2019 Kia Sorento vs 2019 Acura MDX

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento as 9 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX as 9 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento boasts an attractive exterior with revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille, new headlights and taillights, and redesigned aluminum wheel choices. The interior features new leather colors, updated instrumentation, and minor changes to trim. However, the presence of inexpensive plastic surfaces in the higher trim levels may be a drawback. The 2019 Acura MDX offers a sleek and modern design, especially in the A-Spec trim, with unique front bumper design, 20-inch wheels, and dark chrome and gloss black trim elements. The interior features heated and ventilated front seats, upholstered in red leather and black Alcantara suede, providing a luxurious and sporty feel.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento 8 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX 9 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento is available with a standard 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and an optional 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6. The V6 engine delivers smooth power and quick acceleration, while the all-wheel drive (AWD) system with Torque Vectoring Cornering Control enhances handling. The 2019 Acura MDX comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, making 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The optional SH-AWD system equips the MDX with torque-vectoring AWD and thicker stabilizer bars, enhancing performance and handling.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento 6 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX 9 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento is a 3-row, 7-passenger SUV, but the third-row seat is best suited for emergency use only due to limited entry and exit space and lack of bottom cushion support. The Sorento offers ample cargo space when the third-row seat is folded, making it more practical as a 5-passenger SUV. The 2019 Acura MDX provides a comfortable and practical interior with fantastic front seats, a GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system, and versatile storage options. However, the third-row seat is less comfortable, and the cargo space is limited when all seats are in use.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento 10 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX 5 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento offers various infotainment systems, including UVO play, UVO eServices, and UVO eServices with Navigation, with features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth music streaming, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. The 2019 Acura MDX features an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the dual-screen approach may be cumbersome to operate. The voice-recognition system and screen size are noted as areas for improvement.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento 10 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX 8 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver-attention-monitoring system. It has received top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2019 Acura MDX comes standard with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems, including a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. It has received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with notable features such as Jewel Eye LED headlights and AcuraLink Connect services.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Kia Sorento 8 out of 10 and the 2019 Acura MDX 8 out of 10. The 2019 Kia Sorento offered a compelling value proposition with its warranty coverage, UVO eServices subscription, and available rebates and incentives. It provided a range of luxury features at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for families. The 2019 Acura MDX, while sharing a platform with the Honda Pilot, offered a distinct blend of luxury and practicality. Acura's leasing programs and competitive pricing make the MDX a compelling choice in the midsize luxury SUV segment, especially with the SH-AWD and A-Spec Package.