The Acura line-up appeals to you, and you would like to own a good luxury SUV? You have two options: the RDX and the MDX. What are the differences between the two? Which one is right for you?

Find out by discovering the differences in size, performance, design and technology.

Dimensions: Crossover or Mid-size SUV?

The main distinction between the two vehicles is their size. On the one hand, the RDX is a 5-passenger crossover; on the other hand, the MDX is a 7-passenger mid-size SUV. Needless to say, this is a determining factor if you're carrying a large family.

As you might expect, in addition to interior space, cargo capacity varies from one SUV to another:

While the mid-size SUV offers additional maximum volume, the crossover is also generous in this regard and may be suitable for smaller families. In fact, according to Alain McKenna, automotive journalist: 

"The RDX is one of the most comfortable SUVs in its class."

Generous Engines on Both Sides

Both luxury vehicles are well-equipped on the powertrain side. The large Acura MDX offers two engine choices: a 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower or, exclusive to the Type S model, a 3.0L turbocharged V6 good for 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. 

The Acura RDX SUV also offers a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. There is little difference from the standard engine in the mid-size SUV. Both come with standard SH-AWD and a 10-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

If you have loads to tow, however, you'll lean more towards the 2022 Acura MDX with a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. As for the 2022 Acura RDX's towing capacity, it comes in at 1,500 lbs.

The Design: A Little More Luxury in the MDX

On the outside, the difference in size is most noticeable, but the two vehicles share many similarities, such as the distinctive Acura features:

• Sharp, elongated Jewel Eye LED headlights

• A muscular body with a lowered center of gravity

• A diamond grille with the Acura logo

• A-Spec version with a sportier look

However, the MDX adds the Type S version with larger 21-inch wheels, red Brembo brake calipers and four round exhaust tips.

The interior of both the Acura RDX and MDX is luxurious, with options such as leather and Ultrasuede seats with contrasting stitching as well as a driver's seat with 12 to 16 power adjustments.

The interior of the Acura MDX in the higher-end versions goes even further with details like real wood trim, quilted leather massage seats and more.

High-Definition Technologies

On the entertainment side, there's a touchpad-controlled HD screen on both sides; the screen measures 10.2 inches on the RDX or 12.3 inches on the MDX. The MDX also adds digital instrumentation.

On the safety side, the AcuraWatch package is standard on all vehicles, including:

• Impact reduction braking

• Blind spot information

• Lane departure assistance

• Rear cross traffic alert

• Traffic jam assistance

• And much more!

All in all, the MDX offers a little more, but the price differences are notable. Here are the main distinctions to make between the vehicles to guide your choice:

Find your next Acura RDX or Acura MDX for sale at Acura Plus Blainville, on the North Shore of Montreal, just minutes from Laval. Your Acura dealer in Blainville gives you the best advice!