2021 Ford Bronco vs 2022 Acura MDX

Back in 2021, the eagerly awaited Ford Bronco marked a triumphant return that stirred nostalgia and excitement. The Bronco's design was rooted deeply in its history, inspired by the original model from 1966. Its exterior borrowed heavily from the past, featuring a distinctive single-piece grille flanked by round headlights and bold B-R-O-N-C-O lettering—a clear lineage to its storied predecessor. With modularity as a key aspect, the Bronco boasted removable doors and a black soft-top or modular hardtop. Eleven eye-catching color options, like Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat and Area 51 greenish-gray, allowed consumers to personalize their models.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX had been a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category. Acura re-engineered the MDX on a new dedicated platform with sharper and sportier exterior proportions. The vehicle's longer wheelbase and wider track enhanced elegance and road presence. Jewel Eye LED headlights with expressive LED daytime running lights, large wheels, and a focused design language confirmed the MDX's modernity. It showcased a high level of craftsmanship with unique attributes such as the Acura Precision Cockpit and various paint options, like the sophisticated Platinum White Pearl and Majestic Black Pearl.

On the interior, the Bronco carried the retro theme with modern functionality. Despite using rugged materials, like plastic reinforced with metal and grippy rubber, it maintained a durable, robust feel. An 8-inch or optional 12-inch touchscreen and digital gauges replaced the old analog systems completely transforming the dashboard while preserving the classic Bronco essence.

The MDX, however, dialed up luxury and technology. The cabin featured layered dashboards, natural wood, genuine aluminium, true leather, and high-quality plastics. The innovative gear selection interface, push-buttons and levers mimicked a fighter jet's controls. A 12.3-inch non-touchscreen infotainment display atop the center stack was highlighted by advanced tech choices like Amazon Alexa integration and high-end sound systems.

Performance-wise, the 2021 Ford Bronco offered two robust engine options. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four produced 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed manual transmission. The optional 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 delivered 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission. Test drives around Holly, Michigan, indicated its impressive balance and traction on challenging off-road terrains, reaffirming its reputation as a great off-roader.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Acura MDX featured a single 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine came with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, available with either front-wheel drive or Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). With enhancements like torque vectoring and an impressive suspension setup—including a double-wishbone front suspension—the MDX excelled in sporty handling and driving stability. Multiple drive modes allowed personalized driving experiences, whether navigating city traffic or exploring highways.

Form and function in the 2021 Ford Bronco played a pivotal role. With a high degree of modularity, the Bronco's body parts, including doors, fenders, bumpers, and the front grille, were all designed for easy removal and replacement. Protective storage bags and straightforward tools for door removal were examples of Ford catering to a rugged yet practical user experience. Moreover, interior controls like the overhead auxiliary switches were smartly placed for easy access during challenging off-road conditions.

On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX maximized passenger and cargo utility. The innovative second-row design featured a removable center section and fore-aft sliding seats, which along with a 12-degree reclining feature, enhanced comfort and accessibility. The cargo space offered flexible capacity ranging from 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to up to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row down, and reaching up to 95 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The MDX also introduced convenient features like the Walk Away Close for the tailgate and customizable interior lighting themes.

Technologically, the 2021 Ford Bronco stood out with its SYNC 4 infotainment system, featuring an optional upgrade to a 12-inch touchscreen. The off-road focused G.O.A.T. modes (up to seven) managed various terrains efficiently. Optional upgrades included voice-activated navigation, a 10-speaker B&O sound system, and a wireless charging pad. Practical additions like position-sensitive Bilstein shocks highlighted its off-road prowess.

The 2022 Acura MDX shined in technology. From the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts to the versatile 12.3-inch HD digital instrument panel, the MDX's tech catered to both audiophiles and tech enthusiasts. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a head-up display (HUD) on the Advance package elevated the driving experience. A minivan-like CabinTalk feature enhanced in-cabin communication.

Safety in the 2021 Ford Bronco was tiered across trims. The Base model had fundamental safety features, while higher trims added advanced options through packages. The Mid Package included Co-Pilot 360 technologies like pre-collision assist, blind-spot information system, and auto high-beam headlamps. The High Package introduced a 360-degree camera and forward sensing system. Removable doors posed a challenge but the Bronco compensated with adaptive side curtain airbags.

The 2022 Acura MDX was engineered with advanced safety structures, featuring a higher percentage of high-strength steel. A suite of AcuraWatch safety systems came standard, covering collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and expanded pedestrian detection. The front end was specifically designed to enhance pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system augmented overall protection. Enhanced stiffness and rigidity contributed to a robust safety profile.