VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 6200
243hp @ 6000
Torque
267lb-ft @ 4700
175lb-ft @ 4300
Towing
3500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
3.5 L/212cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Acura Mdx and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Mdx delivers 290hp @ 6200 while the Toyota Highlander Hybrid produces 243hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $51,800 for the Mdx and $48,020 for the Highlander Hybrid. 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
243hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
267lb-ft @ 4700
175lb-ft @ 4300
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/212cc
2.5 L/152cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
CVT w/OD
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
35 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
34 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
17.1gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.4in
194.9in
Width (in)
78.7in
76in
Height (in)
67.9in
68.1in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4268lbs
4595lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
3500lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ 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
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ 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
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Highlander Hybrid
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Acura Mdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Lower starting price ($48,020)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mdx or Highlander Hybrid?
The Mdx produces 290hp @ 6200 and 267lb-ft @ 4700 of torque while the Highlander Hybrid delivers 243hp @ 6000 and 175lb-ft @ 4300 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mdx and Highlander Hybrid?
The Mdx starts from $51,800 and the Highlander Hybrid from $48,020. The Highlander Hybrid is cheaper by $3,780 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Mdx or Highlander Hybrid?
The Mdx has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Highlander Hybrid can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Mdx or the Highlander Hybrid?
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.