2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Acura MDX was a sleek and stylish three-row SUV, though its design was not particularly groundbreaking. It blended in well without drawing much attention, but it still maintained a polished and sophisticated appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of luxury to the front, flanking a trapezoidal grille with a prominent Acura logo. The interior was modern and simple, featuring twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials that gave the MDX a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX carried over the sharp design lines and familial styling attributes of the Lexus brand. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport models featured a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX. The F Sport variant added sporty elements like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the NX offered quilted NuLuxe sport seats and a choice of interior color schemes. The fit and finish were excellent, with a familiar gauge cluster and a somewhat dated center stack design.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid model with a 3.0-liter V6 and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model with SH-AWD provided good straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension ensured a comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice for long drives.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride under normal conditions. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The NX's adaptive suspension system provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though the steering lacked feedback.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided ample interior space with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 90.9 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. The MDX featured numerous storage options, including a large glove box, a flexible center console, and door panel pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2021 Lexus NX had a well-styled and comfortable interior, with front seats offering plenty of room and good legroom in the second row. The NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX featured a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats. Despite engine noise, the cabin remained quiet from road and wind noise, maintaining the typical Lexus experience.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of standard tech features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included a surround-view camera, heated and ventilated seats, and more. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX also offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system and compatibility with the Lexus Enform Remote mobile app, providing remote access to various vehicle functions.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included Head-Up Warning. The MDX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus NX included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with park assist and adaptive headlights as options. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, and came with Lexus Enform Safety Connect for emergency assistance and vehicle tracking.