2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8, each equipped with standard all-wheel drive. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, offered the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. The XC90 came in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The Ultimate trim, as tested, included luxurious features like massaging front seats, a high-end audio system, and a trailer hitch, with an MSRP of $89,145. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy color palette and a Bright theme with chrome accents, contrasting with the blacked-out trend. Inside, the design was somewhat dated but featured rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather, and a crystal shift knob, allowing for customization of paint, wheels, and upholstery.

The 2025 Acura MDX underwent minor styling updates, including a new grille, revised bumpers, and darkened lights, enhancing its sporty appearance. Interior changes were more significant, with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the previous touchpad interface, providing more storage. The seats from the MDX Type S model were now available in the MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims, while the Type S received a new seat design. Acura improved cabin quietness with added sound insulation and acoustic laminated glass. The MDX's controls were logically placed, with a volume knob and quick-access buttons for head-up display and safety features. The new A-Spec Advance trim combined luxury with a sporty look, with an MSRP of $69,950, including a $1,350 destination charge. The base MDX started at $50,900, with various trims offering different levels of equipment, culminating in the MDX Type S Advance at $74,950, plus destination charges.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge T8 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Charging the battery took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, or less than half that time with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured various driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, during testing, the XC90 fell short of its electric range and fuel economy estimates, achieving 28 miles of electric range and 24.5 mpg. The SUV's performance waned as the battery depleted, and while it offered lively acceleration, it lacked thrilling handling. The ride was firm, and the cabin wasn't as quiet as expected for a luxury SUV.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered a performance-oriented experience, with the A-Spec design and Type S engineering featuring a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was optional on lower trims and standard on higher ones. The MDX provided a comfortable ride with various driving modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual. The A-Spec Advance was EPA-rated at 21 mpg but averaged 18.4 mpg during testing. The MDX handled mountain roads confidently, with smooth body motions and consistent behavior. It offered a firm and communicative ride in the city and a smooth highway experience. However, it wasn't designed for off-roading, with limited ground clearance and performance tires.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. A panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and upgraded lighting. The front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, but their design could catch on clothing. The XC90 provided a commanding driving position with good sightlines. However, the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin in Pure mode. The XC90 seated seven or six with captain's chairs, with a comfortable second-row bench and a tight third-row for adults. Interior storage was adequate, and cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but expanded to 65.5 cubic feet with it folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs in the Advance and A-Spec Advance trims. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a fold-down middle section for storage or pass-through access to the third row. The second-row seats were comfortable with ample legroom, while the third row was cramped for adults. The MDX offered a triple-zone climate control system and adequate in-cabin storage, with a new center console tray and wireless charging pad. Cargo volume measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with it folded, and 71.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The third-row seats folded manually, which was preferred for reliability.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant for four years. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were also standard. The XC90 offered a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. Google Assistant provided voice control, though it required specific prompts. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an available head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play for three years. The system replaced the previous touchpad interface, providing a more intuitive experience. SiriusXM satellite radio was not included, but streaming was possible via Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. 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. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance included a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating in most assessments and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were not as innovative as rivals, lacking a hands-free driving system. Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, was included but had limitations, such as struggling with curves and lane markings. A significant error during testing shook confidence in the system.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch driver assistance with improved accuracy and refinement. AcuraWatch 360, exclusive to the Type S Advance, added features like front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX received a five-star NHTSA rating, but SH-AWD models lacked a rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2025 model.