2024 BMW X5 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a range of versions, including standard and Type S, each with various trim packages to enhance equipment levels. The standard MDX came with base specifications and optional Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages, while the Type S was available in standard or Advance trim. Prices ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The test vehicle, a Type S Advance, featured Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, with an MSRP of $74,995. Despite its high price, the MDX Type S didn't fully meet expectations for quality, luxury, and driving dynamics. The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to bear the Type S badge, characterized by subtle design elements like chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, it boasted a panoramic sunroof, Iconic Drive ambient lighting, and perforated Milano leather. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls difficult to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was confusing.

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless style, though the M Sport treatment was less favored. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its appearance. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV, a turbocharged V8, and a high-performance turbo V8. The xDrive50e M Sport model, with Brooklyn Grey paint and all available equipment packages, had an MSRP of $88,075, including a $1,175 destination charge. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior. Despite reduced physical controls, the X5 retained high-quality materials and construction, maintaining a connection to its heritage.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase over the standard 3.5-liter V6. However, the Type S weighed 285 pounds more than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. The twin-scroll turbo V6 used a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, powering all four 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. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brakes had poor modulation. The engine's power increase was not substantial enough to justify its poor fuel economy, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing, below the EPA rating of 19 mpg combined.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. The PHEV's electric motor, integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided 38 miles of electric-only driving. The xDrive50e delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in efficiency, achieving 33.7 mpg during a test drive and 38.8 mpg on an evaluation route. The adaptive damping air suspension masked the vehicle's weight, and the X5 offered excellent handling, acceleration, and braking performance. The PHEV's ability to recharge its battery during driving added to its appeal, making it a standout choice in the X5 lineup.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats, accommodating seven passengers, with options for two or three second-row seating positions. The cargo area offered ample floor space, with 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. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage, but the seats lacked the expected support for spirited driving. The second-row seat was comfortable and supportive, with heating in the outboard positions. However, the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage space, with limited storage options. The power liftgate provided access to a spacious cargo area, with thoughtful features like grocery bag hooks and a hands-free Walk Away Close function.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered seating for five in two rows, with a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area that expanded to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access items deep in the cargo hold. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which felt like genuine leather. The Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and heated rear seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, while side window sunshades protected infants from the sun. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen lacked touch sensitivity, relying on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for operation. The TTI design limited center console space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad. Despite these drawbacks, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In for voice commands. The Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers delivered impressive sound quality. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread speed limits.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, providing inaccurate directions. The optional Harman Kardon sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and an augmented video function enhanced navigation. Despite the voice recognition issues, the X5's technology suite was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2023 Acura MDX included Acura Watch, a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems. Features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. The MDX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact tests.

The 2024 BMW X5 added Highway Assistant, a hands-free driving assistance system, to its safety features. The system worked well in specific conditions but could behave unpredictably in moderate traffic. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, encouraging their use. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 a four-star overall crash-test rating.