2021 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia, despite its attempts to stay modern with a facelift in 2018, still felt dated. The subtle updates to the headlights and grille were overshadowed by its large, imposing silhouette. Inside, the Sequoia's design was reminiscent of the mid-2000s, with a massive, multi-tiered center dash and a standard 7-inch touchscreen that seemed small against the expansive dash space. The front seats, though bulky, were comfortable, but taller drivers found themselves uncomfortably close to the roof, especially with the optional sunroof. The second-row seats, however, offered ample headroom and legroom, providing a more comfortable experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX presented a sportier and more modern exterior design, thanks to its new dedicated platform and tweaked proportions. The longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance contributed to its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels added to its assertive look. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum. The layered dashboard emphasized the cabin's width, and the unique gear selection added a touch of sophistication. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel provided a modern and user-friendly interface.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided stout acceleration, even for an SUV weighing up to 6,000 pounds. The Sequoia's driving dynamics were reminiscent of a truck, with a soft suspension and overpowered brakes. It could tow up to 7,400 pounds, which was less than some competitors like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The new 10-speed automatic transmission, combined with the optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhanced the MDX's performance. The SH-AWD system allowed for torque vectoring, improving cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, resulting in improved ride quality and sporty handling. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity contributed to a solid ride feel, while the 10-speed transmission ensured smooth performance.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia offered a spacious cabin with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 120 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Its power-retractable rear window was a unique feature, allowing easy access to the cargo area. However, the Sequoia's front-row space could have been better utilized, and newer SUVs had surpassed it in maximizing interior space.

The 2022 Acura MDX provided comfortable seating for the first two rows, with an innovative second row featuring a removable center section. The second row could slide and recline, offering flexibility for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's seating capacity was appreciated for family use. The MDX offered between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, with additional hidden storage. The power tailgate featured "Grab ‘N Go" and hands-free access, enhancing convenience. The customizable interior lighting added a touch of elegance to the cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with simple menu navigation and large hard buttons. However, the digital trip computer felt small compared to modern fully-digital instrument panels.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel provided a modern interface. The MDX featured Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Qi-compatible wireless charging. The CabinTalk feature acted as an interior public address system, and the head-up display and HD rearview camera system added to the MDX's tech-savvy appeal.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. However, it lacked more advanced tech like lane-keeping assist, and its platform was dated, scoring four out of five stars in the NHTSA's rollover test.

The 2022 Acura MDX had not yet been rated by the IIHS and NHTSA, but Acura aimed for improved ratings. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and the low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in city driving. The AcuraWatch suite included collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.