2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's past, moving away from the boxy designs of the 1970s to 1990s while maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image. The XC90, launched as a 2016 model, was Volvo's flagship SUV, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. It featured a sleek and athletic design with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, giving it a poised stance. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, with natural wood and metal trim, and exquisite details like a crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free initiative, offering options like Nappa leather and tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 Acura MDX, available in standard and Type S versions, offered a range of trim packages with varying levels of equipment. The Type S Ultra trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, set high expectations for luxury and performance. The MDX Type S was the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge, featuring subtle design elements like chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, the MDX Type S boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls challenging to use. Despite its appealing design, the MDX Type S had some shortcomings in terms of interior functionality and storage space.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a choice of three powertrains, starting with the T5 model's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge model, a plug-in hybrid, combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model. Fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge model achieving an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant increase over the standard MDX's 3.5-litre V6. The Type S featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, leading to a less enjoyable driving experience. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of official ratings.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row through a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided ample cargo space, with up to 1,855 litres available with the second and third rows folded. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with a standard panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme heat, and the XC90's AWD system and heated features made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with the option to remove the centre section of the second row for easier access to the third row. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support during spirited driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, as access was challenging for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 461 litres available behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space for small items.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, offering tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with the former performing better during testing. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims, and the vehicle offered multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Digital Precision Cockpit included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. This system was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens and took up valuable console space. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, allowing for voice-activated commands. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the MDX featured a head-up display with navigation and driving assistance information.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety functions for a semi-autonomous driving experience. The XC90 received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed following. The MDX also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, some systems, like lane-departure warnings, were less refined, and the vehicle occasionally issued false collision warnings. Despite these issues, the MDX received high safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.