Acura MDX vs Audi Q7: The Best Luxury SUVs of 2023 - Who Wins the Battle?
Luxury SUVs have taken over the automotive world offering not just style but comfort performance and a certain sense of prestige on the road. Today two heavyweights go head-to-head – Acura MDX vs Audi Q7. Both vehicles have their loyal fanbase and come packed with features but how do they really stack up against each other in 2023? We dive into this comparison with a no-nonsense approach highlighting both the highs and lows to help you make a decision that's right for you.
Overview of the Acura MDX and Audi Q7
In the luxury SUV market the Acura MDX and the Audi Q7 have earned themselves top spots as two reliable spacious and tech-filled vehicles. The MDX an American Japanese blend is known for its value-packed offering while the Audi Q7 a German masterpiece is famed for its craftsmanship and refinement. But they're not without their faults - we're going to expose those too!
Price Point - Getting the Most for Your Dollar
Acura MDX Pricing
The Acura MDX starts at a competitive $49,050. For that price you get a generous lineup of standard features including leather seats power moonroof and a host of safety tech. Acura's pricing structure allows for a more straightforward shopping experience - you choose a trim and you're good to go.
Audi Q7 Pricing
In comparison the Audi Q7 begins at a higher price point - around $58,200. Now that's quite a bit of a jump and when you start adding on features and packages you can quickly find yourself well into the $70,000 range. Audi's tiered packages can make the buying process more complex - and pricier.
Which SUV Offers More Bang for the Buck?
Well if you're looking for value for money Acura MDX steals the show. However, the Audi Q7 offers a more premium feel with luxury finishes so it’s all about how much you're willing to spend. As Alex Collantes owner of Avenue Motors car dealership says "For customers who want a luxury experience without breaking the bank the Acura MDX is a solid choice. But if premium detailing is a priority the Q7 might just be worth the extra cost."
Performance and Engine Options - Under the Hood Drama
The way a car feels when you hit the accelerator can be a game-changer for many buyers. Let's take a look at how both SUVs perform on the road.
Acura MDX Performance
The MDX comes with a 3.5L V6 engine pushing 290 horsepower. That’s plenty of punch for daily driving and even for those occasional road trips. It comes paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that feels smooth and responsive. For those looking for more power Acura offers a Type S trim - a performance-oriented version with a 3.0L turbo V6 producing 355 horsepower.
Potential Drawbacks
But not all that glitters is gold. The MDX’s V6 while powerful might feel a bit laggy when accelerating from a complete stop - especially compared to more performance-tuned competitors. It's not necessarily sluggish but you might miss that immediate "kick" some SUVs in this segment deliver.
Audi Q7 Performance
The Audi Q7 on the other hand offers two engine options - a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 248 horsepower or a more robust 3.0L V6 with 335 horsepower. Audi also includes a mild-hybrid system in the V6 that helps boost performance and improve fuel efficiency.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Q7’s V6 provides strong acceleration the 4-cylinder feels underpowered for a luxury SUV of its size. It’s not going to win any drag races that's for sure. Another point to note is the fuel economy - especially with the V6 which tends to sip on the premium fuel more than you’d like.
Winner - Performance
The Audi Q7 edges out here with its multiple engine options and the added oomph of the V6 but the Acura MDX Type S can keep up quite nicely if you're willing to spend extra.
Interior & Comfort - What's Inside Counts
When it comes to luxury SUVs we all know that it's not just about the drive. It's about how you feel while you're driving. Let's see how each of these SUVs pampers you on the inside.
Acura MDX Interior
Acura focuses on creating a driver-centric cockpit. The seats are comfortable with plenty of support and legroom is ample for both front and rear passengers. The materials used in the MDX are high-quality and there are plenty of soft-touch surfaces that make it feel luxurious. There’s also a standard 12.3-inch infotainment screen with touchpad control - but here's where things get dicey.
Potential Drawbacks
The infotainment system is a bit of a pain to use - the touchpad can be cumbersome and not as intuitive as you’d hope. Also while the cabin materials are nice Audi just does it better.
Audi Q7 Interior
Speaking of Audi's interiors - the Q7 is the king here. With high-quality materials soft leather and an overall polished finish the Q7 screams luxury. The seats are plush and supportive and there's a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display that feels futuristic and user-friendly. It’s also equipped with three rows of seating but that third row is best suited for kids.
Potential Drawbacks
One thing that might annoy you is the climate control system - it's all touch-based and while it looks cool it can be a hassle to use while driving. Audi’s attention to detail is great but sometimes it feels like they overcomplicate things just to look fancy.
