2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from its previous shared platform with the Honda Pilot. The MDX's proportions were refined, featuring a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to a sportier, modern exterior design. Inside, the MDX boasted a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system, creating a luxurious and functional cabin environment.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a familiar design, closely resembling its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel grille and "Recharge" badging. The XC40's exterior was marked by its Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion, showcasing Volvo's attention to detail and quality. Inside, the XC40 embraced Scandinavian design, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact size. The harmonious dash elements and premium materials positioned the XC40 Recharge as a genuine luxury SUV, reflecting Volvo's steady climb into the premium automotive category.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's 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 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque through two electric motors. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, maximizing energy efficiency and offering a unique driving experience. Its lower centre of gravity, due to battery placement, improved handling and stability. The XC40 Recharge's fuel efficiency was rated at 2.8 Le/100 km combined, with a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge.

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 MDX's seating capacity was ideal for families. The vehicle 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 MDX featured a power tailgate with hands-free access and customizable interior lighting with 27 themes.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge offered clever storage solutions, including a front trunk for additional space. Inside, the cabin featured ample storage cubbies, comfortable front seats, and a slightly cramped rear middle seat. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms. The vehicle's design prioritized passenger comfort and convenience, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

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 MDX featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system, Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim. The vehicle also offered over-the-air software updates and a WiFi hotspot, ensuring connectivity and convenience for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge boasted a comprehensive suite of tech features, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. The XC40 Recharge's infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. The system supported Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth also available. The XC40 Recharge's infotainment and vehicle software could be updated over the air, enhancing functionality and user experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle featured a high-strength steel structure, advanced safety systems, and pedestrian protection enhancements. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features included collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more, ensuring comprehensive safety for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Its extensive safety equipment included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system, which shared road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.