Poll: Lexus RX 350 or Acura MDX?
Which luxury crossover would YOU rather own, the Lexus RX350 or Acura MDX? Vote in our latest poll and let the world know!
These two immensely popular haulers are great rivals. They both offer luxury appointments, powerful and efficient drivetrains, Japanese quality and both have Top Safety Pick+ crash ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to brag about.
Starting with the Lexus, in RX 350 trim this high-end hauler features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that puts out 295 horses and 267 lb-ft of torque. It’s matched exclusively to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. For optimum choice, both front- and all-wheel drive is available.
In similar fashion, the MDX is powered by a 3.5-liter V6. It delivers extremely similar figures compared to the RX 350, with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of twist on tap. Giving it an edge over the Lexus, this engine is matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Likewise, front- or Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive are two items on the options menu.
As for fuel efficiency, front-wheel-drive versions of these luxury machines are – surprise, surprise – all over each other. The Lexus stickers at 20 miles per gallon city, 28 highway and 23 MPG combined. The Acura is rated at 20 city, 27 highway and also 23 combined. Neither vehicle has an advantage in consumption.
And that’s a quick look at this week’s competitors, two very evenly matched rivals. Choosing a favorite is not an easy task. If you need more information about each one you can compare them directly right here. Oh, and please vote in our latest poll to help us determine whether the Lexus RX 350 or Acura MDX is more popular.
Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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This is such a dumb poll. The RX350 should be paired against the RDX, not MDX. The MDX is a class above the RX. Now as for styling the new RX has been beaten with the ugly stick unfortunately. I'm not sure why Lexus is trying to go over the top with the grille and side profile.
The new rx reminds me in 2009 when acura screwed up the tl. Now lexus is on that path, both trying to sell $$$$$ something new but not attractive.