Acura MDX vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2026 Acura MDX, available in Canada in four trim levels, presented a sleek and sophisticated appearance. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim, which was tested, featured blacked-out wheels and exterior trim, enhancing its sporty look. The MDX's design was characterized by an attractive diamond pentagon grille, appealing lighting elements, and a low, wide stance, with minimal cladding suggesting its SUV nature. Inside, the MDX offered a car-like interior with a low dashboard and wide console, using high-quality materials and providing a sporty appearance. However, the emphasis on design sometimes compromised functionality, such as limited storage space due to the centre console's layout.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, particularly the NX 350h F Sport 3 model, showcased an over-stylized exterior with a large spindle grille and aggressive LED headlights. Its sporty profile was less extroverted, with rounded edges and body-coloured fender flares. The interior was equally stylized, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen angled toward the driver. The F Sport 3 model's interior boasted dark graphite aluminum trim, metal pedals, and optional two-tone Circuit Red synthetic leather upholstery, creating a sporty and upscale feel. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid's design leaned more towards road manners than off-roading capabilities.

The 2026 Acura MDX was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It featured Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) with torque vectoring, enhancing handling. The MDX Type S Ultra variant offered a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, along with adaptive air suspension. The MDX provided a comfortable and responsive driving experience, with a commendable ride on various surfaces. However, it lacked a hybrid powertrain option, and its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 12.3 L/100 km during testing.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, delivering 240 horsepower. It offered standard all-wheel drive and a 7.2-second 0 to 96 km/h acceleration time. While the NX Hybrid's handling was controlled, it wasn't particularly sporty, with a firm but comfortable ride. The hybrid powertrain provided adequate power for daily driving, though it lacked excitement. The NX 450h plug-in hybrid variant offered more power with 340 hp, appealing to those seeking a more potent hybrid option.

The 2026 Acura MDX impressed with its interior comfort and versatility. The Platinum Elite A-Spec model featured 16-way power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with a Bang & Olufsen audio system. Second-row passengers enjoyed supportive seating, though legroom was somewhat limited. The third row was suitable for short trips, primarily for children. The MDX offered generous cargo space, with up to 512 litres behind the third row and expanding to 2,690 litres with the second row folded down.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid's F Sport 3 model provided comfortable front seats with good bolstering and ample room for tall adults. It featured heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The rear seat accommodated average-sized adults, though legroom was limited. The NX Hybrid's cargo space was relatively low for its class, with 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded down. The coupe-like roof design contributed to the limited cargo capacity, but it remained practical for everyday use.

The 2026 Acura MDX offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with a 10.5-inch head-up display in higher trims. The infotainment system featured Amazon Alexa and Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Bang & Olufsen sound system provided impressive audio quality. The head-up display communicated essential information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid came standard with a 9.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility. Optional features included a head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick responses and convenient controls for volume and temperature adjustments.

The 2026 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors were standard. While crash-test ratings were incomplete, the 2025 model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and performed well in crash tests. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, including blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included automatic parking and a surround-view camera system. The safety systems operated effectively during testing.