2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a bold step into the future of electrified mobility, marking a departure from its predecessor with a fresh design and innovative features. It showcased a minimalist yet intricate exterior, characterized by its Parametric Pixel design, which gave it a concept car-like appearance. The Ioniq 5's lighting elements, including headlights and taillights, were a testament to Hyundai's commitment to futuristic aesthetics. Inside, the Ioniq 5 embraced a "Living Space" theme, offering a serene and comfortable cabin with sustainable materials and a unique Relaxation mode for the driver's seat. The interior was designed to be both functional and eco-friendly, with recycled materials and bio-based components.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX exuded a sense of luxury and subtlety, particularly in its Type S variant. The MDX Type S featured a refined exterior with chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, giving it a poised stance. Inside, the MDX Type S boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, creating an upscale atmosphere. However, some design choices, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, posed usability challenges. While the MDX Type S aimed to deliver a performance-oriented experience, it fell short in terms of cohesiveness, with issues like an indecisive transmission and brake pedal modulation detracting from its overall appeal.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations, catering to various driving preferences. In Canada, it was available in Essential and Preferred trims, with options for long-range and all-wheel drive (AWD). The base model featured a 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant boasted a 168-kW motor, producing 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an impressive range of 488 kilometres. The AWD version, with a dual-motor setup, offered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though its range dropped to 414 km. The Ioniq 5's driving dynamics were well-suited for its segment, with four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle's regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, provided an engaging driving experience.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), aimed to deliver a thrilling performance. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, and an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements didn't fully come together, with issues like an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S struggled to provide a cohesive driving experience, and its fuel economy was less than stellar, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) provided a spacious interior, with a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. The Ioniq 5 offered a total interior volume of 3,786 litres, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The cabin featured a flat floor and a moveable centre console, enhancing versatility and comfort. The leatherette seats were both comfortable and supportive, catering to a range of driver sizes.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather. The second-row seats were adjustable, providing flexibility for third-row access, though the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo area was spacious, with a hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage. However, the interior design prioritized style over storage space, with limited room for small items.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, including a high-voltage energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in just 18 minutes. The Ioniq 5 featured a redesigned Blue Link app, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for improved visibility.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Digital Precision Cockpit included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) instead of a touchscreen, which posed usability challenges. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, while the head-up display provided essential driving information.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, adapted to the driver's habits through machine learning. The Ioniq 5 also offered a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though it could be distracting.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a comprehensive set of safety features, such as collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false alerts, and the adaptive cruise control could be slow to resume speed.