2023 Acura MDX vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a blend of luxury and performance, with its Type S version offering a turbocharged engine and a host of premium features. In Canada, the MDX was available in various trims, including the Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, with prices ranging from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, which we tested, came with a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, setting high expectations for quality and driving dynamics. However, some design elements, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it challenging to use certain controls, and the electronic transmission switchgear was occasionally confusing. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV, though its body design sometimes gave the impression of a dented side.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe embraced a bold new design, moving away from the sleek aesthetics of its predecessors. The Santa Fe's boxy shape was a deliberate choice to maximize storage capacity, as explained by Hyundai's design chief, SangYup Lee. The vehicle's upscale appearance, enhanced by a palette of sophisticated colours and anodized-finish badging, turned heads wherever it went. The interior of the Santa Fe, particularly in the XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, offered premium styling with a focus on comfort and practicality. While some surfaces used hard materials, the overall effect was softened by padded areas and luxurious fabric. The Santa Fe's design was both elegant and functional, making it a standout in its segment.

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. This was a significant 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 brakes were difficult to modulate. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of official ratings. While the turbocharged V6 offered quick acceleration, the overall performance package did not meet expectations for a performance-oriented SUV.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a different approach, with a hybrid powertrain as the entry-level option in Canada. The Preferred models featured a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, delivering 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Other models came with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup. The Santa Fe's driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Snow, with the XRT trim adding off-road capabilities. Fuel economy for the hybrid was impressive, with ratings of 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.9 combined. The gas powertrain was less efficient, but the Santa Fe's overall driving dynamics were smooth and stable, with only minor body roll through turns. The XRT trim demonstrated off-road capability comparable to other rugged SUVs, making the Santa Fe a versatile choice for various driving conditions.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious interior with three rows of seats and a flexible second-row configuration. 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 did not provide the expected support during spirited driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, as access was tight for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 461 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The power liftgate and underfloor storage added convenience, but the interior design prioritized style over storage space, with limited room for small items.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe focused on maximizing cargo space, with a longer wheelbase and body compared to its predecessor. The design was inspired by the concept of "chabak," emphasizing comfort for car camping and tailgating. The cargo area offered 413 litres of space, expanding to 2,267 litres with the rear seats folded. The Santa Fe's interior was spacious, with the first and second rows providing ample room for passengers. Depending on the trim, seating options included stain-resistant cloth, synthetic leather, or plush quilted Nappa leather. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilation available on higher trims. The Santa Fe's design prioritized a calm and organized space, with storage pockets and bottle holders throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) instead of a touchscreen, which was less intuitive for users familiar with touchscreens. The TTI design also limited storage space on the centre console. Despite these drawbacks, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, allowing for voice-activated controls. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the head-up display added convenience for drivers.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display that integrated digital real estate without being overwhelming. The touchscreen was intuitive, with easy access to controls and crisp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 12-speaker Bose stereo and multiple USB ports. The BlueLink system allowed for vehicle access and information, with upgraded features on higher trims. The Santa Fe's technology package was user-friendly and enhanced the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The MDX earned high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, some systems, like the lane departure warning, were less refined, and the adaptive cruise control could be slow to resume speed.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe had not yet been crash-tested, but Hyundai's vehicles typically performed well in safety evaluations. The Santa Fe offered a wide range of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added advanced features like a 360-degree camera system and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe was the first Hyundai vehicle to include driver monitoring, enhancing safety and driver awareness.