2022 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. 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 exterior design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. 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 controls added a touch of sophistication. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, although not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety and ease of use.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon was all about making a bold statement with its extensive use of chrome, especially in the Denali trim. The front grille, reminiscent of an industrial cheese grater, gave the Yukon a commanding presence. The Denali's 22-inch wheels and the AT4's off-road styling added to its distinct look. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, with options for second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured luxurious touches like perforated leather seats and unique interior designs. The third row, once cramped, now offered improved legroom, thanks to a redesign that included a longer wheelbase and independent rear suspension. The power-folding seats and innovative storage solutions, like the power-sliding centre console, added to the Yukon's practicality.

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 enhanced cornering feel and control through torque vectoring. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and a revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices, including a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon featured rear-wheel drive as standard on lower trims, with four-wheel drive available. The AT4 and Denali trims came with a two-speed transfer case for off-road capability. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 3,810 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality, although some bouncing was noted on rough surfaces. The optional air ride adaptive suspension provided a smoother ride and increased ground clearance for off-roading.

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 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. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided generous space for passengers and cargo, with significant improvements in third-row legroom. The redesign included a longer wheelbase and independent rear suspension, resulting in a lower floor and more usable space. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options made accessing the third row easier. The power-sliding centre console offered additional storage, and the power-retractable assist steps facilitated entry and exit. The pushbutton transmission controls were a modern touch, although they required some acclimation.

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 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 a WiFi hotspot. The Platinum Elite trim featured a head-up display and surround-view camera system.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre and a 15-inch head-up display, providing essential information and safety alerts. The 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Denali trim came with a Bose 14-speaker audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. However, the audio quality of the Bose system was not as impressive as expected.

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

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with varying scores in individual crash tests.