2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Volvo XC90: Which Luxury SUV Reigns Supreme?
2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Volvo XC90: Which Luxury SUV Reigns Supreme?
Posted on March 11, 2025
Luxury SUVs have long been a symbol of refined comfort, advanced technology, and superior performance. The 2025 Acura MDX and the 2024 Volvo XC90 both aim to capture that essence, offering a blend of sophistication and practicality. But which one stands out? Let's dive into the details and see how these two premium SUVs compare.
Performance and Driving Experience
A luxury SUV should deliver a driving experience that’s as smooth as it is powerful. The 2025 Acura MDX comes equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it ensures seamless gear shifts and a responsive ride. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD) enhances traction, making it an excellent choice for navigating Edmonton’s icy winter roads.
On the other hand, the 2024 Volvo XC90 offers two powertrain options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower in the base trim and a plug-in hybrid version generating an impressive 455 horsepower. While the hybrid option is great for fuel efficiency, the base model may feel slightly underpowered compared to the MDX’s standard V6. Volvo’s AWD system is solid, but Acura’s SH-AWD provides a more dynamic and confident driving experience, especially in tight turns or adverse conditions.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside either of these SUVs, and you’ll be greeted by premium materials, spacious seating, and cutting-edge technology. The Acura MDX features a sleek cabin design with high-quality leather upholstery and open-pore wood accents. Its infotainment system includes a 12.3-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system—ideal for long road trips through Alberta’s scenic landscapes.
Meanwhile, the Volvo XC90’s minimalist Scandinavian interior is just as impressive, offering available Nappa leather seats and an intuitive 9-inch touchscreen powered by Google-based software. While Volvo’s interface is sleek, Acura’s touchpad-controlled infotainment system may be more intuitive for tech-savvy drivers. The XC90 also includes a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality but falls slightly short of Acura’s premium setup.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both the MDX and the XC90 come loaded with advanced safety features, making them excellent choices for families. The 2025 Acura MDX is equipped with AcuraWatch™, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. Its Traffic Jam Assist feature is particularly useful for city driving, reducing driver fatigue in stop-and-go traffic.
The Volvo XC90, known for its strong emphasis on safety, comes with Volvo’s Pilot Assist system. This semi-autonomous driving feature helps with lane centering and adaptive cruise control, providing extra confidence on highways. Both vehicles earn high safety ratings, but Volvo’s reputation for crash protection gives it a slight edge in this category.
Cargo Space and Practicality
For families and adventure-seekers, cargo space matters. The Acura MDX offers 513 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the seats folded flat. This provides ample room for camping gear, groceries, or sports equipment.
The Volvo XC90, while spacious, falls slightly behind with 356 litres behind the third row and 2,427 litres when fully expanded. While still practical, the MDX’s extra storage capacity makes it the better choice for those who frequently haul large loads.
Which SUV Wins?
Choosing between the 2025 Acura MDX and the 2024 Volvo XC90 comes down to priorities. If you’re looking for a dynamic driving experience, a powerful V6 engine, and top-tier technology, the Acura MDX is the better pick. However, if you prefer Scandinavian elegance, plug-in hybrid efficiency, and slightly more advanced driver-assistance features, the Volvo XC90 is a compelling option. For those in Edmonton looking for a luxury SUV that balances performance, comfort, and cargo space, the 2025 Acura MDX is a standout choice. Experience it firsthand at Southview Acura in Edmonton, AB.