| 2026 Acura MDX | 2026 Audi Q7 |
| Horsepower | |
| 290 hp | 261 hp |
| Cargo Space | |
| 18.1 cu. ft. | 13.6 cu. ft. |
| Transmission | |
| 10-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
2026 Acura MDX vs 2026 Audi Q7
Serving Arlington, TX
When it comes to transporting a family in style, three-row luxury SUVs deliver the ideal combination of refinement and space. The 2026 Acura MDX serves as a prime example of excellence in this segment, offering an engaging driving experience, a sophisticated cabin, and superb versatility. While the MDX is a top-tier contender, some buyers may be cross-shopping it with the 2026 Audi Q7. To see which model is right for your lifestyle, let's explore a direct side-by-side comparison.
Performance
An energetic 3.5-liter, SOHC V6 engine gives the MDX its formidable performance. With 290 horsepower, this engine delivers more power than the standard turbocharged four-cylinder found in the Audi Q7. Audi's entry-level powerplant produces only 261 horsepower. This difference in output is easily noticed when merging onto highways or traveling with a full cabin. The MDX also features a swift 10-speed automatic transmission with rev-matching, which optimizes powertrain efficiency across all speeds. Although the eight-speed automatic transmission in the Q7 is capable, it does not match the precise feel of the Acura transmission during spirited road trips.
For those who want maximum excitement, the performance-oriented MDX Type S elevates your daily drive with a turbocharged V6 engine that unleashes 355 horsepower. Meanwhile, the upgraded engine option for the Audi Q7 is rated at 335 horsepower.
Safety
For modern families, choosing a secure vehicle is paramount. The Acura MDX stands out with its standard NHTSA five-star overall safety rating, helping you navigate busy roads with complete confidence. It also features a suite of advanced driver assistance systems and structural safeguards. Notably, Acura adds knee airbags to the MDX to minimize leg trauma during a front-end collision. Passengers in the Q7 do not receive this specific layer of protection, as knee airbags are unavailable in that model.
Cargo Space
Versatility is a core attribute of the MDX, making it a master of family hauling. It features 18.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, whereas the Q7 drops to just 13.6 cubic feet in the same configuration. When you need to maximize your carrying capacity, folding down the rear rows expands the MDX's cargo capacity to an outstanding 95 cubic feet. The Q7 lags far behind, offering a maximum cargo capacity of only 68.1 cubic feet. From luggage to oversized items, the MDX effortlessly accommodates your lifestyle.
If you are interested in additional details regarding the advantages of the 2026 Acura MDX over the competition, reach out to Vandergriff Acura today.
