2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Toyota Venza

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 the Honda Pilot, featuring a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant appearance. The MDX's exterior design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard was designed to emphasize cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, although not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety and ease of use.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Venza was a midsize crossover SUV with a sleek and sculpted design, reminiscent of a Lexus. Its contoured body and tapering roofline gave it a unique appearance, setting it apart from typical Toyota models. Inside, the Venza borrowed elements from the Toyota RAV4 but elevated the cabin with higher-quality materials and integrated controls. The Venza's interior was attractively styled, with soft-touch surfaces and a more substantial feel, approaching the luxury level of Lexus. The overall design was cohesive and graceful, making it one of the best-looking vehicles in Toyota's lineup.

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 for improved sporty handling, and the vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its solid ride feel and smooth transmission, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2023 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. The Venza's all-wheel-drive system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, providing seamless acceleration and braking. While the Venza prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, it offered a smooth and compliant ride quality. The steering was light and lacked feedback, but the Venza's effortless personality made it suitable for calm transportation. The Venza's ride quality was smoother than the RAV4 Hybrid's, though not as plush as a Lexus.

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 and USB connections in all rows made it ideal for family use. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, enhancing utility.

The 2023 Toyota Venza offered spacious front seats and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the feeling of openness. The rear seats provided ample legroom and foot room, though headroom was limited. The Venza's cargo capacity was 816 litres, less than some competitors, and it was not rated for towing. However, the Venza excelled in holding smaller personal items, with features like a wireless phone charger and well-sized storage compartments.

The 2022 Acura MDX was packed with tech features, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The MDX's infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch display and the Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The MDX also offered a head-up display and a surround-view camera on higher trims.

The 2023 Toyota Venza came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The base LE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 12.3-inch display. The Venza's new infotainment system was user-friendly, with sharp graphics and quick responses. The XLE and Limited trims included a JBL premium audio system with nine speakers, enhancing sound quality.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and advanced safety structures for collision protection. The MDX's AcuraWatch suite included features like collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Toyota Venza earned five stars from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and a digital rearview mirror.