Are you looking for a 3-row luxury SUV? Consider the 2026 Acura MDX and the 2026 Volvo XC90. They’re both among the more practical midsize luxury SUVs available, thanks to their roomy interiors and comfortable ride quality, all at a more affordable price point than a full-size luxury SUV. Let’s compare these two head-to-head and see which one suits your lifestyle.
2026 Acura MDX
The Acura MDX has not undergone significant changes since its 2025 mid-cycle refresh. If you are looking for an affordable midsize luxury SUV, the MDX is a great option. It is a refined and comfortable vehicle to drive, and we think it looks great to boot.
Acura MDX Highlights
V6 power: All MDX models come with a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine. The Type S features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 355 hp.
Features and options: Talk about getting your money’s worth. The MDX offers six trim levels, offering features such as massaging, heated, and ventilated front seats. It’s also available with both 19- and 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio systems. Even the base model impresses with its standard panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a reclining second row with a removable center seat, and it includes Google and Alexa integration.
Safety: The MDX comes with the trademark AcuraWatch safety system. 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, and more, to reduce potential hazardous incidents.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the MDX models for sale near you.
2026 Volvo XC90
Like the Acura MDX, the Volvo XC90 has recently received a mid-cycle refresh, bringing some attractive upgrades. Oddly, the update happened in the middle of the 2025 model year, so 2026 is the first model year in which every XC90 is refreshed. Naturally, it retains what we love about the XC90, including its safety, quality, and comfort, which we expect from a Volvo SUV.
Volvo XC90 Highlights
Ride quality: Volvo is known for providing drivers with an elegant ride, but they’ve taken it a step further by reducing road noise through improved sound insulation. They also tweaked the suspension for a smoother drive.
Engine choices: The Volvo XC90 offers three engine options. The mild-hybrid B5 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with electric assist, producing 247 hp, while the B6 delivers 295 hp. There’s also the T8 Plug-in Hybrid, which has a combined 455 hp — a whopping 100 hp more than the MDX Type S.
Exterior and Interior Updates: The XC90 features a redesigned grille with an asymmetrically slotted look, giving it a modern feel. The front double-wishbone suspension has been revised to provide a smoother ride. The main update to the interior is tech-focused. Volvo introduces a standard 11.2-inch center display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. It has Google Built-in, which means onboard Google Maps and Google Assistant, but Apple CarPlay is also standard for iPhone users to enjoy.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the XC90 models for sale near you.
Similarities
Head-to-head, the Acura MDX and Volvo XC90 are close competitors. Both vehicles can be customized to the driver’s preference, seat up to seven passengers, and have great safety ratings — the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the XC90 the highest Top Safety Pick+ award, and the MDX earns Top Safety Pick.
Pricing
New 2026 Acura MDX Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (22201)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
TBD |
TBD |
|||
$55,350 |
$53,200 |
|||
$58,550 |
$54,200 |
|||
$60,750 |
$56,800 |
|||
$63,750 |
$59,500 |
|||
$68,250 |
$64,300 |
|||
$70,250 |
$66,700 |
|||
$77,200 |
$74,500 |
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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds | 5,000 pounds |
| Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 312 hp |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 10-speed w/sequential sportshift | automatic, 8-speed geartronic w/adaptive 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 | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 6 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches | 117.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.4 inches | 195.0 inches |
| Width | N/A | 84.3 inches |
| Height | 67.9 inches | 69.9 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40.5 feet | 39.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.5 inches | 38.9 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.1 inches | 38.5 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 36.2 inches | 36.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.6 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.5 inches | 37.0 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 29.1 inches | 31.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 61.9 inches | 57.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 60.3 inches | 56.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 55.2 inches | 46.9 inches |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | 18.1 feet | N/A |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 48.4 feet | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 95.0 feet | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Acura MDX offers a sporty and budget-friendly luxury option, complemented by the renowned reliability of Honda’s luxury brand. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC90 offers a refined, elegant, and more fuel-efficient ride, thanks to its plug-in hybrid option. Both are practical luxury SUVs, ready for daily family-hauling duties, so choose the one that better suits your taste and budget.
