Acura MDX vs Hyundai Ioniq 9

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 presented a polarizing design that some found appealing while others did not. Its aerodynamic shape, inspired by smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas, was crafted to house seven passengers comfortably. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 offered impressive interior volume, akin to a Honda Pilot in length but with a wheelbase longer than a Chevy Tahoe. Despite its size, it achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient, making it more aerodynamic than larger SUVs like the Rivian. However, its design was not universally praised, with a swooping roofline and a stubby rear end inspired by a ship's stern, creating a dissonant styling. The rear view, with LED taillights wrapping around the tail's circumference, was particularly distinctive.

In contrast, the 2026 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured a more traditional yet attractive design. It included blacked-out wheels and exterior trim, with subtle styling modifications that enhanced its appeal. The diamond pentagon grille, appealing lighting elements, flared fenders, and a low, wide stance contributed to its good looks. Inside, the MDX was styled more like a car than an SUV, with a low dashboard and wide console, offering a sporty appearance. Higher-quality materials were used throughout, and the Ebony cabin provided a sophisticated ambiance. However, the emphasis on design sometimes compromised functionality, with limited storage space due to the centre console's layout. Despite this, the MDX's interior was appreciated for its use of buttons and knobs, making it user-friendly.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 was equipped with a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim featured a single rear-mounted 160-kW electric motor, delivering 215 horsepower. Other trims had a dual-motor AWD system, with the Preferred AWD producing 303 hp and the Preferred AWD+ generating 422 hp. The Ioniq 9 impressed with its energy efficiency, often exceeding the estimated 500-kilometre range. Its chassis was softly sprung, providing a smooth ride, though it lacked agility in corners. The Ioniq 9 was quiet, thanks to active noise cancellation and sound-absorbing features. It had a towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms for RWD and 2,268 kilograms for AWD models. Charging options included Tesla-style NACS superchargers and CCS-port Level 3 chargers, with fast charging times.

The 2026 Acura MDX featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Integrated Dynamics System. The MDX Type S Ultra had a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, along with adaptive air suspension. The MDX offered a pleasant driving experience, blending ride isolation with communication. It was responsive and quick to accelerate, with a solid and robust feel. On the highway, it provided comfort and stability, with commendable passing power. The MDX Type S Ultra excelled on winding roads, while the Platinum Elite A-Spec felt softer. However, the MDX lacked a hybrid powertrain option, and its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 12.3 L/100 km.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-SUV practicality, seating seven with a middle-row bench seat or six with the Ultimate Calligraphy Package's captain's chairs. The sliding centre console improved access for middle-row passengers. The Ioniq 9 offered 1,086 millimetres of legroom in the middle row, though the third row felt tight for adults. Access was easy, with wide-swinging rear doors. Dual-zone climate control, air vents in all rows, and a standard heat pump enhanced comfort. Cargo space was generous, with 620 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,323 and 2,462 litres with seats folded. However, the front trunk was small, suitable for charging cable storage.

The 2026 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec impressed with its 16-way power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, complemented by a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The interior featured supple leather, tri-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Second-row passengers enjoyed supportive seats, with a removable centre section for versatility. The third row accommodated adults on short trips but was better suited for children. Cargo space was practical, with 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,367 litres with seats folded. The MDX offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,690 litres with the second row down.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured dual curved 12.3-inch displays for its infotainment system, offering a familiar interface. It included SiriusXM Satellite Radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A wireless charging pad was standard, though it struggled to keep up with high-demand devices. Six USB-C ports provided ample charging options. The 14-speaker Bose audio system delivered impressive sound quality, rivaling higher-end systems.

The 2026 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with a 10.5-inch head-up display in higher trims. The infotainment system featured Amazon Alexa and Google Built-in, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bang & Olufsen sound system impressed with its audio quality. The head-up display provided essential information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 had not yet received crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came equipped with an array of advanced driver assistance systems, including collision avoidance, lane-guidance technologies, driver attention warning, safe-exit assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Preferred AWD's Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ included a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor.

The 2026 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch, a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, lane centring assist, and adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights were standard. Parking sensors with low-speed braking were included, with a surround-view camera system in higher trims. NHTSA rated the FWD models not sold in Canada with five stars, while the 2025 model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.