2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a range of options, from standard to Type S versions, each with various trim packages. The Type S Advance trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, set a high expectation for luxury and performance, though it didn't fully meet those expectations. The MDX Type S, the first Acura SUV to feature the Type S badge, maintained a subtle yet sporty appearance with chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, it boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, but some design choices, like the gloss black plastic and electronic transmission switchgear, detracted from its overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim, exuded luxury with its Matterhorn White Matte paint and Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior. The exterior, while stylish, was less striking than expected due to the dark chrome trim and nearly invisible 22-inch wheels. Inside, the GV80 was a showcase of opulence with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, matte-finish wood trim, and a suede headliner. The ambient lighting and 3D digital instrument cluster further emphasized its status as a flagship SUV. However, the Prestige Signature's appeal was somewhat diminished by its limited seating capacity, making the regular Prestige trim a more practical choice.

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. Despite these impressive figures, the Type S was heavier than the standard MDX, which affected its performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system aimed to enhance driving dynamics, but the overall experience was marred by an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience, with fuel economy falling short at an average of 16.9 mpg, below the EPA's 19 mpg rating.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T, with its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, offering a more satisfying performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system provided a smooth and composed ride, though fuel efficiency was a concern, with an observed 17.2 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg rating. The GV80's adaptive damping suspension and upgraded brakes contributed to its unexpectedly rewarding driving experience, making it more athletic than anticipated. While the steering was unremarkable, the overall performance package was cohesive and enjoyable.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a versatile interior with three rows of seats and a cargo area with ample floor space. The Type S Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support during spirited driving. The MDX's second-row seats could slide and tilt for easier third-row access, but the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2024 Genesis GV80, in its 3.5T Advanced trim, offered a third-row seat, but the Prestige Signature trim limited seating to four with its luxurious captain's chairs. The GV80's interior featured premium materials, including leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof. However, the seats were not as comfortable as expected, with the diamond-stitched surfaces feeling like bubble wrap. Cargo space was commendable, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the rear center console in the Prestige Signature required careful loading.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, but the lack of a touchscreen was a drawback. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) required hand-eye coordination, adding distraction rather than reducing it. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but the native voice recognition system was frustrating. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, though its placement encouraged the use of a control dial. The infotainment system included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the digital key system allowed smartphone access. The Prestige and Prestige Signature trims featured a head-up display, providing blind-spot warnings. The Lexicon premium sound system delivered excellent audio quality, and the GV80's infotainment interface was intuitive and visually pleasing.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with Acura Watch, a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While the Acura Watch systems were generally accurate, the lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control had room for improvement. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the frontal-impact test earned four stars for driver and passenger protection.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a comprehensive array of advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided video feeds within the digital instrument panel, enhancing safety during lane changes. The GV80's collision-avoidance tech was effective, and the SUV received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for driver and passenger protection in the frontal-impact test.