2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior. 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 exterior design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, though not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered exceptional comfort and adjustability.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 exuded classic Scandinavian minimalism, with a focus on style and design. The interior was luxurious, featuring black leather, wood trim, metal accents, and ambient lighting. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space, while the snug yet comfortable seats provided excellent support. The XC60's exterior, with its appealing paint and blacked-out trim, maintained Volvo's reputation for graceful aging. The vehicle's controls, though initially requiring acclimatization, became intuitive with use. The XC60's design and materials created an opulent atmosphere, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by 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), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, 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 sporty handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced, resulting in a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV powertrain provided an estimated 58 kilometres of electric driving range. The XC60 featured several driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, each offering different performance characteristics. In Power mode, the XC60 was exceptionally quick, reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The vehicle's torque-vectoring effect and responsive handling made it enjoyable to drive. The XC60's fuel efficiency was impressive, averaging 4.3 L/100 km during testing, with the ability to recharge the battery while driving in Charge mode.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements, with comfortable front and second-row seats. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate included convenient features like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, as a compact SUV, was best suited for four passengers, though it could accommodate five. The front seats, wrapped in Nappa leather, offered outstanding comfort and support. The rear seats were also comfortable, though legroom was limited. The XC60 provided 730 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,792 litres with the seats folded. The power liftgate and air suspension made loading easier, and a ski pass-through panel added versatility. However, the battery pack limited underfloor storage space.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, offering exceptional sound quality. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, with built-in Amazon Alexa and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also included a head-up display, WiFi hotspot, and over-the-air updates. The CabinTalk feature acted as an interior PA system for rear passengers.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 came with a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided sensational audio quality. The XC60's infotainment system was intuitive, with a volume knob and steering wheel controls for easy operation.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and the low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in city driving. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its safety innovations, included Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The system excelled on highways, providing smooth and accurate performance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. The XC60 B5 and B6 mild-hybrids received top safety ratings from the IIHS, and the XC60 Recharge was expected to perform similarly.