Acura SUV Size & Space Guide: ADX vs RDX vs MDX

 

Acura SUV Size Guide - Motorcars Acura

The Acura SUV lineup has something for everyone with advantages like exciting driving dynamics and comfortable interiors available across the whole lineup. That doesn’t mean all Acura SUVs are the same! Size is an area where we see some major differences. To help clear up any confusion about which models are easiest to parallel park or have seven seats, Motorcars Acura has put together this size guide for the Acura SUV lineup with all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.


Acura SUV Lineup – Highlights

Acura ADX Acura RDX Acura MDX
2026 ADX 2026 RDX 2026 MDX
Starting MSRP* $35,000 $45,100 $51,800
Engine 1.5-liter In-Line 4 Cylinder with Turbocharger 2.0-liter Turbo Aluminum-alloy 4-Cylinder 3.5-liter Aluminum-Alloy V6
Horsepower 190 272 290
Torque 179 lb-ft 280 lb-ft 267 lb-ft
Seats 5 5 7

At first glance, the major differences between the three Acura SUVs is what you’ll find beneath the hood. You’ll notice that each model receives slightly more power than the model preceding it, providing three great options to suit the needs of virtually any life style. Up next, you’ll notice different seating capacities. Both the subcompact ADX and compact RDX offer spacious seating for five while only the larger MDX boasts three-row seating for up to seven passengers. All three are priced competitively with their own list of unique advantages. Up next, we’ll take a more in-depth look at the exterior and interior dimensions of all three Acura SUVs for a true model size comparison!


Acura SUV Lineup – Exterior Dimensions & Size Comparison

Acura ADX
Acura RDX
Acura MDX
2026 Acura ADX 2026 Acura RDX 2026 Acura MDX
Length (in.) 185.8 187.4 198.4
Width (in.) 72.5 74.8 78.8
Height (in.) 63.8 65.7 67.9
Wheelbase (in.) 104.5 108.3 113.8
Ground Clearance (in.) 7.3 8.2 7.3

As you can see, the difference between the Acura ADX and RDX isn’t huge. However, there are still some important differences. The difference in wheelbase is greater than the difference in overall length, meaning the wheels are pushed out closer to the corners. On top of this, the RDX is wider and has almost an inch more ground clearance. These characteristics give it better handling in light off-road conditions if that’s important to you. The MDX is noticeably larger, which makes sense as the only three-row in the lineup. Which brings us to the interior dimensions that we’ll cover in the next section.


Acura SUV Lineup – Interior Dimensions & Size Comparison

Acura ADX
Acura RDX
Acura MDX
2026 Acura ADX 2026 Acura RDX 2026 Acura MDX
Headroom (in.) (first row / second row / third row) 38.4 / 38.0 / n/a 40.0 / 38.0 n/a 38.5 / 38.1 / 36.2
Legroom (in.) (first row / second row / third row) 41.9 / 37.7 / n/a 42.0 / 38.0 n/a 41.6 / 38.5 / 29.1
Shoulder Room (in.) (first row / second row / third row) 56.6 / 55.2 / n/a 60.0 / 57.0 / n/a 61.9 / 60.3 / 55.2
Hiproom (in.) (first row / second row / third row) 54.0 / 47.4 / n/a 55.0 / 50.0 / n/a 59.3 / 57.8 / 40.6
EPA Passenger Volume (cu ft.) 97.3 104 139.1
Cargo Volume (cu ft.) (behind first row / behind second row / behind third row) 55.1 / 24.4 / n/a 29.5 / 58.9 / n/a 71.4 / 39.1 / 16.3

The Acura MDX is obviously the largest of the three Acura SUVs. Things like more cargo space and more passenger volume as a whole are exactly what you would expect. It’s also specifically wider than the other SUVs, so more shoulder room and hiproom also don’t come as a surprise. It’s also important to note that both of the smaller models (ADX and RDX) offer more front-row legroom. It’s not enough of a difference that you’ll really notice, but it does highlight that people who don’t often need a lot of cargo space or seating for seven might be just as comfortable in a smaller model. That’s the beauty of the Acura SUV lineup! You’ll have plenty of options to match your personal tastes, lifestyle, and driving preferences.


Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the smallest Acura SUV?

The smallest Acura SUV is the subcompact ADX, featuring the shortest wheelbase and most maneuverable driving characteristics of the lineup. It’s great for city driving or those who prefer smaller SUVs thanks to its subcompact footprint.

What Acura SUV has three rows of seats?

The Acura MDX is the only SUV in the Acura lineup to feature three-row seating for up to 7 passengers. It also boasts the highest cargo capacity and passenger volume of any Acura SUV, making it a great choice for those with growing families.

Who should buy the Acura RDX?

Drivers searching for an outstanding mix of everyday practicality combined with plenty of versatility should choose the Acura RDX. Positioned in the middle of the Acura SUV lineup, it’s the ultimate choice for those looking to experience all the luxurious refinement and proven capability that only an Acura SUV can deliver.