2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior that belied its 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 Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sporty and modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard's layout, though initially quirky, quickly became intuitive, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and luxurious, with a range of colour options for both the exterior and interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 was a sportier and more svelte electric vehicle, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its design featured a highback tail with a lip spoiler, voluptuous curves, and a wedgy profile, giving it a dynamic and modern look. The EV6's interior was equally impressive, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather. Ambient lighting and futuristic design elements added to its appeal. The EV6's aesthetic prioritized the car's sporty nature, making it enjoyable to drive and visually striking.

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 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 improved, resulting in a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences.

The 2022 Kia EV6, on the other hand, was equipped with a dual-motor setup in the GT-Line e-AWD variant, delivering 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising even more impressive specs. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered multiple settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, its driving range was affected by cold weather, with the vehicle achieving only 65 percent of its estimated range in winter conditions. The EV6's charging capabilities were notable, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times varied.

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 vehicle's overall seating capacity was ideal for families. 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 its practicality. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available to suit different moods.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered innovative features like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with only 690 litres available behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

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, offering a range of connectivity options like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also featured Amazon Alexa integration, a head-up display, and a WiFi hotspot, ensuring a connected and convenient driving experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 360-degree surround-view camera and customizable "engine" sounds. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the highest trim included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. The EV6 also offered a remote parking assist system, allowing drivers to move the car forward and backward from outside the vehicle.

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 for collision protection. The MDX's safety features included the AcuraWatch suite, which offered collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had no published test results from safety organizations, but it came equipped with standard safety features like forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered additional features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.