Acura MDX vs GMC Yukon

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a striking presence on the road, especially for those with a penchant for chrome. Even the base SLE model boasted enough shiny elements to give it a premium appearance. As one ascended the trim levels to the Denali, the deliberate use of chrome became even more apparent. The Denali's front was almost entirely constructed of chrome, with a vast, multi-dimensional grille that resembled an industrial-sized cheese grater. This design choice gave the vehicle a unique look and a commanding presence, which was essential for a full-size luxury SUV. The Denali's 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, part of the optional Ultimate package, stood out against the dark Redwood Metallic paint, adding to its allure.

Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with the optional second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured four exclusive interior designs, with the Teak/Light Shale colour combo being particularly noteworthy. The contrasting colours, unique stitching, and natural wood details added layers and textures, enhancing the interior's premium feel. The AT4 trim, with its Jet Black interior and Brandy accents, provided a distinct look, complete with embroidered AT4 badging on the front-seat head restraints.

The 2023 Acura MDX, particularly in its Type S Ultra trim, presented a more subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic. The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge, and its design was understated, with minor front styling modifications and muted badges. The Type S featured chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation, and 21-inch wheels that gave it a proper stance. The panoramic moonroof was standard across all MDX models, and the Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package.

Inside, the MDX Type S was appealing, with a focus on luxury and comfort. However, the design had some drawbacks, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, which made it challenging to find and use some controls. The electronic transmission switchgear was also a point of contention, as it could be confusing to operate. Despite these issues, the MDX Type S remained a fundamentally attractive luxury SUV, offering a blend of style and functionality.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, including a 5.3-litre V8 engine standard on all trims except the Denali, which produced 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The Denali and AT4 trims featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, known as the "Baby Duramax," was available on all trims except the AT4, delivering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the Yukon offered both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 3,810 kilograms, with specific configurations required to achieve this.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was distinguished by its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including a Lift mode that increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brake pedal modulation was poor. The MDX Type S also had a high fuel consumption rate, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with significant improvements in third-row legroom and cargo capacity following its redesign. The second-row seats folded flat, and power fold-and-tumble bucket seats were available for easier access to the third row. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding centre console with hidden storage, adding to the vehicle's practicality. The Yukon also offered power-retractable, illuminated assist steps, enhancing accessibility.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with the option to remove the centre section of the second-row seat for easier access to the third row. The MDX's interior was comfortable, with features like 16-way power-adjustable front seats and a triple-zone automatic climate control system. However, the second-row legroom was limited, and the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo area was spacious, with a hands-free liftgate and a sizable underfloor storage bin. Despite its practicality, the MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage space, with limited storage options in the centre console.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came equipped with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre, a 15-inch multi-colour head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The Denali trim featured a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch LCD HD touchscreens.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The infotainment system was operated via a True Touchpad Interface, which was not user-friendly. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers. The Type S Ultra trim included a 10.5-inch head-up display and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2022 GMC Yukon was equipped with GMC's Pro Safety suite, which included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Yukon received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with specific ratings for front crash protection, side crash protection, and rollover resistance.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false warnings, which was a concern.