The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are two of the most popular mid-size luxury SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a comfortable ride, luxurious interiors and a variety of advanced features.
Of course, there are significant differences between these two models, even though both have a vision of what driving should be. So, let’s compare these two exceptional SUVs.
Exterior Design – Acura MDX
Exterior Design – Lexus RX
A question of size
When we think of SUVs, we often think of family vehicles, which is just as true of luxury vehicles. You need enough room for your passengers and enough space for the luggage that will accompany you on your excursions.
In this respect, the Acura MDX has a bit of an advantage. It has an overall length of over 5 meters, while the Lexus stops at 4.8 meters. This size difference is reflected in the wheelbase (2.89 m for the MDX) and directly in passenger space.
It also gives the Acura MDX an advantage in terms of cargo space: with all seats folded down, it offers up to 2,290 litres of cargo space, compared with just 1,360 litres for the Lexus RX.
However, while the Lexus is equipped with five seatbelts, the Acura MDX can accommodate up to 7 passengers.
Exterior Design – Acura MDX
Exterior Design – Lexus RX
All power
Under the hood of the Lexus RX lies a 275 hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox and standard all-wheel drive.
The Acura MDX also offers SH-AWD, an acclaimed all-wheel drive system, and benefits from the power of its engine. Acura has equipped it with a 290-hp, 3.5-litre V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s slightly more fuel-hungry than the Lexus but guarantees superior towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.
Interior – Acura MDX
Interior – Lexus RX
Equipment
When it comes to luxury SUVs, equipment is a must. From this point of view, the two vehicles are equal. Both are equipped with an array of driving aids to ensure the safety of all occupants, including cameras and multiple sensors.
The same applies to infotainment, with both SUVs offering central touch screens and Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility as standard. Lexus has a slight advantage in this area since its system is wirelessly compatible, which is not the case with the Acura.
In Summary
| Specs | Lexus RX | Acura MDX |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4.8 m | 5 m |
| Engine | 2.4-litre turbocharged 4 cyl. | V6 3.5 L |
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 290 hp |
| AWD | Standard | Standard |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic transmission | 10-speed automatic transmission |
| Hybrid Version | Yes | No |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Seats | 5 | 7 |
| Cargo volume with rear seats folded | 1,360 L | 2,290 L |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Standard | Available |
| Premium audio system | 12 speakers | 12 or 16 speakers |
| Seating | 8-way power adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seat including 2-way power lumbar support | 12-way or 16-way power adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seat including 4-way power lumbar support |
| Infotainment system | Standard width 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen | Standard with 12.3-inch HD colour centre display |
The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are both excellent mid-size luxury SUVs. The MDX is a better choice for buyers looking for a more powerful, sportier and roomier SUV since it can accommodate up to 7 passengers. But in the end, the best way to decide which SUV is right for you is to come and test drive our Acura MDX model for yourself.