Engines

The Lexus TX is more fuel-efficient and more powerful than the Acura MDX. Base models for the Lexus TX (350) output 275 horsepower but over 400 horsepower with the TX Luxury's (550h+) V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain. While the Acura MDX outputs 290 horsepower through a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the SUV delivers considerably less standard torque (267 pound-feet) than the Lexus TX at 317 pound-feet. The Acura MDX maxes out at 355 horsepower in Type S models, which are powered by a 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine. The Lexus TX counters with a more powerful three-row thrill ride, as its TX F SPORT Performance 500h high-performance hybrid generates 366 horsepower.

Connectivity

All Birmingham motorists desire large touchscreens. The 12.3-inch HD Center Display within the Acura MDX is large, but the Lexus TX comes with a bigger 14-inch touchscreen through the standard Lexus Interface. With seven USB ports, the Lexus TX lets every passenger plug in on rides from Gadsden to the Birmingham Zoo. The Acura MDX is missing USB ports for the third row. Each new luxury SUV comes with a standard wireless phone charger.

The Mark Levinson® PurePlay Surround Sound system within the Lexus TX offers pristine sound quality, much like the ELS STUDIO 3D® Signature Edition Premium Audio system within the Acura MDX. Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ integration is a standard tech feature found within each SUV. Cloud Navigation comes with the Lexus TX as you plot your course from Gadsden to Birmingham or the Irondale Café. The MDX counters with the Acura Navigation System.

Driver-Assist Technology

When it comes to driver-assist technology, the Lexus TX also takes the lead. The MDX provides AcuraWatch™ with Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, and additional features, but its Adaptive Cruise Control setup only includes Low-Speed Follow. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite within the TX does a better job of handling I-459 traffic around Birmingham with Curve Speed Management featured in its Dynamic Radar Cruise Control setup. The suite also includes Road Sign Assist and Proactive Driving Assist.

Legroom

New Lexus TX SUVs provide more legroom so passengers can relax on rides to Rickwood Field or a UAB Blazers basketball game. Both SUVs offer 41.6 inches of front-row legroom, but the Lexus TX offers an extra inch in the middle row at 39.5 inches, compared to 38.5 inches in the MDX. Acura's SUV only offers 29 inches of third-row legroom, significantly less than the Lexus TX at 33.5 inches.

Seating

The Lexus TX comes with Birch or Black NuLuxe®-trimmed seating. Semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating is available. Full grain leather seats are available for the Acura MDX, which comes with standard sport seats and a leatherette-trimmed interior. Heated front seats are a shared standard feature. The Lexus TX offers heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs. The Acura MDX has a removable second-row center seat but only offers heated second-row seats through the Advance Package. There is no ventilation option. Heated and ventilated front seats check in on the Premium trim for the Lexus TX.