2024 Acura MDX vs 2024 Hyundai Palisade

The Acura MDX is a mainstay of the luxury SUV segment, and it covers the bases remarkably well. Its well-rounded nature is perhaps because it shares a platform with the Honda Pilot (another fantastic family hauler) but for that same reason, it doesn’t offer the same cachet as a BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE. Whether you are on a road trip or heading to work, the MDX is comfortable, refined, and has space for the family and their gear. For 2024, there’s a new Type S Ultra trim level, bringing a new level of performance to the three-row, seven-passenger midsize luxury SUV. But as we’ll get into in a bit, the MDX is held back by a maddening infotainment system that could truly be a sticking point to overshadow all other positive attributes.

Verdict: The MDX is a beautiful, safe, and cost-effective luxury SUV, and the new Type S Ultra trim level delivers a higher level of performance. However, it doesn’t offer as much space as some of its competitors, and we wouldn’t recommend it to anyone easily frustrated by finnicky tech interfaces.

Within its segment, the Hyundai Palisade is a terrific family hauler, checking nearly all of the right boxes. Plus, it has a distinctive design, upscale materials, and thoughtful amenities after a refresh for the 2023 model year.

Verdict: Stylish and safe, powerful and enjoyable to drive, and roomy for people and cargo, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade is a winner. Choosing a Hyundai Palisade is both a logical and an emotional decision.