Acura MDX vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2026 Acura MDX, available in Canada, offered four trim levels: Tech, A-Spec, Platinum Elite A-Spec, and Type S Ultra, with prices ranging from $72,115 to $94,015. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim, which we tested, featured a striking Performance Red paint, bringing its MSRP to $82,015. This trim level included blacked-out wheels, exterior trim, and subtle styling modifications, with quilted leather upholstery enhancing the interior. All models came standard with all-wheel-drive, and the Type S Ultra boasted a more powerful turbocharged engine for enhanced performance. The MDX's design was characterized by an attractive diamond pentagon grille, appealing lighting elements, and a low, wide stance, with minimal SUV-like cladding. Inside, the MDX's cabin was styled more like a car, with a low dashboard and wide console, using high-quality materials. However, the emphasis on design impacted functionality, with limited storage space and compromised climate control button visibility. Despite this, the vehicle's controls were intuitive, making it easy to navigate the infotainment system.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in Canada exclusively in Sport design grades, including the base SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport, the latter offered only as a PHEV. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with the GR Sport featuring an assertive grille and rear diffuser. The RAV4's design embraced a boxy, truck-like presence, with daytime running lights and an integrated rear roof spoiler. The Sport trims showcased gloss black accents and racier elements, such as red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered mild differentiation, with red stitching on the GR Sport's black upholstery. All grades featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with the GR Sport and XSE trims offering a low-profile shift-by-wire setup. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid provided a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort, with a strengthened chassis for improved structural rigidity. However, its weight was noticeable in corners, and the GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling attributes.

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 and Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System. The MDX Type S Ultra featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, generating 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, along with adaptive air suspension. The MDX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and offered a pleasant driving experience, with responsive acceleration and a solid, robust feel. However, it lacked a hybrid powertrain option, with observed fuel economy at 13.1 L/100 km. The MDX's handling was sportier than some rivals, but exploring its limits was not particularly rewarding, and its ground clearance was limited to 18.5 centimetres.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, rated at 186 horsepower, with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's power increased to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It offered an estimated range of 80 kilometres in EV mode, with all-wheel drive standard. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid delivered a spirited ride, with a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. It featured multiple driving modes, including EV, Auto, Hybrid, and Charge, with seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling, with a lower ride height and beefier suspension components. However, the RAV4's weight was noticeable in corners, and the GR Sport trim provided a more even handling experience.

The 2026 Acura MDX's interior was a sanctuary, with 16-way power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, a Bang & Olufsen audio system, and a panoramic glass sunroof. Second-row passengers enjoyed supportive seating, with a removable centre section for added flexibility. The third row was suitable for short trips, with limited clearance for entry and exit. Cargo space was generous, with up to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the second row folded down.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, with SofTex upholstery on higher trims. The interior dimensions remained similar to the previous generation, with clever storage features and a spacious rear legroom of 960 millimetres. The cargo area offered 951 litres, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded down. The RAV4's interior was optimized for storage, with multiple shelves and deep door pockets.

The 2026 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 10.5-inch head-up display. The infotainment system included Amazon Alexa Built-in, Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto. The Bang & Olufsen sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided comprehensive information.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu, with improved graphics and user interface. The Arene operating system was responsive, and the Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts. The system also provided information on charging schedules and a range map.

The 2026 Acura MDX included AcuraWatch, a package of driver aids such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights were standard. The MDX's adaptive cruise control was refined, and the lane centring assist operated transparently. Crash-test ratings were incomplete, but the 2025 model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with a wider view for cameras and a broader detection range for radar. Driver assistance systems included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a safe exit alert. The RAV4's safety record was strong, and the redesign aimed to address previous shortcomings. Crash-test ratings were pending.