2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with prices ranging from $21,275 to $24,525, including the destination charge. The Venue SEL, priced at $23,275, was recommended for its enhanced exterior appearance and additional safety features. The Limited trim test vehicle, painted in Ecotronic Gray, had an MSRP of $24,735. Despite limited options, the Venue's design was appealing, offering a mature look with its gray color. Inside, the Venue featured hard plastics but maintained a stylish appearance with seat stripes and white trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display were highlights, showcasing Hyundai's attention to quality and design in this small SUV.

The 2025 Acura MDX received subtle styling updates, including a new grille and revised bumpers, enhancing its sporty presence. Interior changes were more significant, with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the touchpad interface, adding storage space. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims received seats from the previous Type S model, while the Type S got a new design. Acura improved cabin quietness with added insulation and laminated glass. The MDX maintained its reputation for quality, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust and smudges. Controls were logically placed, with easy access to essential features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Weighing 2,612 pounds in base SE trim, the Venue's CVT maximized power for city and suburban driving, offering nimble handling and excellent visibility. However, the suspension struggled on rough surfaces, leading to a busy ride. On highways, the Venue maintained speed but sounded harsh under acceleration. Lacking AWD, the Venue's front-wheel-drive system and 6.7 inches of ground clearance were notable. It achieved an EPA rating of 31 mpg combined, but our test averaged 30.3 mpg.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered a performance-oriented experience with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission and optional SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics. Weighing over 4,500 pounds with SH-AWD, the MDX wasn't the fastest but provided a satisfying drive. Various driving modes allowed customization, though Sport mode reduced fuel efficiency. The A-Spec Advance trim was EPA-rated at 21 mpg combined, but our test averaged 18.4 mpg. The MDX handled mountain roads confidently, with smooth body motions and reliable braking. It offered a comfortable city and highway ride, though not suited for off-roading.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue's increased ground clearance facilitated easy entry and exit. Despite its small size, comfort was decent, with manual height adjustment for the driver's seat and tilt-and-telescopic steering. The back seat was better suited for two passengers, with limited storage and no rear air vents. Front storage was adequate, and the Venue offered 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 31.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions in the Advance trims. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. The third row was less comfortable for adults, suitable for children. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new center console tray and wireless charging pad. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display with modern graphics and logical menus. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim added navigation, SiriusXM, and a wireless charger, though it required wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was sophisticated, with a native voice recognition system, though better speakers were desired.

The 2025 Acura MDX's new infotainment system was a game changer, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Alexa and Google Built-in. It replaced the old touchpad interface, offering a more intuitive experience. AcuraLink connected services and an AT&T 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The MDX featured Bang & Olufsen audio systems, with up to 31 speakers in the Type S Advance. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue came with Hyundai SmartSense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The SEL trim added blind-spot monitoring, while the Limited trim included cyclist detection. The Venue received Good ratings in IIHS crash tests and a four-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. AcuraWatch 360, exclusive to the Type S Advance, added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX's standard safety features performed well, though lane-departure warning was less refined. The MDX retained its five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with no IIHS ratings for 2025.