2019 Volvo XC40 vs 2019 Acura MDX

The 2019 Volvo XC40 stood out with its distinctive styling, borrowing elements from its larger sibling, the XC90. This gave it an upright appearance, contrasting with the more hatchback-like designs of competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and BMW X2. The XC40's SUV-based design provided an upright driving position and ample head- and legroom. The Momentum trim, despite being the base model, came well-equipped with features like 18-inch wheels, LED signature headlights, and a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment display. The R-Design trim added sporty elements, while the Inscription trim featured luxurious touches like a panoramic sunroof and driftwood door inlays.

In contrast, the 2019 Acura MDX had long dominated the midsize, 3-row crossover segment. The MDX received continuous improvements, including a facelift in 2017 and an upgraded infotainment system in 2018. For 2019, the MDX introduced the A-Spec Package, improved interior materials, and an adaptive damping suspension. The A-Spec trim featured unique visual elements like Shark Gray 20-inch wheels and darkened lighting elements, giving it a more aggressive look. Inside, the A-Spec had heated and ventilated front seats, red leather and black Alcantara upholstery, and a sporty steering wheel with paddle shifters.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The XC40 offered brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and responsive handling. It featured multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, Off-Road, and Individual. Fuel economy estimates were 23 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined, though real-world testing showed 21 mpg.

The 2019 Acura MDX came 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 enhanced driving dynamics with torque-vectoring capabilities. The MDX Sport Hybrid model offered a 3.0-liter V6 engine combined with three electric motors, producing 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. The MDX A-Spec trim provided a sporty driving experience with firm ride quality and responsive steering. Fuel economy for the A-Spec was 19.7 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating of 21 mpg combined.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 made excellent use of its space, offering ample front-seat head- and legroom. The center console featured a removable trash bin and a wireless charging pad. The backseat provided surprising legroom and smart storage solutions. The hands-free power liftgate worked efficiently, revealing a decent-size load floor with additional storage below. The XC40 offered 57.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, second only to the BMW X1 among subcompact SUVs.

The 2019 Acura MDX had a comfortable and practical interior. The front seats provided excellent cushioning and support, while the second-row seats were spacious for both adults and children. The third-row seat was less comfortable and better suited for occasional use. With the third-row seat folded, the MDX offered 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 68.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats down. A handy covered storage bin under the cargo floor added to its practicality.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 featured a large portrait-oriented touchscreen in the center of the dash, housing most vehicle controls. The Sensus system was user-friendly, with large fonts and a home button for easy navigation. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration worked seamlessly. The available Multimedia Package added a navigation system and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, some functions like heated seats required multiple steps on the touchscreen.

The 2019 Acura MDX had a dual-screen infotainment system, with the top display used for navigation and vehicle settings, and the bottom touchscreen for radio and climate controls. While the system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was criticized for its small screens and poor voice-recognition system. The primary climate controls were separate from the screen, but heated and ventilated seats required using the touchscreen. The next redesign was expected to improve the infotainment system.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 came standard with a comprehensive array of safety features, including multiple airbags, a whiplash protection system, and City Safe automatic braking. The optional Vision Package added blind-spot detection and cross-traffic alert, while the Advanced Package included a 360-degree camera and adaptive headlights. However, the XC40's large C-pillars created significant blind spots, and the shifter design posed potential safety risks.

The 2019 Acura MDX earned high crash-test ratings and came standard with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it fell short of a Top Safety Pick+ due to headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility. The MDX's adaptive cruise control system was less refined than those in newer luxury vehicles, but the next redesign was expected to address this.