2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Acura MDX was a testament to the evolution of the three-row luxury crossover SUV category. It appeared compact from the outside but offered a surprisingly spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The exterior design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard layout, though quirky, was intuitive, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety. The MDX exuded a solid, quality feel, with a variety of exterior colors and interior themes available.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover, meanwhile, maintained its iconic design with subtle evolutionary changes. The front and sides retained the broad, rounded face, while the rear saw significant updates with thin LED strips replacing the old square taillights. The Range Rover emphasized its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons, featuring a larger tablet-like touchscreen for a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements adorned the interior, exuding luxury. The Range Rover's solid feel was evident, with no creaks even on rough roads. It offered a refined interior experience, surpassing competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available. The SH-AWD system enhanced cornering feel and control, with torque vectoring capabilities. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup for improved handling, and the overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. In comparison tests, the MDX impressed with its performance, feeling closer to the benchmark Audi Q7.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 powertrain delivered impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll. It featured rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability and retained its off-road capability with the Terrain Response system. The ride quality was smooth, and the cabin remained quiet, offering a comfortable luxury experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and an innovative second row with a removable center section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's seating capacity was appreciated for family use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 95 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Grab ‘N Go" and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from, enhancing the cabin ambiance.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, with large windows and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options were plentiful, including two glove boxes and a wireless charging pad. The second row offered power recline and sliding adjustments, with additional climate controls and USB-C ports. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 93 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, offering exceptional sound quality with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, with Amazon Alexa integration and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also included a head-up display, CabinTalk feature, and a WiFi hotspot. Software updates could be done over the air, ensuring the latest features and improvements.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Range Rover's infotainment system was user-friendly, though the screen's placement could be improved for reduced distraction.

The 2022 Acura MDX had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous model received high marks. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system was included. The AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver assistance technologies was standard, offering features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, which was common for luxury SUVs. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The Range Rover's safety features performed well, with no false alarms. While adequately equipped, some rivals offered additional safety features that the Range Rover lacked.