2019 Subaru Forester vs 2020 Acura MDX
Overview | |
MSRP$24,295 | MSRP$44,500 |
Average price$20,881 | Average price$27,801 |
Listings725 | Listings756 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2019 Subaru Forester Reviews SummaryConsumers are hungry for all-weather capability, plenty of space for passengers, and plenty of space for the gear that comes with those passengers. Crossovers can offer all of this, while also providing solid fuel economy. So, it makes sense that crossovers of different sizes and price ranges are dominating the new car market. Nearly every automaker out there today offers at least one, if not multiple crossovers, in their showrooms. But while this is a new trend for some brands, Subaru has been offering multiple vehicles that fit the crossover formula for decades. In particular, the Subaru Forester has been around since 1997. When it arrived, the Forester provided standard all-wheel drive, reasonable fuel economy, plenty of cargo space, and an affordable base price. It was not the first vehicle to come standard with all-wheel drive—that would be the AMC Eagle of the 1970s. But the AMC brand is no more, and the '97 Forester offered all these attributes while also being incredibly reliable, and thus set the blueprint for the modern crossover craze. The modern compact SUV market includes popular vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Volkswagen Tiguan, and more. With all these rivals, can the all-new 2019 Subaru Forester once again set the curve in this segment? | |
2020 Acura MDX Reviews SummaryThe Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, with solid performances through three generations of production since 2001. While it may not be an industry leader in any one category, the MDX delivers competitive levels of comfort, convenience, and technology and an attractive overall package that has spawned a loyal repeat audience. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 182 hp H4 | Engine3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower182 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City26 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway27 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 182 hp H4 | Engine Name3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque178 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Torque267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower182 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City26 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway27 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space35.4 cu ft | Cargo Space15.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight3449 lbs | Curb Weight4032 lbs |
Height67.5 in | Height67.4 in |
Length182.1 in | Length196.2 in |
Width80.9 in | Width77.7 in |
Wheelbase105.1 in | Wheelbase111.0 in |
Maximum Payload1442 lbs | Maximum Payload1336 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity1500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $24,295 | $44,500 |
Average price | $20,881 | $27,801 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.2 out of 10Read full review | 7.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Consumers are hungry for all-weather capability, plenty of space for passengers, and plenty of space for the gear that comes with those passengers. Crossovers can offer all of this, while also providing solid fuel economy. So, it makes sense that crossovers of different sizes and price ranges are dominating the new car market. Nearly every automaker out there today offers at least one, if not multiple crossovers, in their showrooms. But while this is a new trend for some brands, Subaru has been offering multiple vehicles that fit the crossover formula for decades. In particular, the Subaru Forester has been around since 1997. When it arrived, the Forester provided standard all-wheel drive, reasonable fuel economy, plenty of cargo space, and an affordable base price. It was not the first vehicle to come standard with all-wheel drive—that would be the AMC Eagle of the 1970s. But the AMC brand is no more, and the '97 Forester offered all these attributes while also being incredibly reliable, and thus set the blueprint for the modern crossover craze. The modern compact SUV market includes popular vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Volkswagen Tiguan, and more. With all these rivals, can the all-new 2019 Subaru Forester once again set the curve in this segment? | The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, with solid performances through three generations of production since 2001. While it may not be an industry leader in any one category, the MDX delivers competitive levels of comfort, convenience, and technology and an attractive overall package that has spawned a loyal repeat audience. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 182 hp H4 | 3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5800 rpm | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City | 26 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 27 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 182 hp H4 | 3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque | 178 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5800 rpm | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 26 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 27 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 35.4 cu ft | 15.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3449 lbs | 4032 lbs |
Height | 67.5 in | 67.4 in |
Length | 182.1 in | 196.2 in |
Width | 80.9 in | 77.7 in |
Wheelbase | 105.1 in | 111.0 in |
Maximum Payload | 1442 lbs | 1336 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs | 3500 lbs |
The 2019 Subaru Forester was slightly larger and wider than its predecessor, resembling a scaled-down version of the Subaru Ascent. The exterior design was practical, prioritizing function over luxury. Inside, the cabin maintained a modern look without sacrificing utility. The Forester was available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims, each offering a range of features from standard LED headlights and symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) to advanced driver-assistance systems. Higher trims added amenities like larger alloy wheels, leather upholstery, and advanced infotainment systems.
In contrast, the 2020 Acura MDX had a sleek and low-slung design, with Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights adding a touch of sophistication. The interior was modern and simple, featuring a center stack with twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials. The MDX's design was functional, with a focus on comfort and ease of use. The vehicle's fit and finish were top-notch, providing a solid and well-built feel.
The 2019 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a smooth ride and a low center of gravity but lacked the torque needed for quick acceleration. The Forester came standard with symmetrical AWD and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritized efficiency over performance. The SI-Drive system allowed drivers to choose between Intelligent and Sport modes, while the X-Mode terrain-management system optimized power delivery for various driving conditions. Fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.
The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid model with a combined system power of 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided excellent handling and torque vectoring, making it nimble in corners. The MDX's suspension system absorbed road bumps well, ensuring a comfortable ride. The gasoline-only model delivered good straight-line performance and smooth acceleration.
The 2019 Subaru Forester offered a spacious interior with a class-leading 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space in the base trim and 70.9 cubic feet in other trims. The larger wheelbase provided more backseat space, and the 8.7 inches of ground clearance made it suitable for various terrains. The cabin was designed with numerous cubbies, compartments, and bottle holders, ensuring practicality. The tall greenhouse and commanding driving position provided excellent visibility and ample legroom and headroom.
The 2020 Acura MDX featured sliding and reclining second-row seats, making it easy to access the third row. The MDX offered 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior included a flexible center console, multiple storage compartments, and tri-zone climate control. The MDX's design catered to families needing minivan functionality without compromising on style.
The 2019 Subaru Forester's Starlink infotainment system was available with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch screen, offering high resolution and responsiveness. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance systems included Lead Vehicle Alert, forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and adaptive headlights, enhancing safety and convenience.
The 2020 Acura MDX came with standard tech features like Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Technology Package added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package included additional features like a surround-view camera and heated and ventilated seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.
The 2019 Subaru Forester came standard with the EyeSight suite, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included front- and side-impact airbags and a reversing camera, making it a very safe vehicle.
The 2020 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included Head-Up Warning. The MDX's ACE Body Structure was designed to absorb crash impact, and it received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Subaru Forester is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Acura MDX scores 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2019 Subaru Forester is the better choice, offering superior practicality, safety features, and overall value.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Forester if:
- You prioritize cargo space and interior practicality.
- You need a vehicle with excellent visibility and ground clearance.
- You value a comprehensive suite of standard safety features.
Choose the 2020 Acura MDX if:
- You want a luxury SUV with advanced handling and performance.
- You need flexible seating and ample cargo space for family use.
- You prefer a vehicle with a wide range of tech and entertainment options.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Subaru Forester is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Acura MDX scores 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2019 Subaru Forester is the better choice, offering superior practicality, safety features, and overall value.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Forester if:
Shop Now- You prioritize cargo space and interior practicality.
- You need a vehicle with excellent visibility and ground clearance.
- You value a comprehensive suite of standard safety features.
Choose the 2020 Acura MDX if:
Shop Now- You want a luxury SUV with advanced handling and performance.
- You need flexible seating and ample cargo space for family use.
- You prefer a vehicle with a wide range of tech and entertainment options.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.