2020 Acura MDX vs 2019 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner had a rugged and aggressive design, reflecting its off-road capabilities. Its stubby front and rear ends provided steep approach and departure angles, while large tires and flared fenders added to its trail-ready appearance. The 4Runner's style was a product of necessity, with features like under-body skid plates and a power up/down rear window that recalled the original 4Runner from the 1980s. Inside, the 4Runner's interior was dated, with a simple 6.1-inch touchscreen and basic features like an 8-way power driver’s seat and Bluetooth connectivity.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura MDX had a sleek and modern design, though it wasn't particularly groundbreaking. Its Jewel Eye LED headlights and trapezoidal grille gave it a rich look, while its low-slung profile and chiseled details added to its appeal. Inside, the MDX featured a modern and simple design with high-quality materials and superior fit and finish. The center stack was a highlight, with twin infotainment screens and a big command wheel at the center, providing a solid and well-built feel.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine, dating back to 2002, was known for its reliability and truck-like performance, allowing the 4Runner to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The TRD Off-Road and Premium trims added off-road gear like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select system, and crawl control, making the 4Runner highly capable on challenging trails. However, its fuel economy was poor, with 4WD models returning just 17 mpg city, 20 highway, and 18 combined.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid with a 3.0-liter V6 and three electric motors, producing a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX displayed good straight-line performance and nimble handling, especially with the SH-AWD system, which improved cornering and handling through torque vectoring. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a pleasant companion for long drives.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious interior with plenty of head- and legroom, even for tall drivers. Its fully enclosed cabin provided significant advantages over competitors like the Jeep Wrangler, with nearly 90 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. This made the 4Runner a practical choice for outdoor activities and daily driving, despite its dated interior and small touchscreen.

The 2020 Acura MDX, designed as a family-friendly three-row SUV, featured sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. The MDX also provided numerous storage options, including a flexible center console, door panel pockets, and a covered underfloor storage space. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers, making the MDX a versatile and stylish alternative to minivans.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner lagged in technology, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its basic infotainment system featured the Entune system with navigation and Siri Eyes Free, but the small fonts and outdated interface might have been a drawback for tech-savvy users. The 4Runner's simplicity, however, could appeal to those who preferred straightforward controls.

The 2020 Acura MDX came well-equipped with technology features, especially with the addition of the Technology and Advance Packages. The base model included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added features like navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included a surround-view camera system, heated and ventilated front seats, and more. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones, making the MDX a tech-savvy choice for families.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner came with basic safety features like airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. However, it lacked modern driver-assistance features, which were standard on many newer vehicles. The 4Runner received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA but only 3 stars in the rollover test, highlighting its limitations in safety.

The 2020 Acura MDX excelled in safety with its standard AcuraWatch suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included Head-Up Warning. The MDX's ACE Body Structure enhanced crash protection, earning it high ratings from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.