2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for a more modern appeal, was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Each model offered various trim levels, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury, with base MSRPs ranging from $47,400 to $59,950, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of many reviews. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather or real leather with open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats. The interior adopted a minimalist approach, with many functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. However, physical controls for essential functions like stereo volume and temperature adjustment remained, and the electronic shifter was user-friendly.

The 2023 Acura MDX, available in standard and Type S versions, offered a range of trim packages, with prices from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a $2,375 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 was the first Acura SUV to feature the Type S badge, with subtle styling cues and 21-inch wheels. A panoramic moonroof and Iconic Drive ambient lighting were standard, while the Type S Ultra added quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. Despite its appealing design, the MDX's body tapering could create an illusion of dents, and the gloss black dashboard elements made controls challenging to use. The electronic transmission switchgear was also a point of contention. Overall, the MDX Type S was attractive but had some design and functionality issues that detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and a 61-kilometre electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport felt taut and responsive on winding roads, while the regular NX 350 offered a softer ride. Lexus claimed a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.6 seconds, and fuel consumption was observed at 10.6 L/100 km for the F Sport and 9.2 L/100 km for the non-F Sport. Despite improvements, the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals, and the NX was not suitable for off-road use due to its limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S included performance enhancements like a solid front suspension stabilizer bar, Electro-Servo brakes, and larger front brake rotors. However, the performance upgrades did not create a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of its official rating. The turbocharged V6 provided quick acceleration but at the cost of high fuel consumption. The MDX Type S struggled with ride compliance and body roll, and the performance components did not work harmoniously, making it less predictable and enjoyable to drive compared to the standard MDX.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room for passengers and cargo, with a cozy dashboard design. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, were standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and the rear seats were spacious with air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX featured a panoramic sunroof and a Thematic Ambient Illumination system with 14 themes. Cargo space increased by 14%, offering 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats with flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Ultra trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The MDX offered seven-passenger seating, with the option to remove the second-row centre section for easier access to the third row. The third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the centre console. The cargo area offered 461 litres behind the third row, 1,107 litres with the third row folded, and 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The Type S featured a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Voice Assistant technology, and over-the-air updates. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The NX offered cloud-based services, a digital key, and a head-up display. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and there was no tuning knob.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, operated via a True Touchpad Interface (TTI). The TTI was accompanied by a volume knob and radio tuning switch. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The infotainment system included SiriusXM, navigation, and AcuraLink services. The MDX's top-tier audio system was the Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D with 25 speakers. The Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages added a head-up display. The traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, causing concern.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also had a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist. Standard features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally issued false warnings.