2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a modern and sporty exterior design. 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 assertive look. Inside, the MDX boasted a spacious cabin with a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, although not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was comfortable, with adjustable front seats and a beefy steering wheel, making it a luxurious choice for its price range.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a classic design, having undergone minimal changes since its last major update in 2008. Its exterior featured a modest grille and elegant wheel arches, giving it a timeless appeal. The Sequoia's interior, however, felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its overall appearance.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup, improving sporty handling and ride quality. 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 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload and towing capacities, but its weight resulted in lower fuel economy ratings. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities. The TRD Pro model further enhanced its off-road prowess, making it a suitable choice for adventurous families.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable center section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's sliding seats allowed for adjustable legroom. The cargo space ranged from 16.3 to 95 cubic feet, depending on seat configuration. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Grab ‘N Go" and Hands-Free Access, adding to its practicality. The MDX's interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo compartment offered 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expandable to 120.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The SUV's interior storage options were plentiful, with a large center console, glove compartment, and door pockets. The Sequoia's auxiliary 12-volt outlet in the cargo area was a practical addition for outdoor activities.

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 screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering a customizable experience. Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were included, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The MDX also featured a head-up display and a surround-view camera system on higher trims, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was less advanced, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing some modern connectivity. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package available. While the Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety systems like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Acura MDX had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its predecessor received high marks. The MDX was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. It featured a low-speed braking control system, collision mitigation throttle control, and the AcuraWatch suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia also lacked crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. However, it was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Sequoia's STAR safety system featured stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and trailer sway control.