In a surprising turn of events, the Ford Explorer is now being compared to the Acura MDX and Genesis GV80, two vehicles that typically belong to the premium segment. While the starting price for the 2024 Explorer is less than $37k, the Genesis GV80 begins at $57,700 and the Acura MDX is priced at over $50k. However, when looking at the top-tier models, the differences become more subtle.
The Explorer ST, for instance, now starts at over $50k and comes equipped with a powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine that produces an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the equivalent Genesis GV80 with a 3.5-liter turbo V6 costs $64,850 and initially offered 375 horsepower (now upgraded to 409 horsepower). The Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, boasts a 3.5-liter V6 turbo engine with 355 horsepower and a price tag of $68,450.
All three vehicles feature all-wheel drive, with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system adding an extra touch of sophistication. To settle the debate about which vehicle reigns supreme, Sam, a sports reporter, decided to put them to the test on a damp tarmac.
In a series of roll races and drag races, the Acura MDX Type S managed to secure a victory against the Explorer ST. However, when the drivers switched vehicles, the Explorer ST took back the lead and emerged victorious in the subsequent races against the Genesis GV80. Despite the smaller power difference, the Explorer ST proved its dominance by winning four consecutive races.
This unexpected outcome adds an interesting twist to the comparison. Sam even set up a makeshift dragstrip, complete with a small Christmas tree and a victory camera, to capture the excitement of the races.
Ultimately, if you’re in the market for a sporty mid-size crossover SUV, the Ford Explorer ST is the clear winner against the Genesis GV80 and Acura MDX Type S, especially considering its lower price point. However, if luxury is your top priority, the Acura MDX may be worth considering, as it offers a slightly more upscale design compared to the GV80, which is often seen as a generic mall crawler.
