2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Volvo XC60, a product of Volvo's rebirth under Geely Holding Group, showcased a blend of Swedish elegance and modern innovation. Built on the SPA platform, the XC60 shared its architecture with other Volvo models, offering a cohesive design language across the lineup. Its exterior featured a sophisticated two-box design with short overhangs, an upright grille adorned with Volvo's iron mark logo, and distinctive Thor's hammer LED headlights. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a nod to Volvo's early adoption of such technology, and the attention to detail in elements like the HVAC vents elevated the XC60 to near-luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX was built on a new dedicated platform, enhancing its proportions with a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant appearance. The MDX's exterior design was sportier and more assertive, featuring standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX's cabin was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel added to the tech-savvy feel. The MDX's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and flexible configurations, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 model increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque with the addition of a supercharger. The T8 models, including the Polestar Engineered variant, combined a turbocharged engine with an 87-hp electric motor, delivering up to 415 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The XC60's plug-in hybrid capability allowed for limited electric-only driving, and its AWD system with torque vectoring provided confident handling. Fuel consumption ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 4.0 Le/100 km in electric-only mode.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, standard in Canada, offered torque vectoring for improved cornering and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone front setup and revised rear multi-link suspension for enhanced ride quality. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were improved, contributing to a solid ride feel. The MDX's 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering five drive modes for a customizable driving experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was designed for comfort and style, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system capable of handling harsh winter conditions. The interior featured smart storage solutions and intuitive controls, with 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres with the seats folded. The XC60 was rated to tow up to 1,587 kilograms, making it a practical choice for small families.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the sliding rows allowed for adaptable cargo capacity. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the second row folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, while customizable interior lighting added a touch of personalization.

The 2021 Volvo XC60's Sensus infotainment system featured a tablet-style touchpad interface with a portrait orientation, offering intuitive controls for those familiar with similar technology. The system included smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system provided exceptional audio quality.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System in higher trims, delivering outstanding sound quality with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Qi-compatible wireless charging. The MDX also featured a head-up display, CabinTalk interior PA system, and a surround-view camera on the Platinum Elite trim.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping aid, and Volvo's semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system. The XC60's top speed was limited to 180 km/h for safety.

The 2022 Acura MDX also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a focus on collision protection and pedestrian safety. The MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of safety technologies, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-jam assist. The vehicle's advanced safety structure and low-speed braking control system further enhanced its safety credentials.