BMW X5 vs Acura MDX: How These Luxury SUVs Stack Up

The BMW X5 and Acura MDX are two of the most popular midsize luxury SUVs on the market. As premium family haulers with sleek styling, abundant safety features, and robust performance capabilities, it’s no surprise car shoppers trying to decide between these models often find themselves asking: BMW X5 or Acura MDX?

While the X5 and MDX share similarities, they also have some key differences that set them apart. This comprehensive comparison examines everything from pricing and MPG to interior dimensions and towing capacity, helping explain which luxury SUV is the better pick for you.

Pricing and Value

The 2024 Acura MDX starts at an MSRP of $52,745, ranging up to $68,745 for the high-performance MDX Type S model. These prices underline one of the main advantages of choosing the MDX – its value proposition.

Across all trims, the MDX is priced thousands less than comparable BMW X5 models, despite including a similar if not higher level of standard equipment. This gives the Acura an edge if you’re budget conscious yet still want a well-appointed luxury vehicle.

Model	Starting MSRP
2024 Acura MDX	$52,745
2024 BMW X5 sDrive40i	$66,400

Meanwhile, the X5 spans a base price of $66,400 up to over $100,000. There’s no doubt it carries prestige as the original luxury SUV, but you’ll pay a premium that may be hard to justify versus the savings on a comparably equipped MDX.

Winner: Acura MDX for price and overall value

Reliability and Owner Satisfaction

Reliability and longevity are crucial factors when investing in a luxury vehicle. Here’s how the MDX and X5 compare based on actual owner experiences:

Acura MDX Reliability Stats:

• J.D Power Predicted Reliability Rating: 4 out of 5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4 out of 5

BMW X5 Reliability Stats:

• J.D Power Predicted Reliability Rating: 3 out of 5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 2 out of 5

In surveys of verified owners, Acura also garners higher satisfaction scores across areas like driving enjoyment and comfort. Though subjective, this real-world feedback indicates you’re more likely to have a problem-free, satisfying experience with the MDX versus the X5 over years of ownership.

Winner: Acura MDX for better reliability and owner satisfaction

Powertrain Performance

Under the hood is where BMW hangs its hat, as the X5 brings more muscle than the MDX:

2024 BMW X5 sDrive40i:

• Engine: 3.0-liter inline-six twin turbo
• Horsepower: 335 hp
• Torque: 330 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds

2024 Acura MDX A-Spec (FWD):

• Engine: 3.5-liter V6
• Horsepower: 290 hp
• Torque: 267 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds

The turbocharged straight-six engine allows the base X5 to accelerate quicker than even the performance-oriented MDX A-Spec. Fuel economy is also better in the BMW:

City/Highway MPG
BMW X5: 21/26 mpg
Acura MDX: 19/24 mpg

Winner: BMW X5 for more power, quicker acceleration and superior MPG

Handling and Driving Dynamics

The BMW X5 has always been renowned for feeling more nimble than its size would suggest. But the latest MDX narrows the gap with its rigid chassis and refined suspension tuning. As Car & Driver notes:

"Acura retuned every bushing and mounting point on the MDX, fitting in more rigid bushings to improve body control. The result is a substantial improvement in ride and handling versus the previous MDX, bringing it closer to the X5."

An available air suspension on both SUVs also helps balance comfort and athleticism. Ultimately, while the X5 is still sportier, most reviewers give the nod to the MDX for striking the best overall balance as a family vehicle.

Winner: Tie

Technology and Connectivity

These days high-end tech features are a must, and the MDX doesn’t disappoint. The Acura scores a win for its standard True Touchpad Interface with a 12.3-inch display, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

The X5 counters with available gesture controls and wireless device charging, but most of its technology requires pricey option packages. Many reviewers find the X5’s center control display less intuitive compared to the MDX’s touchpad setup.

