2025 Acura MDX vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle styling updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened headlights and taillights, which enhanced its sporty and performance-oriented appearance. Most versions received new wheel designs and finishes, tidying up the front end. Inside, the MDX saw more significant changes with the introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous touchpad interface and adding more storage. The seats from the previous MDX Type S model were incorporated into the new MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec, while the Type S received a new seat design. Acura also improved cabin quietness with added sound insulation and acoustic laminated window glass. Despite the quality hallmark, the gloss black plastic trim on the dashboard was a point of contention due to its tendency to collect dust and smudges. The MDX offered logically located controls, including a volume knob and quick-access buttons for the head-up display and safety features. The new Platinum Elite A-Spec trim level blended luxury with a sportier look, with pricing starting at $78,005 CAD, while the base MDX Tech trim began at $69,105 CAD.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 boasted a luxurious appearance with lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a premium SUV look. Its sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the short front overhang, long hood, and rear-axle cabin placement contributed to a low, athletic stance. Inside, the CX-90 featured an elegantly rendered interior with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, though some materials reflected its price point. However, the ergonomics were a concern, with a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate panel switchgear. The infotainment system lacked touchscreen operation for native functions, and the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. Despite these issues, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2025 Acura MDX positioned itself as a performance-oriented luxury SUV, featuring A-Spec design and Type S engineering. The Type S model boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 hp at 6,200 rpm and 267 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual, with the Sport mode providing the best powertrain response. However, using Sport mode frequently impacted fuel economy, with most trims rated at 11.2 L/100 km combined, while the Type S consumed 12.4 L/100 km. The MDX excelled in typical driving situations, offering a smooth, quiet, and comfortable highway ride, though it wasn't designed for off-roading with limited ground clearance.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The standard-output models generated 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel economy ratings were 9.3 L/100 km combined for the standard engine and 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version. The PHEV offered 42 kilometres of electric range and a 9.4 L/100 km combined rating once the battery was depleted. While the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. The vehicle's suspension was firm and communicative, offering a dynamic driving experience, though the 21-inch wheels contributed to a less compliant ride.

The 2025 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and eight massage programs, wrapped in perforated, piped, and quilted leather. The second row could be configured as a three-person bench or individual bucket seats, with a foldable middle section for cupholders and storage. The outboard second-row seats offered ample legroom and thigh support, with side window shades for added comfort. The third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with limited leg support and entry/exit challenges. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new centre console tray, wireless smartphone charging pad, and small storage compartments. Cargo volume measured up to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,367 litres with the third row folded and 2,690 litres with the second row down.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and second-row captain's chairs, though the front-seat ventilation was less effective. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed elevated seating positions. However, the long rear doors and limited seat-track travel posed challenges for child seat installation and loading. The third row offered acceptable support for adults, but was best suited for children on longer trips. Storage space was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, shallow bin under the centre armrest, and small door panel storage. Cargo space measured 451 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,155 litres with the third row down and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa Built-in and Google Built-in, offering access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. This system replaced the previous True Touchpad Interface, providing a more intuitive and natural interface. The MDX also featured AcuraLink connected services, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 or 31 speakers, depending on the trim. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display, offering comprehensive data. The Platinum Elite A-Spec and Type S Ultra trims included a surround-view camera system for enhanced visibility.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, with traditional gauges in lower trims. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a centre console knob and buttons. The voice recognition system was less effective, and a new Google built-in infotainment system was anticipated in future models. The CX-90 featured a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with limited data. The blind-spot monitoring system provided visual alerts, enhancing safety.

The 2025 Acura MDX benefited from hardware upgrades to its AcuraWatch driver assistance features, improving accuracy and refinement. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centring assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control, Traffic Jam Assist, and parking sensors were also standard. The MDX Type S Ultra added front cross-traffic alert, evasive steering warning, and active lane-change assist. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests, with a four-star rollover resistance rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, safe exit warning, front cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was irritating, and the audible warning systems were excessive.