2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a design that appeared compact from the outside but spacious inside. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from its previous shared platform with the Honda Pilot. The MDX's proportions were refined with a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to a sportier and modern exterior. Inside, the MDX featured a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, and a unique gear selection system. The cabin was spacious, with comfortable front seats and a beefy steering wheel, all contributing to a luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Enclave embraced a more conservative design approach, reflecting its traditional customer base. However, over the years, Buick transitioned to an SUV-focused lineup, with the Enclave leading the charge. The 2022 model received a mid-cycle refresh with updated exterior styling, including a new grille and wheel designs. Inside, the Enclave boasted a restyled centre console with push-button gears and upgraded materials. The Avenir trim offered climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Enclave's interior was spacious, accommodating six adults comfortably, with easy access to the third row. The Enclave's design was more about comfort and functionality, with a focus on providing a serene ride.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by 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), enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup for improved sporty handling, and the vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and performance, feeling closer to luxury benchmarks like the Audi Q7.

The 2022 Buick Enclave came with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave's AWD system was standard in Canada, and its maximum towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms. The Enclave was known for its quiet and smooth ride, thanks to its premium ride suspension and QuietTuning technology. The powertrain was responsive, providing good acceleration for a vehicle of its size. The Enclave's suspension upgrades allowed it to handle various terrains with ease, offering a comfortable and serene driving experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements with comfortable front seats 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's seating capacity was appreciated for family use. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and hands-free access. The interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from.

The 2022 Buick Enclave provided easy ingress and egress, with excellent visibility and comfortable seating. The Enclave's cabin was spacious, accommodating six adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The second-row captain's chairs made accessing the third row easy, and the seats could flip and fold for added versatility. The restyled centre console featured push-button transmission gears, and the Enclave offered ample cargo space, with up to 2,758 litres available when both rows were folded. The hands-free liftgate and power-folding third-row seats added convenience to the Enclave's functionality.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The MDX featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital instrument panel, both configurable for look and content. Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The MDX also offered a head-up display, surround-view camera, and CabinTalk feature for communication with rear passengers.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The Enclave's infotainment system could pair up to 10 devices, with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The Enclave also offered a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. The system was user-friendly, although some graphics appeared dated.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The MDX was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and featured an advanced safety structure. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.

The 2022 Buick Enclave made significant updates to its safety tech, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard on all trims. This included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Enclave received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the updated side-impact test.