Winner - Interior Comfort
The Audi Q7 has to take the crown here with its impeccable attention to detail and luxurious feel but the Acura MDX isn't far behind. It's more about personal preference - do you prefer a minimalist driver-focused design or a tech-heavy premium feel?
Technology & Infotainment - Staying Connected on the Go
In today's world staying connected is important and both the MDX and Q7 offer a suite of tech features to keep you entertained and informed.
Acura MDX Technology
The Acura MDX features a 12.3-inch display with Apple CarPlay Android Auto and a premium ELS Studio audio system in the higher trims. There are multiple USB ports scattered throughout the cabin so everyone can stay charged up.
Potential Drawbacks
The biggest drawback? That touchpad controller. Seriously it’s a bit finicky and takes some getting used to. Also while the audio system sounds great it's not the best in the segment.
Audi Q7 Technology
Audi’s MMI Touch Response System is intuitive and responsive with dual touchscreens that control everything from navigation to climate. It’s got Apple CarPlay Android Auto and a Bang & Olufsen sound system in the higher trims that’s simply chef’s kiss.
Potential Drawbacks
As mentioned earlier the touch-based climate controls are not the most practical. Sometimes simple knobs are just better.
Winner - Technology
Audi's got the tech game down with the Q7. The system is easy to use and feels modern. Acura's MDX isn’t bad - it’s just that the touchpad feels like a step back in the tech world.
Space & Practicality - Everyday Usability
Let's not forget that you’re buying an SUV because you need space right?
Acura MDX Space
The Acura MDX provides 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a respectable 71.4 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down. The seats are easy to fold flat and the storage space is well-shaped for large items. There's also a little hidden storage compartment beneath the cargo floor which is always a nice touch.
Potential Drawbacks
One downside is that the third row isn’t all that spacious. Adults will be uncomfortable back there for long rides and it's really best suited for kids or short trips.
Audi Q7 Space
The Audi Q7 offers less cargo space behind the third row with 14.2 cubic feet but when you fold everything down it offers up to 69.6 cubic feet. The second-row seats slide and recline to allow easier access to the third row but just like in the MDX the third row is pretty tight.
Potential Drawbacks
The Audi Q7 is known for its luxurious interiors but the practicality of the cargo space isn't its strong suit. It's got enough room but compared to some of its competitors - including the MDX - it falls short.
Winner - Space & Practicality
The Acura MDX wins here for offering more cargo room and user-friendly seating. It's a more practical choice for families who need the space regularly.
Fuel Economy - Saving Those Pennies
With gas prices always fluctuating fuel economy is something to consider especially when choosing a luxury SUV.
Acura MDX Fuel Economy
The MDX returns 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway which isn't stellar but it's decent for a vehicle of its size. The Type S model does take a hit here though with its more powerful engine.
Audi Q7 Fuel Economy
The Audi Q7 4-cylinder engine offers 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway which is similar to the MDX but once you opt for the V6 those numbers drop a bit to 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Winner - Fuel Economy
Both SUVs are on par with each other but the Acura MDX might have a slight edge due to its consistent fuel economy across models.
Safety & Reliability - Peace of Mind Matters
Acura MDX Safety
The Acura MDX comes standard with AcuraWatch which includes a suite of safety features like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and collision mitigation braking. Acura’s reputation for reliability is strong making the MDX a solid choice for those who want a trouble-free ownership experience.
Audi Q7 Safety
The Audi Q7 is also packed with safety tech including lane departure warning adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system. Audi has a solid track record but some owners report minor electrical issues - nothing major but worth noting.
Winner - Safety & Reliability
Both SUVs are safe bets (pun intended) but the Acura MDX gets a nod for its reliability.
Final Verdict - Acura MDX or Audi Q7?
So which one should you go for? Both the Acura MDX and Audi Q7 have their strong suits. The MDX is all about value practicality and reliability while the Q7 shines in luxury tech and performance.
If you're looking for a family-friendly SUV that doesn't break the bank go for the Acura MDX. But if you're willing to splurge for a bit more luxury and don’t mind paying extra for premium finishes then the Audi Q7 will serve you well.
As Alex Collantes from Avenue Motors puts it "It all boils down to your priorities - if you want value and space MDX all the way. But if you're someone who appreciates the finer things in life then go for the Q7. Either way you’re getting a great SUV."
References
- Acura Official Site
- Audi USA
- Expert Reviews from MotorTrend
- Consumer Reports - SUV Reliability Stats