2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the GX 460. The redesign embraced a geometric style, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of the past. The spindle grille, a Lexus trademark, was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive appearance. The hood featured raised sections above the front wheels, aiding driver awareness during off-road adventures. The side profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline enhancing visibility. The GX was available in a single trim with five packages, each catering to luxury or off-road preferences.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX received subtle styling updates, including a new grille and revised bumpers. The changes enhanced the sporty versions' visual presence. Interior updates were more significant, with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the touchpad interface, adding storage space. The MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec featured upgraded seats from the Type S model, and sound insulation improved cabin quietness. The MDX maintained its reputation for quality, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust. Controls were logically placed, enhancing usability.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain offered impressive torque at low revs, ideal for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX boasted a stiffer chassis, enhancing stability on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential ensured robust off-road capability. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology, improving wheel articulation and stability.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered a performance-oriented experience, with the Type S featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine delivering 355 horsepower. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-litre V6, producing 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided confidence in various driving modes. While not the fastest, the MDX offered smooth and consistent handling, with some brake fade noted during spirited driving. The MDX excelled in typical driving situations, offering a comfortable and quiet ride, though it wasn't designed for off-roading.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons. Rotary knobs for climate control and essential off-roading features remained. The first and second rows offered ample space for adults, but the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded. Overtrail models offered even more capacity, with 1,291 litres of total cargo space.

The 2025 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. While the third row was tight for adults, the MDX offered adequate in-cabin storage and a maximum cargo volume of 2,690 litres with the second row folded. The manual operation of the third-row seats was preferred for reliability.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface included a voice assistant and subscription-based services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available in higher packages. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system was intuitive, with seamless integration of digital voice assistants. AcuraLink connected services and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The Bang & Olufsen audio system offered impressive sound quality. The infotainment system paired with a digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. While crash-test ratings were pending, the modern architecture and advanced driver assistance systems inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured enhanced AcuraWatch driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Type S Ultra added advanced radar and camera systems, offering front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX maintained a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.