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When you look at our 2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 Acura MDX comparison, you may be surprised just how competitively the Lexus NX keeps up with – and surpasses – the larger three-row Acura model. The extremely tech-savvy five-seat Lexus SUV is more than capable of showing its mettle against the larger MDX, featuring exemplary driver comfort features, significantly more efficient 2.5-liter gas and hybrid engine options, and dozens of standard safety features available across all trims.
We at Lexus of Atlantic City want to ensure you find the perfect SUV for you and your family. Let’s review how these two vehicles stack up.
The Acura MDX wants you to think you’ll rocket down the freeway with a potent engine. However, the Lexus NX prefers you to save money at the gas station while providing plenty of horsepower. See how close the engines are.
| Comparing the 2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 Acura MDX | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Lexus NX | 2026 Acura MDX | |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD, SH-AWD |
| Horsepower | 275-304 | 290-355 |
| Torque | 169-317 lb-ft | 267-354 lb-ft |
| Length | 183.5 in | 198.4 in |
| Width | 73.4 in | 78.7 in |
| Height | 65.8-66.1 in | 67.9 in |
| Legroom (Front / Second / Third) | 41.0 / 36.1 / N/A | 41.6 / 38.5 / 29.1 in |
| Headroom (Front / Second / Third) |
|
38.5 / 38.1 / 36.2 in |
| Best EPA-Estimated MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 41 / 37 / 39 MPG (350h AWD)1 | 19 / 26 / 22 MPG (Base MDX FWD)2 |
| Head-Up Display | Available starting with NX Premium | Available starting with Advance package |
| Panoramic View Monitor | Available starting with NX Premium | Available starting with Advance package |
| Advanced Ambient Lighting | Available starting with NX Premium | Available starting with Technology package |
| All Safety Features Standard? | Yes | No |
| Maximum Touch-Screen Size | 14 in | 12.3 in |
Overall, the Acura MDX engines are stronger. The standard 3.5-liter engine delivers 290 horsepower, while the high-end option delivers 355 horsepower. However, this isn’t much more robust than the Lexus NX. The NX’s high-end engine is only 51 horsepower lower than the strongest MDX. And that engine option is the 2.5-liter I-4 PHEV powertrain, with an impressive all-electric range of 37 miles.3
Speaking of eco-friendly fuel economy, you won’t find an MDX option that rivals the NX’s gas savings. Its base four-cylinder engine delivers an EPA-estimated 21/28/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4, while the hybrid NX 350h AWD saves you even more money between each fill-up, thanks to an EPA-estimated 41/37/39 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1
Meanwhile, the default engine of the MDX FWD model gives you an EPA-estimated 19/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined):2 a number lower than the base trim of the Lexus NX and significantly less efficient than the NX hybrid models.
What is that highly efficient engine carrying? The 2026 Lexus NX prides itself on an aerodynamic wheelbase, a low center of gravity, and a striking chassis that brings a sporting feel to your drive. The wide stance is supported by 18- or 20-inch wheels, preparing you to enter the future as soon as you set your eyes on it.
Meanwhile, the Acura MDX boasts a blocky exterior. While it hits the durability angle, it lacks the aerodynamic appeal its engine aims to capture.
The MDX is a three-row SUV, measuring 198.4 inches in length, 78.7 inches in width, and 67.9 inches in height. But don’t think that the Lexus NX size can’t hold a candle to the larger MDX. The NX is a two-row model that is smaller on the outside; however, it’s spacious for its sector with an impressive 41 inches of front-row legroom and a maximum of 38.3 inches of front-row headroom without a moonroof. The Lexus will be the more maneuverable vehicle of the pair, taking up less space in urban driving scenarios and garages alike.
Both vehicles offer leather upholstery options, though the MDX offers Milano Leather. The vibe of the NX wins out, though, with the available thematic ambient illumination system working nonstop to match your cabin’s environment to your mood. Advanced ambient lighting for the MDX requires purchasing upper-level trims at a much higher cost. For customizability, you’ll find that the Lexus NX colors are enticing and unique, with hues like Copper Crest and Nori Green Pearl.
That pattern, where you can get most high-end tech features on the base Lexus NX, is a running theme throughout the technology end of the 2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 Acura MDX comparison. For example, the MDX has the larger standard 12.3-inch interface, but all Lexus trims can access an optional 14-inch touch-screen infotainment center at a much lower price than opting for the base-level MDX. Another example: You’ll need to, at minimum, purchase the MDX A-Spec Package for heated and ventilated front seats. The NX only requires you to step up to the NX 350 Premium trim for heated and ventilated front seats that come at a much lower price point.
No matter which of the Lexus NX trims you purchase, you’ll have access to every safety and driver assistance feature the NX has. Whether you want Proactive Driving Assist, a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure with Steering Assist, or All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, you won’t need to climb trim levels to access it.
The MDX has many safety features, but finding options like Lane Change Collision Mitigation or Active Lane Change Assist requires looking at the more expensive trims. Even more convenient tech, like the Head-Up Display, is available on the Premium trim of the Lexus NX, while the MDX requires you to upgrade to the less accessible Advance Package.
Ready to try the maneuverable, future-facing Lexus NX for yourself? Schedule a test drive today at our Lexus dealer near Atlantic City. Our team will be happy to show you and your family this SUV, let you experience the efficient engine and thoughtful, extensive safety features, and demonstrate how the Lexus NX is the more innovative option.
1EPA-estimated 41 city/ 37 hwy/ 39 comb MPG rating for 2026 Lexus NX 350h AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
2Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
3EPA-estimated 37 comb all-electric driving range rating on a full charge. For comparison purposes only. Mileage will vary for many reasons, including vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. Battery capacity also decreases with time and use which will reduce range. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
4EPA-estimated 21 city/ 28 hwy/ 24 comb MPG rating for 2026 Lexus NX 350. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
