2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a striking vehicle with a design that commanded attention. Its exterior styling was reminiscent of a long sedan, with a low ground clearance and a long hood, drawing inspiration from the classic Seville Elegante of the early 1980s. The vertical light bars and LED headlights created a captivating light show upon unlocking, while the grille and lighting effects added to its unique presence. The interior was meticulously crafted, featuring leather-wrapped seats, polished controls, and a sweeping 33-inch OLED display that integrated seamlessly into the cabin. However, the floating centre console was a design misstep, offering little practical space.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle exterior updates, including a new grille and revised bumpers, enhancing its sporty appeal. The interior saw significant improvements with a new touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous touchpad interface, and offering more storage. The MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured luxurious 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The cabin was quieter, thanks to added sound insulation, and the controls were logically placed for ease of use. The MDX's interior was both functional and comfortable, with ample storage and seating configurations to accommodate various needs.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, despite its sporty exterior, was more suited for highway cruising than spirited driving. It offered a smooth and composed ride, with a dual-motor powertrain delivering 500 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque for AWD models. The standard single rear motor provided 340 hp and 325 lb-ft. The 102-kWh battery pack promised a range of 505 km for RWD and 494 km for AWD, though real-world conditions saw closer to 420 km. Charging was efficient, with the battery reaching 80% in about 30 to 35 minutes at fast-charging stations. However, the LYRIQ's handling was hindered by its hefty 2,630 kg weight, resulting in significant understeer and uninspiring steering feel.

The 2025 Acura MDX, known for its performance-oriented design, offered a choice between a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine with 290 hp and a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 in the Type S, producing 355 hp. The MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provided confidence on twisty roads, though it wasn't the fastest SUV in its class. Fuel economy was a consideration, with the MDX averaging 15.3 L/100 km during testing. The MDX excelled in typical driving situations, offering a smooth and comfortable ride, though it wasn't designed for off-roading. The Type S Ultra trim featured an air suspension for increased ground clearance, but its performance tires weren't suited for rugged terrain.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ faced challenges in build quality and functionality. Misaligned rear fenders, a faulty charging port, and a cumbersome glovebox were notable issues. The floating console offered limited storage, and the rotary selector for the touchscreen was less intuitive than direct touch. Despite these drawbacks, the LYRIQ provided generous headroom and legroom, with a spacious back seat. However, its cargo space was limited, offering 793 litres behind the seats and 1,722 litres when folded.

The 2025 Acura MDX excelled in interior comfort and versatility. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured luxurious front seats with multiple adjustments and massage functions. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. While the third row was less comfortable for adults, it was suitable for children. The MDX offered ample in-cabin storage, with a new centre console and wireless charging pad. Cargo space was generous, with up to 512 litres behind the third row and 2,690 litres with all seats folded.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ boasted a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls and a large, legible instrument cluster. The infotainment system featured native Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Super Cruise system provided excellent hands-free driving capabilities, and the 19-speaker AKG stereo delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, replacing the previous touchpad interface. The system was intuitive and user-friendly, with seamless integration of digital voice assistants. The MDX also featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system with up to 31 speakers in the Type S Ultra. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display, offering comprehensive data and easy access to camera views.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. However, the LYRIQ received a poor rating for its headlights from the IIHS and had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The MDX Type S Ultra added advanced radar and camera systems for enhanced safety features. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.