2023 BMW X1 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 BMW X1 presented itself as a refined evolution of its predecessor, maintaining its recognizable X1 identity while enhancing its robustness and sophistication. The larger, squarer kidney grille was a subtle yet assertive update, and the flush door handles, standard LED headlights, and reimagined L-shaped taillights added to its modern appeal. The expanded colour palette, including vibrant options like Blue Bay Lagoon and Utah Orange, offered a refreshing change from the previous monochrome selections. Inside, the X1's cabin exuded a premium feel with its BMW Curved Display and SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings, providing a balance of luxury and practicality. The M Sport Package added sporty elements like a stitched dashboard and paddle shifters, while the Premium Essential Package enhanced comfort with features like a panoramic moonroof.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX, particularly in its Type S Ultra trim, aimed to blend luxury with performance. The exterior featured subtle Type S badging, chicane-design LED lights, and 21-inch wheels, giving it a poised stance. Inside, the MDX offered a plush experience with quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a panoramic moonroof. However, the design choices, such as the gloss black dashboard accents and electronic transmission switchgear, occasionally hindered usability. The MDX's interior was spacious, with flexible seating arrangements and a focus on comfort, though the third row was best suited for children. Despite its luxurious appointments, the MDX's design sometimes prioritized style over functionality, impacting storage space and control accessibility.

The 2023 BMW X1 boasted a significant power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This upgrade allowed the X1 to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms, marking its first towing capability. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission enhanced the driving experience, especially with the M Sport Package's paddle shifters. The Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems provided improved comfort and stability, though the ride was slightly stiff. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.0 on the highway, with a combined rating of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Despite the power increase, the Type S's performance enhancements didn't fully integrate, leading to an inconsistent driving experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system offered dynamic capabilities, but the vehicle's weight and lack of ride compliance detracted from its performance. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating. The driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, provided varied experiences, but the vehicle's performance components didn't harmonize, impacting its appeal as a performance SUV.

The 2023 BMW X1 offered increased interior space, with impressive headroom of 1,069 mm in the front and 998 mm in the rear. The legroom measured 1,026 mm in the front and 939 mm in the back, providing ample space for passengers. The cargo capacity was a standout feature, with 727 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,619 litres with them folded down. However, some features like heated seats were optional, which felt unexpected for a BMW. The wireless charging pad, part of the Premium Essential Package, was cleverly designed to secure devices even during spirited driving.

The 2023 Acura MDX excelled in functionality, offering three rows of seats and a flexible second-row configuration. The Type S Ultra trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though the seats didn't fully support the performance-oriented nature of the vehicle. The second-row seats were comfortable and supportive, with heating available in the outboard positions. The third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The cargo area provided 461 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,107 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,021 litres with both rear rows down. The MDX's design prioritized style, impacting storage space and control accessibility.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The infotainment system was responsive and user-friendly, with effective voice commands for climate control and the panoramic moonroof. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a seamless connection experience. The Premium Enhanced Package added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The vehicle's controls were intuitive, with a start/stop button and a toggle-style gear selector.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Digital Precision Cockpit included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface, which was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The MDX offered several sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system providing exceptional sound quality. The Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages added a head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2023 BMW X1 came with standard active blind-spot monitoring, front-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and BMW's Driving Assistant Professional suite. This suite included speed limit assist, traffic-jam assistant, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go functionality. The X1 also offered a 360-degree surround-view camera system and Active Park Distance Control, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed following. The MDX also included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The vehicle earned high safety ratings, with the IIHS naming it a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA awarding it a five-star overall rating. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false warnings, impacting their reliability.