2026 Acura MDX vs. 2026 Lexus RX
2026 Acura MDX vs. 2026 Lexus RX: Which Luxury SUV Is Right for You?
Choosing between two respected luxury SUVs comes down to what matters most for your drive. We put together this page to break down how the 2026 Acura MDX stacks up against the 2026 Lexus RX. Our team at Gunn Acura in San Antonio, TX is here to help you decide.
| Category | 2026 Acura MDX | 2026 Lexus RX |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (Base Trim) | $51,800 | $51,225 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 25 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Cargo Capacity (Seats Folded) | 71.4 cu.ft. | N/A (seats down) |
| Seating Capacity | 7 seats | 5 seats |
2026 Acura MDX Overview
We believe the 2026 MDX stands out as the stronger overall pick for San Antonio shoppers. It seats up to seven across three rows, tows 1,500 pounds more than the RX at 5,000 pounds, and offers 18.1 cubic feet of cargo room behind that third row. For buyers who want luxury without sacrificing versatility, those numbers add up to real advantages.
Starting Price
The MDX starts at $51,800, just $575 more than the RX's $51,225 starting point. That's a negligible gap for San Antonio buyers, meaning the choice comes down to which SUV's feature set fits your needs rather than sticker price. Both land in nearly the same bracket before options.
Schedule A Test DriveSeating and Towing Capability
The MDX offers three rows and seats up to seven, compared to the RX's two-row, five-seat layout. It also tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, well ahead of the RX's 3,500-pound rating. For San Antonio families hauling extra passengers or pulling a trailer, that's a 43% towing advantage plus two more seats.
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Driving Dynamics
At the Edmunds test track, the MDX ran 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds with its standard 3.5-liter V6 producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system and sharper steering make it feel noticeably more responsive in corners than the RX. For drivers who want engagement along with comfort, the MDX has the edge.
Schedule A Test Drive2026 Lexus RX Overview
The Lexus RX deserves real credit of its own. It posts a 25 mpg combined EPA rating versus the MDX's 22 mpg, and it offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo room with all seats in place, well ahead of the MDX's 18.1 cubic feet in the same configuration. Even so, we believe the MDX's extra seating and towing capability give it the overall edge for most San Antonio shoppers.
Cargo Space
With all seats in place, the RX offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo room, 11.5 cubes more than the MDX's 18.1 cubic feet behind its third row. That's a meaningful advantage for shoppers who prioritize hauling gear over hauling people. The MDX closes some of that gap once its seats fold, expanding to a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet.
Fuel Efficiency
The RX is EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined, 3 mpg better than the MDX's 22 mpg rating. Over 12,000 miles a year, that difference works out to real savings at the pump for RX drivers. Even so, the MDX's added towing capacity and seating make it the stronger overall value for buyers who need more from their SUV.
Technology and Audio
The RX offers an available 14-inch touchscreen and a standard wireless charging pad, while the MDX pairs its touchscreen with an available 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, up from the previous 16-speaker setup. Both cabins bring genuinely upscale tech, though the MDX's larger speaker count gives it a slight edge for audio quality.
Safety Features
Both SUVs carry a 5-star NHTSA overall side crash rating and come standard with blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a pre-collision safety system. The RX's optional surround-view camera adds extra visibility for tight parking. The MDX matches that coverage standard across all trims and backs it with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, the same coverage length as the RX.
Which SUV Wins: Acura MDX or Lexus RX?
Between the two, we believe the 2026 Acura MDX comes out ahead for San Antonio shoppers who want three-row seating, 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, and sharper handling for a starting price just a few hundred dollars above the RX. The Lexus RX holds its own with a 25 mpg fuel economy rating and 29.6 cubic feet of two-row cargo space, making it a strong pick for smaller households. Ready to see if the MDX works for you? Visit our team at Gunn Acura, 11911 I-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78230, give us a call, or browse our current inventory online to find the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which costs less, the Acura MDX or the Lexus RX?
The 2026 Acura MDX starts at $51,800 and the 2026 Lexus RX starts at $51,225, a difference of $575. Both figures are starting MSRP and don't include taxes, title, license, or dealer fees.
Which SUV gets better gas mileage?
The Lexus RX is EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined, 3 mpg better than the Acura MDX's 22 mpg combined rating.
How many people fit in each SUV?
The Acura MDX seats up to seven across three rows, while the Lexus RX seats five across two rows.
Which SUV can tow more?
The Acura MDX is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, compared to 3,500 lbs for the Lexus RX, a 1,500-lb advantage for the MDX.
Which SUV has more cargo space?
With all seats in place, the Lexus RX offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo room versus 18.1 cubic feet in the Acura MDX behind its third row. Fold the MDX's seats down, though, and it expands to a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet.
Drive the 2026 Acura MDX Near San Antonio
Specs only tell you so much. Come see how the MDX sits, sounds, and rides on the roads you use around San Antonio. Our team can walk you through trims, towing setup, and available packages, and we'll get you real numbers on anything you're trading in. Call or text us, or stop by and take one out.