2024 Acura MDX vs 2024 Toyota 4Runner

The 2024 Acura MDX stood out with its well-crafted aesthetic. The design was a harmonious blend of modernity and refinement, characterized by its large shield grille flanked by sleek, angular headlights and accented intake vents below. The lower bumper area, with its subtle curvature, contributed to the MDX's sophisticated presence. Inside, it featured a high-tech, albeit somewhat cluttered, interior, brimming with an assortment of controls clustered in the center console.

Acura offered the MDX in multiple trims referred to as packages, including the Technology Package, A-Spec Package, and Advance Package. Additionally, there were the Type-S and Type-S Advance trims—the latter being the model driven for our review. The MDX boasted of numerous standard features: tri-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, synthetic leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable and heated front seats.

Advancing to the Technology Package added ambient cabin lighting, navigation, a 12-speaker ELS premium stereo system, and genuine leather upholstery. The sportier A-Spec trim included unique stylistic touches, an upgraded 16-speaker ELS audio system, perforated leather seats, and ventilated front seats along with an in-cabin intercom to easily communicate with third-row passengers. The plush Advance package offered a heated steering wheel, additional USB ports, remote start, and heated second-row seats.

The top-tier Type-S, embodying features from both the Technology and A-Spec packages, enhanced the driving experience with its distinguished 26-speaker ELS sound system and exceptional massaging front seats. Notably, the massaging function was firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, making it invigorating during long drives. While the MDX might not rival the Mercedes-Benz GLS in cabin opulence, its superior massaging seats justified the premium investment.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner echoed a classic, rugged appeal. Last redesigned in 2010, the 4Runner carried a nostalgic vibe with its boxy, utilitarian exterior, making it a throwback amidst contemporary competitors. The brawny flared fenders amplified its robust, stable stance, essential for off-road ventures. Enhancing this rugged persona were chunky, beveled shapes in the grille and liftgate. The TRD Pro model, particularly, with its underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and tubular roof rack, projected readiness for the toughest terrains.

Inside, the 4Runner's design revealed its age, with old-school styling and last-gen tech features. The analog instrument panel and comparably small eight-inch touchscreen reflected a bygone era. The traditional gear selector and transfer case levers, alongside the LED clock and temperature displays, accentuated the nostalgic charm. While some might appreciate this retro feel, others could mistake it for a meticulously maintained used vehicle.

Materials within the interior leaned towards hard plastic, but frequently touched surfaces had cushioned panels for comfort. The grained seat upholstery closely mimicked leather but leaned towards a vinyl-like appearance, typical of SUVs in this class. Remarkably, the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler shared a similar nostalgic aesthetic while incorporating more modern elements in their designs.

Under its hood, the standard 2024 Acura MDX housed a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Type S variant elevated performance with a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 churning out 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power was channeled via a 10-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or the optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System (AWD).

Driving the 2024 Acura MDX Type-S Advance revealed impressive acceleration facilitated by the turbos. While it didn't deliver neck-snapping acceleration (befitting its luxury SUV status), power was ample whether pulling from a stop, achieving highway speeds, or overtaking. The transmission was adept at managing power with quick throttle response, lending a light, agile feel while maintaining comfort over bumps.

Special to the Type-S were Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension capable of automatic leveling. This setup allowed the MDX to feel agile, and the ride height could be adjusted via the Integrated Dynamics System—spanning Sport, Sport+, Snow, Comfort, Normal, and Individual modes, with a Lift mode adding two inches of clearance for off-road ventures.

The MDX excelled on boulevards and highways, blending refinement and comfort. The ride might have felt firm to some, but it effectively absorbed road imperfections—a trait expected from modern SUVs. Despite its substantial 4,500-pound mass, the MDX Type-S could adeptly navigate corners, resonating with the characteristics of a luxury sedan. Steering was responsive with a tight turning radius, simplifying maneuvers in confined spaces. Properly outfitted, its towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds, though front-wheel-drive models capped at 3,500 pounds.

Contrastingly, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine generating 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While not drastically lower than competitors like the Bronco or Wrangler, the 4Runner's outdated five-speed automatic transmission held it back. Competitors employed more advanced transmissions—ten-speed in the Bronco and eight-speed in the Wrangler—enhancing responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model reviewed came with standard four-wheel drive (4WD) and a two-speed transfer case, while most other trims offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) with optional 4WD.

On pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, often necessitating a fully floored pedal for highway merging. The soft suspension, beneficial for off-road articulation, led to pronounced rear-end squat during acceleration. The engine sounded strained, accompanied by the TRD Pro's noisy exhaust, further amplified by a loud engine. Braking under these conditions revealed an unsettling nosedive, though the 4Runner remained controllable.

Handling was not the 4Runner's forte, particularly on roads. There was considerable body roll in corners, and residual bounces after ruts and bumps, along with noticeable floatiness on highway undulations, especially when unloaded. Heavier cargo in the rear cargo hold helped stabilize these tendencies.

On the flip side, the 4Runner's tall tire sidewalls and soft suspension adeptly ignored larger road imperfections, although passengers prone to motion sickness might need precautions on winding or bumpy routes.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a standard three-row seating configuration. The first two rows provided comfort and support, while the third row, smaller in size, was best suited for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Maximum cargo capacity reached 71.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows stowed. Additionally, a cargo storage area was available under the load floor. Standard on the MDX was a power liftgate, with a hands-free option on the base model and standard on the Advance Package.

