2024 Acura MDX vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern intake vents, creating a refined presence. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but cluttered, with a centre console filled with controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX offered various trims, including the A-Spec and Platinum Elite, with the Type S Ultra being the top-tier model. Standard features included tri-zone climate control, a panoramic moonroof, and heated seats, with higher trims adding ambient lighting, roof rails, and massaging front seats. The A-Spec trim added sporty touches, while the Type S Ultra boasted a 25-speaker sound system and luxurious massaging seats.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its appealing design from its 2017 debut, with minor updates like new colours and improved fuel economy for the base engine. The Suna trim, exclusive to the U.S., featured Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats. The CX-5 offered a base engine and a turbocharged option, with all-wheel drive standard. Canadian trims ranged from GS to Signature, with the Suna trim priced at $47,026. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 felt upscale, with improved interior materials and technology, making it a compelling choice at a mainstream price.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Type S Ultra variant came with a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The MDX Type S Ultra offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and Brembo brakes enhancing performance. The MDX excelled on highways and boulevards, with a firm yet comfortable ride, and a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo, when using premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas provided 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, though it wasn’t fuel-efficient, with observed consumption at 10.3 L/100 km. The CX-5’s suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and it featured Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering. The CX-5 offered a quiet highway experience and lively handling in the city, with a towing capacity of up to 900 kilograms.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable, while the third row was smaller and suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 2,690 litres available with seats folded. The Type S Ultra featured a second-row bench with a fold-down console, providing a captain’s chair experience. The centre console offered ample storage, though the control layout was cluttered, with a row of buttons for the shifter and a large drive-mode selector dial.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with comfortable and supportive seating. The driver’s seat had six-way power adjustment, and leather was standard on most trims. The CX-5 was snug for four adults, with supportive rear seats and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,680 litres with seats folded. The cabin’s design and quality elevated the CX-5 above many mass-market rivals, though the cupholders were somewhat awkward.

The 2024 Acura MDX’s infotainment system was its weak point, with a clumsy interface controlled by a touchpad rather than a touchscreen. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The centre console cleverly integrated charging ports, though the infotainment system detracted from the overall experience. Acura’s newer models featured more intuitive systems, but the 2024 MDX retained the less user-friendly setup.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated via a console knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine start and other features, while higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose sound system. The CX-5’s infotainment approach was less intuitive than competitors, but it provided essential connectivity and functionality.

The 2024 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added a surround-view camera and head-up display. The MDX earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though the infotainment system posed a distraction risk.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 included standard advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS, though it didn’t receive it in 2024. NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover rating.