Platinum Elite trim offered a head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including an adaptive front lighting system and rear automatic emergency braking.

The 2022 Acura MDX also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system was included. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering comprehensive driver assistance technologies.