2022 Acura MDX vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern character. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing, it presented a more refined look. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights were a distinctive feature that blended seamlessly with the overall design. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," with high-quality materials like matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a sophisticated yet restrained interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX underwent a comprehensive redesign, boasting a sportier and more assertive exterior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant proportions. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its modern appearance. Inside, the MDX's cabin was spacious and luxurious, with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum. The dashboard design emphasized width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior lighting was customizable, offering 27 themes to suit different moods, enhancing the overall ambiance.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of 2,250 kg, suitable for moderate loads.

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. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, the MDX featured 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, improving sporty handling, while the rear multi-link suspension enhanced ride quality. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, resulting in a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth shifts and responsive performance. Five drive modes allowed drivers to tailor the MDX's performance to their preferences.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom in all three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile created a spacious feel. The XC90's cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. Storage options were also limited, but a hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The second row could slide and recline, balancing legroom for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers. The MDX offered between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, with additional underfloor storage. Folding the third row expanded capacity to between 1,107 and 1,367 litres, and folding the second row opened up between 2,021 and 2,690 litres of space. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function and hands-free access, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that allowed easy navigation. However, the text and typeface made reading menus challenging while driving. The XC90 offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display as options. The wireless charging pad was limited in size, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The MDX featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system and the Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa integration allowed for home-to-car functionality, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The MDX included a CabinTalk feature for communication with rear passengers and a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim. A WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates were also available.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Acura MDX also earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in all categories. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in urban environments. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-jam assist.