2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Ford Explorer

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 within. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sporty and modern exterior. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, though not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety and ease of use.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a rugged yet athletic appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform that allowed for a long hood and rakish roofline. The floating roof effect added a modern touch. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at the base trim. The cabin was generally comfortable, with the front seats offering exceptional comfort and available massaging features. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited legroom and accessibility. Practical storage was somewhat lacking, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and cubbies, but the Explorer did provide thoughtful features like built-in cupholders in the rear seat door panels.

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), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup at the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Explorer also offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing a combined 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and it offered a sportier driving experience with the ST trim.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a third row suitable for children. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function and hands-free access, adding convenience. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best for children due to limited legroom. Higher trims included features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Explorer provided 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,132 litres with both rear rows folded. However, practical storage within the cabin was limited, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and cubbies.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, with built-in Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available on the Platinum Elite trim. The MDX also offered a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air software updates.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less advanced compared to newer Sync 4 technology.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The MDX included the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Explorer's Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The SUV also featured a post-collision braking system and MyKey programmable vehicle functions.