Is the RDX or MDX faster?
In brief, the MDX typically accelerates faster than the RDX, especially in its sportier variants, with the MDX Type S delivering the quickest pace of the two brands’ SUVs.
The question covers more than raw power: it depends on the model year, drivetrain, and how speed is measured. The Honda RDX is a compact SUV with a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the Acura MDX line spans a base V6, a performance-oriented Type S, and, in some generations, a hybrid option. This article compares the main variants to illustrate how the two families stack up on speed, then explains what that means in everyday driving.
Powertrains and performance at a glance
Below is a concise comparison of the key performance figures for the RDX, the MDX base, and the MDX Type S. The numbers reflect commonly reported specifications for current-generation models and may vary by year, trim, and drivetrain.
RDX
The RDX uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 with modern tuning, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It delivers strong acceleration for a compact SUV, but it sits below the MDX in outright power.
- Powertrain: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 272 hp
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard; SH-AWD available
- 0-60 mph: typically in the mid-to-high 6 seconds range (varies by drivetrain and testing)
Conclusion: The RDX offers brisk, responsive acceleration for its class, but it isn’t as quick as the MDX base or the high-performance MDX variants.
MDX (base)
The MDX base model continues with Acura’s 3.5-liter V6, delivering more power than the RDX and a smooth, refined drive. It uses a 10-speed automatic and offers optional SH-AWD for all-weather grip.
- Powertrain: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 290 hp
- Torque: 267 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or SH-AWD
- 0-60 mph: roughly 6.5–6.8 seconds (varies by drivetrain and testing)
Conclusion: The base MDX is typically quicker to 60 mph than the RDX, thanks to higher horsepower and a multitier all-wheel-drive setup, though the gap isn’t enormous in daily driving.
MDX Type S
The MDX Type S is Acura’s high-performance version, featuring a turbocharged V6 with substantially more power and a performance-tuned chassis. This variant is purpose-built for speed.
- Powertrain: 3.0L turbocharged V6
- Horsepower: 355 hp
- Torque: 354 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: SH-AWD
- 0-60 mph: typically in the mid 4-second to low 5-second range (varies by testing)
Conclusion: The MDX Type S is substantially faster than both the RDX and the MDX base, making it the quickest option in this comparison.
Real-world performance and driving experience
Beyond official horsepower figures, testers and owners note how the vehicles feel on the road. The RDX is praised for its nimble size and responsive turbo surge, which helps it feel quick in urban and highway merges. The MDX base improves on straight-line speed thanks to its larger V6, delivering a smoother, more confident highway pass and overtaking ability, albeit with more mass to move than the RDX. The MDX Type S, with its high-output engine and sport-tuned dynamics, offers a dramatic speed advantage and a more aggressive driving character, including sharper throttle response and quicker lap-like dashes in performance contexts.
In everyday use, these differences can translate to noticeable—but not overwhelming—gaps in acceleration. The RDX remains an excellent performer among compact luxury SUVs and often returns better fuel economy than the larger MDX lineup. The MDX family emphasizes comfort and space, with the Type S prioritizing speed and handling at the expense of some ride stiffness and cost.
Key factors that influence which is faster in practice include drivetrain choice (FWD vs SH-AWD), transmission tuning, and vehicle load. Real-world numbers can diverge from official estimates depending on testing conditions and vehicle configuration.
Summary
Bottom line: If outright speed is the priority, the MDX Type S is the fastest option among these models, dramatically outperforming both the RDX and the MDX base. The MDX base is quicker than the RDX in straight-line acceleration, while the RDX remains competitive with lively daily performance and better efficiency in many trims. For buyers weighing speed against size, comfort, and space, the MDX lineup offers a clear performance ladder, with the RDX occupying the brisk, more agile end of the spectrum for a compact luxury SUV, and the Type S representing a focused performance flagship within Acura’s SUV family.
