2026 Toyota Highlander Limited vs 2026 Acura MDX Type S
$25,825 less and 5 mpg better vs 90 more hp and 44 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $25,825 price gap, 265 vs 355 hp, 24 vs 19 MPG.
The Highlander Limited leads on $25,825 less, 5 MPG better. The MDX Type S leads on 90 more hp, 44 more lb-ft torque. 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 Highlander Limited | 2026 Acura MDX Type S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $50,025 | $75,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 3.0L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 21 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $3,050/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,453 lbs | 4,776 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 113.8" |
| Length | 194.9" | 198.4" |
| Width | 76.0" | 78.7" |
| Height | 68.1" | 67.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 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 Highlander Limited and 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited starts at $50,025, $25,825 less than the 2026 Acura MDX Type S at $75,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $455/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $25,825 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $461/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited rates 24 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited or 2026 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S produces 355 hp, 90 more than the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited at 265 hp. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S also leads in torque at 354 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited 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.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota Highlander 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 Highlander trims, Acura trims, Acura MDX trims
How the Highlander and MDX Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited ($50,025) and 2026 Acura MDX Type S ($75,850) solve similar problems in different ways. The $25,825 gap adds up to $455/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Highlander vs MDX
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Acura MDX Type S uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S has 90 more hp (355 vs 265). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S adds 44 more lb-ft of torque (354 vs 310), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited saves roughly $461/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,305. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S weighs 323 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited when you want to keep $25,825 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Highlander Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Acura MDX Type S when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $455/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.