When it comes to midsize luxury SUVs, the Acura MDX and Lexus RX stand out as top contenders. Both vehicles offer a combination of style, luxury, and performance that appeal to families looking for a high-end hauler. But which one is the better choice for your needs? Let’s take a closer look at the key features and differences between the two models.
The Acura MDX, built on the platform of the Honda Odyssey minivan and Pilot SUV, offers a stylish and sporty alternative to its mainstream counterparts. The 2025 MDX comes in six trim levels, with prices starting at around $52,000. The base model comes equipped with a host of features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, synthetic leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, and a power tailgate. Moving up to the Tech Package adds amenities like a 19-speaker audio system, leather upholstery, and front and rear parking sensors. The top-of-the-line Type S Advance model, priced at $76,300, boasts a turbocharged V-6 engine, air suspension, and a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
On the other hand, the Lexus RX, from Toyota’s luxury brand, offers a range of hybrid options in addition to its gas models. Prices for the RX start at around $50,000 for the base model, which comes with synthetic leather upholstery, a 9.8-inch touchscreen, and a 12-speaker sound system. Upgrading to the RX 350 Premium+ adds features like leather upholstery, a 14.0-inch touchscreen, and cooled front seats. The top-tier RX 450h+ model, priced at around $72,000, includes semi-aniline leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
In terms of performance, the MDX offers a 290-hp V-6 engine in its base model, with the option to upgrade to a 355-hp turbocharged V-6 in the Type S model. The RX, on the other hand, offers a range of powertrains, including hybrids that deliver impressive fuel efficiency. The MDX’s handling is more controlled and sporty compared to the RX, thanks to its direct steering and responsive suspension.
Overall, both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX offer a compelling mix of luxury, performance, and features. When it comes to choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. Whether you prioritize performance and sportiness or fuel efficiency and luxury, both SUVs have something to offer for discerning buyers.
The RX seats five passengers comfortably with plenty of legroom in both rows. The front seats are supportive and offer a good range of adjustability. The rear seats are spacious and can accommodate adults comfortably. The RX also offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Overall, the MDX is larger and offers seating for up to seven passengers, making it a better choice for families or those who need additional seating capacity. The RX, on the other hand, is more compact and seats five, making it a good option for smaller families or individuals who prioritize comfort and luxury.
Advantage: Acura MDX for seating capacity and Lexus RX for overall comfort and space.
MDX vs. RX Performance
- MDX offers more power and towing capacity
- RX has more powertrain options, including hybrid variants
The Acura MDX is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and delivers strong acceleration and smooth power delivery. The MDX also offers all-wheel drive, which enhances performance and handling, especially in inclement weather conditions.
Additionally, the MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds with all-wheel drive and 3,000 pounds with front-wheel drive, making it a versatile choice for those who need to tow trailers or boats.
On the other hand, the Lexus RX offers a range of powertrain options, including a 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine in the RX 350 model, a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine in the RX 350h, a more powerful hybrid setup in the RX 500h F Sport Performance, and a plug-in hybrid system in the RX 450h+. The RX hybrid models offer impressive fuel efficiency, with the RX 450h+ achieving an 83 MPGe rating.
While the RX offers a variety of powertrain choices and excellent fuel economy, the MDX outshines it in terms of power and towing capacity, making it a better option for those who prioritize performance and versatility.
Advantage: Acura MDX for power and towing capacity, Lexus RX for fuel efficiency.
Overall, both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX are excellent luxury SUVs with their own unique strengths and features. The MDX offers more seating capacity, power, and towing capacity, making it a great choice for families or those who need extra space and performance. On the other hand, the RX excels in fuel efficiency and offers a range of hybrid powertrain options, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. Ultimately, the best choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and priorities. The Lexus RX offers a luxurious driving experience with features like semi-aniline leather, power lumbar support, and heating and cooling options, but it’s the front seats that truly stand out as all-day comfortable. The second row also provides ample legroom at 37.4 inches, making it suitable for most passengers, and three can comfortably fit across, especially if they are children.
Lexus also offers a power-folding second-row seat, and the plug-in hybrid model comes with power buttons on the console-side of the front passenger seat, allowing front or rear occupants to adjust it. With the rear seats up, the RX provides 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Even the hybrids offer the same amount of space, making it versatile for carrying luggage or groceries.
When comparing the styling of the Acura MDX and Lexus RX, the MDX boasts a sporty look with a shield-shaped grille and horizontal LED headlights. The RX, on the other hand, takes on a more streamlined shape with a longer hood and toned-down trapezoidal grille. Both vehicles feature finely finished interiors, with the MDX offering a more techy and upscale cabin while the RX provides a simpler and attractive design with leather and wood materials.
In terms of safety, both the MDX and RX have impressive records. The MDX has earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors and five stars from the NHTSA, while the RX has received five stars overall with all-wheel drive and four stars with front-wheel drive from the NHTSA. Both vehicles come equipped with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors, but rearward vision may be obstructed by thick rear pillars in both models.
Overall, the Acura MDX edges out the Lexus RX in this comparison, with a TCC Rating of 7.2 out of 10 compared to 6.7 for the RX. The MDX offers a third-row seat, better looks, and superior handling, while the RX excels in fuel economy, especially with its hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Ultimately, the choice between the MDX and RX will depend on individual preferences and priorities. When it comes to choosing a luxurious family hauler, both the Acura MDX and the Audi Q7 are excellent options. These SUVs offer plenty of space, comfort, and advanced features to make family road trips a breeze. But if you’re looking for a winner between the two, the MDX edges out the Q7, but only by a hair.
The Acura MDX is a standout in the luxury SUV market for several reasons. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and quiet cabin. The MDX also boasts a spacious interior with three rows of seating, making it perfect for large families or those who frequently carpool. The materials used in the MDX’s cabin are top-notch, giving it a truly upscale feel.
In terms of technology, the MDX doesn’t disappoint either. It comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a host of driver assistance features to help keep you safe on the road. The MDX also offers a hybrid powertrain option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
On the other hand, the Audi Q7 is no slouch either. It offers a similarly luxurious interior with high-quality materials and plenty of tech features. The Q7 also provides a smooth and refined ride, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys. Its available third-row seating is a bit tight, but still usable for children or smaller adults.
Where the Q7 shines is in its performance. It offers powerful engine options that deliver impressive acceleration and handling. The Q7’s quattro all-wheel-drive system also provides excellent traction in various road conditions, giving you added confidence behind the wheel.
Ultimately, both the Acura MDX and the Audi Q7 are fantastic choices for families in need of a luxurious and spacious SUV. While the MDX may have a slight edge in terms of overall comfort and interior quality, the Q7 stands out for its performance capabilities. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong with either of these top-notch family haulers.
