2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented an upscale design, available in both standard and Type S versions. Each variant had distinct trim packages that progressively incorporated more equipment. The base MDX came in a straightforward specification, with the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages offering additional features. The MDX Type S offered a similar approach, available in standard spec or with an Advance package. Pricing for the MDX ranged between $49,550 and $73,200, with an additional $1,195 destination charge.

Our test vehicle was the MDX Type S Advance, adorned with extra-cost Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid (white) interior. With a high MSRP of $74,995, the expectation of luxury and quality was notable, although the vehicle didn't fully meet these standards. The fourth-generation MDX was also the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, which was subtly integrated, emphasizing a low-profile aesthetic over boldness.

The MDX Type S featured chicane-design LED running lights, taillights, and automatic high-beam LED headlights. Subtle front styling tweaks, muted badges, and 21-inch wheels added to its restrained yet assertive appearance. At the back, quad exhaust outlets framed a rear diffuser panel, enhancing its sporty look.

The MDX offered a standard panoramic sunroof and Iconic Drive ambient lighting themes across most models. The Type S featured perforated Milano leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package with a black headliner and stainless steel pedals. The Advance package added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. While overall attractive, the MDX's body tapering at the doors sometimes created an illusion of a massive dent. Furthermore, the gloss black plastic on the dashboard could obscure some controls, and the electronic transmission switchgear was confusing, even for seasoned users.

Conversely, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE) had a distinctive retro vibe. Based on the SR5 Premium trim, it added $4,505 to the price, including a $1,875 upcharge for its standard 4WD system. The remaining cost covered retro body stripes, a heritage grille design, bronze wheels, and bronze interior accents, giving it a nostalgic appeal. It was available in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior.

The 4Runner lineup encompassed various trims from SR5 to TRD Pro, with prices ranging from $39,555 to $54,020 plus a $1,335 destination charge. The test 4Runner had no additional options, holding an MSRP of $48,455.

The 4Runner's 1970s-inspired design, including yellow, orange, and red stripes, along with bronze wheels, created a strong Southern California vibe. While perhaps not appealing to everyone, the retro styling resonated with those familiar with truck-based SUVs of yesteryears. Despite being around for over a decade, the 4Runner's rugged look and purposeful interior remained appealing, featuring durable plastic materials and easily accessible controls.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S set itself apart with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. These figures represented significant increases over the standard 3.5-liter V6. Nevertheless, the Type S weighed 285 pounds more than the lightest standard MDX with all-wheel drive (AWD).

The engine was coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, powering all wheels through Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This system could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing cornering performance. Acura added a brake-based technology called Agile Handling Assist to further tighten cornering lines.

Driving modes included Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, and an exclusive Lift mode that increased ground clearance from 7.3 to 9.4 inches. However, with 21-inch wheels and performance tires, off-roading was impractical for this model despite its adaptive air suspension.

Acura had enhanced the Type S with upgraded suspension components, brakes, and variable-ratio steering. However, these improvements didn't harmonize into a cohesive driving experience. The MDX Type S had an indecisive transmission, poor brake pedal modulation, and squealing tires, diminishing driver confidence. Its fuel economy also disappointed, achieving only 16.9 mpg in combined driving against an EPA rating of 19 mpg, further dropping to 14.1 mpg in Sport+ mode on mountain roads.

The 4Runner equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine produced 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission sent power to the rear wheels, with optional 4WD systems. The 4Runner's EPA fuel rating matched our test result of 16.9 mpg in combined driving.

Two 4WD systems were offered, with the Limited trim providing a full-time 4WD option. Standard ground clearance was nine inches, complemented by Hill-Start Assist Control. Additional off-roading technologies included Downhill Assist Control, Active Traction Control, locking differentials, and Crawl Control.

In practical tests, the 4Runner excelled in off-roading, handling mud and water with ease during heavy rains. However, its daily utility in suburban settings was less remarkable. Acceleration was slow, brakes lacked modulation, the steering was heavy, and it struggled with larger bumps.

On a reconnaissance drive in the Santa Monica Mountains, the 4Runner displayed reliable but uninspiring road manners. Uphill climbs were steady, but cornering highlighted its limitations in traction and steering.

The Acura MDX boasted impressive functionality with its three rows of seating, versatile cargo options, and comprehensive upgrades. Our Type S Advance included a triple-zone climate system, 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage, though the seats didn't provide the expected level of support for enthusiastic driving.

The MDX seated seven passengers, with a sliding second-row seat for better third-row access. Even though the third-row space was tight for adults, it was suitable for children. Interior storage was limited due to design priorities, but the cargo area was well thought out. Behind the third row, the MDX offered 18.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The Toyota 4Runner featured practical elements like a power-down rear window for natural ventilation, requiring climbing effort for shorter individuals. Seats were comfortable, with SofTex artificial leather and heated front seats in our 40 ASE. Storage compartments were ample but lacked liners to prevent sliding and rattling.

The second-row provided generous space, while the optional third-row was tight, reducing cargo capacity to only 9 cubic feet when used. Without the third-row, the 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet, expanding to a massive 89.7 cubic feet with the second-row folded, making it highly versatile for cargo.

Acura equipped the MDX with a Digital Precision Cockpit, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a similarly sized infotainment display. However, the lack of touchscreen ability necessitated using the True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which had several drawbacks, including loss of storage space and partial obstruction of the wireless charging pad. Nonetheless, the TTI was straightforward, supported by wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

Additional tech included SiriusXM, native navigation, and AcuraLink services. Our test vehicle had the ELS Studio 3D 25-speaker audio system, delivering superb sound quality. The MDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display, although occasional inaccuracies with traffic sign recognition were concerning.

Toyota’s 4Runner embraced simplicity with traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It retained real knobs and buttons, user-friendly even with gloves. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available connected services. Navigation and a JBL premium audio system were options, though both audio setups tended toward bass-heavy outputs.

The 4Runner's voice recognition performed admirably, handling most commands effectively, making it a robust yet simplistic infotainment system.

The Acura MDX featured Acura Watch, a suite including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors were also included in higher trims. However, the MDX demonstrated occasional false collision warnings, particularly in diffuse sunlight.

The MDX had impressive safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, albeit with four-star frontal-impact ratings.

Toyota's 4Runner provided fundamental safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The adaptive cruise control performed well, although the lane-departure warning could be annoyingly consistent.

The 4Runner’s crash-test ratings revealed its age, receiving a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with problematic three-star ratings for front passenger and rollover protection. IIHS ratings were less comprehensive but equally modest.