2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 vs 2026 Acura MDX Base
On paper, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 wins on $23,030 less, 50 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Acura MDX Base has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $23,030 price gap, 278 vs 290 hp, 21 vs 21 MPG.
The 4Runner SR5 leads on $23,030 less, 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 Toyota 4Runner SR5 | 2026 Acura MDX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $43,870 | $66,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 278 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,685 lbs | 4,544 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 113.8" |
| Length | 194.9" | 198.4" |
| Width | 78.0" | 78.7" |
| Height | 72.6" | 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 SR5 and 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 starts at $43,870, $23,030 less than the 2026 Acura MDX Base at $66,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $405/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 is the stronger pick when you want to keep $23,030 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base is the stronger pick when the 2026 Acura MDX Base is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 or 2026 Acura MDX Base?
Both achieve 21 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 or 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base produces 290 hp, 12 more than the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 at 278 hp. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 also leads in torque at 317 lb-ft vs 267 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5, AWD on the 2026 Acura MDX Base.
Is the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 bigger than the 2026 Acura MDX Base?
The 2026 Acura MDX Base is 3.5″ longer at 198.4″ vs 194.9″. The 2026 Acura MDX Base has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and 2026 Acura MDX Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Acura MDX Base 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
- 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Acura MDX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
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 $23,030 gap adds up to $405/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 SR5 runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Base uses a 3.5L V6. The 12 hp difference (290 vs 278) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 adds 50 more lb-ft of torque (317 vs 267), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5, AWD on the 2026 Acura MDX Base.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 when you want to keep $23,030 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5 covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura MDX Base when the 2026 Acura MDX Base is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $405/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 Toyota or Acura or any dealership.