2020 Acura MDX vs 2019 Mazda CX-5

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 was celebrated as the best-looking and best-driving midsize crossover available. Reviews often highlighted its aesthetic appeal and driving dynamics. Prior criticisms regarding power and the absence of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were addressed in 2019, albeit power improvements were limited to the higher trims. Starting at $24,350, the base Sport trim came packed with features like LED headlights, a push-button ignition, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a comprehensive safety suite. The Touring trim added conveniences like keyless entry, a power driver's seat, and heated front seats for $26,615, while the Grand Touring trim introduced leather upholstery, navigation, and adaptive headlights for $30,045. The top-tier trims, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature, featured a turbocharged engine, high-end interior materials, and additional amenities, with the Signature trim pricing around $36,890 before options.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura MDX, while attractive, was not considered groundbreaking in styling. It blended in seamlessly without drawing undue attention. The Jewel Eye LED headlights added both function and a rich appearance to the front, while the trapezoidal grille anchored the vehicle's face. Its sleek, low-slung design with chiseled details and a fast roofline exemplified Acura's traditional strengths in paint and chrome work. Inside, the MDX offered straightforward modernism with minimalistic padding and stitching. Dual screens dominated the center stack, including an 8.0-inch LED screen for navigation and an On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD).

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 started with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it achieved 25 mpg city, 31 highway, and 28 combined. This engine, while adequate, was unimpressive for spirited driving. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims included a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing up to 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with 93-octane fuel (227 horsepower with lower-octane fuel). This engine boosted performance significantly, although it did not sound particularly pleasant during hard accelerations. Handling improvements came from the G-Vectoring Control Plus system and retuned suspension, offering better grip and bump absorption.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain choices: a 3.5-liter V6 engine yielding 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid combining a 3.0-liter V6 with electric motors to produce 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model, equipped with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), provided responsive acceleration and torque-vectoring for sharper handling. The transmission's behavior was refined, delivering smooth shifts across different driving modes, and the four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride even on longer trips.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 balanced style, performance, and practicality effectively. However, its cargo capacity was relatively modest, offering 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, trailing behind competitors like the Honda CR-V’s 39.2 cubic feet. Passenger legroom was adequate, though some may find the front seats too narrow. The interior of higher trims showcased elements such as real wood, ambient lighting, and premium leather upholstery, providing a luxurious feel akin to pricier vehicles.

The 2020 Acura MDX, designed as a family-friendly SUV, included features derived from minivans, like sliding and reclining second-row seats, enhancing third-row accessibility. It provided 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with seats folded flat, and up to 90.9 cubic feet with all rear seats down. There were numerous storage solutions, including a flexible center console, glove box, underfloor storage, and various cupholders and bins throughout the cabin. Tri-zone climate control added to its appeal as a practical family vehicle.

In 2019, Mazda addressed previous shortcomings in the CX-5 by making Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard on all trims above Sport. MazdaConnect infotainment, though responsive, might not have appealed to everyone due to its scroll-wheel interface. The 360-degree camera, part of the GT Premium package, improved overall tech offerings but suffered from poor resolution.

The 2020 Acura MDX, on the other hand, took a package-based approach to technology. Standard tech included Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connectivity options. Adding the Technology Package ($5,000) enhanced the vehicle with features like rain-sensing wipers, navigation, and a premium audio system. Further additions through the Advance Package ($6,750) and Entertainment Package ($2,000) introduced amenities such as LED fog lights, heated seats, and rear entertainment systems, thus catering to diverse tech preferences.

Safety was a key focus for the 2019 Mazda CX-5, with its i-ActiveSense safety suite becoming standard across all trims. This included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and assist, and a forward-collision warning/mitigation system. The vehicle boasted a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except a 4-star rating in the rollover category and an Acceptable rating for child seat anchors.

The 2020 Acura MDX also excelled in safety with its standard AcuraWatch suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology and Advance Packages further enhanced safety with features like blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera. Acura's ACE Body Structure contributed to occupant protection, earning the MDX top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.