2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Volkswagen Taos

The 2022 Acura MDX exemplified the sleek evolution of the three-row luxury crossover SUV genre. Though it shared platforms with the Honda Pilot in previous generations, the new MDX was built on a dedicated platform designed specifically for it. The vehicle’s proportions had been tweaked, boasting a longer wheelbase, overall length, wider body, and track. Enhancements like the four-inch increase in the critical dash-to-axle distance added a touch of elegance. It sported standard Jewel Eye LED headlights accentuated by linear LED daytime running lights, and upgraded wheels of 19 x 8.5 inches, or 20 x 9 inches on higher trims, contributed to a modern, assertive look. Produced in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX displayed a high level of craftsmanship.

Inside the MDX, a refined and spacious ambiance awaited. Authentic materials like natural wood, genuine aluminum, and real leather were complemented by premium plastics. The dashboard's layered design emphasized cabin width and sat lower and further away from front-seat occupants, enhancing the sense of space. The unique gear selector in the center console combined rectangular push-buttons, a lever, and a round button in a futuristic, fighter jet-inspired design. A 12.3-inch landscape-oriented infotainment screen was comfortably positioned at the top of the center stack. With a thoughtful layout and high-quality materials, the interior exuded the luxury expected in this price range.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos aimed for a combination of sporty aesthetics and affordability. Despite its exclusive nameplate for North America, its engineering and design focused on broad, global appeal. The top SEL trim, with its 19-inch alloy wheels and Cornflower Blue paintwork, stood out with an upscale, sporty look.

Inside the Taos SEL, the refined interior featured light gray accents, gloss black trim, metallic detailing, and leather upholstery. Volkswagen claimed the Taos offered interior space nearly as large as the bigger Tiguan, making it one of the roomiest small crossover SUVs. This spaciousness was enhanced by the combination of thoughtful interior materials and premium touches, giving it a slight resemblance to higher-end models in the Volkswagen family, without breaking the bank.

The 2022 Acura MDX initially offered a single powertrain—a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 generating 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. A new 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery, paired with the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for improved cornering and performance, especially with its ability to vector torque. This advanced drivetrain setup highlighted the MDX’s capability, notably during back-to-back comparisons with rivals like the Lexus RX L and Audi Q7.

Performance enhancements didn’t stop at the powertrain. The MDX incorporated a new double-wishbone front suspension, replacing the less sporty McPherson struts of previous models. Revised multi-link rear suspension and upgraded disc brakes ensured better ride quality and stopping power. Steering improvements and enhanced chassis stiffness contributed to a composed ride free from rattles or flex, adding to driving confidence.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive models came with an eight-speed automatic, while all-wheel-drive variants utilized a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The Taos offered multiple driving modes, but the SEL’s power delivery was occasionally unpredictable, highlighting some quirks needing acclimatization.

On roads such as Southern California's scenic routes, the Taos exhibited its sporty potential, although it lacked the power punch of competitors like the Mazda CX-30 or Hyundai Kona N. The Taos's independent rear suspension on all-wheel-drive models provided a firm and stable feel, while its steering was sharp and responsive, enhancing driving enjoyment despite its modest engine performance. However, brake pedal feel varied unpredictably, affecting confidence in stops, and the Taos encountered noticeable wind and road noise at highway speeds.

As a three-row SUV, the 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility and space. The first and second rows offered ample comfort, with the second row sporting innovative design aspects like a removable center section and sliding functionality to balance legroom. The third row was more suitable for smaller passengers or short trips, but the MDX provided USB connections across all three rows for convenience.

The MDX boasted adaptable cargo configurations, offering 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 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. A power tailgate with “Grab ‘N Go” functionality enhanced utility, allowing for hands-free operation and customizable opening heights.

In comparison, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos presented substantial interior space for its segment. With spacious rear seats, rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and headroom, further enhanced by features like air conditioning vents and panoramic sunroof in the SEL. Despite slightly rigid door panels, the Taos did manage a well-utilized interior layout.

Cargo capacity in the Taos was commendable, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the back seats and 65.9 cubic feet with them folded down, though these figures slightly reduced to 24.9 and 60.2 cubic feet, respectively, in 4Motion models. The flexible storage areas provided significant utility, though unlined compartments sometimes led to noise from shifting items.

The 2022 Acura MDX impressed with its tech-forward offerings, beginning with the available ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System in upper trims, providing audiophile-level sound quality. All MDX trims featured a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Integration with Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Qi wireless charging were standard. Higher trims added a head-up display, surround-view camera, and minivan-like CabinTalk feature for inter-row communication. The MDX’s tech suite aimed to deliver a well-rounded and futuristic driving experience.

Volkswagen’s 2023 Taos offered a range of digital and connectivity features. Standard digital instrumentation varied from an eight-inch screen in lower trims to a 10.25-inch display in the SEL. Infotainment systems ranged from a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen with connected services in the S trim, to an 8-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and premium audio in the SEL.

However, user experience with the Taos’s tech was sometimes frustrating. Hidden controls, complex functions for tasks like radio tuning, and lackluster voice-recognition without extra services detracted from ease of use. While the beats Audio system in the SEL was competent, the interface design sometimes left drivers confused and searching for settings.

The 2022 Acura MDX aimed for top-tier safety, with enhanced structural integrity thanks to more high-strength steel and advanced safety structures. The AcuraWatch suite came standard, featuring forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and more. The MDX was also designed with pedestrian safety enhancements and a sophisticated low-speed braking control system for urban environments.

For 2023, the Volkswagen Taos improved its standard safety equipment significantly. All trims received forward collision warning with emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The SE trim added the IQ.Drive suite, including adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, and lane-keeping functions. Even though crash-test ratings were decent, the inclusion of proactive safety measures like post-collision braking and road-sign recognition in higher trims contributed importantly to its safety profile.