2024 Acura MDX vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

Acura absolutely perfected the aesthetic of the 2024 MDX, garnering admiration with its large shield grille framed by rakish headlights and intake vents below. The lower bumper cleverly lent a modern, refined presence. Inside, the MDX boasted a high-tech but busy interior, with a multitude of controls on the center console that could be overwhelming at first and challenging to operate.

The MDX offered various trims known as packages, including the Technology Package, A-Spec Package, and Advance Package. Notably, the MDX Type-S and Type-S Advance included all these packages’ standard features plus extras like a tri-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, synthetic leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable and heated front seats.

Upgrading to the Technology Package added ambient lighting, navigation, and a 12-speaker ELS premium stereo, while the A-Spec introduced a sportier look, perforated leather seats, a 16-speaker audio system, and an intercom system for easier third-row communication. The Advance Package added a heated steering wheel, additional USB ports, remote start, and heated second-row seats.

In the CX-5, aside from minor tweaks, Mazda retained the design that debuted in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing in 2024. The test vehicle in the new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Gloss-black exterior detailing further refined the look. The CX-5’s interior changes included better fuel economy in base-engine models and added wireless charging and connectivity in several trims.

Mjazda offered the CX-5 in 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with various trim levels for each. Base models included a 187-horsepower engine, while Turbo models ramped up to 256-horsepower. Standard features spanned a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and premium Nappa leather in the top-tier Signature trim. Although it was a compact crossover, the CX-5’s quality interior elevated it over many rivals.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, distributed through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Type-S variant upped the ante with a 355-horsepower, twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, offering 354 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant ensured strong acceleration and a responsive throttle. The adaptive air suspension and Brembo brakes equipped on the Type-S added to its performance prowess, though it exhibited luxury over sport at its core.

For a 4,500-pound SUV, the MDX was surprisingly nimble, showcasing a tight turning radius and responsive steering akin to a luxury sedan. With towing capacities ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds depending on the drivetrain, MDX catered to versatile needs, although firm rides might not be for everyone.

Conversely, the CX-5’s 256-horsepower from the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, aligned better with steady rather than abrupt acceleration. Its 320 lb-ft of torque provided robust power delivery, making it a commendable compact SUV. Despite its slightly lower fuel efficiency of 24 mpg combined, the CX-5 remained sporty and zippy, particularly on twisty roads. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus and re-tuned suspension enhanced handling, comfort, and a quieter cabin.

While the MDX excelled in boulevard and highway refinement, the CX-5 excelled in diverse environments, from city streets to off-road trails—thanks to its AWD and 7.9 inches of ground clearance. Though its towing capacity maxed out at 2,000 pounds, its agile nature made up for it in daily driving.

The 2024 Acura MDX’s interior offered three rows of seating, best suited for children in the third row due to its smaller size. Cargo space varied from 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats to 71.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. A power liftgate was standard, and a hands-free option was available on higher trims like the Advance Package.

The Type-S Advance trim provided second-row bench seats with fold-down armrests and cupholders, facilitating access to the third row. Although the center console allowed sufficient storage, the array of controls was deemed cluttered and user-unfriendly, with an overly complex IDS dial.

On the other hand, Mazda’s CX-5, while sporting slightly smaller interior dimensions, managed to offer a plush cabin experience. The seating incorporated standard heated front seats and premium Nappa leather for an upscale feel. Adjustments were flexible, with the driver’s seat offering power customization and the passenger’s seat height being manually adjustable.

Despite being a tighter fit, the CX-5 comfortably accommodated four adults, offering rear air conditioning vents and a center fold-down armrest for enhanced comfort. However, the cargo space fell short, presenting 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding only to 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded—less than rivals in its segment.

Technology was the Achilles heel of the Acura MDX. Even though it was packed with features, the infotainment system was counterintuitive. The non-touch-sensitive 12.3-inch display, managed by a frustrating touchpad, fell short of user expectations. Nevertheless, it provided wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Cleverly placed charging ports and a thoughtful layout behind the touchpad slightly redeemed the MDX’s setup. However, with competitors offering more intuitive systems, the MDX’s infotainment fell behind.

In contrast, Mazda’s approach was a blend of traditional and modern. Although they favored knob-and-button controls over a touchscreen to minimize driver distraction, they allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was less involved, thanks to a straightforward, user-friendly interface navigated through a large console knob and surrounding buttons.

Mazda Connected Services added remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and automatic 911 dialing for comprehensive functionality. The Carbon Turbo’s 10-speaker Bose premium sound system further elevated the tech experience.

The 2024 Acura MDX came well-equipped with a suite of high-tech driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors, while the Advance Package introduced a 360-degree camera system and head-up display.

Despite the distracting infotainment, the 2024 MDX carried forward the excellent safety ratings from 2022, boasting a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, verifying its robustness in crash-prevention technologies.

Mazda’s CX-5 was no slouch either, with standard adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims introduced adaptive headlights, Traffic Jam Assist, and a driver monitoring system. While the Carbon Turbo missed out on some upgrades, its standard lane-departure and lane-keeping systems performed exceptionally well.

Historically, the CX-5 maintained high safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating. Though it missed the Top Safety Pick accolade in 2024, its safety credentials were still commendable.