2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, it featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The MDX boasted standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and modern design. Inside, the cabin was refined with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection added a touch of sophistication. The MDX was available in a variety of exterior colours and interior themes, showcasing its luxury appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler embraced a rugged, no-nonsense design with its boxy shape and iconic seven-slot grille. Available in two-door and four-door models, the Wrangler offered the option to remove doors and fold down the windshield for an open-air experience. The exterior featured wide fenders and round headlights, while the rear tailgate and glass provided easy cargo access. The Wrangler introduced new colours like "Reign" purple and "Earl" grey, adding flair to its robust design. Inside, the Wrangler focused on practicality with easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward layout, though storage space was limited. The Wrangler's design prioritized functionality over luxury, appealing to adventure enthusiasts.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 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 and control with torque vectoring. The MDX's suspension upgrades, including a double-wishbone front setup, improved sporty handling and ride quality. The vehicle's increased stiffness and rigidity contributed to a solid ride feel, while the transmission offered smooth gear shifts and five drive modes for varied driving experiences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its performance, standing out against competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including the standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower. For torque enthusiasts, the 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 provided 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a powerful 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower, delivering thrilling off-road performance. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered an eco-friendly option with 35 kilometres of all-electric range. The Wrangler excelled off-road with solid axles, differential lockers, and various transfer cases, though the 392 model's brakes and steering were less refined for on-road driving.

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 provided ample cargo space, ranging from 461 to 2,690 litres depending on seat configuration. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and hands-free access. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, with heated options available in higher trims. The rear seat was tight, especially in four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. Cargo space was 2,050 litres with rear seats folded, slightly less than competitors. The Wrangler offered various top options for open-air driving, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top. Charging points were plentiful, with USB ports and a 115-volt outlet available.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured 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, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered a head-up display and surround-view camera, while a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates enhanced connectivity.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system included off-road pages with detailed information and connectivity features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While tech features were practical, the Wrangler lacked advanced options like digital keys and comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a “Top Safety Pick +” by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a high-strength steel structure and advanced safety systems, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The MDX's design also prioritized pedestrian safety with impact-absorbing features.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered basic safety features like a rearview camera and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on top trims or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA.