2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 Acura MDX

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, featuring design elements like hexagonal grilles, strong fender creases, and a muscular stance. The exterior color significantly influenced its appearance. The Capstone model, with its chrome accents and Celestial Silver paint, appeared somewhat dated, reminiscent of a "cop car." However, a switch to Solar Octane orange and black accents transformed it into a "Tonka truck" look. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dashboard design, with physical controls for volume and climate. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered various seating materials. All models included power-adjustable front seats and a moonroof, enhancing customization and comfort.

The 2025 Acura MDX received subtle exterior updates, including a new grille and revised bumpers, enhancing its sporty presence. Interior changes were more significant, with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the previous touchpad, adding storage space. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims inherited seats from the Type S model, while the Type S received a new design. Enhanced sound insulation and acoustic glass improved cabin quietness. The MDX maintained its reputation for quality, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust and smudges. Controls were logically placed, with easy access to essential features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available as a hybrid, featuring the iForce MAX powertrain with a twin-turbo V6 and electric motor. This setup delivered 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its V8 predecessor. Fuel economy improved to 20 mpg combined with 4WD. The TRD Pro trim offered 4WD with off-road capabilities, while other trims required an additional cost for 4WD. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth operation. The Sequoia's towing capacity increased to 9,520 pounds, with various towing upgrades available.

The 2025 Acura MDX emphasized performance with its A-Spec design and Type S engineering. The Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower, while the standard 3.5-liter V6 delivered 290 hp. The MDX offered a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional SH-AWD. Driving modes included Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual. The A-Spec Advance trim achieved 21 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed 18.4 mpg. The MDX handled well on twisty roads, with smooth body motions and reliable braking. It provided a comfortable ride in typical driving situations, though it wasn't designed for off-roading.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone featured automatic power-deploying running boards, aiding entry. Cargo space maxed out at 86.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The third-row seats, positioned above the hybrid battery, reduced headroom and legroom. Second-row captain’s chairs were available on higher trims, offering wide but flat seating. Legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals in space.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions in the Advance trims. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a foldable center section for storage. The third row was less comfortable for adults. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new center console tray and wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone included standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessed via an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A 12.3-inch driver-information display and Panoramic View monitor were standard. The Capstone trim featured a 10-inch head-up display and a 14-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Alexa and Google Built-in, replacing the previous touchpad interface. The system offered intuitive operation, though SiriusXM required streaming via a smartphone. AcuraLink connected services and a Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The MDX Technology trim and above featured Bang & Olufsen audio systems. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital display and a 10.5-inch head-up display, though blind-spot alerts were absent.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, featuring pre-collision, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. Trailer Merge Warning enhanced blind-spot monitoring. The Tow Technology Package added a digital rearview mirror and trailer backup guide. The Sequoia had not been rated by safety organizations, but the similar Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. AcuraWatch 360, exclusive to the Type S Advance, added advanced features like front cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though SH-AWD models lacked a rollover rating. The 2024 MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.