Acura MDX vs Lexus RX 350: A Comprehensive Comparison Guide

Introduction

The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are two of the most popular luxury midsize SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious and comfortable cabin, advanced safety features, and impressive performance. However, there are some key differences between the two models that potential buyers should consider before making a decision.

In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 in detail, covering various aspects such as performance, fuel efficiency, interior features, safety ratings, and reliability. We will also provide some tips and tricks to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.

Performance Comparison

The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 both offer strong performance, but they differ in their engine configurations. The MDX comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The RX 350, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of acceleration, the Acura MDX takes a slight edge over the Lexus RX 350. The MDX can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, while the RX 350 takes 6.5 seconds. However, the RX 350 has a slightly higher top speed of 124 mph, compared to the MDX's 121 mph.

Both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are available with all-wheel drive, which provides enhanced traction and stability in slippery conditions.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers, especially in today's era of high gas prices. The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are both relatively fuel-efficient for their size.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Acura MDX with front-wheel drive gets an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. With all-wheel drive, the fuel economy drops slightly to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

The Lexus RX 350 with front-wheel drive gets an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. With all-wheel drive, the fuel economy remains the same at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Overall, the Lexus RX 350 has a slight advantage over the Acura MDX in terms of fuel efficiency.

Interior Comparison

The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 both offer spacious and comfortable interiors. However, there are some differences in terms of design and features.

The Acura MDX has a more modern and upscale interior with a sleek dashboard and high-quality materials. The RX 350's interior is more traditional and conservative, but it still offers a high level of comfort and refinement.

Both vehicles offer seating for up to seven passengers, but the Acura MDX has a more spacious third row of seats. The RX 350's third row is better suited for children or occasional use.

In terms of cargo space, the Acura MDX offers more room behind the third row of seats than the Lexus RX 350. The MDX has 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, while the RX 350 has only 9.8 cubic feet.

Overall, the Acura MDX has a more spacious and modern interior than the Lexus RX 350.

Safety Ratings Comparison

Safety is a top priority for many car buyers, and the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 both offer a comprehensive suite of safety features.

The Acura MDX received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RX 350 also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Both vehicles also received a "Good" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

In terms of specific safety features, the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 both come standard with a variety of advanced safety features, such as:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Additionally, the Acura MDX offers a few more advanced safety features than the Lexus RX 350, such as:

• Traffic sign recognition
• Driver attention monitoring
• Head-up display

Reliability Comparison

Reliability is another important factor to consider when choosing a new car. The Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 both have a good reputation for reliability.

According to J.D. Power, the Acura MDX received a score of 83 out of 100 in its 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study. The Lexus RX 350 received a score of 86 out of 100 in the same study.

Both scores are above average, which indicates that the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 are both reliable vehicles.

Tips and Tricks for Choosing Between the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350

Here are a few tips to help you choose between the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350:

• Consider your budget: The Acura MDX is typically priced lower than the Lexus RX 350.
• Think about your performance needs: The Acura MDX offers slightly better performance than the Lexus RX 350.
• Evaluate your fuel efficiency requirements: The Lexus RX 350 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Acura MDX.
• Decide on your interior preferences: The Acura MDX has a more modern and spacious interior than the Lexus RX 350.
• Prioritize safety features: Both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 offer a comprehensive suite of safety features.
• Consider reliability: Both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 have a good reputation for reliability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when choosing between the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350:

• Don't focus solely on price: While the Acura MDX is typically priced lower than the Lexus RX 350, it's important to consider all of the factors we discussed above before making a decision based on price alone.
• Don't overlook performance: If you're looking for a vehicle with strong performance, the Acura MDX is a better choice than the Lexus RX 350.
• Don't ignore fuel efficiency: If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Lexus RX 350 is a better choice than the Acura MDX.
• Don't compromise on safety: Both the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, so don't compromise on safety when making your decision.
• Don't forget about reliability: Reliability is an important factor to consider when choosing a new car, so make sure to research the reliability records of the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 before making a decision.

How to Step-by-Step Approach to Choosing Between the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350

Here is a step-by-step approach to help you choose between the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350:

1. Determine your budget.
2. Consider your performance needs.
3. Evaluate your fuel efficiency requirements.
4. Decide on your interior preferences.
5. Prioritize safety features.
6. Consider reliability.
7. Test drive both vehicles.
8. Make a decision.

FAQs

1. Which is more expensive, the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350?

The Lexus RX 350 is typically priced higher than the Acura MDX.

2. Which is faster, the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350?

The Acura MDX is slightly faster than the Lexus RX 350.

3. Which is more fuel-efficient, the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350?

The Lexus RX 350 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Acura MDX.

4. Which has a more spacious interior, the Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350?

The Acura MDX has a more spacious interior than the **Lexus RX 350