2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX exuded a refined and modern aura, even if its aesthetics were not groundbreaking. This SUV possessed an elegant exterior with its Jewel Eye LED headlights, providing both function and a rich visual appeal. Five LED elements arrayed horizontally on each side enhanced its front-end look, flanking a trapezoidal grille centered with a prominent Acura logo. The MDX’s sleek and low-slung body, with chiseled details and a fast roofline, added to its sophisticated charm. It didn’t scream for attention but fit comfortably into any upscale environment.

Inside, the MDX continued the theme of understated luxury. Its center stack, boasting twin infotainment screens—a high-mounted 8.0-inch LED screen complemented by an On Demand Multi-Use Display touchscreen—provided a modern touch. The absence of excessive padding and stitching, commonly seen in other luxury SUVs, emphasized a clean and functional interior. High-quality materials and superb fit and finish made the cabin feel solid and well-crafted, with knobs and switches operating with satisfying precision.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner's design had stood the test of time, remaining largely unchanged for over a decade. Its robust and balanced proportions, characterized by flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, gave it a timeless and utilitarian look. While certain trims like the 4Runner Limited avoided the aggressive, chrome-laden front fascia, others adopted a more rugged visage. The 4Runner’s design felt like a trusty tool—practical and durable rather than trendy or flashy.

Internally, the Trail Special Edition of the 4Runner was basic yet functional. The seats, while generally comfortable, were not as refined as those in the MDX. Hard plastics dominated the interior, aligning with the 4Runner’s rugged purpose. The dashboard retained a traditional layout with large knobs and buttons, catering to ease of use rather than visual appeal.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options. The base model featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The MDX Sport Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with three electric motors, achieving a combined 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive.

Our test drive featured the gasoline-only model with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX demonstrated impressive straight-line performance with smooth and rapid acceleration. Its handling was particularly notable, thanks to the SH-AWD's torque-vectoring capability, which enhanced cornering by directing power to the outside rear wheel. The four-wheel independent suspension contributed to a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effortlessly.

In comparison, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner focused on off-road prowess. Equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, it came with a five-speed automatic transmission and part-time 4WD. During our test at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreational Area, the 4Runner’s performance on challenging terrain was exceptional. The A-Trac traction control system shone, enabling the SUV to maneuver through rugged conditions by braking spinning wheels to reallocate power to those with traction.

However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt heavy and less refined. Its steering and brake responses were slower than those of modern crossovers, and maneuvering in tight spaces demanded more effort. Fuel efficiency was another drawback, with a combined EPA rating of 17 mpg, falling short of expectations for daily urban driving.

The 2020 Acura MDX’s interior was thoughtfully designed to accommodate families, replacing many functions traditionally associated with minivans. The second-row seats slid and reclined, facilitating easier access to the third row and allowing flexible legroom distribution. Cargo capacity was another strong suit, offering 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 90.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down. Additional features included a recessed cubby hole and underfloor storage in the cargo area, as well as numerous storage solutions throughout the cabin, enhancing its functionality.

Conversely, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner's higher ride height could be a challenge for shorter occupants, although running boards were available to mitigate this issue. The interior provided ample comfort for passengers, with supportive seating and plenty of legroom in the second row. Unlike the MDX, the 4Runner Trail Special Edition did not come with a third-row seat but did feature a sliding cargo deck capable of holding 440 pounds. Cargo space was generous, offering up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The roof rack further expanded its storage capabilities, making it well-suited for adventurous endeavors.

The 2020 Acura MDX came well-equipped with technology across its trim packages. Standard features included Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a CD/MP3 player. The base model also had five USB ports, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an eight-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Technology Package added features like rain-sensing windshield wipers, navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a 10-speaker premium audio system. The top-tier Advance Package enhanced this with a surround-view camera, heated and ventilated front seats, and other luxurious touches. An Entertainment Package, available with upper-tier packages, offered a rear DVD system with a large screen and additional speakers.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition was more straightforward in terms of technology. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, along with five USB ports. The Trail Special Edition’s tech highlights included a windshield wiper de-icer and a cargo area AC power outlet. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation and a host of subscription-based services. While the 4Runner's infotainment system was user-friendly and functional, it lacked the extensive feature set of the MDX.

The 2020 Acura MDX excelled in safety features with its AcuraWatch suite, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Upgrading to the Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package introduced a Head-Up Warning. The MDX’s sophisticated ACE body structure aimed to distribute crash energy effectively to protect occupants.

Safety ratings underscored the MDX’s reliability. The IIHS awarded it “Good” ratings across most categories, a “Superior” rating for front crash prevention, and “Acceptable” ratings for headlights and LATCH ease of use. The NHTSA gave the MDX a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control (without full-stop capability), forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert features.

The IIIHS rated the 4Runner’s roof strength as “Good,” but its driver protection in small overlap frontal impacts was “Marginal.” The NHTSA gave the 4Runner three stars for rollover resistance and front passenger protection in frontal crashes.