At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 6200
235hp @ 5000
Torque
267lb-ft @ 4700
258lb-ft @ 1500-4000
Towing
3500lbs
1000lbs
Engine
3.5 L/212cc
—
Choosing between the Acura Mdx and the Cadillac Xt5 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Mdx delivers 290hp @ 6200 while the Cadillac Xt5 produces 235hp @ 5000. Pricing starts at $51,800 for the Mdx and $44,800 for the Xt5. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
290hp @ 6200
235hp @ 5000
Torque (lb-ft)
267lb-ft @ 4700
258lb-ft @ 1500-4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/212cc
—
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
22mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
29mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
19.0gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.4in
189.6in
Width (in)
78.7in
74.9in
Height (in)
67.9in
66.1in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
112in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4268lbs
3915lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
1000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
—
Stability Control
✓ Standard
—
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
—
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Xt5
Practicality
Mdx
Pros & Cons
Acura Mdx
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Higher starting price
Cadillac Xt5
Lower starting price ($44,800)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mdx or Xt5?
The Mdx produces 290hp @ 6200 and 267lb-ft @ 4700 of torque while the Xt5 delivers 235hp @ 5000 and 258lb-ft @ 1500-4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mdx and Xt5?
The Mdx starts from $51,800 and the Xt5 from $44,800. The Xt5 is cheaper by $7,000 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Mdx or Xt5?
The Mdx has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Xt5 can tow 1000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Mdx or the Xt5?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.