2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Honda HR-V deviated from the traditional SUV aesthetics adopted by its siblings like the CR-V, Passport, and Pilot, opting instead for a softer and more approachable design. Unlike its bigger counterparts with their imposing front ends and upright rooflines, the HR-V had a friendlier appearance. It stood out due to its unique design elements, such as window lines that met in a triangular point near the taillights, where the rear door handles were cleverly hidden. Trim levels mostly featured 17-inch alloy wheels, with a machined finish on the EX and EX-L trims, while the Sport models boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim, and fog lights were standard on all but the base LX trim level.

Inside, the HR-V's interior was utilitarian yet functional. The material quality and fit and finish were commendable, although it never fooled anyone into thinking it was a luxury vehicle. The EX and EX-L models came with added conveniences like push-button start, automatic climate control, a moonroof, and heated front seats, with the EX-L also sporting leather upholstery.

Contrastingly, the 2022 Acura MDX, which had always been marketed as a three-row luxury crossover, showcased an exterior that felt more compact yet spacious. Transitional design changes included a longer wheelbase and overall length, along with a wider body and track, adding to its visual appeal. The dash-to-axle distance—marking an elegant design touch—was extended by over four inches. Acura's use of LED technology was front and center with their Jewel Eye LED headlights, framed by expressive linear LED daytime running lights. Wheel sizes grew larger, with the base model featuring 19 x 8.5-inch wheels, and Tech trims and higher showcasing 20 x 9-inch wheels.

On the inside, the MDX's cabin mirrored the modernization seen outside. The dashboard's layered design increased the perceived spaciousness, housing authentic materials like natural wood, aluminum, and real leather alongside high-quality plastics. The quirky control layout eventually made sense in use, including a unique gear selector akin to controls in modern jets, an infotainment touchpad, and an integrated display on the center stack. The comfortable front row seats, replete with adjustment options, and a beefy steering wheel added to the premium feel.

Driving the 2021 Honda HR-V meant relying on a single powertrain: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Paddle shifters were available in higher trims. This setup, available with either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, remained unchanged from previous iterations, which many critics viewed as lackluster. The engine was often perceived as underpowered for highway driving, an issue exacerbated by an inefficient CVT. Some competitors like the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek offered more power with their engine options.

Nevertheless, the HR-V’s chassis demonstrated Honda’s reputation for creating engaging drive experiences, especially on twisty roads. While the AWD system was adequate for slippery roads, the HR-V’s limited ground clearance and lack of towing capacity meant it fell short of traditional SUV capabilities.

In comparison, the 2022 Acura MDX came equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, linked to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX was available in front-wheel drive and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), the latter enhancing performance with torque vectoring. This system could channel up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and distribute it to either side for better cornering.

The MDX’s suspension upgrades included a double-wishbone front setup and enhanced rear multi-link suspension, improving both sporty handling and ride smoothness. Larger disc brakes also provided notable stopping power. The integrated 10-speed automatic transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, featuring quick downshifting and drive modes (Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual) that tailored the driving experience.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space, a feat partly due to its “Magic Seat” 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, inherited from the Honda Fit. When the rear seats were folded down, it offered 58.8 cubic feet of space (57.6 cubic feet with AWD). With the seats up, it provided 24.3 cubic feet (23.2 cubic feet with AWD), exceeding competitors like the Chevrolet Trax and Hyundai Kona. Yet, some rivals like the Kia Seltos offered more cargo room. The HR-V also led its segment in rear-seat legroom, although its front-seat legroom and headroom were merely average.

Interior-wise, the HR-V didn’t feature any avant-garde storage solutions but boasted user-friendly controls, including sizeable knobs for climate settings and a straightforward shift lever in the center console. A standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel aided in achieving an optimal driving position.

On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX’s three-row layout catered to both passengers and cargo, with flexible and innovative seating options. The dual bucket front seats and a versatile second row with a removable center seat provided comfort and adaptability. The second row could slide and recline, improving legroom access to the third row, which was ideal for children or smaller passengers. Cargo-wise, the MDX afforded between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, and up to 95 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

The MDX introduced user-centric features like a hands-free power tailgate and innovative lighting themes named after iconic locales. Tailgate configurations included “Walk Away Close” and “Hands-Free Access,” enhancing convenience. Interior storage was further augmented by the clever design and luxurious finishing touches.

The 2021 Honda HR-V’s technological offerings varied significantly by trim. The base LX included essentials like Bluetooth connectivity, a 5-inch display, and a four-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Sport trim and higher meant access to a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. EX and EX-L trims added SiriusXM satellite radio. Though functional, the infotainment system's small size and limited features compared to rivals were notable drawbacks.

Conversely, the 2022 Acura MDX came loaded with advanced tech features across all trims. The standout ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers was available in upper trims, elevating the audio experience. The base model offered a robust nine-speaker setup, and intermediate trims featured a 12-speaker ELS Studio system. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment screen with landscape orientation, a digital instrument panel, and integration with Amazon Alexa provided a modern, connected experience. Further enhancements, like CabinTalk for communication across rows, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera, underscored the MDX's high-tech appeal.

Exemplifying safety, the 2021 Honda HR-V received top “Good” scores in all IIHS crash tests and a "Superior" rating for its optional front-crash prevention tech. However, it received lower marks for its headlights and LATCH system. The HR-V earned five stars overall from the NHTSA. Not all trims featured Honda Sensing safety tech but EX and EX-L models included advanced safety features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Acura MDX aimed to surpass its predecessor’s already impressive safety scores. It was engineered with a high percentage of high-strength steel and advanced safety structures for better collision protection. The front-end redesign also enhanced pedestrian safety, and low-speed braking control assisted in urban settings. The MDX came fully equipped with the AcuraWatch suite, providing a full range of safety and driver assistance technologies, ensuring it was prepared for any eventuality on the road.