2024 Acura MDX vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern lower bumper design. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but somewhat cluttered, with a center console filled with controls that could be overwhelming at first. The MDX was available in several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance package, which was reviewed, added a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, offering a luxurious experience despite the busy interior.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, adopting a modern look with a flat roof, upright grille, and distinctive "shark fin" C-pillar. Each trim had unique styling elements, with the base LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment. The RS trim featured sportier touches, while the new ACTIV trim emphasized adventure with all-terrain tires. The interior of the Equinox was updated with a new layout, including a larger infotainment screen and a more open center console. The RS and ACTIV trims offered distinct interior themes, with the RS featuring red highlights and the ACTIV showcasing a "Maple Sugar and Black" theme. Overall, the Equinox's cabin felt more like a choice than a compromise, with thoughtful design elements throughout.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, with options for front-wheel drive or Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The Type-S Advance model offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension enhancing its handling. The MDX's Integrated Dynamics System allowed for various drive modes, including Sport+ and Lift mode, providing versatility for different driving conditions. The MDX's towing capacity reached up to 5,000 pounds with AWD, making it a capable luxury SUV.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied between 184 lb-ft for front-wheel-drive models and 203 lb-ft for all-wheel-drive versions. The Equinox introduced a continuously variable transmission for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD, improving gear shifts and reducing noise. The Equinox's acceleration was responsive at low speeds, though highway merging highlighted the engine's limitations. The ride remained quiet and comfortable, with AWD models capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds. New selectable drive modes, including Off-Road mode for AWD trims, added versatility to the Equinox's performance.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows providing comfort and support, while the third row was more suitable for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with both rows down. The MDX featured a power liftgate, with a hands-free option available on higher trims. The Type-S Advance model included a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and integrated cupholders, though no option for captain's chairs. The center console provided ample storage, but the center stack of controls was cluttered, with a touchpad shifter that required adjustment.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on RS and ACTIV trims, with optional front seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The Equinox's flat roof provided consistent headroom, with 38.2 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the back with the moonroof. The moonroof extended into the rear seats, adding light to the cabin. Cargo space was slightly reduced, with 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A hidden storage compartment was available beneath the cargo load floor. The Equinox's cabin design included a well-placed "dead pedal" for driver comfort and support.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was a notable drawback, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by an unintuitive touchpad. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The center console featured cleverly placed charging ports and a leather handrest for the touchpad. However, the system's complexity detracted from the overall user experience, making it less appealing compared to competitors with more intuitive interfaces.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration projected onto the driver information display, allowing for seamless multitasking. While the voice control system had volume issues in some models, the overall tech package was robust. The Equinox featured an 11.3-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and wireless charging for RS and ACTIV trims. The lack of an upgraded sound system option was a minor drawback, but the standard tech features were comprehensive.

The 2024 Acura MDX included a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance package offered a 360-degree camera system. The 2022 MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with strong crash-prevention technology scores. However, the infotainment system's complexity posed a potential distraction for drivers.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with rear pedestrian alert and HD surround vision. The standard Chevy Safety Assist suite included enhanced automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed and volume limits, providing a "report card" of driving behavior. The Equinox's safety features were comprehensive, with most included as standard equipment.