2022 Porsche Macan vs 2022 Acura MDX

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 layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system, creating a luxurious and high-quality feel. The vehicle was available in eight exterior colours and six interior themes, allowing for a personalized touch.

The 2022 Porsche Macan, introduced in 2015, maintained its original design with subtle updates over the years. The 2022 model received a styling refresh, larger wheels, and a new centre console with haptic touch controls. The Macan S, our test vehicle, featured a Volcano Gray exterior and 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, exuding a taut and athletic look. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, with a flat dashboard and a centre console housing most controls. The cabin, adorned with red leather and metallic accents, offered a sporty and upscale appearance, though the rear seats were somewhat cramped.

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 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 Porsche Macan S was powered by a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The Macan featured a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable all-wheel-drive system. Porsche re-tuned the Macan's steering and suspension for improved ride and handling, with larger wheels and adaptive damping. The Macan S excelled on twisty roads, offering precise steering and unyielding grip, though the brake pedal required more pressure than expected.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating for up to seven passengers, with a removable centre section in the second row and a reclining third row. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function and hands-free access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available.

The 2022 Porsche Macan provided comfortable front seats with optional 14-way power adjustment, though the rear seats were cramped. The redesigned centre console offered haptic touch controls, though it required looking away from the road to operate. Cargo space measured 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital instrument panel, with available ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio. Navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot were standard. The MDX also offered Amazon Alexa integration, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera on higher trims.

The 2022 Porsche Macan came with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and navigation. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with optional Bose or Burmester upgrades. The system was intuitive, though voice recognition was less reliable than competitors. Climate controls were separate from the touchscreen, providing easy access.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with advanced safety features and a high-strength steel structure. The AcuraWatch suite included collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included lane-departure warning and a reversing camera as standard, with optional blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Parking assistance features were available, though more advanced driving assistance tech was limited.