2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a sophisticated yet understated design, especially in its Type S Advance trim. This model featured a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, with a price tag of $74,995. The MDX Type S was the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, offering subtle design cues like chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, it boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design elements, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls difficult to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was occasionally confusing.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a more artful design, albeit with excessive gray body cladding that detracted from its appeal. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model, priced at $37,505, featured a tasteful interior with off-white leather and a chocolate brown center console. Despite its nose-heavy appearance, the CX-30's cabin was upscale, with quality materials and a refined look. However, the exterior's ruggedness was more for show, as the interior prioritized elegance over practicality.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Despite these figures, the performance enhancements didn't create a cohesive driving experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system offered potential, but the vehicle's indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake modulation detracted from its performance. The MDX Type S averaged 16.9 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating, and struggled with fuel economy when driven aggressively.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower and a turbocharged version with up to 250 horsepower. The turbocharged engine provided robust acceleration and a satisfying sound, but the small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range. The CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and excellent steering. However, the brake pedal required more effort than expected, and the suspension struggled over speed bumps, impacting ride quality.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating, with options for two or three second-row positions. The Type S Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't offer the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX's cargo space was generous, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 71.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The cabin's design prioritized style over storage, with limited space for small items.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered dual-zone climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. The CX-30's cargo space was limited, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded. Storage options were reasonable, but the lack of underfloor storage and cargo organization features was a drawback.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, but the lack of a touchscreen was a significant drawback. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) required a learning curve and took up valuable console space. However, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The ELS Studio 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system also lacked a touchscreen, relying on console controls that required frequent glances away from the road. The voice-recognition system was not intuitive, and the absence of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these issues, the system offered Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Turbo models added SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with Acura Watch, which included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the lane-departure warning system was prone to false alerts, and the adaptive cruise control was slow to resume speed.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, thanks to improvements in side-impact protection. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Turbo Premium Plus model added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The forward-collision system worked effectively, though it could be overly sensitive in certain situations.