2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a vehicle that appealed to those who loved the black-on-black aesthetic, despite the challenges of maintaining such a finish. The Black Line treatment removed almost all chrome from the exterior, giving the SUV a sleek, dark appearance. However, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was high, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance trim arrived with a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior. The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge, featuring subtle design cues that hinted at its performance potential. The MDX's interior was luxurious, with perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it difficult to use certain controls.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system provided a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride stability, but the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its performance, especially in corners. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance upgrades didn't mesh well, leading to an inconsistent driving experience. The MDX Type S averaged 16.9 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating of 19 mpg in combined driving.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various settings. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone automatic climate control. However, the rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading and unloading.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats with flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row seat was comfortable but didn't offer as much legroom as expected. The third-row access was tight, making it suitable for children. The MDX's cargo area was spacious, with a hands-free liftgate and a sizable underfloor storage bin. However, the center console's design limited storage space.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with excellent voice recognition technology. However, the placement of stereo controls below the off-roading controls was confusing. The GX also offered Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The MDX included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services.

The 2023 Acura MDX came with Acura Watch, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.