Acura MDX vs Volkswagen Tiguan

The Acura MDX is a mainstay of the luxury SUV segment, and it covers the bases remarkably well. Its well-rounded nature is perhaps because it shares a platform with the Honda Pilot (another fantastic family hauler) but for that same reason, it doesn’t offer the same cachet as a BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE. Whether you are on a road trip or heading to work, the MDX is comfortable, refined, and has space for the family and their gear. For 2024, there’s a new Type-S trim level, bringing a new level of performance to the three-row, seven-passenger midsize luxury SUV. But as we’ll get into in a bit, the MDX is held back by a maddening infotainment system that could truly be a sticking point to overshadow all other positive attributes.

Verdict: The MDX is a beautiful, safe, and cost-effective luxury SUV, and the new Type-S trim level delivers a higher level of performance. However, it doesn’t offer as much space as some of its competitors, and we wouldn’t recommend it to anyone easily frustrated by finnicky tech interfaces.

The Tiguan is larger inside than many of its rivals, and it is one of two vehicles in its segment to offer a third-row seat. In addition, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is more upscale in appearance and enjoyable to drive than many of its primary competitors.

However, the Tiguan is imperfect, and some people may decide its flaws are too significant to consider owning one. Especially people who are easily frustrated by technology.