2018 Acura MDX
Starting Price: $45,195 | Price Yours
Above Average: Outstanding safety, handling, reliability
Below Average: Luxury appointments
Consensus: A practical choice in the segment
2018 Acura RDX
Starting Price: $36,995 | Price Yours
Above Average: Driving performance, ride comfort
Below Average: Fuel economy, conservative styling
Consensus: Both tech-savvy and luxurious
The Acura MDX’s reputation for high reliability and rock-solid safety make it an appealing choice in the luxury SUV segment. In addition, the MDX has a starting price on the lower end compared to most of its competitors, making it a value in the segment. An available hybrid powertrain offers more horsepower and better fuel economy. The RDX shows off the sharp styling, high-tech features and distinguished practicality that Acura is known for, in a smaller, maneuverable package. The elegant interior includes plenty of user-friendly tech features. With its excellent resale value as well, it’s an impressive option in the segment.
Acura MDX Advantages
The MDX is the larger of the two SUVs, with enough room to carry seven passengers. There’s also an available hybrid powertrain.
Acura RDX Advantages
Smaller and sportier, the RDX offers tech and quality at a value price for a luxury SUV.
Similarities
Both offer the luxury, reliability and performance that are synonymous with Acura.
Final Recommendation
The reasonable price for a luxury SUV that Acura offers makes the MDX and RDX great options in the class. The RDX style doesn’t attract a ton of attention but shines in all other areas. The MDX is Acura’s bigger SUV option with more cargo and people space if needed. Choosing one over the other simply depends on your budget and the amount of people and gear you want your SUV to carry.
2018 Acura MDX | 2018 Acura RDX | |
Popular Powertrains | ||
Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 3.5-liter V6 |
Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 279 @ 6,200 rpm |
Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm | 252 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm |
Transmission | Automatic, 9-speed | Automatic, 10-speed |
Fuel Economy | 22 mpg (19 city, 27 hwy) | 24 mpg (22 city, 28 hwy) |
Also Available | 3.0-liter V6 hybrid | |
Specs | ||
Warranty | 4 years or 50,000 miles | 4 years or 50,000 miles |
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Wheelbase | 111.0 inches | 108.3 inches |
Overall Length | 196.2 inches | 184.4 inches |
Width | 77.8 inches | 73.7 inches |
Height | 67.4 inches | 65.0 inches |
Turning Diameter | 38.7 feet | 38.9 feet |
Headroom, Front | 38.1 inches | 38.7 inches |
Headroom, 2nd row | 38.3 inches | 38.1 inches |
Headroom, 3rd row | 35.6 inches | N/A |
Legroom, Front | 41.4 inches | 42.0 inches |
Legroom, 2nd row | 36.6 inches | 38.3 inches |
Legroom, 3rd row | 28.1 inches | N/A |
Shoulder Room, Front | 61.1 inches | 58.7 inches |
Shoulder Room, 2nd row | 59.1 inches | 57.2 inches |
Shoulder Room, 3rd row | 54.7 inches | N/A |
EPA Passenger Volume | 132.7 cu. ft. | 103.5 cu. ft. |
EPA Cargo Volume | 90.9 cu. ft. | 76.9 cu. ft. |