2022 GMC Terrain vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX redefined the three-row luxury crossover SUV category with its innovative design. Previous MDX models shared a platform with the Honda Pilot, but the 2022 version was built on a dedicated platform just for the MDX. Its reworked proportions included a longer wheelbase, a wider body, and a greater overall length, making it feel expansive inside despite its compact exterior. The dash-to-axle distance was increased by over four inches, giving the MDX an elegant look. Acura continued its tradition of using LED headlights, featuring Jewel Eye LED headlights paired with expressive linear LED daytime running lights. Bigger wheels and tires on the new MDX added to its sporty and assertive look. Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX boasted a high level of craftsmanship and quality.

The interior of the MDX was thoroughly modernized with a layered dashboard that emphasized the width of the cabin, making it feel more spacious. Authentic materials such as natural wood, genuine aluminum, and real leather were used generously, complemented by high-quality plastics. The center console housed unique gear selection controls resembling those from a fighter jet, and included a touchpad to control infotainment functions, a volume knob, and a drive mode selector. A 12.3-inch infotainment screen was well-positioned and landscape-oriented, enhancing safety by avoiding the need for touchscreen interactions while driving.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, on the other hand, received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The introduction of the bold AT4 trim level further enhanced its appearance with a sporty grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels, and AT4 badges. The Terrain AT4 was designed to handle off-road challenges, boasting a steel skid plate under the front end to protect vital components. The Ebony Twilight metallic paint and blacked-out AT4 treatment on our test model, paired with a black leather interior, delivered an aggressive look, although it was difficult to keep clean.

Inside, the GMC Terrain AT4 offered power-adjustable front seats, heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The caramel-colored contrast stitching in the leather upholstery added a touch of luxury. Although the Terrain was GMC’s entry-level offering, it aimed to provide a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, the MDX offered front-wheel drive on base and Tech trims, and the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was optional on these trims and standard on higher trims. SH-AWD enhanced cornering feel by sending up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and up to 100% of that torque to either side during turns. This improvement made the MDX feel more agile and controlled. Revised suspensions and stronger brakes boosted the SUV’s performance, while increased stiffness and rigidity in the frame enhanced ride quality.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. This engine, however, lacked the spirited acceleration of the previously available 2.0-liter engine, which had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The 1.5-liter engine felt adequate but was not particularly powerful for rapid acceleration situations. The nine-speed automatic transmission did a satisfactory job of keeping the Terrain within its optimal torque range. The Terrain AT4 included switchable FWD to conserve fuel and AWD for additional traction, alongside an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control. Its 7.9 inches of ground clearance were slightly lower than some competitors like the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and Subaru Forester.

On the road, the Terrain AT4 delivered a smooth ride, but exhibited more body motion on uneven surfaces. Off-road, it struggled with low ground clearance and insufficient suspension firmness, often scraping over rough terrains.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV. Its front seats provided sports car-like comfort, and the second row featured an innovative removable center section, allowing more flexible arrangements. The second row could slide fore and aft for better legroom adjustment, and the third row, while cramped for adults, was adequate for children and teenagers. The MDX offered between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 71.4 to 95 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. A power tailgate with Grab ‘N Go and Hands-Free Access features made loading cargo convenient.

In comparison, the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 provided a roomy interior despite being a compact crossover. It included power-adjustable and heated front seats, along with a supportive back seat with significant legroom. The Terrain also offered various storage spots within the cabin, including a large storage bin under the trunk floor. Its cargo capacity measured 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and expanded to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. Long items could be accommodated by folding the front passenger seat flat, making the Terrain practical for carrying large goods.

Acura's 2022 MDX came loaded with tech features. It boasted the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, renowned for its high-fidelity sound. The base MDX still came with a nine-speaker system. Navigation was standard on Tech trims and above, accompanied by a 12.3-inch landscape-oriented infotainment screen and the configurable Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Additional tech perks included Amazon Alexa compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Qi-compatible wireless charging, and an interior public address system in higher trims. The MDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display, WiFi hotspot, and over-the-air updates for its software.

The 2022 GMC Terrain had two infotainment systems: a 7-inch touchscreen for SLE trims and an 8-inch high-definition touchscreen for higher trims. Both systems supported Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OnStar services, including a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered connected navigation, voice recognition, and a Bose premium sound system. During testing, the Terrain's voice recognition proved excellent, handling various commands smoothly. The optional head-up display and safety tech features such as front and rear parking assist and a surround-view camera system were also notable.

Safety was a top priority for the 2022 Acura MDX, which had yet to be rated by IIHS and NHTSA at the time. The model aimed for higher ratings than its predecessor, which had received "Good" from IIHS and five stars from NHTSA. Enhanced safety features included a collision mitigation braking system, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and traffic sign recognition. AcuraWatch offered expanded pedestrian detection and traffic jam assist.

The 2022 GMC Terrain featured the GMC Pro Safety Package, which included forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a following distance indicator. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, rear parking sensors, and a Safety Alert Seat. The Terrain earned mostly "Good" ratings from IIHS, though it received a "Marginal" score in a new side-impact test.