2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that bore a striking resemblance to its sibling, the Encore. Both models featured Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, high beltline, and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX, however, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, which gave it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with body-colour moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on higher trims, though it wasn't quite premium. The controls were straightforward, and the available heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel added a touch of luxury.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S presented a more luxurious and performance-oriented design. The MDX Type S featured subtle styling cues, such as chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets, which hinted at its sporty nature. The interior boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a panoramic moonroof, creating an upscale atmosphere. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it challenging to use certain controls. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MDX Type S was an attractive luxury SUV, though its body design occasionally gave the impression of a dented side profile.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, this powertrain was surprisingly capable, though it exhibited some harshness typical of small engines. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration levels. Despite its SUV classification, the Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, and its handling was uninspiring.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including a Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements did not create a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. Additionally, the MDX Type S's fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

Despite its compact size, the 2022 Buick Encore GX provided a comfortable and practical interior. The vehicle offered easy ingress and egress, with controls that were clearly marked and easy to use. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was limited. The Encore GX's cargo space measured 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with the seats folded. The two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2023 Acura MDX excelled in functionality, offering three rows of seats and a spacious cargo area. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats were firm and did not provide the expected support during spirited driving. The second-row seats were comfortable, but the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo area offered 461 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage added practicality.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The vehicle also featured a range of driver-assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. Optional tech packages added features like a head-up display and adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system required the use of a True Touchpad Interface, which was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The MDX offered wireless smartphone connectivity, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a high-end audio system with 25 speakers. The vehicle also included a head-up display and a range of connected services, though the native voice recognition system was less effective than using Alexa.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. It received top ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with the highest-possible "Good" ratings in crash tests and "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a range of advanced safety systems, such as collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control. However, the vehicle experienced some issues with false lane-departure notifications and a collision warning triggered by an overhead sign. Despite these concerns, the MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.