BMW X5 vs Acura MDX: A comparison of luxury SUV performance, prices, interiors and fuel efficiency.
If you're in the market for a mid-size luxury SUV, both the Acura MDX and the BMW X5 are excellent choices. However, evaluating the BMW X5 vs. the Acura MDX can be challenging due to the amount of information available in a typical car-buying guide. Each import sport utility vehicle differs on fuel efficiency, safety ratings, performance, available options and cost. Let Reply! connect you with local dealers to set up test drives and receive the lowest price estimates in your area.
Price
The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 2013 Acura MDX is $43,280 for the base model, while the BMW X5 is slightly more at $47,500. Acura also offers the technology, entertainment and advance packages packed with additional options. The most expensive MDX model is $54,805 and is fitted with the advance and entertainment packages.
The BMW X5 offers a variety of trims, including one with a diesel engine. However, if you're looking for overall power and don't mind the $64,200 price tag, you should choose the trim with a V8 4.4-liter 268 horsepower engine.
Engine and performance
Many reviewers found the BMW X5, with its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, provided a very sporty ride with excellent handling. However, the vehicle also delivered a firmer ride, so if you prize a smooth and comfortable ride above all else, the BMW X5 may not be for you.
Reviewers of the Acura MDX, which has a 300-horsepower V6 engine, thought it delivered a comfortable ride but also noted it felt sluggish when accelerating from a stop. No matter what your preferences, don't try to compare the performance of the BMW X5 vs. the Acura MDX based solely on a buyer's guide. Schedule a test drive to find out how both vehicles respond to you.
Fuel efficiency
The fuel efficiency of each SUV will vary depending on the options you choose. The base model German BMW X5 achieves 16 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The base model Acura MDX also achieves 16 mpg in the city but only 21 mpg on the highway.
If you're concerned about fuel efficiency, pick the BMW X5 option with the diesel engine, which will give you a more economical 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Safety features
Both SUVs offer the following safety features:
- Traction control
- Driver, passenger, side, side head and rear head air bags
- Child safety locks
- Four-wheel antilock braking systems
- Four-wheel disc brakes
- Brake assist
In addition, the Acura MDX offers integrated turn signal mirrors and daytime running lights. It also received the highest safety rating for roof strength, rear crash protection, side impact crashes and frontal offset crashes from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The Acura MDX received a four-out-of-five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Evaluating the overall safety of the BMW X5 vs. the Acura MDX is tough, however, because the BMW was never tested by either safety agency.
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Choosing a winner in this luxury SUV faceoff shouldn't end with a simple evaluation of car rankings and reviews. Instead, commit to taking a lengthy test drive and making a list of priorities before picking the BMW X5 vs Acura MDX