2023 Acura MDX vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 bore a strong resemblance to the Nissan Armada, sharing its platform, mechanicals, and general layout. This wasn't necessarily a drawback, as both SUVs were considered good-looking. The QX80's size was just right, not too big or too small. From the A-pillar rearward, the QX80 and Armada looked similar, but the Infiniti's front-end styling was unique, thanks to its distinctive grille. The LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added an upscale look, and the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels on higher trims were particularly attractive.

Inside, the QX80 featured more upscale materials compared to the Armada, but Nissan's design theme was still evident. The Sensory-trim test vehicle had tasteful wood trim and quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats. Despite these luxurious touches, the QX80's interior style was becoming outdated. While the cabin was comfortable and attractive, it fell short of the high standards set by competitors in the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered standard and Type S versions, each with various trim packages. Prices ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, plus a destination charge. The Type S Advance trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, had an MSRP of $74,995. This set high expectations for quality, luxury, and driving dynamism, but the MDX Type S didn't fully meet them.

The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge, and its subtle styling was praised. It featured chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. The interior boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. The Type S Advance added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, the body tapering at the doors and the gloss black plastic on the dashboard were minor drawbacks. The electronic transmission switchgear was also confusing for some users.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered robust performance and a pleasing exhaust note, though it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided seamless and smooth shifts, distributing the QX80's ample power effectively. The QX80's off-road capability was notable, with a computer-controlled transfer case and 9.2 inches of ground clearance. It could tow up to 8,500 pounds and handled well for a tall, heavy vehicle, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S had various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance upgrades didn't create a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brake pedal modulation was poor. The MDX Type S averaged 16.9 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating. The Electro-Servo brakes and self-sealing performance tires also detracted from the driving experience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height. Inside, it offered a spacious cabin with good front-seat head- and legroom. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than panoramic designs, and the third-row seating was cramped. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow to operate.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats and a versatile cargo area. The Type S Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage. However, the seats didn't hold occupants in place well during enthusiastic driving. The second-row seat could be configured for two or three passengers, and the third row was best for children. The cabin's design prioritized style over storage space, with limited storage bins. The cargo area was practical, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sensory trim included a 17-speaker Bose system. A wireless smartphone charger was new for 2022. The dual-screen rear entertainment system was included but lacked HDMI adapters. The QX80 did not have Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system due to its older architecture.

The 2023 Acura MDX had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The infotainment system used a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) instead of a touchscreen, which was less intuitive. The MDX featured wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display. The MDX also offered a high-end audio system with 25 speakers. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure prevention, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety items included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row passengers. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from NHTSA and four stars for overall crash protection for the 2021 model.

The 2023 Acura MDX included Acura Watch, which featured forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, low-speed automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal-impact protection.