VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 6200
265hp @ 6000
Torque
267lb-ft @ 4700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Towing
3500lbs
5000lbs
Engine
3.5 L/212cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the Acura Mdx and the Toyota Highlander is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Mdx delivers 290hp @ 6200 while the Toyota Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $57,200 for the Mdx and $47,640 for the Highlander. 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
265hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
267lb-ft @ 4700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/212cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
28 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
17.9gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.4in
197.4in
Width (in)
78.7in
76in
Height (in)
67.9in
68.1in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4302lbs
4420lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
5000lbs
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
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota Highlander
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Highlander
Practicality
Highlander
Pros & Cons
Acura Mdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Toyota Highlander
Lower starting price ($47,640)
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mdx or Highlander?
The Mdx produces 290hp @ 6200 and 267lb-ft @ 4700 of torque while the Highlander delivers 265hp @ 6000 and 310lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mdx and Highlander?
The Mdx starts from $57,200 and the Highlander from $47,640. The Highlander is cheaper by $9,560 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Mdx or Highlander?
The Mdx has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Highlander can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Mdx or the Highlander?
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.