The Type-S Advance model featured a second-row bench with an integrated fold-down center console for cupholders. While there were no second-row captain’s chairs options, the fold-out armrest provided an experience akin to individual seating. The center of the bench folded out for easier third-row access.

Cupholders were plentiful throughout the cabin, and the center console offered ample space for various items. However, the center stack of controls was somewhat of a hodgepodge. The shifter, a row of buttons, required some getting used to and occupied space comparable to a conventional shifter. The Integrated Dynamics System dial, occupying a prominent position in the center stack, seemed obtrusive, prompting reflection on its essentiality given its limited regular use by most drivers.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior design, reminiscent of its early 2010s debut, appeared outdated. Yet, its layout was straightforward, with large climate-control dials and protruding driveline levers accessible even with gloved hands. Sturdy handles assisted passengers during off-road excursions. Its design boasted excellent outward visibility, with forward-pushed roof pillars offering an expansive driver’s seat view—critical for navigating technical obstacles.

The front seats accommodated larger passengers comfortably, though the steering wheel's telescoping adjustment might fall short for taller drivers. The second row offered ample legroom and foot space under the front seats, but headroom was limited for those over six feet due to the elevated rear bench designed for a stadium-like seating experience. Selected trims offered a third-row seat option.

For road trips, the 4Runner abounded in storage spots: pockets in the center dash section, medium-sized console cupholders, a slot for larger smartphones, a sizable armrest bin, and deep door pockets for drink bottles.

Cargo space was substantial, with 47.2 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The optional sliding deck reduced capacity but added functional utility. Maximum cargo space reached 89.7 cubic feet with stowed rear seats, albeit requiring a cumbersome stowing process. In contrast, the Bronco's stepped load floor posed challenges absent in the 4Runner's almost flat load floor, facilitating comfortable in-car sleeping during rough weather.

No powered or hands-free liftgate was offered, but the 4Runner uniquely featured inside-the-hatch party speakers for tailgating. Its distinctive sliding glass rear window enabled gear access without fully opening the liftgate. A hitch receiver with a seven-pin harness facilitated towing, with a 5,000-pound towing capacity for small campers.

And here lay the 2024 Acura MDX's Achilles Heel. Despite boasting a host of features, its infotainment system was markedly cumbersome. The 12.3-inch display atop the dash deceptively suggested it was a touchscreen. However, the interface relied on a touchpad below the shifter, requiring users to drag their finger and tap to select items—a painfully unintuitive process.

Nonetheless, the MDX’s features had merits: standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Multiple USB ports, a fully digital instrument panel, and wireless device charging were also standard.

Innovative touches, like cleverly placed charging ports—concealed behind a retractable pad in the center console—and a leather handrest above the touchpad, reflected thoughtful design. However, these details contrasted sharply with the poorly executed infotainment system. Encouragingly, the new Integra’s intuitive touchscreen system hinted at a potential MDX update in future models. For now, though, the 2023 MDX's infotainment remained a significant drawback against rivals like the Genesis GV80.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner’s infotainment system performed essential functions with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its small eight-inch touchscreen posed challenges when driving. Missing were off-road specific apps and gauges, like those in the Bronco or Wrangler, which, admittedly, were seldom useful on actual adventures.

The TRD Pro came with a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system, delivering clear audio quality and robust bass. However, appreciating this system was difficult due to the loud engine, exhaust, and road noise.

Additional terrain controls, located in the headliner console, were identified by pictograms instead of descriptions, necessitating consultation of the owner's manual for full utilization. These included dials for Crawl Control (a low-speed off-roading cruise control) and Multi-Terrain Select for different surfaces, plus buttons for braking differential or locking rear differential for uneven surface traction.

The Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive array of high-tech driver assistance features. Standard equipment included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-departure warning, driver attention monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Technology Package added front and rear parking sensors, reverse automatic emergency braking, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Further enhancements in the Advance package included a 360-degree parking camera system and a head-up display.

Although the 2024 MDX hadn't been evaluated by the NHTSA or IIHS, it mirrored the 2022 model's high safety standards. The ’22 MDX garnered a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and top "Good" scores across all IIHS crash tests, earning it a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a "Superior" rating for crash-prevention technology.

However, the infotainment system posed a minor distraction hazard. The touchpad required drivers to look at the screen to accurately track finger movements, diverting attention from the road longer than a conventional touchscreen.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings. The NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars for overall and frontal crash protection, five stars for side impacts, and three stars in rollover evaluations. Similarly, the IIHS granted it the highest "Good" score in original moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests. However, the newer small overlap frontal test resulted in mixed ratings, including concerning "Marginal" and "Poor" results.

Competitors like the Ford Bronco scored higher across NHTSA and IIHS evaluations, while the Jeep Wrangler had comparable, though incomplete, ratings.

Standard in the 4Runner were safety features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. The TRD Pro and Limited trims added a surround-view camera system, though only the Limited came with front and rear parking sensors.

Like other Toyotas, the 4Runner's safety alerts tended toward oversensitivity. Proximity to lane markers triggered lane-departure warnings, and the forward collision warning wasn't calibrated for defensive driving in dense traffic. However, these sensitivities were adjustable.