2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior. 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 added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a range of interior themes to choose from.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, riding on a new platform, was offered in a long-wheelbase version in North America, providing ample space for passengers and cargo. Its exterior design was bold, featuring a parametric grille with integrated LED lights and a floating roof design. The Tucson's rear was distinctive with LED taillights, and it rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim. Inside, the Tucson's cabin was well-appointed, with stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats as standard and leather-trimmed options available. The interior was spacious, with horizontal lines across the dashboard creating a sense of openness. The Tucson's design was both practical and stylish, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

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. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with 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 improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came with two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and an electric motor, delivering 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and fuel-efficient, making it a more engaging option. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road testing, providing stability and control. The hybrid model was particularly fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 6.4 L/100 km. A plug-in hybrid version was also planned, promising even more power and efficiency.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements with its three-row configuration. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom between the second and third rows. 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 a "Walk Away Close" function, and the interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson provided a spacious interior with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard, and an eight-way version available on higher trims. The rear seats offered more legroom than many competitors, and the cabin was roomy enough for a family of four. The Tucson's cargo space was generous, with a dual-level cargo floor and a 60-40 split-folding rear bench seat. The interior was well-appointed, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

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. Higher trims featured a head-up display and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a strong set of standard tech features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims added a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a fully digital instrument cluster, and additional USB outlets. The Tucson's touchpoints were responsive, though the lack of physical buttons required reliance on steering wheel controls and voice commands.

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

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features through Hyundai SmartSense. Standard features included forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Additional features like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available on higher trims.