Acura MDX vs. Lexus TX

Two Interpretations of Power

The larger standard engine size and greater output in the Acura MDX are only the beginning of the differences between these two SUVs.

The Lexus TX is only offered with a single engine configuration and no additional power upgrades, while the Acura MDX provides something less common in the segment: the flexibility of choice in power delivery.

Each model pairs its engine with an automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters for smooth gear changes and responsive control. That said, the Acura MDX's 10-speed automatic delivers a broader range of ratios and a more refined balance between acceleration and efficiency compared to the Lexus TX's 8-speed transmission.

Confidence in Motion

Similarities emerge when examining their drivetrains: both the Acura MDX and the Lexus TX come standard with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive as an available option. Still, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ in the Acura directs power based on weight distribution, available traction, and driving conditions, enhancing high-performance dry-road handling while maintaining all-weather capability. Its blend of precision and agility makes a noticeable difference when cornering or changing direction at speed.

Tailoring each SUV's performance to the road or even your mood is possible in both models. The Lexus TX features Drive Mode Select with four settings: Normal, ECO, Sport, and Custom. Once again, the Acura MDX expands on this flexibility with an integrated system offering seven distinct driving modes, including:

• Comfort
• Normal
• Sport
• Sport+
• Snow
• Lift

Together, these modes allow the MDX to adapt more precisely to changing conditions, reinforcing its focus on versatility without compromising driving engagement.

Presence With Purpose

Both SUVs project a confident presence with athletic styling and standard LED exterior lighting. However, the Acura MDX takes a more advanced approach to illumination with its multi-lens Jewel Eye® LED Headlights, engineered to reduce nighttime driving fatigue by casting a wide, uniform beam that more closely resembles natural daylight while minimizing glare for oncoming traffic.

Their dimensions further distinguish these luxury SUVs, with the Acura MDX offering a more compact footprint that provides tangible advantages in everyday driving.

Thanks to its shorter overall length and wheelbase, the MDX feels more nimble and responsive behind the wheel. This added agility can make navigating city streets, maneuvering through parking structures, and fitting into tighter spaces noticeably easier without sacrificing the spaciousness expected from a three-row luxury SUV.

Luxury in the Details

Step inside either cabin and you'll find an impressive array of premium amenities, including standard or available leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, multi-zone climate control, heated second-row seating, and ambient cabin lighting. Yet once again, the Acura MDX distinguishes itself with available open-pore wood trim for an even more elevated sense of luxury, and a standard panoramic moonroof that requires an upgrade on the Lexus TX.

Both models also offer ambient lighting, although the Acura's Iconic Drive™ Ambient LED Cabin Lighting provides greater customization with 27 selectable color themes. The differences continue to become apparent as you take a closer look at their interior appointments.

The acoustic laminate windshield and front side glass in the MDX enhance every drive by reducing wind noise, tire roar, and highway drone. The result is a quieter, more refined cabin environment that can make long-distance travel more relaxing for everyone on board.

While both SUVs offer three rows of seating, only the Acura MDX features a fully removable second row, providing added flexibility when accommodating passengers, cargo, or a combination of both.

Connected by Design

As before, both SUVs offer a strong foundation of technology, including 12.3-inch digital instrument clusters, wireless smartphone integration, wireless device charging, voice recognition, and an in-vehicle Wi-Fi® hotspot. However, the Acura MDX expands on this feature set with multiple technologies not offered on the Lexus TX, such as:

• Google Built-in
• Amazon Alexa Built-in
• HomeLink®
• HD Radio®
• Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation

The Acura MDX also includes standard CabinTalk®, an in-vehicle intercom system that projects the driver's or front passenger's voice through the rear speakers. This allows conversations with rear-seat passengers without raising your voice or turning away from the road.

For audiophiles, both SUVs offer premium sound systems. The optional Mark Levinson® PurePlay Surround Sound system in the Lexus TX features 21 speakers. The Acura MDX, however, raises the bar with an available 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen® Ultra Sound System, delivering an even more immersive listening experience throughout the cabin.

Protection Comes Standard

No technologies are more important than those designed to help protect you and everyone on board. AcuraWatch™ in the MDX and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 in the TX are standard suites of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies that include brand-specific versions of:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System™
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
• Lane Departure Warning System/Lane Keeping Assist System
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Blind Spot Information System/Rear Cross Traffic Monitor

With highly comparable safety systems, both SUVs provide an added layer of confidence behind the wheel.

Reflecting each brand's commitment to occupant protection, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has consistently awarded both models, including the latest model years, an Overall Safety Rating of 5 Stars, its highest distinction. Together, these technologies and top safety ratings help reinforce the assurance and peace of mind expected from a modern luxury SUV.