2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and more modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard was designed to emphasize cabin width, and the unique gear selection system 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 and exterior colours to choose from.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the most notable updates. The cabin, while not as modern as some competitors, was crafted with the quality and refinement Lexus was known for. The GX offered a quiet ride, with the V8 engine's roar barely audible inside. The interior featured physical controls, which some might find old-school, but they were clearly labeled and easy to use. The GX's seating was comfortable, though accessing the third row was challenging, and the cargo space was limited when the third row was in use. The GX's design was more traditional, appealing to those who preferred a classic SUV look and feel.

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), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control by directing up to 100% of torque to either side during turns. 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 enhanced, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX also offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivered 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. Despite its power, the GX's acceleration was leisurely, taking 7.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. The GX featured a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40% to the front and 60% to the rear wheels. The GX's design, with a drag coefficient of 0.35, contributed to its fuel consumption of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved the GX's stability and off-road capability, making it more agreeable to drive. However, the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile interior space, with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a third row best suited for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom between rows. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second row folded. The power tailgate included a "Walk Away Close" feature and hands-free access, enhancing convenience. The interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available to suit different moods.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and ample padding. However, the rear seat access was challenging due to narrow door openings, and the third row was cramped and difficult to access. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row and 1,833 litres with the second row folded. The side-swinging tailgate was cumbersome, especially in tight spaces, and lacked power operation. The GX's interior featured physical controls, but the placement of stereo and off-roading controls was confusing, leading to frequent mix-ups.

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 configurable and user-friendly interface. The MDX also featured Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Platinum Elite trim included a head-up display and surround-view camera, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The GX's infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. However, the placement of stereo controls was awkward, and the knobs were difficult to use. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, but lacked some of the advanced technologies found in competitors.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end redesign improved pedestrian safety, and the low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in city driving. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on the standard Lexus Safety System+ for safety. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The GX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems. The absence of these features might appeal to those who prefer a more traditional driving experience.