2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum vs 2026 Acura MDX Type S
On paper, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum wins on $11,890 less, 4 MPG better, 111 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $11,890 price gap, 326 vs 355 hp, 23 vs 19 MPG.
The 4Runner Platinum leads on $11,890 less, 4 MPG better. The MDX Type S leads on 29 more hp. 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 | 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum | 2026 Acura MDX Type S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $63,960 | $75,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 hybrid Turbo | 3.0L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 326 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 465 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $3,050/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,390 lbs | 4,776 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 113.8" |
| Length | 194.9" | 198.4" |
| Width | 78.0" | 78.7" |
| Height | 73.2" | 67.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum and 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum starts at $63,960, $11,890 less than the 2026 Acura MDX Type S at $75,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $210/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,890 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Acura approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum rates 23 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S produces 355 hp, 29 more than the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum at 326 hp. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum also leads in torque at 465 lb-ft vs 354 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum runs a 2.4L I4 hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum, AWD on the 2026 Acura MDX Type S.
Is the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum bigger than the 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S is 3.5″ longer at 198.4″ vs 194.9″. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum and 2026 Acura MDX Type S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses AWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota 4Runner comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Acura MDX offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota 4Runner trims, Acura trims, Acura MDX trims
The 4Runner–MDX Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the 4Runner and MDX compare. The $11,890 gap adds up to $210/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 Toyota 4Runner Platinum runs a 2.4L I4 hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S has 29 more hp (355 vs 326), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum adds 111 more lb-ft of torque (465 vs 354), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum, AWD on the 2026 Acura MDX Type S.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum saves roughly $385/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,925. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the 4Runner vs the MDX
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum weighs 614 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum when you want to keep $11,890 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S when you prefer the Acura approach to the midsize SUV segment. At $210/month more, the 2026 Acura MDX Type S 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 Toyota or Acura or any dealership.