Luxury Compact SUV

2018 Acura MDX vs. 2018 Acura RDX Comparison

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.