2022 Acura MDX vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to its body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this familiarity also meant it could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The interior, while consistent with BMW's design language, was criticized for its overuse of black plastic, though it did offer leather and soft-touch materials for a luxurious feel. M Sport models added a sporty touch with unique styling elements.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX was built on a new dedicated platform, offering a sportier and more assertive design. Its longer wheelbase and wider body enhanced its elegant proportions, while Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its modern appearance. Inside, the MDX boasted a spacious cabin with a layered dashboard and high-quality materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum. The centre console featured a unique gear selection system, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was praised for its comfort and quality, with a variety of colour options available for both the exterior and interior.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, with all-wheel drive as standard. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kWh battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 km of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were criticized for lacking the engaging drive experience typical of BMWs. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the xDrive45e rated at 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a single engine option at launch, a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) with torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, contributing to a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences. In comparison tests, the MDX impressed with its handling and comfort, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The front seats were comfortable for short trips but could feel hard on longer journeys. The rear seats provided ample space for children and two adults, with an optional third row available. The split liftgate was easy to operate, and the air suspension allowed for vehicle height adjustment when loading cargo. However, the doors did not open very wide, making it challenging to move children and cargo in and out of the second row.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and an innovative second row with a removable centre section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for legroom and access to the third row. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's seating capacity was ideal for family use. The cargo area offered between 461 and 512 litres of space behind the third row, with additional underfloor storage. Folding down the seats expanded the cargo capacity significantly. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, enhancing usability. The interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available to suit different moods.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the Apple CarPlay system had connectivity issues, often taking over musical operations unexpectedly. The standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Buyers could upgrade to a head-up display, premium audio systems, and additional comfort features. The iDrive system required some acclimatization but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification in higher trims. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard across all models. Amazon Alexa integration allowed for home-to-car functionality, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included. The MDX also featured a head-up display, CabinTalk interior PA system, and a surround-view camera on higher trims. A WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates ensured the MDX stayed connected and up-to-date.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS but had a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was subject to several recalls.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in all categories. The vehicle's advanced safety structure and high-strength steel construction contributed to its safety performance. The front end was designed with pedestrian safety in mind, and the low-speed braking control system provided additional protection. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering a comprehensive range of driver assistance technologies.