2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, neither embarrassing nor overly impressing its driver. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of luxury to its front end. The sleek, low-slung design with chiseled details and a fast roofline gave it a modern appearance. Inside, the MDX boasted a simple yet modern interior with high-quality materials and a solid build. The center stack was a highlight, featuring twin infotainment screens and a well-organized layout.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover exuded luxury and sophistication. Despite its design approaching a decade in age, it maintained a timeless appeal with hallmark design cues like blacked-out windshield and roof pillars, large nameplate lettering, and clean styling. The test vehicle's Byron Blue exterior with silver 21-inch wheels added to its allure. Inside, the Range Rover's Ivory-color interior offered a high-contrast design with a mid-century modern ambiance. While the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models, it still provided a luxurious experience. The cabin was a sanctuary of comfort, with high-quality materials and a focus on luxury.

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 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided impressive 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 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrain choices, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and electric motor assistance provided smooth power delivery. The Range Rover's four-wheel drive system, with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured off-road capability. The adaptive air suspension delivered a classic wafting sensation, while the SUV's weight and tall center of gravity required a more measured approach to handling. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, with our test vehicle achieving 18.5 mpg.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered practicality with its three-row seating configuration. Sliding and reclining second-row seats facilitated access to the third row, while headroom was ample in all rows. The MDX provided 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. Interior storage options included a large glove box, a flexible center console, and various cupholders and storage pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier entry and exit. The front seats were decadently comfortable, while the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Despite this, the back seat offered luxury features like quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments and a small refrigerated bin. Luggage volume was 25 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

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 navigation, remote engine start, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera and heated and ventilated seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while not entirely intuitive, offered numerous features and functions. The Range Rover also included a head-up display, touch-sensing steering wheel controls, and voice control options. The waterproof Activity Key wristband allowed for keyless entry, and the iGuide smartphone app served as a digital owner's manual.

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 and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included a Head-Up Warning. The MDX's ACE Body Structure was designed to absorb crash impact. The IIHS rated the MDX as "good" in crash tests, while the NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, which worked effectively. However, the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.