2024 Acura MDX vs 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5

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 cluttered, with a center console filled with controls that could be overwhelming. 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 Hyundai Ioniq 5 maintained its distinctive retro-inspired appearance, reminiscent of the Lancia Delta, with minor updates to the front fascia. The XRT trim stood out with red tow hooks and digital camouflage-patterned cladding. The Ioniq 5's interior remained minimalistic and modern, with a revised center console for improved functionality. The XRT trim featured a dark interior with all-weather floor mats. The Ioniq 5's design was both unique and functional, with new wheel designs and expanded color options for 2025, enhancing its appeal.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant came with 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 package offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and Brembo performance brakes. The MDX's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds with AWD, while FWD models maxed out at 3,500 pounds.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT introduced a Terrain Mode button for off-road adventures, with drive modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand. The XRT handled off-road conditions well, with AWD as standard. The Ioniq 5's battery capacity increased for 2025, offering a range of up to 318 miles in RWD configuration. Power output varied by powertrain, with RWD models producing up to 225 horsepower and AWD models delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. The Ioniq 5's electric torque provided a fun driving experience despite its weight.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive, while the third row was smaller and best suited for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The MDX featured a power liftgate, with a hands-free option available on higher trims. The center console provided ample storage, though the control layout was cluttered and unintuitive.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 addressed previous complaints by adding a rear windshield wiper. The interior featured a movable center console with fore-and-aft cupholders and a wireless charging pad. Heated front seats were standard, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and front seat ventilation available on higher trims. Interior dimensions remained unchanged, with generous legroom and cargo space measuring 26.3 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with them folded. The Ioniq 5's transition to the North American Charging System allowed access to Tesla's Supercharger network, enhancing its practicality.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was a weak point, with a clumsy interface controlled by a 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, but the overall system was unintuitive compared to competitors.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 retained its dual 12.3-inch screens, with improved functionality and faster processing speeds. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard, and the Bose Premium Audio system was available on higher trims. The Ioniq 5 offered standard navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and multiple USB-C ports. A head-up display was included on the Limited trim, enhancing the tech experience.

The 2024 Acura MDX came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system. The MDX earned high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though the infotainment system's distraction potential was a concern.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 maintained its high safety standards, earning top ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. New safety features included an enhanced driver attention system and parking-distance warnings. The Ioniq 5 offered Highway Driving Assist 1 and 2, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The XRT and Limited trims included advanced monitoring systems, though some features were removed from the base trim.