2019 Acura MDX vs 2019 Jeep Cherokee

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee underwent a significant design transformation, moving away from its previous polarizing style to a more conventional look. The front-end redesign replaced the isolated daytime running lights and fog-light-like headlights with a more traditional configuration, enhancing its appeal. The rear of the Cherokee also saw changes, with the license plate frame moved to the center of the rear hatch, giving it a more modern appearance. Inside, the Cherokee retained its well-received dash and cabin layout, reminiscent of a downsized Grand Cherokee, offering a logical control layout and ample storage solutions. The Cherokee was available in several trims, including Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, and Trailhawk Elite, each offering varying levels of luxury and off-road capability.

In contrast, the 2019 Acura MDX presented a more refined and luxurious design, maintaining its dominance in the midsize, 3-row crossover segment. The MDX received continuous improvements, including a facelift to remove its previous grille design and the introduction of a new A-Spec Package trim level. The A-Spec trim featured unique styling elements such as Shark Gray 20-inch wheels, dark chrome, and gloss black trim, giving it a sportier appearance. Inside, the MDX A-Spec boasted red leather and black Alcantara suede seats, a dual-cowl dashboard design, and dual infotainment screens. The MDX's interior was praised for its quality materials and practical design, offering a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offered a range of engine options, starting with a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful 3.2-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims like the Limited, Overland, and Trailhawk, delivered 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. A new turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine was introduced, generating 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing solid acceleration but with noticeable noise. The Cherokee featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and various 4-wheel-drive systems, including Active Drive I, Active Drive II, and Active Drive Lock, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Cherokee's towing capacity reached up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine, and its fuel economy varied depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The optional SH-AWD system, recommended for driving enthusiasts, provided torque-vectoring capabilities and improved handling. The MDX Sport Hybrid model offered a 3.0-liter V6 engine combined with three electric motors, delivering a total output of 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, along with better fuel economy. The MDX A-Spec trim was praised for its quick acceleration and enjoyable driving experience, with a firm yet comfortable ride quality. The MDX's fuel efficiency varied, with the A-Spec returning 19.7 mpg on a testing loop, slightly below its EPA rating.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee's interior was designed for functionality, with a sensible control layout and ample storage options, including deep door pockets and a spacious center console. The Cherokee offered a hands-free power liftgate, although its cargo space was limited, with only 25 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and 54 cubic feet with the seats folded. These figures were below average for the compact crossover class, with competitors like the Honda CR-V offering more cargo capacity.

The 2019 Acura MDX provided a comfortable and practical interior, with supportive front seats and a spacious second row. The third-row seats were less comfortable and suitable for occasional use, often left folded to maximize cargo space. With the third row folded, the MDX offered 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 68.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The MDX also featured a covered storage bin under the cargo floor, adding to its practicality.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee came equipped with a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen as standard, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8.3-inch Uconnect system with improved graphics and responsiveness. The Uconnect system was praised for its user-friendly interface, customizable screens, and intuitive menu layout, setting a standard for infotainment systems.

The 2019 Acura MDX's infotainment system, despite improvements, was criticized for its dual-screen setup. The top screen handled navigation and smartphone projection, while the bottom touchscreen managed radio and climate functions. The system's small screen size and poor voice-recognition capabilities were noted as drawbacks. Acura was expected to update the system in future models, potentially adopting the True Touchpad Interface found in the 2019 RDX.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and electronic stability control. Optional safety packages added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and forward-collision avoidance. The Cherokee's safety equipment aimed to enhance driver confidence and passenger protection.

The 2019 Acura MDX was equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems as standard, providing a range of driver-assistance features. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with some areas for improvement noted in headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility. The MDX's safety features contributed to its reputation as a family-friendly vehicle.