2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Genesis GV70

The 2024 Genesis GV70 distinguished itself with a sleek design that balanced brand recognition and modern aesthetics. It featured signature Genesis elements like split headlights and a large grille, yet maintained a more streamlined appearance compared to its larger sibling, the GV80. The GV70's design included unique touches such as a hatchback-like rear window profile and distinctive wheel designs, which contributed to its luxury appeal. The interior was equally impressive, offering quilted Nappa leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, while the dashboard's rounded cross-section and innovative controls added a futuristic touch.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle exterior updates, including a new grille and darkened headlights, enhancing its sporty presence. The interior saw more significant changes, with the introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system and improved seating options. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in luxurious leather. The cabin was quieter due to added sound insulation, and the new center console provided additional storage space, making the MDX a more comfortable and practical choice for families.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 was available, delivering 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Electrified GV70 featured front and rear electric motors, producing a combined 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a "Boost Mode" providing 483 hp for short bursts. Despite its power, the GV70's handling was not as agile as some competitors, and its ride quality was firm, though it offered adjustable regenerative braking for the electric model.

The 2025 Acura MDX positioned itself as a performance-oriented SUV, with the Type S model featuring a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-liter V6, which delivered 290 hp and 267 lb-ft. The MDX offered a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for enhanced traction. While not the fastest in its class, the MDX provided a smooth and comfortable ride, with multiple driving modes to suit different preferences. However, its fuel economy was modest, and it was not designed for off-roading, despite its capable handling on twisty roads.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 provided competitive interior space, with slightly less headroom than some rivals but more front-seat legroom. It offered 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet when folded. The Electrified GV70 had minimal impact on interior space, with only slight reductions in legroom and headroom. The stylish interior design, however, limited small-item storage, though features like automatic side bolsters in Sport mode added to its appeal.

The 2025 Acura MDX excelled in interior comfort, with 16-way power-adjustable front seats offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with ample legroom and thigh support. The third row was less accommodating for adults, but suitable for children. The MDX provided 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The new center console and wireless charging pad improved storage options, making the MDX a practical choice for families.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital instrument cluster and optional head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a rotary controller for added convenience. Genesis included a fingerprint scanner for driver profiles and a digital key for smartphone access, enhancing the GV70's tech appeal.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system offered a natural and intuitive experience, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. AcuraLink connected services and an AT&T 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot were standard, while higher trims featured Bang & Olufsen audio systems. The MDX's infotainment system was praised for its ease of use and seamless integration with smartphones.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for both gasoline and electrified models. It came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. The more advanced Highway Driving Assist 2 added automated lane-change capability and blind-spot monitoring, while a safe exit assist function and rear occupant alert system enhanced safety for passengers.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance features, with an expanded AcuraWatch 360 package available on the Type S Advance. Standard features included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. AcuraWatch 360 added front cross-traffic alert and active lane-change assist, among other features. The MDX maintained a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though some models lacked a rollover resistance rating.