Why You Should Consider the BMW X5 vs Acura MDX in 2024: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to luxury SUVs 2024 brings some fresh faces and updates. The BMW X5 and Acura MDX are two standout options that consistently compete in this space. Both SUVs have earned their places in the hearts of drivers who seek comfort performance and advanced technology. However deciding between these two can be a tricky task. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know before making a purchase. We'll break down features like performance interior design and safety to help you decide whether the BMW X5 or Acura MDX is right for you.

Overview of the BMW X5 and Acura MDX

The BMW X5 has long been known as a benchmark in the luxury SUV market. First introduced in 1999 BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) was a pioneer in blending SUV functionality with the driving dynamics BMW enthusiasts love. The latest X5 in 2024 continues this tradition with a range of powerful engines elegant design and high-tech features.

On the other hand Acura has steadily grown its presence with the MDX since 2001. The 2024 Acura MDX is Acura’s flagship SUV known for its reliability and excellent value for money. The MDX also offers a premium feel without the premium price tag of some European rivals. But how do these two really stack up?

Performance and Engine Options

When it comes to performance both the BMW X5 and Acura MDX offer a wide range of engine options to suit various driving needs. This is an important aspect for most buyers looking at this segment as it plays into both the driving experience and fuel efficiency.

BMW X5 Engine Lineup

The BMW X5 offers several engine choices each designed to cater to different types of drivers. The base X5 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine which produces 335 horsepower. If you're looking for more power the 4.4-liter V8 engine in the X5 M50i cranks out a massive 523 horsepower providing thrilling performance. BMW also offers a plug-in hybrid variant the xDrive45e which combines a six-cylinder engine with an electric motor delivering 389 horsepower while offering a better fuel economy.

Acura MDX Engine Lineup

The Acura MDX offers a more limited selection of engines in comparison but it’s still competitive for most buyers. The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower. For those looking for a bit more excitement Acura also offers the MDX Type S which comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 355 horsepower. While not quite as powerful as the X5's top-tier options it's enough for drivers looking for a blend of performance and practicality.

Driving Dynamics

BMW X5 Driving Experience

Driving the BMW X5 feels like you're piloting a sports car in SUV form. The handling is tight and responsive the steering feels direct and the suspension absorbs bumps with ease. It doesn’t lean too much in corners unlike many SUVs in its class. The available adaptive air suspension helps with comfort while the optional xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures grip in tricky road conditions.

Alex Collantes a long-time BMW enthusiast shares his experience “I’ve owned multiple BMWs over the years and the X5 feels like the ultimate all-rounder. It drives like a dream on highways and can even tackle some off-road trails. It’s my go-to for both city commutes and weekend getaways.”

Acura MDX Driving Experience

The Acura MDX while not as sporty as the X5 still provides an enjoyable driving experience. Its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system offers good traction especially in challenging road conditions. The handling is composed and predictable though it doesn’t provide the same sharp feedback as the X5. That being said the MDX does offer a more comfortable ride overall. It’s more tuned for cruising and family trips than aggressive cornering.

One drawback with the MDX according to some users is that its nine-speed automatic transmission can feel sluggish at times especially when trying to accelerate quickly.

Interior and Comfort

When it comes to interior quality both SUVs deliver luxury materials and plenty of technology though there are key differences in execution.

BMW X5 Interior

The BMW X5 offers an interior that feels unmistakably premium. High-quality materials such as leather aluminum and wood trim are used throughout the cabin. The seats are both supportive and comfortable and the front seats come with multiple adjustments heating cooling and even massage functions in the higher trims. The iDrive infotainment system which features a 12.3-inch touchscreen is intuitive to use and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Where the BMW X5 really excels is in its customizability. Buyers can choose from various interior colors materials and trims to match their personal style. The optional panoramic moonroof adds to the sense of space and light inside the cabin.

Potential Drawbacks: Some drivers have mentioned that BMW’s interior tech though advanced can feel overwhelming with too many features buried in sub-menus. The iDrive system while powerful takes some time to learn and can be distracting at first.

