2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, with its Type S Ultra trim showcasing a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior. This model was the first Acura SUV to bear the Type S badge, offering subtle yet refined styling cues such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the MDX Type S Ultra featured quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, creating an upscale environment. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls difficult to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was occasionally confusing.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained a more traditional design approach, with its handsome chiseled styling and rugged SUV detailing. The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with the Platinum trim offering a premium experience. Our test vehicle, a US-specification Platinum trim, featured two-tone paint, diamond-pattern leather seats, and a host of upscale amenities. The Rogue's design was appealing, with a focus on practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice among consumers who valued aesthetics and functionality.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, but the Type S also weighed more, impacting its performance. The MDX 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 driving experience, with issues like an indecisive transmission, poor brake pedal modulation, and subpar fuel economy. The vehicle averaged 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of its official rating.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine featured Nissan's variable compression design, aiming to balance performance and fuel efficiency. The Rogue's CVT transmission was generally unobtrusive, though it lacked passing power on the highway. The Rogue averaged 8.1 L/100 km during testing, slightly missing its expected fuel economy. The vehicle's ride quality was enhanced by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, providing a composed driving experience, though the steering felt lifeless.

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, wrapped in quilted leather. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support during spirited driving. The MDX's second-row seats could slide and tilt for easier third-row access, but the third row was best suited for children. The cargo area was generous, with 461 litres of space behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family vehicle, offering ample space for four adults and the option to carry a fifth passenger. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Rogue's rear doors opened wide, facilitating easy access, and the rear seats offered climate controls and USB ports. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and diamond-shaped pleats. The Rogue's cargo area provided up to 1,028 litres of space with the rear seats up and 2,064 litres with them folded, thanks to the Divide-N-Hide feature.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system. The Type S Ultra trim included a head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, satellite radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle had a 9-inch display, a Bose audio system, and a wireless charging pad. The voice recognition system struggled with complex commands, but the Rogue featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which performed well during testing.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue also offered a robust set of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it received Marginal and Acceptable scores in updated crash tests. The NHTSA awarded the Rogue a five-star overall rating, with four stars for frontal-impact protection.