2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, notably with its 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, enhancing its presence. The styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, which might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX was available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX received subtle styling updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened lights, which enhanced its sporty look. The interior saw more significant changes with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the previous touchpad interface, adding more storage. The MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec featured seats from the previous Type S model, while the Type S got a new design. Acura improved cabin quietness with added sound insulation and acoustic glass, maintaining its hallmark of quality despite some undesirable gloss black plastic trim.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 L/100 km, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate.

The 2025 Acura MDX, particularly in its standard 3.5-litre V6 engine configuration, delivered 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s SH-AWD system. The MDX offered various driving modes, with Sport mode providing the best powertrain response. Fuel economy was rated at 11.2 L/100 km, but testing showed an average of 15.3 L/100 km. The MDX handled well on twisty roads, though it allowed some body roll. It provided a smooth, quiet highway ride, though it wasn’t designed for off-roading.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,746 litres with all seats folded. However, second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

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 ample legroom and thigh support. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, suitable mainly for children. The MDX offered 512 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with all seats folded. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new centre console tray and wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. However, the head-up display had issues with polarized sunglasses and unmarked steering wheel controls, causing dissatisfaction.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Alexa Built-in, and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. It supported a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The system was intuitive, with seamless integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display, though it lacked blind-spot monitoring alerts.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The MDX Type S Ultra added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The standard features performed well, though the lane-departure warning was less desirable. The MDX retained its five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.