2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, available in both standard and Type S versions with various trim packages. In Canada, the MDX was offered with Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, while the Type S came in standard or Ultra trim. Prices ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, set high expectations for quality and luxury, though it occasionally fell short. The MDX Type S featured subtle design elements, such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, contributing to its refined yet understated look. Inside, the Type S Ultra boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, though some design choices, like the gloss black plastic, were less user-friendly.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, in contrast, embraced a rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model. Available in two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for door removal and offered half doors for enhanced visibility. Its iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and fold-down windshield emphasized its adventurous spirit. The Wrangler's tailgate and rear glass provided easy cargo access, while the limited-edition "Reign" purple paint added flair. Inside, the Wrangler prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design. While lacking luxury features like ambient lighting, it offered a body-coloured dash and chunky controls, appealing to those seeking a functional and durable off-road vehicle.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6. Despite its power, the Type S was heavier, impacting its performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system aimed to enhance driving dynamics, but the vehicle's performance upgrades didn't always harmonize. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including a Lift mode for increased ground clearance, but its 21-inch wheels and performance tires limited off-road capabilities. The Electro-Servo brake system and larger front brake rotors were exclusive to the Type S, yet the vehicle struggled with brake pedal modulation and transmission indecisiveness. Fuel economy was a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, falling short of official ratings. Overall, the MDX Type S lacked the cohesion and predictability expected from a performance-oriented SUV.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance, offering solid axles and optional differential lockers. It provided a range of engine options, including the standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the powerful 6.4-litre V8 in the Rubicon 392, delivering 470 horsepower and torque. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered a blend of electric and gasoline power. The Rubicon 392, with its full-time 4WD and Off-Road Plus button, delivered impressive acceleration and off-road capabilities. However, its brakes and steering were less refined, with vague steering and inadequate braking power. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was complemented by various transfer case options, enhancing its ability to tackle challenging terrains. While the Wrangler's on-road performance had limitations, its off-road capabilities made it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious and functional interior with three rows of seats and flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather. However, the seats lacked the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with rear seats folded. The power liftgate and underfloor storage added convenience, while the cabin's design prioritized style over storage space. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and the second-row seats offered comfort and support.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's interior focused on practicality, with comfortable front seats and limited rear seat space. The rear doors were small, making access challenging. Storage options were minimal, with a flat dash and small glove box and centre console. The Wrangler offered 2,050 litres of cargo space with rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor. The hard top and soft top options provided versatility for open-air driving, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top offering quick and easy operation. The Wrangler excelled in providing charging points, with multiple USB ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for operation. The TTI design posed challenges, including limited storage space and partial obstruction of the wireless charging pad. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In for connectivity. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, while the head-up display provided essential driving information. Despite its advanced features, the MDX's infotainment system had room for improvement.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity, along with off-road pages displaying vital information. While lacking advanced tech features, the Wrangler provided practical tools like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories. The Uconnect system was user-friendly once drivers became familiar with its interface, offering essential connectivity and functionality for off-road adventures.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. The MDX received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the vehicle experienced occasional false alerts and issues with lane-departure notifications. Despite these concerns, the MDX's safety systems operated with improved accuracy and refinement.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered limited standard safety features, with a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on top trims or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with Good and Marginal scores from the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA. The vehicle's safety features could be customized, but its overall safety offerings were less comprehensive than its competitor.