2024 Acura MDX vs 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern lower bumper design. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but cluttered, with a centre console filled with controls that could be overwhelming at first glance. The vehicle was available in several trims, including the A-Spec and Platinum Elite, with the Type S Ultra offering top-tier features like a 25-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats. The interior boasted ambient lighting, power-adjustable seats, and a panoramic moonroof, creating a luxurious atmosphere despite the busy control layout.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was less visually striking, with a design that some found unremarkable despite its exclusive paint job and orange brake calipers. The RX Hybrid offered three models, each with varying power and efficiency, and came standard with all-wheel drive in Canada. The interior was contemporary, with quality materials and ambient lighting, but the ergonomics of the controls were mixed. The RX avoided the common single curved display, opting for a more traditional layout, which some appreciated for its uniqueness.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, while the Type S Ultra variant boasted a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 355 horsepower. This power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System, providing strong acceleration and a comfortable ride. The MDX Type S Ultra included Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension, enhancing its agility and comfort. Despite its size, the MDX handled corners well and offered a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains, with the RX 350h delivering 246 horsepower and the RX 500h providing 366 horsepower. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offered 304 horsepower and an electric-only range of 60 kilometres. The RX 500h featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, with a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension and Direct4 AWD system. While the RX 500h offered impressive acceleration, its fuel efficiency was less than expected, and the drivetrain occasionally hesitated. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line performance but lacked dynamic communication in corners.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, offering comfortable first and second rows, while the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 2,690 litres available with the seats folded. The Type S Ultra featured a second-row bench with a fold-down centre console, providing a versatile seating arrangement. The centre console offered ample storage, though the control layout was cluttered and unintuitive.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space, with the RX 500h offering heated and ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with power-reclining and heating options. Cargo space was 838 litres with the seats up, expanding to 1,308 litres with the rear seats folded. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining, leading to potential noise issues.

The 2024 Acura MDX’s infotainment system was its weak point, with a clumsy interface controlled by a touchpad rather than a touchscreen. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The vehicle also featured a digital instrument panel and wireless charging, though the overall system was less intuitive than competitors.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in technology, with features like digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The RX 500h included a 14-inch touchscreen with a user-friendly interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Mark Levinson audio system. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and difficult to use, detracting from the overall experience.

The 2024 Acura MDX was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It earned high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. However, the infotainment system’s design posed a distraction risk.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RX also included Proactive Driving Assist and a surround-view camera. While the RX earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, it received a Poor rating from IIHS for occupant protection in certain tests. The steering wheel controls for safety features were cumbersome, impacting usability.