2026 Acura MDX vs 2026 Lexus RX
2026 Acura MDX vs. 2026 Lexus RX
As you drive around Chandler or Gilbert in a family SUV, you want to provide the best ride for your crew. Whether you're carpooling to a game in Glendale or planning a weekend family vacation, features are important to your active lifestyle. Two models that stand out from the crowd for families include the 2026 Acura MDX and the 2026 Lexus RX.
| Features |
2026 Acura MDX |
2026 Lexus RX |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 7 Passengers | 5 Passengers |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L Turbo Inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 275 hp |
| Standard Audio | 19-Speaker Bang & Olufsen | 12-Speaker Lexus Sound |
| Max Towing | 3,500 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. |
| Max Cargo Space | 71 cu. ft. | 46.2 cu. ft. |
| Moonroof | Standard Panoramic | Optional Panoramic |
| Driver Seat Adjust | 16-Way Power | 10-Way Power |
Born Performers
Since these two models are in different segments, you can expect some big differences in performance. The Acura SUV provides more power with the turbocharged V6 engine that produces up to 290 pounds. It also has faster acceleration for sportier handling. The Lexus SUV offers adequate performance but isn’t as exciting. However, as you might expect, it offers better fuel economy because of the difference in size between a compact model and mid-size SUV.
Providing Comfort and Convenience
One of the big differences between the 2026 Acura MDX and Lexus RX is the number of passengers they can accommodate. The MDX has three rows to seat up to seven while the Lexus RX offers two rows with five seats. However, they offer the same maximum towing capacity at 3500 pounds to pull a small camper or trailer for a weekend getaway. Even with the added third row, the 2026 Acura MDX is a worthy competitor to the Lexus RX for space in the first two rows. The Acura has slightly more legroom in the front and almost three extra inches of hip room. There is also more legroom and hip room in the second row for the Acura. The third row is primarily for kids while the first two rows can easily accommodate adults. With up to 71 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and under-floor storage, you can fit more stuff inside the Acura SUV.
Upscale Amenities and Technology
Both models are luxury SUVS, which means they offer added comfort and connectivity over standard vehicles. For instance, each model has a premium audio system with the Acura featuring the Bang & Olufsen 19-speaker sound system compared to the Lexus Premium Sound System with 12 speakers. Lexus has an optional panoramic moonroof, while Acura makes it standard for the MDX. Google built-in is also standard for Acura but not available for the RX. Both SUVs include a standard head-up display and selectable drive modes with Lexus offering four modes and Acura including five modes. Power adjustable driver seats are standard in the luxury segment with the Acura MDX including a 16-way model over the ten-way power Lexus RX seat. The MDX also includes nine massage functions to relieve tired or stiff muscles while including heated and ventilated front seats and heated outboard seats in the second row. Lexus adds the same features as upgrades at an additional cost.
[1]Based on 2024 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors. [2]Government 5-Star Vehicle Scores are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program. For additional information on the 5-Star Safety Ratings program, please visit www.safercar.gov. [3]VSA is not a substitute for safe driving. It cannot correct the vehicle's course in every situation or compensate for reckless driving. Control of the vehicle always remains with the driver. [4]LKAS only assists driver in maintaining proper lane position when lane markings are identified without a turn signal in use and can only apply mild steering torque to assist. LKAS may not detect all lane markings; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and road condition. System operation affected by extreme interior heat. Driver remains responsible for safely operating vehicle and avoiding collisions.