2025 Acura TLX Base vs 2025 Acura MDX Base
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize sedan or a midsize SUV. Key numbers: $17,900 price gap, 272 vs 290 hp, 24 vs 21 MPG.
The TLX Base leads on $17,900 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Acura TLX Base | 2025 Acura MDX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $50,400 | $68,300 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 272 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,400/yr | $2,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,990 lbs | 4,544 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 113.0" | 113.8" |
| Length | 194.6" | 198.4" |
| Width | 75.2" | 78.7" |
| Height | 56.4" | 67.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 6yr/70k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Acura TLX Base and 2025 Acura MDX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base starts at $50,400, $17,900 less than the 2025 Acura MDX Base at $68,300. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $315/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $17,900 in your pocket and the 2025 Acura TLX Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Who should choose the 2025 Acura MDX Base?
The 2025 Acura MDX Base is the stronger pick when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Acura TLX Base or 2025 Acura MDX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Acura TLX Base or 2025 Acura MDX Base?
The 2025 Acura MDX Base produces 290 hp, 18 more than the 2025 Acura TLX Base at 272 hp. The 2025 Acura TLX Base also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 267 lb-ft. The 2025 Acura TLX Base runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6.
Is the 2025 Acura TLX Base bigger than the 2025 Acura MDX Base?
The 2025 Acura MDX Base is 3.8″ longer at 198.4″ vs 194.6″. The 2025 Acura MDX Base has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize sedan vs midsize SUV), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize sedan against a midsize SUV?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize sedan and a midsize SUV solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
Explore more: Acura trims, Acura TLX trims, Acura MDX trims
- 2025 Acura TLX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Acura MDX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
TLX vs MDX: What This Matchup Is Really About
A midsize sedan against a midsize SUV is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2025 Acura TLX Base ($50,400) and 2025 Acura MDX Base ($68,300) solve different problems at different price points. The $17,900 gap adds up to $315/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Acura TLX Base runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6. The 18 hp difference (290 vs 272) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: TLX vs MDX
The 2025 Acura TLX Base saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2025 Acura TLX Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Acura TLX Base is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. The 2025 Acura MDX Base is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Acura MDX Base weighs 554 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Acura TLX Base when you want to keep $17,900 in your pocket and the 2025 Acura TLX Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Acura MDX Base when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility. At $315/month more, the 2025 Acura MDX Base needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Acura or any dealership.