2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX pioneered the three-row luxury crossover SUV category and always managed to appear smaller on the outside than it felt on the inside. Unlike previous generations that shared a platform with the Honda Pilot, this new generation was engineered on a dedicated platform specifically for the MDX. The vehicle's proportions were tweaked to include a longer wheelbase and overall length, as well as a wider body and track. Car designers increased the critical dash-to-axle distance by over four inches, lending the vehicle an elegant appeal. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights accentuated by expressive linear LED daytime running lights. It sported bigger wheels and tires—19 x 8.5 inches for the base model and 20 x 9 inches on Tech trims and above, making the exterior design sportier and more assertive. Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX flaunted a high level of craftsmanship.

Inside, the MDX presented a modernized, layered dashboard that emphasized the width of the cabin, utilizing authentic materials such as natural wood, genuine aluminum, and real leather. While the layout of some controls was quirky, it quickly made sense in operation. The center console housed various controls, including a unique gear selection that seemed almost fighter jet-inspired. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was positioned in landscape orientation, not as a touchscreen but strategically placed for safety.

The front seats were highly comfortable, with a wide range of adjustments. The overall feel was solid and luxurious, befitting its price range. The MDX offered a choice of eight exterior colors and six interior themes, adding to its personalized luxury appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and grace with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille. Measuring just over 16 feet long, the midsize SUV opted for elegant proportions rather than sporty. Standard 19-inch wheels could be upgraded to 22-inch alloy wheels in the Prestige trim. Quad lamp taillights and a hands-free liftgate contributed to its stately look. The tester's matte Brunswick Green paint job further enhanced its elegant appearance.

Inside, the GV80's quilted leather seats continued the dark green theme, looking exquisite alongside metal and matte wood trim. The center console highlighted three major dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. Genesis's unique two-spoke steering wheel differentiated it from other luxury brands. Although the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed, the luxurious interior offered a decent space for passengers to enjoy.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Power was transmitted either to the front wheels or to all four wheels with the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, depending on the trim. SH-AWD models featured torque vectoring, enabling up to 70% of torque to be sent to the rear wheels and up to 100% of that torque directed to either side during cornering. This resulted in enhanced cornering feel and control. The new 10-speed automatic transmission was smooth, downshifting up to four gears for passing and easily adjusting to the desired driving style through the Integrated Dynamics System controller.

The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear. This enhanced both ride quality and sporty handling, aided by larger disc brakes. Stiffness and rigidity were greatly improved, eliminating body flex and improving suspension performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission integrated well with the engine, providing brisk and smooth driving experiences.

For the 2023 Genesis GV80, the standard engine options included a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. The smaller engine delivered 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, whereas the larger engine, which was in the tested model, produced 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The GV80, although neither nimble nor particularly fast, was adept at highway driving. The electronically controlled suspension and active noise cancellation provided a smooth and quiet ride on the freeway. The forward-facing camera helped prime the dampers for upcoming road roughness, ensuring a comfortable commute.

The 2022 Acura MDX aimed to balance family utility and luxury commuting. It offered comfortable seating for the first two rows, with a flexible second row featuring a removable center section. Third-row access was simple, although best suited for smaller occupants. The second row could slide and recline up to 12 degrees, enabling better legroom adjustment for all passengers.

For utility, the MDX provided 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 39.1 to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 71.4 to 95 cubic feet with the second row down. Features like the power tailgate with Grab ‘N Go and Hands-Free Access enhanced convenience, while 27 customizable interior lighting themes added a touch of personalization.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 also boasted a range of luxury touches. Heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Ergo Motion driver’s seat provided comfort and fatigue reduction. Although the optional third row was cramped, the spacious interior included lavish Nappa leather seats and premium features like a 21-speaker audio system and a panoramic glass roof.

In terms of utility, the GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The GV80 also had a competitive towing capacity of 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rich in tech features. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts provided an exceptional auditory experience. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit 12.3-inch HD digital instrument panel were standard across all trims. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Qi-compatible wireless charging, and a CabinTalk feature for easier communication with rear passengers. The head-up display and surround-view HD rearview camera system were available on higher trims, and the WiFi hotspot facilitated over-the-air updates.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 also featured advanced technology, including a standard 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. Though the touchscreen was slightly out of reach, the dial interface and handwriting recognition feature enhanced functionality. Despite having wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it offered multiple charging options, including wireless charging, four USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The GV80 included remote smart parking assist, allowing the driver to park the vehicle using the key fob, even from outside the car.

The 2022 Acura MDX hadn't yet been rated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, it was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end redesign included pedestrian safety features such as an impact-absorbing bumper and a deformable hood. The low-speed braking control system and collision mitigation throttle control further enhanced safety in urban environments.

The AcuraWatch suite was standard, incorporating features like collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 had impressive safety credentials, including standard advanced driver aids like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Unique features included a video feed of the car’s blind spot displayed in the digital gauge cluster. Genesis’s Highway Drive Assist, a hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, provided lane changing and speed adjustments based on navigation data and driver habits.

The NHTSA awarded the GV80 a five-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave it a Good rating for crashworthiness and Superior for front crash prevention, although ratings for headlights and the LATCH system were listed as Acceptable.