When it comes to choosing a family-friendly three-row SUV, the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Acura MDX are both compelling options. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll delve into the various aspects of these vehicles to help you make an informed decision for your family's needs.
2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Acura MDX: Three-Row Crossovers Compared
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate both the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Acura MDX equally, with an 8 out of 10 for their designs.
The Highlander boasts a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design. Its flared fender arches and clever window design give it the appearance of a more compact vehicle, though it's surprisingly spacious inside. The XSE trim, in particular, stands out with its bold red leather interior and sport-tuned suspension. The trim lineup includes L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a range of features to suit various preferences and budgets.
The 2022 Acura MDX, now in its fourth generation, presents a new exterior design and enhanced interior. It features Jewel Eye LED headlights and expressive linear LED daytime running lights, providing a sportier and more modern look. Inside, the cabin is refined, with high-quality materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, giving it a luxurious feel. The center console has a unique gear selection setup, and the 12.3-inch infotainment screen is well-placed for easy access.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Acura MDX at 8 out of 10 for their respective performance, although it's important to remember that these vehicles compete against different segments. The Highlander is a mass-market vehicle, while the MDX competes against higher-powered luxury SUVs. Let's delve into the details:
The Highlander is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. It offers an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters on certain trims. The Highlander's handling is commendable, providing a smooth and composed ride on various road conditions. It's also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for hauling trailers or boats.
The 2022 MDX features a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. This power is channeled through a new 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to either the front wheels or all four wheels in SH-AWD models. The MDX's new suspension setup, including a double-wishbone front and rear multi-link suspension, enhances both ride quality and sporty handling. The available torque-vectoring SH-AWD system improves cornering performance and stability.
Form and Function
CarGurus rates the 2022 Toyota Highlander at 9 out of 10 and the 2022 Acura MDX at 8 out of 10 for their form and function.
The Highlander excels in providing a versatile and family-friendly interior. With the second and third-row seats folded, it offers an impressive 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space. Even with the third-row in use, there's still a reasonable 16 cubic feet of cargo room. The clever design includes quick-release latches and pull-straps for seat adjustments. Higher trims offer features like a power liftgate, making loading and unloading easier. The second-row captain's chairs add convenience and space for passengers.
As a three-row SUV, the MDX shines in passenger comfort and flexibility. It offers innovative seating options, including dual bucket sport seats in the front row and a second row with a removable center section. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward to balance legroom between second- and third-row passengers and now recline up to 12 degrees. Getting into the third row is hassle-free. For utility, the MDX boasts impressive cargo space, ranging from 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and up to a cavernous 71.4 to 95 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The power tailgate includes a convenient "Grab 'N Go" feature.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Acura MDX at 8 out of 10 in terms of technology. The Highlander comes standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot, five USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While it lacks wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, it boasts a straightforward layout complemented by hard buttons flanking the screen. Beneath the climate controls, you'll find a wireless charging pad, USB, and USB-C ports. Higher trims offer a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system.
Notable tech highlights in the Acura MDX include the available ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of power, providing a concert-like listening experience. The MDX offers a 12.3-inch landscape-oriented infotainment screen and an Acura Precision Cockpit 12.3-inch HD digital instrument panel, both configurable for look and content. It features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Qi-compatible wireless device charging, Amazon Alexa integration, and an interior public address system. The MDX also offers a new head-up display, HD rearview camera system, and over-the-air software updates.
Safety
With a safety rating of 8 out of 10 from CarGurus experts, neither the 2022 Toyota Highlander nor the 2022 Acura MDX is a slouch in this department. The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering features like forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are included on higher trims. Optional safety features comprise front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a surround-view parking monitor, a head-up display, and adaptive headlights.
While official crash-test ratings for the 2022 Acura MDX were not available at the time of this review, Acura engineers have designed it with a focus on safety. The MDX features a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. Pedestrian safety is improved with an impact-absorbing bumper and a low-speed braking control system. The AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver assistance technologies is standard, including features like collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and more.
In terms of safety, both SUVs prioritize driver assistance features, but the Acura MDX's advanced engineering and AcuraWatch suite give it an edge, pending official safety ratings.
Cost Effectiveness
The 2022 Toyota Highlander edges out the Acura MDX in terms of cost-effectivness, with respective scores of 9 and 8 out of 10. However, remember that the Highlander will command a lower price than the luxury Acura.
For cost-conscious buyers, the 2022 Toyota Highlander offers some compelling options. The most efficient configurations are the FWD L and FWD XLE trims, boasting an EPA-rated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The base MSRP starts at $35,855 for the L trim and goes up to $48,010 for the Platinum trim. Toyota also offers a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The 2022 Acura MDX comes in a range of trims starting at $46,900 for the base model with FWD and $48,900 with SH-AWD. The Tech Package, A-Spec Package, and Advance Package offer varying levels of luxury and technology, with prices going up to $60,650 for the Advance trim. While it's a bit pricier than the Highlander, it competes well with luxury rivals in its class.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota Highlander is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores an even 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings:
Choose the 2022 Toyota Highlander if:
- You prioritize cost-effectiveness and value for your money.
- You seek a versatile, family-friendly SUV with a range of trim options.
- You appreciate a straightforward infotainment system and a proven track record of reliability.
Search for a 2022 Toyota Highlander on CarGurus
Choose the 2022 Acura MDX if:
- You desire a luxurious and well-equipped midsize SUV.
- You value advanced audio and technology features.
- You prioritize safety and are willing to invest in cutting-edge engineering.
Search for a 2022 Acura MDX on CarGurus
In conclusion, both the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Acura MDX offer their unique strengths, so the choice ultimately comes down to your budget, your specific needs, and your preference for a luxury or mass-market brand.
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