2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX was available in standard and Type S versions, with various trim packages enhancing its equipment levels. In Canada, the standard MDX came with base, Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, while the Type S offered a standard spec or an Ultra package. Prices ranged 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 a high expectation for luxury and performance, though it sometimes fell short. The MDX Type S featured subtle design elements, such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, contributing to its understated yet appealing appearance. Inside, it boasted a panoramic moonroof, ambient lighting, and a luxurious interior, though some design choices, like the gloss black plastic and electronic transmission switchgear, were less user-friendly.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE) was based on the SR5 trim, adding $3,330 to its price. This special edition featured retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze wheels, and badges, with a limited production of 4,040 units. The 4Runner lineup included various trims, with prices ranging from $51,050 to $66,220, plus a $1,930 destination charge. The 40 ASE's retro design elements, like the yellow, orange, and red stripes, added a nostalgic charm. The 4Runner maintained its rugged, truck-based SUV appeal, with a solid interior featuring easy-to-use controls. Despite its retro styling, the 4Runner's interior was practical and functional, with a focus on durability and usability.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was distinguished by 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. However, the Type S was heavier, weighing 130 kilograms more than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. The engine was paired with 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. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance, with issues like an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 L/100 km, falling short of its official rating.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner featured two 4WD systems, with a part-time system being the most common. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 13.8 L/100 km, and it averaged 13.9 L/100 km during testing. With 24.4 centimetres of ground clearance and standard Active Traction Control, the 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions. It offered additional off-roading technologies, such as a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. The 4Runner's performance was more suited to off-road adventures, with its truck-based construction and rugged capabilities, though it was less refined for on-road driving.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a functional interior with three rows of seats and a spacious cargo area. 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 for spirited driving. The MDX's second-row seats were comfortable and supportive, with heating available in Canada. The third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space for small items. The cargo area was spacious, with 461 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a unique rear window that powered down into the tailgate, providing excellent ventilation. The interior offered comfortable seats, with SofTex artificial leather in the 40 ASE trim. The 4Runner provided dual-zone climate control and ample storage, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. The optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The 4Runner's cargo area offered 1,337 litres of space behind the second row, with additional storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. The TTI design limited storage space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality. The MDX also included a 10.5-inch head-up display with navigation instructions and driving assistance status.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was more traditional, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The system featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The 4Runner's infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons. The voice recognition system performed well, though it couldn't control the manual climate controls. The 4Runner offered a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system as upgrades.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. It also featured rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received good crash-test ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims. The 4Runner's adaptive cruise control performed well, though it was slow to resume speed. The 4Runner received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with three-star ratings for front passenger protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS gave it a Marginal rating for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.