2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Acura MDX

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, with the Type S Ultra trim standing out for its high price and exclusive features like quilted leather and a panoramic moonroof. Despite its upscale appearance, 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 styling cues, including chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets, which contributed to its refined yet sporty look.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged aesthetic, with aggressive body cladding and dual exhaust outlets that hinted at performance. The TRD Off-Road trim, although discontinued in Canada, emphasized the RAV4's adventurous spirit with utility-style roof racks and skid plates. The interior focused on practicality, featuring easy-clean surfaces and robust door handles. While the RAV4's cabin lacked the luxury of the MDX, it offered a comfortable and functional space, with options for contrast-colour interiors to enhance its appeal.

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 MDX's 3.5-litre V6, but the added weight of the Type S somewhat offset these gains. The MDX Type S featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), 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, with issues like an indecisive transmission and poor brake pedal modulation detracting from its performance. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of official ratings.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4, equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While not as powerful as the MDX, the RAV4's engine was considered robust for its class. The RAV4 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada, with Multi-Terrain Select offering various driving modes. Despite its power, the RAV4's engine was noted for being loud and unrefined. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the RAV4 achieving an official rating of 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, although real-world testing showed a higher average of 10.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a spacious interior with three rows of seats and a versatile cargo area. The Type S Ultra trim featured luxurious touches like 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats were criticized for not providing enough support during spirited driving. The MDX's second-row seats could slide and tilt for easier access to the third row, but the latter was best suited for children due to limited space. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 2,021 litres available with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality, with a cabin designed for utility and comfort. The test vehicle featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Heated front seats were standard in Canada, with additional options for ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. The RAV4's rear seat offered good legroom and comfort, although it was slightly low. Cargo space was competitive, with 1,059 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was criticized for being less intuitive than a touchscreen. The MDX offered 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 on higher trims, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 boasted the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system was generally sophisticated, but lacked a multi-panel Home screen and had some usability issues. The RAV4 offered a digital voice assistant and an optional JBL premium audio system. A digital rear-view mirror was available, providing a clear view when the vehicle was fully loaded.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, although it had some issues with false lane-departure warnings and adaptive cruise control responsiveness.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and other driver-assistance systems. While the system generally performed well, it had some issues with excessive braking and inaccurate lane-departure warnings. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.