Winner: Acura MDX for user-friendly tech

Dimensions and Cargo Capacity

There’s little difference in overall size between the BMW and Acura:

	BMW X5	Acura MDX
Wheelbase	117.1 inches	113.8 inches
Length	194.3 inches	198.4 inches
Width	78.9 inches	78.7 inches
Passenger Volume	NR	153.9 cubic feet

But cargo room and towing do favor the X5:

	BMW X5	Acura MDX
Cargo Capacity (behind front/2nd row)	33.9/72.3 cubic feet	16.3/39.1 cubic feet
Maximum Towing Capacity	7,200 lbs	5,000 lbs

If you plan to frequently haul bulky gear or tow toys like boats, the X5’s extra luggage room and brawnier trailer capability give it a purposeful edge. But the MDX still packs ample space for most families.

Winner: BMW X5 for superior cargo and towing talents

Safety and Driver Assistance

You’ll have confidence driving either of these SUVs, as both earn top marks in crash testing:

Crash Test Rating	BMW X5	Acura MDX
NHTSA Overall Safety	5 stars	5 stars
IIHS Safety Pick+	Yes	Yes

Standard advanced safety equipment is also generous:

MDX Safety Features

• AcuraWatch safety suite
• Multi-view rear camera
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Safe exit assist
• 10 airbags

X5 Safety Features

• Active Driving Assistant
• Rearview camera
• Parking Assistant Plus
• Frontal collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• 10 airbags

Top options like night vision and intersection assist give BMW a slight tech edge. But with comparable performance and standard features that include Acura’s highly-rated AcuraWatch system, there’s truly no bad choice for protecting passengers.

Winner: Tie

Interior Design and Passenger Comfort

Inside is where you’ll spend the most time, so the quality of the cabin is paramount. Once again, advantages are split between the X5 and MDX.

Acura MDX Interior Highlights

• Rich leather and faux suede accents (A-Spec model)
• Panoramic Moonroof
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Privacy shades for rear passengers

BMW X5 Interior Highlights

• Ambient cabin lighting
• Glass controls with haptic feedback
• Four-zone automatic climate control
• 22-way power multi-contour front seats
• Heated front and rear seats
• Acoustic glass

It's a close matchup, with BMW carrying a more high-end ambiance but the MDX offering excellent comfort for the money. Many judges call it nearly a toss-up.

Winner: Tie

Resale Value

Depreciation is an often overlooked ownership cost. So how well do these SUVs hold their value over time?

According to data from iSeeCars, the BMW X5 comes out ahead here. After 5 years of use, it retains 43.5% of its original sticker price compared to just 34.8% for the MDX.

This equates to over $12,000 less depreciation for a typical X5 driver. While resale shouldn’t dictate your whole decision, keep this difference in mind if long-term value retention is a priority.

Winner: BMW X5

Verdict: Who Wins, the BMW X5 or the Acura MDX?

So there you have it – a detailed comparison overview of the key stats, features, and real-world experiences between the X5 and MDX luxury SUVs. Which model claims victory?

The 2024 Acura MDX is the best value choice for shoppers wanting premium features and driving manners at relatively affordable pricing. Quieter and more comfortable than before, it sets the benchmark for overall user satisfaction.

Meanwhile, the 2024 BMW X5 justifies its higher cost with standout powertrain performance, driving dynamics, and cargo versatility. Owners also give it top-rate luxury status on par with its prestigious badge.

Ultimately, choosing between the BMW X5 and versus Acura MDX comes down to your priorities and budget. But either SUV makes an excellent pick if you're shopping in the midsize luxury segment.

Summary Comparison: BMW X5 vs Acura MDX

Pricing and Value

• MDX is thousands less than X5
• Acura provides more features for the money

Reliability and Satisfaction

• MDX scores higher marks from owners
• Less likely to have issues compared to X5

Performance and MPG

• X5 makes more power and accelerates quicker
• BMW gets better city, highway and combined fuel economy

Driving Dynamics

• X5 still leads but MDX has a more refined ride

Technology

• MDX offers easier to use infotainment system

Cargo and Towing

• X5 has more cargo room and over 2,000 lbs higher tow rating

Safety

• Both earn top crash test scores
• Comparable standard driver assistance features

Interior Luxury

• BMW has more upscale details
• Acura excels at overall passenger comfort

Resale Value

• X5 retains a significantly higher value after 5 years