The main difference between the Acura RDX and the Acura MDX is size. The RDX is a compact, luxury crossover SUV with seating for up to five people, and the MDX is a midsize, luxury crossover SUV that seats up to seven people.
The MDX has a higher starting price than the RDX but offers extra room to carry more people and cargo. It also has more horsepower and torque. The RDX’s smaller size gives it more maneuverability in small spaces and when turning. Both models have won awards for overall value and receive high marks in safety testing. The RDX and MDX base models both start with a 3.5-liter, V6 engine, matching fuel economy numbers and a handsome set of standard features with many available options.
Drivers who don't need a larger SUV and those who place more importance on agility than power might favor the RDX. People looking to transport a lot of passengers and those who need a vehicle with more power may find that the MDX better suits their needs. It's helpful to explore the different trim levels and options available for each, and then arrange for some test drives at a local dealership to get hands-on experience with both vehicles.
The MDX and RDX differ significantly in pricing. The MDX is priced from $55,340 as of July 2015, while the RDX starts at $38,880. The price difference is partially due to the size difference between the vehicles, but the MDX also includes some standard equipment not found on the base RDX. Many drivers also find the ride of the MDX is smoother and more refined than that of the RDX.
