2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated, enhancing the modern aesthetic with a mesh texture and elevated hood. The RX's design was familiar yet fresh, distinguishing itself from the previous generation and the smaller Lexus NX. Inside, the RX featured a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede, ensuring a luxurious feel.

The 2024 Acura MDX boasted a striking design with a large shield grille, rakish headlights, and a refined lower bumper. Inside, it was high-tech but busy, with numerous controls on the center console. The MDX offered several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance added a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, providing a luxurious experience. Despite the busy interior, the MDX's design was modern and sophisticated, with thoughtful details enhancing the overall appeal.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the FWD version did so in 7.5 seconds. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Type-S variant featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. The MDX Type-S Advance offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with an adaptive air suspension and Brembo performance brakes. The Integrated Dynamics System provided various driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, enhancing the driving experience. The MDX's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds with AWD, while FWD models maxed out at 3,500 pounds.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package offering sport seat bolsters for added support. The RX 350 Luxury featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The back seat was roomy, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive. The third row was smaller, suitable for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with them folded, and 71.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The MDX included a power liftgate and optional hands-free operation. The center console provided ample storage, though the control layout was cluttered, with a touchpad interface that was not user-friendly.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Intelligent Assistant offered natural voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. The system allowed user profiles and streaming through embedded apps. The Mark Levinson premium sound system was available, delivering excellent audio quality. However, the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously was a drawback.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by a touchpad that was unintuitive. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The center console cleverly integrated charging ports, though the overall control layout was not user-friendly. The hope was that Acura would update the system in future models, as the current setup detracted from the MDX's appeal.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were also available, though some features had limitations, such as the HUD's visibility issues with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Acura MDX included a robust set of driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance Package included a 360-degree camera and head-up display. The 2022 MDX received high safety ratings, which carried over to the 2024 model, though the infotainment system's distraction potential was a concern.