2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX did not reflect Buick's storied design history, such as the iconic 1938 Y-Job. Its styling was a departure from the past without forging a new path, resulting in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal. The optional Sport Touring Package added subtle enhancements, but the differences were barely noticeable unless compared side-by-side with a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded drivers of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The interior design was uninspired, with a dashboard and door panels reminiscent of outdated 1990s aesthetics, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Acura MDX boasted a striking design with a large shield grille, rakish headlights, and a modern lower bumper. Inside, it was high-tech but cluttered, with a centre console filled with controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX offered various trims, including the Type S Ultra, which featured luxurious amenities like massaging front seats and a 25-speaker ELS sound system. The interior was comfortable, with ambient lighting and high-quality materials, though the third-row seats were best suited for children. Despite its busy layout, the MDX's cabin was thoughtfully designed, with clever storage solutions and a focus on comfort and luxury.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Encore GX delivered a comfortable ride with its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation, making highway drives pleasant. However, its driving experience was marred by slow and lifeless steering, significant body roll, and a ponderous feel, despite its above-average ride quality and noise reduction.

The 2024 Acura MDX, particularly the Type S Ultra, offered a more powerful performance with its twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. It utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The MDX excelled in acceleration and throttle delivery, providing a comfortable and refined ride. Its adaptive air suspension and Brembo performance brakes contributed to its agility, while the Integrated Dynamics System allowed for various driving modes. The MDX's steering was responsive, and it had a tight turning radius, making it easy to maneuver despite its size.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. It provided 665 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. However, the front seats were positioned too close together, compromising comfort. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX featured ample small-item storage, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear notifications and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, though the third row was best for children. It offered 512 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,690 litres with all seats folded. The Type S Ultra featured a second-row bench with a fold-down centre console, providing a captain's chair experience. The cabin had numerous cupholders and a spacious centre console, though the centre stack of controls was cluttered. The shifter and drive-mode selector took up valuable space, and the layout was not entirely driver-friendly.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional features included a navigation system, head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and an intuitive interface, though the screen size was modest by modern standards.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by a touchpad that was unintuitive and cumbersome. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It also featured a fully digital instrument panel and wireless device charging. The clever placement of charging ports and thoughtful design elements contrasted with the frustrating infotainment interface, which detracted from the overall experience.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keep assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. It received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022, with top ratings in crash tests.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It also had a surround-view camera system and head-up display on higher trims. The 2022 MDX, which the 2024 model carried over from, received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with top scores in crash prevention technology. However, the infotainment system's design posed a potential distraction for drivers.