2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a stylish yet understated crossover SUV. Its design was not groundbreaking, but it was certainly not lacking in appeal. The MDX's Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of sophistication to its front, flanking a trapezoidal grille with a prominent Acura logo. The vehicle's sleek, low-slung profile, combined with flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its refined appearance. Inside, the MDX offered a modern and simple aesthetic, highlighted by twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave it a solid, well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda HR-V featured a softer, friendlier design compared to Honda's larger SUVs. Its distinctive styling included converging window lines near the taillights, which also housed the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The HR-V's interior was plain but functional, with good material quality and fit and finish. Higher trims offered features like push-button start, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery, enhancing its overall appeal.

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 and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system (SH-AWD) provided impressive straight-line performance and nimble handling, especially in corners, thanks to its torque-vectoring technology. The vehicle's four-wheel independent suspension ensured a comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice for long drives.

The 2021 Honda HR-V, on the other hand, was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, its chassis made up for it by offering a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads. The HR-V's AWD system was suitable for slippery roads but not for rough terrains, and it lacked towing capabilities. Despite these limitations, the HR-V provided decent ride quality and lived up to Honda's reputation for fun-to-drive vehicles.

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 featured numerous storage solutions, including a flexible center console, door panel pockets, and a covered underfloor storage space. Tri-zone climate control added to its luxury appeal, making it a stylish alternative to minivans for families.

The 2021 Honda HR-V impressed with its cargo space, thanks to the "Magic Seat" 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, providing up to 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space. It led the segment in rear-seat legroom, although front-seat legroom and headroom were average. The HR-V's interior lacked clever storage solutions but offered sensibly-designed controls, including large knobs for climate control and an audio volume knob. The narrow center console was dominated by a large shift lever, providing simplicity and ease of use.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of technology features, with trim levels simplified into packages. The base model included Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The Technology Package added features like navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package offered additional tech and comfort features. The Entertainment Package provided a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones, enhancing the MDX's appeal for tech-savvy families.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim offered basic tech features like Bluetooth and a 5-inch display screen. Upgrading to the Sport trim level provided a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The EX and EX-L models added SiriusXM satellite radio. While the infotainment system was plain but functional, the optional 7-inch touchscreen was considered small compared to competitors, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard across all trims.

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 system. The MDX's Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure enhanced crash protection. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, its headlight ratings were less favorable. Honda Sensing safety features were available only on the EX and EX-L trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The HR-V's LaneWatch system provided an enhanced view from a mirror-mounted camera, offering a step up from conventional blind-spot monitoring.