Are you in the market for a luxury 3-row SUV? Let’s look at the 2026 Acura MDX and the Lexus TX. They live up to their respective brands’ reputations and offer refined driving experiences. These are the two top sellers in the midsize 3-row luxury SUV class, so let’s see which one is right for you and your family.
2026 Acura MDX
The Acura MDX still feels fresh from its 2025 mid-cycle update. The MDX is a more affordable entry into the three-row luxury SUV market, offering a comfortable driving experience and an aesthetically pleasing design. It’s also available with a little more muscle than you might expect.
2026 Acura MDX Highlights
V6 muscle: While all but the expensive 550h model of the Lexus TX have turbo 4-cylinder engines under their hoods, all MDX variants are motivated by a trusty V6, which some drivers in this class prefer. The base engine is a Honda V6 with a sterling reputation for reliability, and the hotter Type S model features a turbocharged V6 that pumps out 355 horsepower.
Features and options: The base MDX offers a standard panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a reclining second row with a removable center seat, and includes Google built-in and Amazon Alexa. There are six trim levels to choose from, offering feature-rich upgrades, such as massaging, heated, and ventilated front seats, and even a 31-speaker audio system.
Safety: Acura’s MDX comes with the trademark AcuraWatch. This system’s technology is designed to help the driver be more alert and aware. It utilizes lane assist, road departure mitigation, and blind spot information systems, along with a collision mitigation braking system to reduce potential hazardous incidents.
Read our Acura MDX Expert Review or see Acura MDX models for sale near you.
2026 Lexus TX
The 2026 Lexus TX is a luxurious, delightful, and roomy ride. The Lexus TX is one of the more configurable luxury SUV models on the road, offering a staggering ten trim levels to choose from. The base model has plenty of tech-rich features, including keyless ignition and a power liftgate.
Lexus TX Highlights
Bigger screen: Every Lexus TX comes standard with a 14-inch infotainment display, bigger than the 12.3-inch screen in the Acura. This vast and user-friendly screen makes the TX feel a little more modern and high-tech.
Engine variety: The 2026 Lexus TX offers three engine options, two of which are hybrids. The TX 350 features a 275-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, but upgrading to the hybrid TX 500h enhances both performance and efficiency, making it an easy recommendation. The TX 500h actually has more power and torque than the high-performance MDX Type S. Additionally, there is the TX 550h+, a plug-in hybrid with 404 hp and a 33-mile all-electric range.
Roomier interior: The TX offers greater third-row legroom than the MDX, at 33.5 inches, which is a significant advantage if you plan to use the way-back seats regularly. If your passengers want to relax in their rear enclave, all models offer the ability to recline, USB-C charging ports, and cup holders. Creating a third-row space that feels cozy, instead of clumsy. The Lexus TX has a cargo capacity of 20.2 cubic feet, handy for travel excursions.
Read our Lexus TX Expert Review or see Lexus TX models for sale near you.
Similarities
As in prior years, the Acura MDX and Lexus TX are close rivals that offer drivers ample configuration options based on price and preference. They’re also quite similar in size, and both come standard with comparable safety and infotainment technology features.
Pricing
New 2026 Acura MDX Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
TBD |
TBD |
|||
$55,350 |
$53,500 |
|||
$58,550 |
$55,100 |
|||
$60,750 |
$56,900 |
|||
$63,750 |
$60,400 |
|||
$68,250 |
$64,900 |
|||
$70,250 |
$66,500 |
|||
$77,200 |
$74,800 |
New 2026 Lexus TX Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$57,090 |
$54,400 |
|||
$59,890 |
$57,000 |
|||
$62,240 |
$59,300 |
|||
$66,360 |
$64,500 |
|||
$70,610 |
$68,600 |
|||
$73,760 |
$71,700 |
|||
$80,960 |
$77,100 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Acura MDX vehicles and New 2026 Lexus TX vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 Acura MDX | 2026 Lexus TX | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder | 2.4-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds | 5,000 pounds |
| Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 275 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm | 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 10-speed w/sequential sportshift | automatic, 8-speed w/sequential shift |
| Fuel Economy | N/A | N/A |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches | 116.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.4 inches | 203.2 inches |
| Width | N/A | 78.4 inches |
| Height | 67.9 inches | 70.1 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40.5 feet | 19.0 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.5 inches | 41.5 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.1 inches | 40.2 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 36.2 inches | 37.2 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.6 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.5 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 29.1 inches | 33.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 61.9 inches | 60.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 60.3 inches | 59.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 55.2 inches | 57.5 inches |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | 18.1 feet | 20.2 feet |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 48.4 feet | 57.4 feet |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 95.0 feet | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
Although these luxury SUVs are direct competitors, they have slightly different personalities. The Acura MDX is a bit more conventional with its V6-only powertrain lineup, yet it has the features and tech of a modern luxury vehicle. Meanwhile, the Lexus TX offers multiple hybrid options and more interior space. The right SUV for your family depends on your tastes, budget, and how much space you really need.
