2024 Acura RDX vs. MDX: Which One Is Better?

It’s that time again: you need a new vehicle, and, truthfully, it is frustrating—more so because you want an SUV. Acura has some great options, but two of the most popular models include the 2024 Acura RDX and MDX. Which model should you really purchase?

Below, we have compiled all the information you will need to make a final decision based on what will work best for you in terms of speed, size, or even how easy it is to park.

Features of Acura RDX

The year 2024 finds Acura RDX as the smaller of the two yet still outstanding for the number of features on offer. Herein are some of the things that make it stand out:

Engine: First and foremost, the RDX comes fitted with a 2.0L turbocharged engine featuring 272 horses. That means it goes like the clappers and is reasonably decent on gas, too. Well, turbocharging is, in other words, a design an internal combustion engine uses to utilize the pressure energy produced by the exhaust gases created in the combustion process. That would be tantamount to pedaling harder on a bike to get more speed without using extra effort.

Size: The RDX has been described as a compact SUV, much smaller in size. This helps with handling, particularly in cramped areas such as parking lots and city streets. It will be great to have if you have to live in the city or do more driving within the confines of the town.

Interior Space: Compact, not cramped. And not particularly stingy with space either—you get seating for five and a roomy cargo area. Fold the rear seats down, and you can haul a surprising amount of stuff—be it groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for that weekend trip.

Tech and Features: The RDX has a 10.2-inch infotainment screen; pretty much, that’s your command center in the car. You’ll be able to flip tracks, toggle navigation, and even use your phone from controls on the screen. It also gets Apply CarPlay and Android Auto so that your phone will easily sync into it.

Safety Features: Acura is never joking when it comes to the features of safety. It develops RDX with driving assistance like Adaptive Cruise Control, a mode that always keeps your car at a decent distance from the front car. Then, there is the Collision Mitigation Braking System to automatically assist the car in stopping during an emergency.

Features of Acura MDX

The 2024 Acura MDX makes its way with more power and some touches of luxury while growing larger and more spacious than before. Here’s why it may top your list:

Engine: The base MDX gets a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 horsepower, while an upgraded turbocharged version is available in Type S for 355 horsepower. It’s kind of like having a regular bike versus one with an electric motor on it; both are good; one just gives that little extra.

Size and Seating: It’s considered a midsize SUV due to the extra space it comes with, allowing the MDX to carry seven passengers with a third row in the back. If you have a bigger family, this could be a big factor.

Interior Luxury: It gets not only more space but also a bit more luxurious, featuring leather seats and a premium audio system, with even more high-tech features such as a panoramic moonroof and heated front seats.

Advanced Safety: Like RDX, MDX is also jammed with safety features. Further, you have Acura’s option of SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) that may make driving safer and more stable, especially if you happen to drive in tricky weather conditions like snow or rain.

Differences Between Acura RDX and MDX

Considering Acura RDX against Acura MDX, a couple of important differences emerge. Here’s a breakdown:

Size:

• The RDX is a compact SUV, meaning it’s smaller, more nimble, and easier to park in tight spots.
• The MDX is a midsize SUV, offering more space for passengers and cargo, making it better for larger families or road trips.

Seating:

• The RDX can seat five people—a best fit for small families or individuals who do not need extra seating.
• The MDX, because of its third-row seating capability, can carry as many as seven, ideal for those with bigger passenger transport needs.

Engine Power:

• The RDX has a 272-horsepower turbocharged engine, hence the feeling of it being so sporty and quick.
• The MDX has a 290-hp V6 engine but can be upgraded to the more powerful model, the Type S, which has a 355-hp motor.

Luxury Features:

• The RDX comes with plenty of tech features, like a large touchscreen and smartphone integration, but its luxury touches are more minimal.
• The MDX offers more upscale options, like leather seats, a premium sound system, and other luxury features that elevate the driving experience.

Cargo Space:

• The RDX has a decent amount of cargo space for its size, but it’s more limited compared to the MDX.
• The MDX has significantly more room, especially with the third-row seats folded down, making it better for hauling larger items.

Price:

• Usually, the RDX is cheaper because of its compact size and fewer luxury options.
• The MDX is more expensive due to the added seating and extra power and luxury options.

While there isn’t a great deal of difference between the RDX and the MDX, subtle differences make the RDX more suitable for those looking for a small, sporty SUV. For those needing more space and power with available features, MDX makes an offering of the best things.

What Is Better, MDX or RDX?

This is the big question, right? It depends on what you value the most in a car.

Go with the RDX if…

• You want a more compact SUV that can be easier to drive in the city or park in tight spaces.
• You do not need to fit more than five people on a regular basis.
• You’re looking for something sporty yet still practical.

Choose the MDX if…

• You need more space for passengers or cargo.
• You want extra luxurious features included, like a third row, leather seats, and a more powerful motor.
• You don’t mind paying more for the added size and performance of the vehicle.

What Do RDX and MDX Stand For?

You’re probably wondering what RDX or MDX stands for anyway. While they don’t really stand for anything, it’s how Acura keeps some sort of order in their SUV lineup.

RDX: Normally, the “R” in RDX would be for a word such as “Recreation” or “Rally,” meaning it should be sporting and fun to drive. Just think of it as more active, compact, and ready for adventure.

MDX: The “M” in MDX stands for “multi-dimensional”, and that, of course, means this SUV can handle many needs—whether it is carrying more passengers, giving you extra luxury, or dealing with hard driving conditions.

Is Acura RDX Considered a Luxury Car?

Undoubtedly, Acura RDX will fall in the category of SUVs of luxury. While being much cheaper than other cars produced by the same company or other brands, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, it does not compromise on its features and quality. Sleek designs made with high-quality materials, and all the tech can be found in this piece. If you are looking for a luxury vehicle that is not incredibly expensive, the RDX is smart.

Does the Acura MDX Have a Honda Engine?

Yes, it does have a Honda engine. In fact, Acura is Honda’s luxury division, and it inherits all the engineering and reliability for which cars by Honda are known. Other Honda models come with the same 3.5-liter V6 that the MDX is carrying, so this is dependable and very well-performing. While you’re cruising around in your luxury Acura, you’ll get trusted performance from a Honda, too.

Pros and Cons: Acura RDX vs. MDX

Here’s a quick list of the pros and cons for each SUV to help you decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle:

Acura RDX Pros:

• Easier to park and drive in tight spaces
• Sporty feel with great handling
• Affordable for a luxury SUV
• Great fuel efficiency for its size
• Plenty of tech features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Acura RDX Cons:

• Only five passenger seats, so not optimal for larger families.
• Less roomy cargo space than MDX
• Less luxury features than MDX

Acura MDX Pros:

• Seating up to seven people with its third row
• Larger motor with more horses and better performance, especially in the Type S model
• More luxury with leather and tech features
• More cargo space; even at all seats up
• All-wheel-drive options that would make the car much easier to handle in bad weather

Acura MDX Cons:

• More expensive due to added features
• The larger size may be harder to maneuver in tight areas or city driving.
• Slightly less fuel-efficient than the RDX

Conclusion

Choosing between the Acura RDX and MDX quite clearly comes down to what you need from an SUV. For those in the market for something small, sporty, and more maneuverable in tight spots, the RDX bests that bill. It offers the best from a feature packaging, speed, and style point of view sans bulk.

When more room for passengers or gear is needed, coupled with that extra bit of luxury, the MDX will be a better fit. For anyone wanting added power, more space, and especially wanting to give reason to comfort in the ride, this would be a better fit.

Whichever your choice may be, both 2024 RDX and MDX give reliable, high-quality performance, so you can’t go wrong!