2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented itself as a sophisticated luxury SUV, available in both standard and Type S versions, with various trim packages enhancing its equipment levels. In Canada, the MDX's pricing ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, which we tested, was priced at the higher end, setting expectations for quality and luxury. The MDX's design featured subtle yet elegant elements, such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, contributing to its refined appearance. Inside, the Type S Ultra boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a panoramic moonroof, although some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, posed usability challenges.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a more artful design, albeit with excessive gray body cladding that detracted from its overall appeal. Available in four trims in Canada, the CX-30's pricing ranged from $26,700 to $38,600, excluding a destination charge. Our test vehicle, the GT Turbo, featured a striking Soul Red paint and a tastefully designed interior with off-white leather and polished metal accents. Despite its compact size, the CX-30's cabin exuded an upscale feel, aligning with its premium pricing. However, the exterior's rugged appearance contrasted with the elegant interior, creating a unique but somewhat disjointed aesthetic.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S distinguished itself with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6. Despite the power boost, the Type S's additional weight and fuel consumption were drawbacks. The MDX Type S featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), offering various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements didn't coalesce into a cohesive driving experience, with issues like indecisive transmission and poor brake modulation detracting from its appeal. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered three powertrains, with the GT Turbo model featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD provided a spirited driving experience, especially in Sport mode. However, the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range, averaging 10.0 L/100 km during testing. The CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and responsive steering, making it one of the most enjoyable vehicles in its class. Despite some suspension issues over speed bumps, the CX-30's performance was generally well-received.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious interior with three rows of seats, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, although the seats didn't provide the expected support for spirited driving. The second-row seats were adjustable, but the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo space was generous, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space for small items.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 provided a comfortable driver's seat with eight-way power adjustment, but the front passenger seat lacked similar adjustability. Rear passengers faced tight legroom, although the seatbacks were padded for comfort. The CX-30's cargo space was limited, with 572 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded. Storage options were reasonable, with various bins and compartments for small items. The GT and GT Turbo trims included a power liftgate, although it wasn't necessary given the vehicle's size.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, but the lack of a touchscreen was a drawback. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) required a learning curve and occupied valuable console space. Despite these issues, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, enhancing connectivity. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the head-up display provided useful information, although the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system also lacked a touchscreen, relying on console controls that required frequent glances away from the road. The absence of conversational voice recognition and a tuning knob further hindered usability. However, the system integrated well with the dashboard, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The GT Turbo trim added SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system, although the overall infotainment experience was less intuitive than desired.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the lane departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was less preferred, and the adaptive cruise control's speed resumption was slow. The MDX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, although a highway incident highlighted potential issues with the collision warning system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. The CX-30's safety features varied by trim, with the GS trim adding adaptive cruise control and other advanced systems. The GT and GT Turbo trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera and head-up display. The forward-collision warning system worked effectively, although its response was occasionally excessive. Overall, the CX-30's safety systems performed well, with some room for improvement.