2021 Buick Envision vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, offering a sense of understated elegance without drawing undue attention. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to its front end. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille, creating an expressive face. The MDX's sleek and low-slung profile, combined with flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its overall appeal. Inside, the MDX boasted a modern and simple design, with a center stack highlighted by twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials that provided a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Envision underwent a significant redesign, resulting in a more planted and premium appearance. The Envision's new styling was more sculpted than its predecessor, though not as sleek as some of its rivals. It offered three trim levels—Preferred, Essence, and Avenir—each with distinct looks. The Avenir trim, in particular, featured upgraded exterior elements, including a Black Ice Chrome mesh grille and 20-inch Avenir-specific wheels. Inside, the Envision's cabin was driver-centric, with a protruding center stack housing the infotainment screen and climate controls. While the design choices were stylish, the abundance of piano black plastic on the dashboard and center console attracted dust. Despite these quirks, the Envision's interior was comfortable, with standard features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid model with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its performance, providing nimble handling and torque vectoring for improved cornering. The MDX's suspension system absorbed road bumps effectively, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Buick Envision, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine was less powerful than its predecessor, the Envision's weight reduction improved fuel efficiency. The Envision offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Despite its comfortable cruising capabilities, the Envision's engine and road noise detracted from its premium feel. The SUV's drive mode selector allowed for some customization, but the noise and fuel economy trade-offs were notable.

The 2020 Acura MDX excelled in interior space and functionality, with 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, expandable to 90.9 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded flat. The MDX's interior featured ample storage options, including a flexible center console and door panel pockets. Tri-zone climate control added to the comfort, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Envision's redesign resulted in reduced interior space compared to its predecessor. Despite a longer wheelbase, the Envision had less headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in the front row, with rear-seat passengers losing legroom and hip room. Cargo capacity was also reduced, with 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 53.7 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The driver-centric cockpit limited front passenger access to controls, and forward visibility was challenging for shorter drivers. However, the Envision offered standard features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel for added comfort.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a range of technology features, with trim levels simplified into packages. The base model included standard features like Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera and heated rear seats. An Entertainment Package was also available for rear-seat entertainment.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering a clean and responsive interface. The driver information display provided quick access to station and song information. Standard features included USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available features included navigation, a surround-view camera, and wireless device charging. However, the passenger's access to the infotainment system was limited due to the driver-centric design.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance Package included a surround-view camera. The MDX's ACE Body Structure enhanced crash protection. The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Buick Envision had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS due to its new generation. Standard safety features included forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Envision's Buckle to Drive feature ensured seatbelt use before shifting from park to drive. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced park assist were available on Avenir models. However, the Envision lacked GM's Super Cruise and lane-centering technology.