Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX

While German luxury brands dominate the midsize SUV segment, Japanese automakers have made great strides to catch up when it comes to technology, performance, and luxury. The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are two of the better non-German luxury brands available. The MDX errs to the more athletic side of things with an available turbocharged engine and relatively athletic handling. If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that can seat up to seven people without looking or performing like a bloated midsize SUV, the MDX will fit the bill.

The recently redesigned RX continues to be a comfort-forward option with a stylish design and a supremely comfortable cabin. It may not be as sporty as the MDX, but the RX has its own set of strengths that make it a competitive option in the segment. We’ll briefly compare the two midsize SUVs against one another to cover pricing, dimensions, performance, and reliability to name a winner.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX Price

Both Acura and Lexus stand out as well-priced options in the midsize segment, though the RX 350 is the more affordable option of the two. The cheapest RX 350 starts at $48,550 (prices include destination), while the priciest model costs $62,750. The most affordable MDX costs $50,745 with the most expensive model starting at $74,395. There’s a $2,195 price difference between the RX 350 and the MDX.

With the 2023 Lexus RX being a fully redesigned model, the automaker doesn’t have any available lease deals for the new model year. The available lease deals for the 2022 RX 350 are far more affordable than the lease deals that are offered on the MDX. Both Lexus and Acura offer their midsize SUVs with similar rebates.

Compared to competitors like the Genesis GV80, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90, the MDX and RX are two of the more affordable options in the segment. They’re both great value options that offer more features for your money than other competitors.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX 350 Dimensions

The MDX and the RX 350 are classified as midsize SUVs, so they’re similar in size. The MDX is slightly larger than the Lexus, measuring 198.4 inches in length, which makes it roughly six inches longer than the RX 350. Thanks to the SUV’s extra length, it’s capable of seating up to seven people across three rows of seats. The RX 350 is currently only available in a two-row, five-passenger configuration.

With its larger size, the MDX offers slightly more interior space than the RX 350. The Acura offers more front legroom, front and rear hip room, as well as front and rear shoulder room. Where the MDX gains a commanding lead over the RX is when it comes to cargo capacity. Acura’s midsize SUV offers up to 71.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. With the rear seats folded, the RX 350 has 46.2 cubic feet of total cargo space. The RX 350’s cargo capacity is well below average for the class.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX Performance

Acura’s midsize SUV offers performance that matches its design. The sharply styled midsize SUV delivers nimble handling that makes it enjoyable to drive, even with the base 3.5-liter V6 engine. The available Type S is a high-performance model that brings extra oomph and athleticism. Its turbocharged V6 engine delivers 355 horsepower, an increase of 65 hp over the base engine while adding performance parts like Brembo brakes, adaptive air suspension, and an advanced all-wheel-drive system. The Type S is by far one of the best-handling SUVs in the class.

Instead of choosing peppy handling, the 2023 RX 350 delivers a smooth ride that highlights the SUV’s luxurious nature. The RX 350’s suspension is softly sprung to cushion bumps, but that results in lackluster handling and a lot of body movements around corners. If you’re looking for sporty handling, the MDX is the better option.

When it comes to fuel economy, the RX 350 is the more efficient SUV of the two. The RX 350 comes with a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that’s rated to get up to 25 mpg combined. The 3.5-liter V6 engine in the MDX is rated at up to 22 mpg combined. Both SUVs require premium fuel.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX Engine Specs

The MDX is available with two engines. The base engine is a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6, while the Type S comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 355 hp. Acura’s powertrains fall oddly in the middle of its competitors with more power than four-cylinder options, but less power than available V8s. Plus, Acura doesn’t have an available hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain with the MDX.

The RX lineup is available with a dizzying number of engines. The RX 350 comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 275 hp. The next step up is the 350h that comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor for a combined output of 246 hp. Currently, the RX 500h F Sport Performance is the top dog in the lineup with a turbo 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Output is rated at 366 hp combined, which is enough to deliver a zero-to-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The MDX Type S can get to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX Reliability

Based on Consumer Reports data, the Lexus RX 350 is a more reliable SUV than the MDX. With a rating of four out of five of predicted reliability and a four out of five for owner satisfaction, the RX 350 may be more reliable than the MDX. The 2023 RX 350 is not ranked in the organization’s lineup of midsize SUVs yet.

In Consumer Reports testing, the MDX earned a predicted reliability rating of four out of five and a predicted owner satisfaction score of two out of five. The SUV currently sits in 12th place out of the 24 luxury compact SUVs the organization tested.

Is Lexus RX Better Than Acura MDX?

The Lexus RX loses this comparison against the Acura MDX. While the Lexus has a robust lineup of engines, great fuel economy figures, a comfortable ride, and a more affordable price tag, it doesn’t offer the same usability as the MDX, nor is it as fun to drive. That’s not to say the RX is a bad SUV. Its stylish design, premium interior, and high-tech infotainment system are excellent qualities, especially considering the SUV’s starting price tag.

With snazzy exterior styling, crisp handling, well-equipped trims, and rich tech features, the Acura MDX wins this comparison. It offers seating for up to seven – something the RX 350 doesn’t – comes with a punchy standard V6 engine.

We recommend looking into both SUVs to find which model has the features and qualities you’re looking for.

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