2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a blend of luxury and performance, especially in its Type S Ultra trim. This model was equipped with features like quilted leather, a panoramic moonroof, and 21-inch wheels, which contributed to its upscale appearance. However, some design choices, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it difficult to use certain controls. The MDX's exterior was marked by subtle Type S badging and chicane-design LED lights, giving it a refined yet sporty look. Despite its appealing aesthetics, the MDX's interior design had some drawbacks, such as the electronic transmission switchgear, which could be confusing to operate.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 exuded luxury with its diamond-stitched Nappa leather, suede headliner, and metallic-finish accents. The GV80's Prestige trim offered a variety of exterior colours and stylish 22-inch wheels, enhancing its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the ambient lighting, 3D digital instrument cluster, and wide touchscreen display underscored its status as a flagship SUV. While the GV80 was unmistakably a luxury vehicle, the Prestige Signature trim available in the U.S. did not offer significant advantages over the regular Prestige trim, which was recommended for Canadian buyers.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This was a notable increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, but the Type S also weighed more, which affected its performance. 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 the engine's output to a single rear wheel. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of its official rating.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 producing 375 horsepower. Our test vehicle featured the latter, which provided satisfying performance but was thirsty on the road, averaging 13.7 litres per 100 kilometres. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80's driving experience was unexpectedly rewarding, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires. The adaptive damping suspension and upgraded brakes contributed to its athleticism, although the steering was unremarkable. Overall, the GV80 delivered a luxurious yet communicative ride, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row seats could be configured for two or three positions, and the third row was best suited for children due to its limited space. The MDX's interior featured a triple-zone climate control system, 16-way power-adjustable front seats, and a hands-free liftgate. However, the seats were firm, and the cabin's design prioritized style over storage space. Cargo capacity was generous, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with the rear seats folded.

In the 2024 Genesis GV80, only the 3.5T Prestige trim offered a third-row seat. The interior featured real or Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Despite these amenities, the seats were uncomfortable for long trips, and second-row legroom was limited. However, the GV80 excelled in storage space, offering 988 litres behind the second row and up to 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The power hands-free liftgate and triple-zone climate control added to its practicality.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment system was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. This design choice limited storage space and added complexity to the user experience. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system. A head-up display was available with higher trims, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in the Prestige trim. The infotainment system included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80's voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the digital key system allowed smartphone access. The Prestige trim featured a Lexicon premium sound system and a head-up display, which provided blind-spot warnings. Overall, the GV80's technology package was intuitive and well-executed.

The 2023 Acura MDX was equipped with a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the lane departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was less than ideal, and the adaptive cruise control could be slow to resume speed. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, although it earned four stars in the frontal-impact test.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced driving-assistance systems, such as a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The latter worked well in light traffic but was less effective in heavy traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided video feeds within the digital instrument panel, enhancing safety during lane changes. The GV80 also featured a Remote Smart Parking Assist system, allowing the vehicle to park itself. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in the frontal-impact test.