Pro: Well-built and spacious cabin Comfortable seats in the front and second rows Strong acceleration, especially in the XC90 T8 Cons: Third-row seats are only good for small adults or kids One USB port in a luxury family crossover is unacceptable
Pros Sharp new look and style; spacious second- and third-row seating; many standard safety technology features; confident handling; available hybrid model.
Cons Overly busy and firm ride quality; base engine comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some touchscreen controls are hard to use.
Endnote: The XC90's suspension tuning is another mixed bag. On smooth pavement, the XC90 feels calm and controlled on its available air suspension. But over ruts, bumps and broken pavement, the vehicle delivers too many impacts and jitters to the occupants for a luxury SUV. We've only driven the XC90 with the big 21-inch wheels, but based on that experience, we recommend going with smaller wheels if possible to help smooth out the ride. Around turns, there's better news, as the XC90 inspires confidence with its planted character, feeling smaller and lighter than it really is.
The 2016 XC90 is raising the design bar in the premium three-row large crossover segment. And with a long roster of standard equipment that includes leather seating, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a smartphone-like infotainment system and state-of-the-art safety gear, the XC90 provides an intriguing alternative to the German-branded competition.
For 2020, the MDX carries over without any changes to its appearance, mechanical components, or available features. The lineup continues to offer a gasoline and gas-electric hybrid model as well as a second-row bench that allows up to seven passengers or captain's chairs that seat up to six. However, Acura did increase the base price of the regular MDX and the Sport Hybrid by $100.
Pros Entertaining to drive—for a three-row crossover, quick and smooth hybrid powertrain, standard driver assists.
Cons Unremarkable passenger space, quirky touchscreen setup, options inflate the price.
The 2020 Acura MDX is a stately three-row family crossover that has aged well.
PROS Handsome looks Confident power Spread-out space Good efficiency from hybrid Standard active safety features
CONS Pricey options packages Top trims don’t feel quite as luxurious as we’d expect Third row can be cramped for tall adults Shallow cargo area
The 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.No significant changes for 2020.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Excellent all-wheel-drive system allows for sharp handling Generous interior storage Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than those of some rivals Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does Dual-screen infotainment system can be quite difficult to use Handoff between all-electric and engine power is clunky
