2026 Lexus RX 350 vs 2026 Acura MDX Base
On paper, the 2026 Lexus RX 350 wins on $14,775 less, 3 MPG better, 50 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Acura MDX Base has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $14,775 price gap, 275 vs 290 hp, 24 vs 21 MPG.
The RX 350 leads on $14,775 less, 3 MPG better, 50 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Lexus RX 350 | 2026 Acura MDX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $52,125 | $66,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.8 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,310 lbs | 4,544 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 113.8" |
| Length | 192.5" | 198.4" |
| Width | 75.6" | 78.7" |
| Height | 67.3" | 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 | 6yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Lexus RX 350 and 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 starts at $52,125, $14,775 less than the 2026 Acura MDX Base at $66,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $260/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Lexus RX 350?
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 is the stronger pick when you want to keep $14,775 in your pocket and the 2026 Lexus RX 350 covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base is the stronger pick when you prefer the Acura approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Lexus RX 350 or 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Lexus RX 350 or 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base produces 290 hp, 15 more than the 2026 Lexus RX 350 at 275 hp. The 2026 Lexus RX 350 also leads in torque at 317 lb-ft vs 267 lb-ft. The 2026 Lexus RX 350 runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6.
Is the 2026 Lexus RX 350 bigger than the 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base is 5.9″ longer at 198.4″ vs 192.5″. The 2026 Acura MDX Base has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain.
Explore more: Lexus trims, Lexus RX trims, Acura trims, Acura MDX trims
- 2026 Lexus RX 350 Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Acura MDX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The RX–MDX Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the RX and MDX compare. The $14,775 gap adds up to $260/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6. The 15 hp difference (290 vs 275) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Lexus RX 350 adds 50 more lb-ft of torque (317 vs 267), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2026 Lexus RX 350 wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Lexus RX 350 when you want to keep $14,775 in your pocket and the 2026 Lexus RX 350 covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura MDX Base when you prefer the Acura approach to the midsize SUV segment. At $260/month more, the 2026 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 Lexus or Acura or any dealership.