2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2020 Acura MDX

The Acura MDX stood out as a sleek and attractive crossover SUV, though its styling was not meant to break new ground or leave onlookers breathless. It blended seamlessly into any environment, from parking lots to valet stands, earning subtle appreciation rather than turning heads. Its front facade was distinguished by Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights, which bestowed a refined and functional touch. Each headlight cluster featured five LED elements arranged horizontally, enhancing the MDX's expressive face that was further defined by a trapezoidal grille prominently displaying the Acura logo.

In terms of overall design, the MDX was surprisingly sleek and low-slung for a three-row SUV, its exterior boasting chiseled details and a fast roofline accentuated by flawless paint and chrome. Inside, it maintained a modern and minimalist approach, eschewing the excessively padded and stitched interiors seen in other luxury vehicles. The layout was highlighted by twin infotainment screens—the upper 8.0-inch LED screen dedicated to navigation, and a lower On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen surrounded by three rows of buttons and a central command wheel. High-quality materials and superior fit and finish made the MDX feel solidly built, with a rewarding tactile experience for knobs and switches.

Conversely, the Jeep Wrangler held fast to its iconic design, which had endured through the years. Known for its rugged, toy-truck-for-adults aesthetic, it was instantly recognizable by its circular headlights, seven-slat grille, exposed bolts and hinges, and protruding bumpers and fenders. While it could be customized with different trim levels, paint schemes, and top configurations, each Wrangler retained those core design elements that set it apart from virtually everything else on the road.

Once inside the Wrangler, it became clear that comfort was not the primary focus. Drivers sat upright with limited legroom, and seat adjustments required use of somewhat cumbersome ripcords. For many, these traits added to the Wrangler's charm. Trim levels like the Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon offered varying degrees of amenities, from the bare-bones Sport with manual locks and mirrors to the more sophisticated Sahara featuring dual-zone climate control, premium materials, and advanced infotainment systems. The Rubicon, aimed at off-road enthusiasts, featured a beefy suspension and specialized gear for tackling formidable terrains.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured two powertrain choices. The first was a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This model was available in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive versions. The second option was the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-liter V6 engine with three electric motors to generate a total system output of 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Driving the gasoline-only MDX model equipped with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system revealed impressive straight-line performance and nimble handling. The MDX demonstrated smooth and enthusiastic acceleration, with well-timed shifts whether in Comfort or Sport driving modes. The SH-AWD system, employing torque-vectoring technology, further enhanced its dynamic prowess. By directing power to the outside wheel during turns, the MDX made cornering sharp and seamless, with the vehicle smoothly pulling through tricky maneuvers. Its four-wheel independent suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, providing a comfortable ride over long distances.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered a diverse array of powertrains. The standard engine was a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Alternative engines included a mild-hybrid variant of the V6, a 270-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, capable of 260 horsepower and 442-pound-feet of torque. Each engine powered one of three four-wheel-drive systems: the straightforward Command-Trac, the full-time Select-Trac, and the off-road-oriented Rock-Trac found on the Rubicon model.

Perhaps the most notable addition was the plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe, delivering 275 horsepower and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. However, the Rubicon 392 proved the powerhouse of the lineup with its 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, churning out an exhilarating 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Rubicon 392's enhanced frame rails, 2-inch lift with Fox shocks, and upgraded brakes made it well-equipped for the most challenging off-road conditions. Moreover, its distinct dual-mode exhaust produced an unforgettable rumble.

The 2020 Acura MDX proved to be a versatile and spacious family-oriented SUV. Offering sliding and reclining second-row seats, it facilitated easier access to the third row and allowed for adaptable legroom distribution. Headroom across all three rows was adequate, ensuring comfort for passengers. Behind the third row, the MDX provided 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space, which could be expanded to 43.4 cubic feet by folding down the third row. Further extending the cargo capacity, folding the second row resulted in a flat load floor encompassing 90.9 cubic feet of space. Additional storage solutions included a recessed cubby hole and an underfloor compartment for concealing valuable items.

In the front, the MDX featured a substantial glove box, an overhead sunglass pocket, and a flexible center console with multiple compartments and charging outlets. Each door panel contained water bottle pockets and open storage, while second-row passengers had access to cupholders and front-seat back pouches. Third-row occupants enjoyed armrest storage and cup holders. The MDX also came standard with tri-zone climate control, catering to different temperature preferences within the cabin.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler, available with a variety of top configurations, catered to outdoor enthusiasts. The Sunrider soft-top was zipper-less, moving away from older designs that caused frustration. Additional options included a premium black cloth top, a tan soft top, and the Freedom three-piece hardtop available in either black or body color. The Rubicon 392 also featured the Sky one-touch power top, a combination of a body-color hardtop and a retractable canvas panel, operated with a press of a button.

Inside the Wrangler, the cabin prioritizes function over luxury. With straightforward storage solutions like a small center console bin, glovebox, and effective in-door cargo nets, it was practical if not plush. Its rugged design allowed for easy clean-up, with drain plugs in the cabin for hosing out dirt. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 72.4 cubic feet with the seats folded, although the presence of wheel wells and roll bars could make it tricky to fit large items.

Comparatively, the MDX’s cargo space was more accommodating and easier to utilize for various types of cargo, making it more family-friendly.

The MDX's packaging included a range of technology features designed to simplify and enhance the driver's experience. The base model alone was equipped with Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free Bluetooth, SMS/MMS text messaging, a CD/MP3 player, five USB ports, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an eight-speaker audio system. For those wanting more, the Technology Package added rain-sensing windshield wipers, LED puddle lights, parking sensors, navigation with real-time traffic data, GPS-linked climate control, remote engine start, and an upgraded Acura/ELS Studio premium audio system with 10 speakers. The Advance Package offered even more, including an active damper system suspension, LED fog lights, heated and ventilated seats, power front lumbar support, heated rear seats, a surround-view camera, Head-Up Warning, and additional USB ports for the third row. This could be further complemented by the Entertainment Package, which included a rear DVD entertainment system and additional screens depending on the primary package selected.

By comparison, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler started with a basic 5-inch screen suitable for radio and basic settings, but higher trims introduced more sophisticated technology. The 7-inch and 8.4-inch Uconnect screens, both offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, presented crisper graphics and user-friendly layouts. The Wrangler’s tech features, such as the color TFT screen between the speedometer and tachometer, and the off-road camera nestled in the front grille, provided practical benefits. The latter, equipped with a sprayer, ensured a clear view of trails, even in muddy conditions. While tech in the Wrangler was functional, it wasn’t as abundant or luxurious as in the MDX.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a comprehensive suite of safety features packaged under the AcuraWatch banner. This included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Upgrading to the Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package introduced Head-Up Warning. Standard across all models were a rearview camera (upgradeable to a surround-view camera), various airbags, stability and traction control, Trailer Stability Assist on AWD models, tire pressure monitoring, LATCH child-seat mounts, and an anti-theft system.

The MDX's structure incorporated Acura's Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) design, aiming to distribute crash forces evenly to protect occupants. The MDX received high ratings: "good" in all crash-test categories from the IIHS, "superior" for front crash prevention, and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Conversely, the Jeep Wrangler was less equipped in terms of modern safety features. Standard on the base model was minimal, featuring merely a backup camera with dynamic guidelines. Forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring were available but optional. Notably absent was lane-departure warning. The Wrangler did include a live tire-pressure monitoring system, useful for off-road adventures. While the Wrangler's classic exposed roll cage hinted at its rugged roots, it lacked the advanced safety tech that modern drivers might expect.