2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Honda Passport

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or breathtaking. It blended in seamlessly without drawing much attention, yet it did not embarrass its driver either. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added both function and a rich look to the front of the vehicle. The sleek, low-slung design with chiseled details and a fast roofline gave it a pleasant appearance. Inside, the MDX had a modern and simple look, with a center stack that featured twin infotainment screens and a high-quality level of material selection, making it feel solid and well-built.

The 2021 Honda Passport, essentially a shortened version of the Pilot, shared many styling similarities with its three-row sibling. The interior layout was visually identical, including the awkward "button shifter" design. Despite this, the Passport offered a spacious interior with high-quality materials. Trim levels ranged from Sport to Elite, each adding more features such as leather upholstery, power moonroof, and advanced audio systems. The Passport's design choices made it a practical and comfortable option for drivers seeking a two-row SUV.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with 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 gasoline-only model with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided good straight-line performance and nimble handling, especially in corners. The SH-AWD system's torque-vectoring technology improved turn-in and handling, making the MDX easier to drive quickly. The four-wheel independent suspension ensured a comfortable ride, even on long drives.

The 2021 Honda Passport featured a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with optional all-wheel drive. The V6 engine provided strong acceleration, and the automatic transmission managed power well, though the stop-start system could be abrupt. The Passport's ride was a blend of comfort and refined handling, with 8.1 inches of ground clearance and Intelligent Traction Management for AWD models. It could tow up to 3,500 pounds with FWD and 5,000 pounds with AWD, making it a versatile option for various driving conditions.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered practical features for families, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easier access to the third row. It provided 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 rear rows folded. The interior included a big glove box, a flexible center console, and various storage pockets and bins. Tri-zone climate control allowed separate heating and cooling options for different cabin areas, making the MDX a stylish and functional alternative to minivans.

The 2021 Honda Passport provided up to 100.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 50.5 cubic feet with the second row in use. An additional 2.5 cubic feet of under-floor storage added to its practicality. The EX-L trim and higher included a power liftgate, with hands-free operation on Touring and Elite trims. The upright seating position offered excellent visibility, and the center console featured a deep bin and open cargo tray. The rear seats provided ample headroom and legroom, with reclining and sliding capabilities for added comfort.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with standard tech features such as Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added rain-sensing wipers, navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera system and heated and ventilated front seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a 16.2-inch screen and HDMI compatibility, making the MDX a tech-savvy choice for families.

The 2021 Honda Passport made Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard, along with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, the infotainment system had dated graphics and a confusing menu layout. Despite these drawbacks, the inclusion of smartphone connectivity features as standard was a significant advantage. The Passport's infotainment system also included a volume dial, though it lacked a tuning dial, making it less user-friendly compared to some competitors.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, 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 body structure was designed to absorb impact and protect occupants. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Honda Passport also came well-equipped with safety features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Passport received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and top scores from IIHS in most crash tests, though it had "Acceptable" ratings for headlights and child-seat anchor ease of use. Its front crash prevention tech received an "Advanced" rating, making it a safe and dependable option.