2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Acura MDX

When you went shopping for a 2022 Jeep Wrangler, the first decision revolved around choosing between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door models. Depending on your selection, you had an array of powertrains to consider: a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or even a plug-in hybrid. The standard turbo-four and V6 engines came with a six-speed manual transmission, with the option to upgrade to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While 4WD was a standard feature, different trim levels offered various 4WD systems, adding to the complexity of choices.

The Wrangler was available in four trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon. Numerous special editions branched out from these core models, each with specific top configurations ranging from fabric soft tops to black or body-color hardtops, and the luxurious Sky One-Touch Power-Top.

Our test model was the High Tide special edition, based on the Sport S trim, and it came packed with features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with Sunrider Fliptop, Gorilla Glass windshield, and sand-and-slush floor mats. What really made the High Tide stand out was the Xtreme Recon package, which included a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, 35-inch BF Goodrich tires, and a 4.56 rear axle ratio. These add-ons brought the MSRP up to $58,845, including a $1,595 destination charge.

Despite its near-$60,000 price tag, the interior remained basic, resembling the Sport S trim’s rugged, utilitarian design. This simplicity was intentional, as the Wrangler is designed for off-road adventures and open-air driving. While it lacked the plushness and refinement of many vehicles, its raw, adventurous spirit shone through.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, boosting acceleration slightly and aiding in fuel efficiency. It delivered a robust 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission— a $4,000 mandatory upgrade for this model. The EPA estimated the vehicle’s fuel economy at 21 mpg combined, but Xtreme Recon package modifications saw our test vehicle averaging 16.8 mpg over 435 miles.

Driving the Wrangler was a rugged, invigorating experience. Its ride was rough, the steering vague, and the brakes touchy, all hallmark traits endearing to Jeep aficionados. The sensory engagement was unmatched, making every drive an adventure, particularly off-roading. However, its fuel inefficiency and the constant need for refueling could be taxing.

By contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Despite weighing 285 pounds more than the lighter AWD MDX, the twin-scroll turbo V6 utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Acura’s SH-AWD system. This system could channel up to 70% of the engine’s power to a single rear wheel, enhancing cornering stability. An Integrated Dynamics System offered several driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode to increase ground clearance.

Despite Acura’s efforts to enhance the MDX Type S’ performance with features like larger Brembo brakes and an adaptive air suspension, the execution felt disjointed. Inconsistent transmission behavior, a stiff suspension, and unrefined brakes detracted from the driving experience. Additionally, the Type S averaged just 16.9 mpg in mixed driving conditions, falling short of its EPA rating and making it less fuel-efficient than expected.

Hence, while the Wrangler delivered a quintessentially rough yet thrilling ride, the MDX Type S offered a more luxurious but somewhat unsatisfying performance.

Entering and exiting the 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide proved challenging, especially with its increased suspension height. Shorter passengers struggled particularly when the Jeep was dirty, as grimy residue often transferred onto their clothing. The driver’s seat had a manual height adjustment, but its poor placement meant regular readjustments.

Inside, the Wrangler maintained a utilitarian design, with cloth upholstery and prevalent plastic and rubber materials. Visibility was a mixed bag, with some views obstructed by roof panels and the large rear spare tire, but useful features like a reversing camera and available forward-view camera mitigated these issues. Rear passengers faced similar boarding challenges, but once seated, they enjoyed decent comfort and visibility, complemented by a simple yet functional interior layout.

Cargo capacity in the Wrangler Unlimited reached 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet when the seats were folded. However, accessing the cargo area required effort, as the tailgate, weighed down by the 35-inch spare tire, was cumbersome to manage.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX excelled in functionality and comfort. The MDX offered three rows of seating configured for six or seven passengers. Our Type S Advance trim was opulently equipped, featuring 16-way power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats upholstered in quilted leather.

The second-row seat provided sliding functionality to adjust legroom, and its rearmost position supplied ample space, although not as much as expected. The third-row access was facilitated by power-operated release buttons, although the space was tight for adults. Interior storage was limited by design elements centered around technology and control placement, leading to missed opportunities for more storage.

Cargo space in the MDX provided 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down, offering excellent utility for family trips.

While the Wrangler focused on rugged practicality, becoming more challenging in its approach, the MDX combined elegant design with pragmatic functionality, making it a superior choice for spaciousness and usability.

Our Type S Advance trim tester had extra-cost Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid (white) interior, bringing the MSRP to $74,995. The Type S badge, a first for Acura SUVs, aimed for a subtler appeal rather than overt aggression, sporting chicane-design LED lights, quad exhaust outlets, and 21-inch wheels.

Inside, the MDX radiated luxury. The Type S featured perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and sporty accents like a black headliner and stainless steel pedal covers. The Type S Advance trim further added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, some design choices, such as the gloss black plastic dashboard elements and electronic transmission switchgear, detracted from an otherwise upscale presentation, occasionally causing functional concerns.

Overall, if the 2022 Jeep Wrangler captivated with its rugged, adventure-ready look, the 2023 Acura MDX impressed with its sophisticated, luxurious design.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured basic infotainment technology. It included a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While higher trims offered an upgraded Uconnect system with a larger display, satellite radio, and navigation, this basic setup sufficed for essential needs. Additional features like remote engine start, a passive keyless entry system, single-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats were included in the Cold Weather Group package.

Conversely, the 2023 Acura MDX was technologically advanced, housing a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a similar-sized infotainment display. However, its non-touchscreen system required navigating via the True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which presented issues. The interface, though innovative, added complexity and reduced storage space in the center console.

Featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the MDX allowed users to take advantage of popular voice assistants. Additional elements included SiriusXM satellite radio, a native navigation system, AcuraLink connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Type S Advance trim came with a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers, delivering top-tier sound quality.

The MDX also included a 10.5-inch head-up display (HUD) that provided crucial driving information. However, occasional inaccuracies in the traffic sign recognition system and other minor tech issues detracted slightly from the overall user experience.

While the Wrangler’s tech offerings were rudimentary yet functional, the MDX provided a richer technological experience, albeit with some handling caveats.

The 2023 Acura MDX, equipped with the Acura Watch safety suite, featured a comprehensive set of driver assistance technologies, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system (on specific trims) further enhanced its safety credentials.

While the MDX had its occasional glitches, such as false lane departure notifications and a unique incident where it mistook an overhead sign for an obstacle, it boasted excellent crash-test ratings. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, and the NHTSA awarded it an overall five-star rating.

The MDX clearly surpasses the Wrangler in terms of safety features and crash-test ratings, reinforcing its appeal as a safer choice.