2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Acura MDX was a testament to the evolution of luxury SUVs, having been built on a new dedicated platform that enhanced its proportions and overall design. With a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, the MDX exuded a modern and sporty exterior. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its assertive look. Inside, the MDX offered a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a focus on quality craftsmanship.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready persona, staying true to its roots with a design that emphasized function over form. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all about tackling off-road challenges. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin reflected its last full redesign in 2009, with a layout that prioritized practicality. The 4Runner was available in various trims, each offering unique features tailored to different driving needs, from the road-oriented TRD Sport to the off-road-focused TRD Pro. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design continued to appeal to those seeking a vehicle that could handle both urban and off-road environments.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, which worked seamlessly with the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. 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, improving sporty handling, while the rear multi-link suspension enhanced ride quality. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel and inspiring confidence on the road.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, powering the standard 4WD system. While the 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, it excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing tasks.

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 for second- and third-row passengers. 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 the interior lighting offered 27 customizable themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner provided a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres of space behind the second row. The three-row model offered slightly less cargo space, with 2,514 litres maximum. The 4Runner's power-open/close rear window was a standout feature, making it easy to access the cargo area. While the 4Runner's cabin packaging was not as efficient as more modern SUVs, it still offered ample space for gear and passengers.

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 across all models. 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 a surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked some of the advanced features found in more modern vehicles. The 4Runner's infotainment system covered the basics, but it did not offer a head-up display or other high-tech features.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure for collision protection. The MDX's front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and it included a low-speed braking control system. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA, but only three stars for rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.