2020 Acura MDX vs 2019 Honda CR-V

In 2019, the Honda CR-V came with a straightforward choice among four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, each available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Starting prices ranged from $24,350 to $34,150 (plus $1,045 destination charges). The CR-V LX may have lacked some luxury features, but its standard 17-inch aluminum wheels gave it a polished appearance. Higher trims enhanced the look with body-color trim, 18-inch wheels, and rear privacy glass. Despite an appealing rear design, the CR-V’s front styling was less universally loved, resembling a “Robot Horseshoe Crab.” The interior quality, however, was impressive, with quality materials and a well-thought-out control layout. Even with some hard plastics, the CR-V’s cabin felt solid and satisfying.

The 2020 Acura MDX, while perhaps not groundbreaking in its design, presented as a sleek and low-slung three-row SUV with chiseled details and seamless paint and chrome elements. Signature Jewel Eye LED headlights added a distinct and upscale front look, with their five LED elements arranged horizontally. The interior of the MDX was modern yet simple, featuring twin infotainment screens and a user-friendly center stack. The fit and finish were superior, with high-quality materials and robust switchgear providing a luxurious feel without opting for trendy padding and stitching.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered two engine choices. The base LX trim featured a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 180 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and available in both FWD and AWD. Other trims boasted a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 5,000 rpm, also paired with a CVT. The smaller turbo engine was more responsive and fuel-efficient, but it had some issues in cold weather and short commutes. On the road, the CR-V exhibited impressive driving dynamics with its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, offering a composed ride and capable handling. The 4WD system provided extra traction when needed, and the variable-ratio electric steering added to driver comfort. Overall, the CR-V's braking performance was excellent, with steady pedal feel and control, even under load.

The 2020 MDX came with two powertrain options: a naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission available in both FWD and AWD. The MDX Sport Hybrid combined a 3.0-liter V6 with three electric motors, generating 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and AWD. The gasoline-powered MDX with SH-AWD provided nimble handling and impressive cornering capabilities thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The four-wheel independent suspension ensured a smooth ride over varied road conditions, making it a comfortable choice for long drives.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered a roomy and comfortable interior, though some may have found the lack of a height-adjustable front passenger seat disappointing. This omission was notable for shorter passengers seeking better visibility and thigh support. The driver’s seat, standard on all but the base LX, was highly adjustable and comfortable, with heated front seats standard on all but the LX and an optional heated steering wheel. Rear passenger comfort was high, with ample legroom, rear air vents, and USB ports. Cargo space was a highlight, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down, accommodating large suitcases and a stroller with ease.

The 2020 Acura MDX also excelled in interior flexibility and comfort, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easier access to the third row. The third row had adequate headroom, and the cargo space was versatile: 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a generous 90.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down. Additional storage options included a large glove box, drop-down sunglass pocket, flexible center console, door panel pockets, and armrest storage bins. The MDX offered tri-zone climate control, ensuring personalized comfort for all passengers.

In the 2019 Honda CR-V, starting from the EX trim, buyers got an improved infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink connected services. Navigation was optional on EX-L and standard on Touring trims, with Touring also featuring a premium sound system. Despite improvements, the infotainment system could be more user-friendly, lacking a tuning knob and shortcut menu buttons. Voice activation often required exact prompts, which could be distracting, and occasionally, the system needed restarting to function properly.

The 2020 Acura MDX simplified its tech offerings through packages. The base model included standard Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SMS/MMS text and email capability with an eight-speaker system. Upgrading with the Technology Package added navigation, Acura Real-Time Traffic, rain-sensing wipers, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package included even more: a surround-view camera, heated and ventilated seats, and a rear entertainment system with the Entertainment Package. The infotainment setup consisted of twin screens, for navigation and media control, ensuring an advanced and comprehensive tech experience.

The 2019 Honda CR-V, except the base LX, came with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While some features lacked refinement, the overall safety suite provided an extra layer of protection. The CR-V earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, missing out on the Plus rating due to its headlights.

The 2020 Acura MDX included AcuraWatch as standard, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Adding the Technology Package brought blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package offered Head-Up Warning. The advanced body structure design, ACE, helped in crash energy absorption. The MDX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.