2021 Ford Expedition vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX was a stylish crossover SUV, though its design was not particularly groundbreaking. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings without drawing much attention, yet it maintained a respectable appearance. 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 its chiseled details and flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its overall appeal. Inside, the MDX offered a modern and simple design, with a center stack that featured twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave it a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum was a sight for sore eyes, especially after a long flight. It was the most luxurious version of the Expedition lineup, boasting a Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package. The Expedition's power-deploying running boards and leather-lined cabin added to its appeal. However, the regular-length model struggled to accommodate both passengers and luggage, highlighting the need for the extended-length MAX version for those requiring more cargo space. Despite this, the Expedition Platinum's bold presence, with its chrome grille and massive 22-inch wheels, made it a good-looking vehicle. Its interior, while comfortable, featured a mix of premium materials and hard plastics, reminding occupants of its origins.

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 version with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided good straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension ensured a comfortable ride, making it a reliable companion for long journeys.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, on the other hand, featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with the Platinum trim receiving a boost to 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. The Expedition impressed with its acceleration, even when fully loaded, and offered a towing capacity ranging from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds. However, the ride quality suffered due to the Platinum's 22-inch wheels, despite the adaptive damping suspension. The Expedition's four-wheel independent suspension kept it stable on the road, and the FX4 Off-Road Package added off-road capabilities for those seeking adventure.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided a practical and stylish alternative to minivans, 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, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a flexible center console and door panel pockets, and tri-zone climate control for added comfort.

The 2021 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and utility, with large, wide seats for all passengers, including adults in the third row. The independent rear suspension ensured comfort, and storage was plentiful. The regular-length model offered 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 104.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Expedition MAX provided even more cargo space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 73.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 121.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of technology features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added features like rain-sensing windshield wipers, navigation, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included additional tech and comfort features. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Ford Expedition featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, which, despite its aging interface, offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charging. An available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system provided additional entertainment options for passengers.

The 2020 Acura MDX was equipped 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 received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Ford Expedition came with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included features like forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Limited trim offered adaptive cruise control and a semi-autonomous parking assistance system. The Expedition received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, though its rollover-resistance rating varied between three and four stars depending on the drivetrain.