2017 Acura MDX vs. 2017 Acura RDX

It’s far from rare to find drivers struggling to decide between the 2017 Acura RDX and the 2017 Acura MDX. You’ll experience world-class performance and all the luxury features you’d expect from an Acura SUV with either model, but each one has been designed to fit the needs of a distinct type of driver around Pear Land and Sugarland. Read on to find out which is right for you.

Power and Efficiency

You’ll notice that most modern SUVs have downgraded to four-cylinder engines as standard, but both the 2017 Acura RDX and the 2017 Acura MDX bring V6 power across all trim levels — up to 279 hp with the Acura RDX and 290 hp with the Acura MDX.

The Acura MDX’s slight bump in power is optimized by its available Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, though both models provide engaging drives. The Acura RDX is a little more efficiency-minded, making up to 28 mpg on the highway* vs. 27 mpg on the highway* with the Acura MDX.

Interior

Both the Acura RDX and the Acura MDX can provide interiors trimmed with perforated leather and refreshed by systems such as GPS-linked climate control, but they differ a little in terms of passenger and cargo space.

With three rows of seating, the Acura MDX can seat up to seven, while the Acura RDX can seat five across two rows of seating, and it offers up to 68.4 cubic feet of cargo space vs. 61.3 cubic feet. However, the Acura RDX’s lack of a third row means that it offers more space behind the rear seats than its larger brother, so you should ask yourself how much you’re really going to need the additional row.

Technology

Designed to accommodate growing families, the 2017 Acura MDX does provide a few child-friendly features that are absent from the 2017 Acura RDX. Notable among them is the rear screen entertainment system, which can play DVDs to keep those in the back happy during longer journeys. You’ll also find it a little easier to maneuver thanks to an available 360-degree camera, although the Acura RDX’s smaller exterior dimensions will somewhat mitigate that difference.

In general, both models are well-fitted, with a wealth of convenience, comfort, and driver-assistance safety technologies available.

Drive the MDX and the RDX at Sterling McCall Acura

The 2017 Acura MDX is ideal for larger families who want a little more power beneath the hood, while the 2017 Acura RDX focuses a little more keenly on efficiency — but both easily outclass competitors like the BMW X5. If you’d like to compare them in the flesh, just head to Sterling McCall Acura — you’ll find us only a short drive from Pear Land and Sugarland. If you’d like to start the financing process right away, just use our online apply for financing form.

*Based on 2017 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.