2024 BMW X5 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a range of trims, including the standard and Type S versions, with packages like Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite in Canada. The Type S Ultra trim, priced at $84,400, aimed to deliver luxury and performance but fell short in some areas. The MDX Type S featured subtle styling with chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and a panoramic moonroof. Inside, it boasted quilted leather, ambient lighting, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like gloss black plastic and electronic transmission switchgear, detracted from its appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 retained its stylish design since its 2019 redesign, though the M Sport treatment was less favoured. The test vehicle, an xDrive50e M Sport Pro, featured Brooklyn Grey paint and 21-inch wheels. The X5 received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity. Despite reducing physical controls, the X5 maintained high-quality materials and construction, tying it to BMW's legacy.

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. Despite the power boost, the Type S's performance upgrades didn't harmonize well, leading to issues like an indecisive transmission and poor brake modulation. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, falling short of its fuel economy rating. While it offered various driving modes and a robust AWD system, the overall driving experience lacked cohesion, making the standard MDX a more predictable choice.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV impressed with its new mild-hybrid engines and enhanced electric range. The xDrive50e delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. It offered 63 kilometres of electric-only driving and averaged 6.0 L/100 km during testing. The adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the X5 excelled in Sport mode, providing excellent grip and steering. The PHEV's ability to recharge while driving added to its appeal, making it a standout choice for performance and efficiency.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't fully support the performance-oriented mission. The MDX offered flexible second-row seating and a decent cargo area, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with seats folded. Despite its functionality, the interior design prioritized style over storage space.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered seating for five and a 937-litre cargo area, expandable to 2,016 litres. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating spot but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5 featured standard Sensafin artificial leather, with available upgrades like 20-way power-adjustable seats and a panoramic sunroof. While lacking a third-row option, the X5 excelled in comfort and practicality for families.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the lack of a touchscreen and reliance on the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) detracted from user experience. The TTI design limited storage space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad. Despite these drawbacks, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, while the head-up display provided essential driving information.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. Running on BMW Operating System 8.5, it offered wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition tasks. Despite this, the head-up display and augmented video navigation enhanced the driving experience. The Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality, complementing the X5's advanced technology suite.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, issues like false lane-departure warnings and unexpected braking raised concerns. Despite this, the MDX earned high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, effective in specific conditions but occasionally causing frustration. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance performed well, though unexpected braking incidents occurred. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating.