Acura MDX Vs. Toyota Highlander Full Comparison With Charts
Acura MDX Compared to Toyota Highlander, at a Glance
- The Acura SUV has exceptionally responsive engines compared to the Highlander.
- Enjoy more third-row legroom and trunk space in your Acura MDX.
- In both standard and available features, such as the baseline 12-way front seats, the Acura MDX leaves its Toyota equivalent behind.
- While both the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander have strong safety options, the Acura MDX has several additional exclusive perks, such as Cornering Speed Assist and a larger Head-Up Display.
Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Should You Take Home?
In a world of three-row SUVs, an Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander guide is a critical comparison point. Where the Toyota Highlander markets itself as a family-friendly vehicle, it lacks the third-row seating and trunk space of the Acura MDX. Plus, the Acura MDX boasts stronger technology and safety features – a fact you can confirm at Muller's Woodfield Acura.
Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander Specs: Which Has the Better Performance?
| Specifications | 2024 Acura MDX | 2023 Toyota Highlander |
| Engine Options |
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| Horsepower | 290 - 355 | 243 - 265 |
| Torque | 267 - 354 lb-ft | 175 - 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
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| Drivetrain | FWD, SH-AWD avail | AWD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 19 / 26 / 221 | 21 / 28 / 242 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs3 | 5,000 lbs4 |
Summary
The Toyota Highlander has an edge in MPG ratings, but only because its engine is hybrid. The Acura MDX has an all-gas powertrain that delivers significantly more horsepower than its competitors, and the Type S Advance trim dominates the conversation. As you can see in our Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX 350 comparison, this standard engine can even overcome other luxury vehicles.
Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander Dimensions: Which SUV is More Versatile?
| Specifications | 2024 Acura MDX | 2023 Toyota Highlander |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 7-8 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 112.2 in |
| Length | 198.4 in | 194.9 - 197.4 in |
| Width | 78.7 in | 76 in |
| Height | 67.9 in | 68.1 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 41.6 / 38.5 / 29.1 in | 42 / 38.7 / 28 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 38.5 / 38.1 / 36.2 in |
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| Cargo Space (Standard / Max) | 16.3 / 71.4 cu ft | 16 / 84.3 cu ft |
Summary
The Acura and Toyota SUVs are in fierce competition, but the Acura MDX has a key advantage: the third row. The Acura MDX has slightly more third-row space, letting your youngest passengers breathe. If that wasn't enough, its trunk is also slightly larger.
Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander Interior: Which Model is More Advanced?
| Specifications | 2024 Acura MDX | 2023 Toyota Highlander |
| Standard Tech / Interior Highlights |
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| Available Tech / Interior Highlights |
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Summary
Where the Toyota Highlander seats max out as 10-way adjustable, the Acura MDX starts with a 12-way setup. The Acura MDX also features more screen space, better available ambient lighting, a 31-speaker premium sound system (20 more speakers than the Toyota SUV), and more amenities made from materials like genuine wood. The more you compare it – like with our Acura MDX vs. Kia Telluride guide – the more it's apparent why the Acura MDX is a standout.
Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander Safety: Which Model is More Reliable?
| Specifications | 2024 Acura MDX | 2023 Toyota Highlander |
| Standard Safety Highlights |
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| Available Safety Highlights |
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| NHTSA Rating | 5/55 | 5/55 |
| RepairPal Reliability Rating | 4/56 | 4/57 |
| RepairPal Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost | $5716 | $4897 |
| Warranty | 4-yr / 50,000-mi8 | 3-yr / 60,000-mi8 |
Summary
Both the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander provide exceptional safety, but the Acura model still stays ahead with more standard and available driver assistance features. It's also more reliable, with a longer warranty plan and an incredibly low estimated maintenance cost for a three-row luxury SUV.6
Acura MDX or Toyota Highlander? Find Out at Muller's Woodfield Acura
Ready to drive in pure luxury? We don't stop with the Acura MDX! Check out all available Acura models while you're in our showroom.
Contact us with any questions about our inventory, ask about any of our rotating specials, and let us show you why the Acura MDX belongs in your garage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Acura MDX more luxurious than the Toyota Highlander?
Yes, much like in our Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison, the Acura MDX takes the lead in features. Luxury comes with 12-way front-row seats, an expansive screen, and memory driver seats. And higher-end trims come with even more expansive comfort and convenience options.
Which has better fuel economy: the Acura MDX or Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy, but only because it has a hybrid engine. The Acura MDX remains highly competitive, achieving 22 MPG (Combined)1 with its standard engine, while the Toyota Highlander delivers 24 MPG (Combined)2 even with partially electrified technology. The comparison is quite close, and the cost of repairing a hybrid engine can be higher.
Is the Acura MDX or Toyota Highlander better for families?
The Acura MDX is the better pick for families. In the Acura MDX, seats are extraordinarily comfortable, there are stronger standard safety features for teen drivers, and there is more third-row legroom for the younger kids and teens in your life.
Continue Your MDX Research
1Based 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.
2Use 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.
3Towing requires the addition of the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. Please see your Acura dealer for details. Added cargo weight in the vehicle may reduce max towing capacity, see Owners Guide for details.
4Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. (Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.) Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/acura/mdx.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/toyota/highlander.
8Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.