2019 Subaru Forester vs 2019 Acura MDX

The 2019 Subaru Forester was slightly larger and wider than its predecessor, resembling a scaled-down version of the Subaru Ascent. This design choice made sense, as the Ascent was previously described as a scaled-up Forester. Inside, the Forester's cabin prioritized function over luxury, with a modern look that didn't sacrifice utility. The Forester was available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims, all featuring standard LED headlights, symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), and EyeSight driver-assistance systems. The base trim was well-equipped with features like 60/40 split-fold rear seats, dual front USB ports, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. Higher trims added more luxurious touches, such as leather upholstery, larger touchscreens, and advanced safety features.

The 2019 Acura MDX, on the other hand, had been a dominant player in the midsize, 3-row crossover segment for over a decade. The MDX received continuous improvements, including a facelift in 2017 and an upgraded infotainment system in 2018. For 2019, the MDX introduced a new A-Spec Package trim level, improved interior materials, and an adaptive damping suspension with the Advance Package. The A-Spec trim featured unique visual elements like Shark Gray 20-inch wheels and darkened lighting elements. Inside, the A-Spec had heated and ventilated front seats upholstered in red leather and black Alcantara suede, along with a sporty steering wheel and metallic trim.

The 2019 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This was an improvement from the previous model's 170 hp and 174 lb-ft. However, the lack of a turbocharged engine option, which was available in the 2018 Forester, left some drivers wanting more power. The Forester's symmetrical AWD and continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritized efficiency over performance, resulting in underwhelming acceleration. The SI-Drive system, standard across all trims, allowed drivers to switch between Intelligent and Sport modes for better throttle response. The X-Mode terrain-management system, available on higher trims, optimized power delivery for various driving conditions. Despite its lackluster acceleration, the Forester offered a smooth ride and impressive fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, required for the A-Spec Package, provided torque-vectoring capabilities and improved weight distribution. The MDX Sport Hybrid model, featuring a 3.0-liter V6 engine and three electric motors, delivered 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, along with better city fuel economy. The MDX A-Spec trim offered a sporty driving experience with quick acceleration and responsive handling. The brakes, while effective, showed signs of wear during aggressive driving. The MDX's ride quality was firm but comfortable, with minimal body roll. The A-Spec trim achieved 19.7 mpg during testing, slightly below its EPA rating of 21 mpg combined.

The 2019 Subaru Forester offered impressive interior space, with the base trim providing a class-leading 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Other trims had 70.9 cubic feet, still competitive within the segment. The Forester's larger wheelbase resulted in more backseat space, and its 8.7 inches of ground clearance made it suitable for various terrains. The cabin featured numerous storage compartments, bottle holders, and a tall greenhouse that provided excellent visibility. The driving position offered plenty of legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for long drives.

The 2019 Acura MDX boasted a comfortable and practical interior, with supportive front seats and a wide center armrest. The GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system kept passengers comfortable, and the second-row seats were spacious for both adults and children. The third-row seats, while not ideal for everyday use, could be folded down 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 folded. The Advance Package added second-row captain's chairs, further enhancing comfort and storage options.

The 2019 Subaru Forester featured the Starlink infotainment system, available with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. The system was responsive, with high resolution and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigating the menus was intuitive, and the transition between Starlink and CarPlay was seamless. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance systems included a unique Lead Vehicle Alert feature, which notified drivers when the vehicle ahead moved away from a stop.

The 2019 Acura MDX's infotainment system, despite improvements, still had a dual-screen setup that was cumbersome to use. The top screen handled navigation, smartphone projection, and vehicle settings, while the bottom touchscreen controlled the radio and secondary climate functions. The voice-recognition system was unreliable, and the screens were small for a luxury SUV. AcuraWatch, the suite of driver-assistance systems, was standard on all MDX trims, but the Technology Package was needed for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX also included a 90-day trial of AcuraLink Connect services, offering features like automatic collision notification and SOS emergency calling.

The 2019 Subaru Forester came standard with the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and adaptive headlights. Lane-keeping Assist provided small steering inputs to keep the vehicle centered in the lane. The Forester also included a full array of front- and side-impact airbags and a reversing camera, making it a very safe vehicle.

The 2019 Acura MDX earned impressive crash-test ratings, with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems standard on all trims. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), with Acceptable ratings for headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility. The Jewel Eye LED headlights included automatic high-beam activation but did not adapt to curves. AcuraLink Connect services provided additional safety features like automatic collision notification and SOS emergency calling.