VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 6200
275hp @ 6000
Torque
267lb-ft @ 4700
317lb-ft @ 1700
Towing
5000lbs
2000lbs
Engine
3.5 L/212cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the Acura Mdx and the Lexus NX is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Mdx delivers 290hp @ 6200 while the Lexus NX produces 275hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $68,900 for the Mdx and $51,800 for the NX. 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
275hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
267lb-ft @ 4700
317lb-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
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
21mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
25mpg
28mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
14.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.4in
183.5in
Width (in)
78.7in
73.4in
Height (in)
67.9in
65.8in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
105.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4544lbs
4035lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
5000lbs
2000lbs
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
✓ 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
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
NX
Practicality
Mdx
Pros & Cons
Acura Mdx
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Lexus NX
Lower starting price ($51,800)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mdx or NX?
The Mdx produces 290hp @ 6200 and 267lb-ft @ 4700 of torque while the NX delivers 275hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mdx and NX?
The Mdx starts from $68,900 and the NX from $51,800. The NX is cheaper by $17,100 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Mdx or NX?
The Mdx has a braked towing capacity of 5000lbs and the NX can tow 2000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Mdx or the NX?
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.