2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant updates, featuring exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. The front of the vehicle showcased a new grille, headlights, and bumper, while the rear was updated with revised taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. Redesigned wheels were introduced across the model lineup. In Canada, the Expedition was available with a standard four-wheel drive (4WD) drivetrain and offered in XLT, Limited, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from just under $70,000 to over $95,000, excluding the destination charge. The Timberline trim catered to off-road enthusiasts with all-terrain tires and suspension modifications. Inside, the Expedition featured a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, the latter boasting a 15.5-inch touchscreen. The Limited Stealth Edition, with its leather seats and tech features, provided a luxurious experience despite some F-150-grade plastic trim.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered both standard and Type S versions, each with various trim packages. In Canada, the standard MDX came with base, Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, while the Type S was available in standard or Ultra trim. Prices ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding the destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, set high expectations for quality and luxury. The MDX Type S featured chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, it boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, the MDX's design had some drawbacks, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard and the electronic transmission switchgear. Despite these issues, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. With 93-octane fuel, these figures increased to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. The Stealth Edition Performance Package could boost output to 440 hp and 510 lb-ft. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kg. Fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 L/100 km in combined driving, with observed consumption at 14.5 L/100 km. The Expedition's driving dynamics were enhanced by its sport-tuned suspension, though the 22-inch wheels contributed to a harsh ride. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility and parking aids. On the highway, it excelled with a quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long trips.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, but the Type S also weighed more. The engine was mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, powering all four wheels through Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance upgrades didn't create a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance. Fuel economy was disappointing, with an average of 13.9 L/100 km. The MDX Type S struggled as a driver's SUV, with issues like poor brake pedal modulation and squealing tires. Overall, the standard MDX with the A-Spec package was recommended for a more predictable driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and space, offering easy access with available electric running boards. The interior provided ample room for passengers, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, with climate controls and cupholders. The third-row seat was easy to access and offered good leg support, though headroom was limited. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,961 litres with seats folded. The Expedition Max offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats, with options for two or three second-row seating positions. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row seat was comfortable, with heating for outboard positions. However, the third row was best suited for children. The interior design prioritized style over storage space, with limited storage options. The cargo area offered 461 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,021 litres with seats folded. The MDX's hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage bin added convenience.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. Sync 4 included a 12-inch touchscreen, while Sync 4A offered a larger 15.5-inch display. Both systems supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and FordPass Connect. Sync 4A added advanced voice recognition and an adaptive dashcard interface. The Expedition also offered a dual-touchscreen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 simplified trailer reversing.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI). The MDX supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality. The MDX also featured a head-up display and AcuraLink connected services. However, the TTI design limited storage space and obstructed the wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Expedition also offered BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. However, the lane-centring assist had issues with accuracy and reliability, causing driver frustration.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The MDX received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, causing unnecessary warnings.