2023 Acura MDX vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all designed for tackling obstacles, making it a niche choice for those who venture off the beaten path. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional, though it showed its age with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX presented a more refined and luxurious appearance. The Type S model, in particular, featured subtle styling cues that hinted at its performance potential without being overt. The MDX's design included chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets, giving it a sophisticated stance. Inside, the MDX Type S boasted premium materials like perforated Milano leather and open-pore wood, creating an upscale environment. However, some design choices, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, detracted from its overall appeal.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While reliable, this engine felt dated and underwhelming in most driving situations, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed rough terrain effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models offered additional off-road features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Despite the power increase over the standard MDX, the Type S's performance enhancements didn't fully integrate into a cohesive driving experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provided dynamic capabilities, but the MDX Type S struggled with indecisive transmission behavior and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy was a concern, with the Type S averaging 16.9 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including a Lift mode for increased ground clearance, but its performance fell short of expectations.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the two-row version, slightly more than the three-row model. With the second-row seats in use, the two-row 4Runner provided 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The optional third-row seat reduced maximum cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet. While the 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate, it featured a power-open/close rear window for convenient access. The cabin design was functional but showed its age, with limited interior space compared to more modern SUVs.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating, with the option to remove the center section of the second-row seat for easier access to the third row. The MDX's interior featured premium materials, including quilted leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel. However, the Type S's seats didn't offer the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX offered 18.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The power liftgate and underfloor storage bin added convenience, but the cabin's design prioritized style over storage space.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While not the most advanced system, it offered straightforward controls with hard buttons and dials. The 4Runner also included Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. Optional upgrades included navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system. The infotainment system's simplicity was appreciated, though it lacked features like a head-up display.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the center console. While the TTI aimed to improve driver interaction, it added complexity and reduced storage space. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread speed limits.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner included the Toyota Safety Sense suite, featuring forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in NHTSA frontal and side-impact testing, with three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 Acura MDX came with Acura Watch, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it experienced a false collision warning during testing.