2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX presented a refined and modern exterior, building on its legacy as a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category. This new generation was crafted on a dedicated platform, distinct from its previous shared platform with the Honda Pilot. The vehicle's proportions were adjusted, featuring a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The MDX showcased standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to its sporty and assertive design. Inside, the MDX's cabin was modernized with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard's layered design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection system 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 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete makeover, aligning with updates to its Nissan cousin, the Pathfinder. The exterior changes resulted in a dramatic and attractive design, with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and a floating roof effect. The QX60's interior felt wide and open, with quilted leather upholstery on the Autograph trim level. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display was well-positioned for driver convenience, and the TFT instrument panel provided crisp graphics. The QX60 was built in Smyrna, Tennessee, and demonstrated high craftsmanship and build quality, typical of Infiniti vehicles.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with 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 in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and sporty 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 INFINITI QX60, on the other hand, featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It transitioned from a CVT to a nine-speed automatic transmission, improving driving feel. The QX60's suspension used MacPherson struts in the front and an independent multilink setup in the rear, delivering a smooth and serene ride. While body roll was well-managed, the QX60 was not designed for aggressive cornering. It excelled on highways and suburban streets, offering comfort for passengers in all three rows.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV, 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, enhancing utility.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 also catered to passengers with its spacious interior and thoughtful storage solutions. The second-row seats slid on rails for easy access to the third row, which offered generous legroom. The QX60 provided up to 2,135 litres of cargo space with both rear rows folded and had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted impressive tech features, 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. The MDX also offered a head-up display, CabinTalk feature, and over-the-air software updates.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured the latest InTouch Interactive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. It included a 10.8-inch head-up display on higher trims and a smart rearview mirror. The QX60's audio system ranged from a nine-speaker setup in lower trims to a 17-speaker Bose Performance series in higher trims. Infiniti InTouch services provided connectivity features via a smartphone app.

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

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous generation received high safety ratings. The QX60 came with a comprehensive set of airbags and advanced driver assistance systems, including forward emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all trims except Pure, offering additional safety features.