2023 Nissan Ariya vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a testament to pioneering the three-row luxury crossover SUV segment. It always felt more spacious inside than it appeared on the outside. This iteration was built on a new dedicated platform solely for the MDX, diverging from its previous association with the Honda Pilot. The design adjustments included a longer wheelbase, increased overall length, and wider body and track. The designers accentuated the dash-to-axle distance by over four inches, enhancing its elegance. The MDX featured Jewel Eye LED headlights paired with linear LED daytime running lights, projecting a sporty and assertive appearance.

The MDX's interior was equally impressive, with a layered dashboard creating a sense of spaciousness. Natural materials such as wood, aluminum, and leather provided a luxurious atmosphere. Unique controls, including the fighter jet-inspired gear selection, added a quirky yet practical touch. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was smartly positioned for optimal accessibility. Comfortable front-row seating, a solid steering wheel with redundant controls, and paddle shifters added to the driving pleasure. The exterior offered eight color options and six interior themes, emphasizing personalization and luxury.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Ariya flaunted a modern and bold design, setting itself apart from typical gas-powered SUVs. The Ariya's sleek and oval shape was free from conventional creases and angles. The thin LED headlights and V-Motion front grille design, accompanied by an illuminated Nissan emblem, gave it a striking appearance. The rear featured a full-width taillight and distinctive "NISSAN" lettering.

Inside, the Ariya’s design focused on simplicity and modernity, featuring minimal hard plastic and high-quality materials. Dual 12-inch monitors displayed crucial information, and the illuminated haptic buttons added a futuristic touch. The removal of the transmission tunnel resulted in a spacious and airy cabin. Despite the difference in armrest heights, the overall interior comfort and openness were commendable.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, providing a seamless drive whether power was directed to the front wheels or all four through the optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The SH-AWD system enhanced cornering by distributing up to 70% of the torque to the rear wheels and 100% of it to either side during turns, making the MDX agile and responsive.

Acura also upgraded the suspension to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised the rear multi-link suspension for improved ride quality. The MDX's steering was refined with a variable gear ratio system, and braking performance was enhanced with larger disc brakes. These enhancements collectively improved the vehicle's stiffness and rigidity, resulting in a more solid and confident driving experience.

The MDX's five drive modes (Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual) allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience according to their preferences. During the test drives, the MDX displayed superior handling and comfort compared to its competitors, such as the Lexus RX L, Volvo XC90, and Audi Q7.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Nissan Ariya offered a variety of trims with different powertrain configurations. The base model, Engage FWD, featured a 63-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack and a 160-kilowatt (kW) motor, producing 214 horsepower. The AWD version added an additional motor. Extended-range trims like the Venture+ and others featured an 87-kWh battery and a more powerful 178-kW motor, delivering 238 horsepower.

Driving the FWD Ariya revealed a quick and efficient performance, although it lacked the exhilarating acceleration of some high-performance EVs. The AWD trims, particularly the Platinum+ AWD, stood out with 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque, cutting the 0-60 mph time to just 4.8 seconds. The sophisticated torque-split tuning ensured excellent grip and stability, even under hard braking. The three drive modes (Eco, Standard, and Sport) catered to different driving styles, with the Ariya excelling in Normal and Eco modes.

On well-paved roads, the Ariya offered a comfortable and quiet ride. The FWD model averaged roughly 3.5 miles per kWh, translating to just over 300 miles of range, while the AWD model averaged 3.0 miles per kWh, equating to around 260 miles.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with flexible seating and ample cargo capacity. The first two rows offered comfortable seating, with the second row featuring a removable center section and sliding adjustments to balance legroom. The third row, best suited for smaller passengers, was still accessible and equipped with USB connections.

In terms of cargo space, the MDX provided between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 39.1 to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded. Folding down the second row opened up a substantial 71.4 to 95 cubic feet of space. The power tailgate, with features like "Grab ‘N Go," facilitated easy loading and unloading.

On the other hand, the 2023 Nissan Ariya, built on a ground-up EV architecture, boasted an open and spacious interior. Both front and rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, although the rear headroom was slightly compromised by the sunroof. The lack of a transmission tunnel contributed to a roomy cabin.

The Ariya's cargo capacity measured 59 cubic feet, comparable to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E but falling short of traditional SUVs like the Nissan Rogue or Ford Escape. Innovative features like the powered bin under the center stack and the adjustable center console added convenience. However, the cargo space was less than one might expect from an SUV of this size.

In terms of technology, the 2022 Acura MDX was well-equipped. The highlight was the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, available in higher trims, offering an immersive listening experience with 16 speakers and 710 watts of power. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and the Acura Precision Cockpit 12.3-inch HD digital instrument panel provided clear and configurable displays. Standard features included Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Qi-compatible wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The advance trims featured a head-up display (HUD) and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya also impressed with its technological offerings. Dual 12-inch displays effectively delivered driver information and infotainment. The screens' seamless integration presented a sleek and modern look. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a head-up display (except for the Engage trim) enhanced connectivity and usability.

The Ariya's integration with Alexa allowed for convenient voice commands to control smart home devices and car functions. The infotainment system was modern and user-friendly, making it one of Nissan's most tech-forward models.

Safety was a priority for both vehicles. While crash-test ratings were not yet available for the 2022 Acura MDX, engineers aimed for top ratings. The MDX's advanced safety structure incorporated high-strength steel and features like a deformable hood and fender for pedestrian protection. The low-speed braking control system provided additional safety in urban settings. The AcuraWatch suite, standard across all models, included collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, traffic sign recognition, and traffic-jam assist.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya continued Nissan's focus on safety with the introduction of ProPilot Assist 2.0 on higher trims, offering hands-free driving and lane-change assist. The comprehensive suite included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, driver-attention monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Although NHTSA and IIHS ratings were not yet available, the Ariya's safety technology was promising.