2023 Acura MDX vs 2024 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated yet subtle design, especially in its Type S Ultra trim. This model was characterized by its chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, automatic high-beam LED headlights, and a panoramic moonroof. The Type S Ultra trim featured quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package, which included a black headliner and stainless steel pedal covers. Despite its luxurious appeal, some design elements, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it challenging to use certain controls. The MDX's body design, particularly the way it tapered at the doors, sometimes gave the impression of a dented side, detracting from its overall aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Outback maintained its rugged charm with a few updates, such as a new front fascia and LED fog lights for the Wilderness trim. The Premier XT trim, with its Autumn Green Metallic colour, stood out with tasteful chrome accents and black 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior of the Outback was surprisingly upscale, featuring Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery in the Premier XT trim. The Outback's design was more about practicality and comfort, with a focus on capability rather than luxury. The different trims offered varying levels of black and chrome exterior fittings, with the Premier XT trim showcasing the most chrome, which was tastefully done.

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 significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, which offered 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Type S featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters 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. The transmission was often indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, with squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. The fuel economy was also disappointing, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of the official rating of 12.4 L/100 km.

The 2024 Subaru Outback, particularly in the Premier XT trim, was equipped with a 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine significantly improved the vehicle's performance compared to the base 2.5-litre flat-four engine, which produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Outback's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) mimicked the sound and feel of eight distinct gears, enhancing the driving experience. The Outback's suspension and reasonably sized wheels contributed to a comfortable ride, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort over sportiness. The Outback Wilderness trim offered even more ground clearance and off-road capabilities, with all-terrain tires and Subaru's advanced X-Mode for challenging terrains.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious interior with three rows of seats, accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row seats could be configured for two or three seating positions, and the cargo area provided ample floor space. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support during enthusiastic driving. The third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The MDX's cargo area was practical, with a hands-free liftgate and a Walk Away Close function, offering 461 litres of cargo space behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2024 Subaru Outback, despite its sleeker proportions, offered impressive interior space. It provided more headroom and legroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Outback's cargo area measured 923 litres with all seats in place and 2,141 litres with the rear seats folded. The Outback's feature availability was notable, with dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The hands-free power liftgate and power moonroof were standard from the Touring trim, and the Outback's raised roof rails with retractable cross bars 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 wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers provided excellent sound quality. The MDX also included a 10.5-inch head-up display with navigation instructions and driving assistance status.

The 2024 Subaru Outback's Premier XT trim featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity becoming wireless from the Touring trim. The Subaru Starlink multimedia platform, while dated in appearance, offered standard Bluetooth and SiriusXM connectivity. The Outback's climate controls were integrated into the touchscreen, with hard buttons for defoggers and temperature adjustments. Most trims came with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, providing a rich audio experience.

The 2023 Acura MDX was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false warnings, such as mistaking an overhead exit sign for an obstacle.

The 2024 Subaru Outback earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Outback's EyeSight suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies included adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, and lane-keep assist. For 2024, Subaru added a wide-angle camera to better detect cyclists and pedestrians. The Premier XT trim featured a digital rearview mirror and a driver-attention monitor, enhancing safety.