Acura MDX Interior

The Acura MDX offers a spacious and well-thought-out interior. The three-row layout makes it a better option for larger families. Acura has placed a clear emphasis on practicality offering ample cargo space and comfortable seating across all three rows. In the front the MDX provides nicely bolstered leather seats that are both heated and ventilated. The dashboard features a 12.3-inch central display though the infotainment system uses a touchpad interface which some drivers find unintuitive.

Alex Collantes mentioned “The MDX feels like it was built with families in mind. I love how much space there is but I’m not a fan of the touchpad system—it can be annoying when you’re trying to adjust settings on the go.”

Potential Drawbacks: While the MDX offers great space and comfort some of the interior materials don’t feel as premium as those in the BMW X5 especially in the lower trims. The infotainment system is also more cumbersome to operate compared to the X5’s iDrive.

Technology and Infotainment

BMW X5 Tech Features

The BMW X5 comes packed with technology from its digital dashboard to its driver-assistance features. The iDrive 8 system is one of the best in the market offering a responsive touchscreen and a rotary controller for added convenience. Features like voice control gesture controls and even augmented reality navigation make the X5 stand out in the tech department.

For audiophiles BMW offers an optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System which delivers crystal-clear audio. Other tech goodies include a head-up display wireless charging and a full suite of driver-assistance features including adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking.

Acura MDX Tech Features

The Acura MDX doesn’t lag far behind when it comes to technology. It offers a 12.3-inch central display though as mentioned before it uses a touchpad controller that some users don’t love. The MDX comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto a wireless charging pad and an available ELS Studio 3D premium sound system.

Where the MDX really shines is in its standard safety features. Acura includes a wide array of driver-assistance features such as collision mitigation braking road departure mitigation and adaptive cruise control. These are standard on all trims which is a big plus for safety-conscious buyers.

Cargo and Practicality

BMW X5 Practicality

The BMW X5 offers a good amount of cargo space for a luxury SUV. With the rear seats up it provides 33.9 cubic feet of space. Fold them down and you get 72.3 cubic feet of total cargo room which is more than enough for most families. While the X5 is primarily a two-row SUV it does offer an optional third row though it's best reserved for smaller passengers as it's not the most spacious.

Acura MDX Practicality

The Acura MDX offers more space and versatility especially for families needing the third row regularly. With all seats up the MDX offers 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the third row down and that number increases to 39.1 cubic feet. With both the second and third rows down the MDX provides an impressive 71.4 cubic feet of cargo space which makes it one of the more practical options in this segment.

Potential Drawback: While the MDX offers more cargo space its third row is still cramped for adults. It’s better suited for children or shorter trips with adults.

Fuel Efficiency

BMW X5 Fuel Economy

The BMW X5 manages reasonable fuel efficiency for its class. The base xDrive40i model delivers 21 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. If you opt for the plug-in hybrid variant you can get up to 50 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in combined driving.

Acura MDX Fuel Economy

The Acura MDX with its base V6 engine offers 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The Type S model with the turbocharged engine delivers slightly less at 17 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. Overall the fuel economy between the two SUVs is fairly comparable though the X5’s plug-in hybrid version offers a significant efficiency boost for eco-conscious buyers.

Pricing and Value

BMW X5 Pricing

The BMW X5 starts at a higher price point than the MDX. The base model xDrive40i starts at around $65,000 and the prices can quickly climb with options and upgrades. The X5 M50i with the V8 engine starts at about $90,000 and fully loaded models can easily surpass the $100,000 mark.

Acura MDX Pricing

The Acura MDX offers more affordable pricing starting at about $51,000 for the base model and the Type S trim starts at around $67,000. Even a fully-loaded Type S Advance Package will likely max out in the $75,000 range making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the X5.

Conclusion

Choosing between the BMW X5 and Acura MDX comes down to what you prioritize in an SUV. The BMW X5 is a better option for those who want performance luxury and cutting-edge tech features. However it does come at a higher price point and might feel a bit overwhelming with its complex tech systems. On the other hand the Acura MDX is a more practical choice for families offering more cargo space and three-row seating at a more accessible price. Its ride is comfortable and predictable but it lacks the high-end performance and premium materials you’ll find in the X5.

In the end if you want an SUV that handles like a sport sedan the BMW X5 is the one to get. But if you’re looking for a reliable practical family vehicle without breaking the bank the Acura MDX might be the better fit. Both are excellent choices but it depends on your needs and preferences.