2020 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, especially in its Premier trim, presented a clean and appealing design without relying heavily on typical SUV styling cues. It featured a more powerful engine, all-wheel drive, and a panoramic sunroof, with a price tag of $40,040, including destination charges. However, Chevrolet often included expected rebates and incentives, reducing the cost significantly. The Equinox Premier stood out with its 19-inch wheels and chrome detailing, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the high-contrast cabin with Jet Black and Brandy leather looked upscale, though the presence of hard plastics detracted from the overall feel of luxury.

The 2020 Acura MDX, while not groundbreaking in its styling, offered a sleek and low-slung appearance for a three-row SUV. Its Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of sophistication to the front, complemented by a trapezoidal grille with a prominent Acura logo. The MDX's interior was modern and simple, featuring twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish. The materials used felt solid and well-built, with knobs and switches providing a rewarding tactile experience. The MDX's design was understated yet elegant, fitting in comfortably without drawing excessive attention.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered two engine options. The standard 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivered 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It provided adequate performance for most drivers, though it fell short of the EPA's fuel economy ratings. The optional 2.0-liter turbo engine, with 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, offered significantly better performance and a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. This engine was paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing lively acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. Both versions exhibited firm ride qualities, with the Premier's 19-inch wheels enhancing its athletic feel on winding roads.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with two powertrain options. The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine produced 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The MDX Sport Hybrid offered a combined system power of 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, utilizing a 3.0-liter V6 engine and three electric motors. The gasoline-only model with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system provided good straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. This system seamlessly directed power to the outside rear wheel during cornering, enhancing stability and control. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension contributed to a comfortable ride, making it a suitable choice for long journeys.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox offered a comfortable interior with options for cloth or leather upholstery. The Premier trim included features like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a sliding rear seat to maximize passenger or cargo space. Rear legroom was generous, though cargo volume was less than some competitors, with 29.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 63.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The cabin provided ample storage, including a large center console bin and various trays and cubbies.

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, expanding to 90.9 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The MDX featured numerous storage options, including a flexible center console, door panel pockets, and a covered underfloor storage space. Tri-zone climate control allowed for separate heating and cooling options, enhancing comfort for all passengers. The MDX provided a stylish alternative to minivans, with ample space and functionality for families.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox featured several infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen displays, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Premier trim included a high-definition display, Bose premium sound system, and navigation. The technology was intuitive and easy to use, with options for wireless smartphone charging and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with standard tech features like Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera and heated rear seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones. Acura's approach to technology was comprehensive, with packages offering a wide range of features.

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional safety features included a reversing camera, rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. The Equinox earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a safe choice for families.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured 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's ACE Body Structure enhanced crash protection, earning it high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.