2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Acura MDX

The 2025 Acura MDX received subtle styling updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened lights, enhancing its sporty appearance. Most versions featured new wheel designs, adding to the SUV's visual appeal. Inside, the MDX saw significant changes with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the old touchpad, offering more storage. The seats from the previous Type S model were included in the MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims, while the Type S got a new seat design. Enhanced sound insulation improved cabin quietness, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust and smudges. Controls were logically placed, making them easy to use.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, featured a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers, but its overall design was unremarkable. The RX lineup included three models: RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+, each offering different power and efficiency levels. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary design with quality materials and ambient lighting. However, some controls were confusing, and the climate system fan was notably loud. The RX provided ample rear seat comfort and practical cargo space.

The 2025 Acura MDX emphasized performance with its A-Spec design and Type S engineering. The Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The MDX offered various driving modes, with Sport mode providing the best powertrain response. However, using Sport mode frequently reduced fuel economy, with the A-Spec Advance averaging 18.4 mpg. The MDX handled well on twisty roads, though it felt soft on undulating surfaces. It provided a smooth, comfortable ride in typical driving situations but wasn't designed for off-roading.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h was the least powerful, with 246 hp and a hybrid powertrain. The RX 450h+ PHEV provided 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time. The RX 500h, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, offering quick acceleration but lower fuel economy. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned suspension and advanced all-wheel-drive system. However, it lacked communication between the road and driver, making it less rewarding to drive. The RX 500h averaged 20.9 mpg, below the EPA's estimate.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs in the Advance trims. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. The third row was cramped for adults, suitable only for children. The MDX provided adequate in-cabin storage and a cargo volume of 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats were snug but uncomfortable after long drives. The rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with optional power-reclining features. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the second row folded. However, the cargo cover could obstruct loading larger items.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, replacing the old touchpad interface. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgraded sound systems available. The MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display. The Advance trims included a surround-view camera system for easy parking.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a conversational digital voice assistant. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting. The RX offered a head-up display and an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, though some infotainment glitches were noted.

The 2025 Acura MDX included AcuraWatch driver assistance features, with AcuraWatch 360 debuting on the Type S Advance. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. AcuraWatch 360 added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Safety Connect and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Predictive Driving Assist monitored forward progress, and a surround-view camera was optional. The RX received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA but a Poor rating from the IIHS for frontal-impact protection.