Comparing the new Acura MDX and the new Lexus RX 350

The Acura MDX for 2023 is a versatile, stylish luxury SUV in the mid-size category and it's a very friendly place for families. The cabin is upscale and you'll appreciate the extra sportiness that's available, especially with the optional, more high-powered engine. The Lexus RX 350 is another outstanding SUV that might be on your shopping list. To help you make the best decision, here's a comparison of the two from Sutton Acura in Macon GA.

Comparing engine choices

The Acura MDX is more powerful right out of the gate with a V6 engine that will give you 290 horsepower. If you want even more zoom on the highway, move up to the Type S trim and you'll be driving a turbocharged V6 that will deliver 355 horsepower. Both engine choices are coupled with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. For many of our friends from Griffin and Milledgeville, GA, we think you'll like the extra boost of energy you can get in the Type S model.

For 2023, the Lexus RX 350 offers only a single engine choice: A 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that gives you just 275 horsepower, which is less than the base Acura MDX engine. In addition, the Lexus transmission is an 8-speed automatic which won't shift quite as smoothly as Acura's 10-speed transmission. What's more, the new Lexus RX 350 doesn't give you the option of a more powerful gasoline-driven engine the way the Acura MDX does.

Comparing performance

One of the most tangible indicators of mechanical quality is sheer speed and the new Acura MDX comes out ahead. With the base engine, the Acura MDX can fly from zero to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. The Lexus RX 350 takes a full 7.2 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph when operating with its only engine choice. As one reviewer put it, that's "not exactly fast." The Acura MDX Type S trim can make that run even faster, requiring only 5.5 seconds to hit 60 mph. So far, this competition isn't going well for Lexus but it's going very well for you.

Comparing towing capabilities

This is another comparison where the new Acura MDX comes out ahead. Get behind the wheel of the new MDX and you can tow up to 5,000 pounds when your vehicle is properly equipped. By comparison, the new Lexus RX 350 can tow only 3,500 pounds. That gives you more than a 40% advantage with the Acura MDX , which will allow you to tow a considerably heavier boat or trailer.

Comparing interior space

The new 2023 Acura MDX doesn't disappoint when you step inside the cabin, especially in higher trim levels. That's where you can find open-pore wood trim and French-stitched leather on the dashboard. We think you will be excited about the piano-black accents and metal touches that help give the MDX an upscale feel. Seats in the front are comfortable and you can get an optional 16-way power-adjustable driver's seat and even a massage function.

The Acura MDX still comes with three rows of seating but the Lexus RX 350 no longer gives you that third row option. In addition, the Acura MDX gives you an available premium stereo with 25 speakers while the best the Lexus RX 350 offers is a 21-speaker upgrade.

Test drive the new Acura MDX at our dealership

If the latest edition of the Acura MDX sounds good here, wait until you experience it in person. Browse our new Acura models to find the 2023 MDX you like most and then visit us from your home in Warner Robins GAfor a test drive at Sutton Acura in Macon GA.