2016 Acura MDX vs BMW X5 Comparison
2016 Acura MDX
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Keyless ignition: |
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3.5 L V-6
2016 BMW X5
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Base Engine: |
3.0 L Inline 6 |
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Fuel Economy: |
18/25 mpg* |
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Optional |
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Leatherette |
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5 |
Acura MDX vs BMW X5
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For much of their existence, mid-size sport-utility vehicles had been the domain of the three domestic automakers, but those days are now past. Today, foreign automakers from Japan, German and elsewhere offer SUV products in every size, including two mid-size vehicles of particular note: the 2016 Acura MDX and the 2016 BMW X5. As mid-size luxury SUVs go, Acura and BMW have brought the full scope of their technological, styling and quality prowess to bear in a battle for ultimate supremacy. Both automakers' vehicles are jam-packed with all the essentials and niceties that make today's luxury SUVs some of the best products in that crowded vehicle segment.
Size, Roominess
First launched in 2001, Acura's MDX has received significant upgrades and improvements for 2016 and is among the roomiest of the three-row SUVs on the market. BMW's X5, while also roomy, can't quite stretch enough to make its optional third-row seats more than a necessary-but-only-temporary condition for the passengers consigned there. The MDX's third row, by contrast, makes it easy to transport large families in comfort and style. The Environmental Protection Agency also rates the MDX as a mid-size to large SUV, and it delivers that larger size at a mid-size luxury SUV's price point, something the BMW can't match.
Standard Equipment, Options
The luxury SUV market plays host to several impressive makes and models, and the MDX and X5 are premier players. Both vehicles come with a wide variety of standard equipment and various option packages, too. In keeping with the Japanese philosophy of offering a great deal of equipment at a nice price, 2016 MDXs make standard what is optional in the X5, and Acura owners will enjoy amenities that are high-dollar in the BMW. German autos and SUVs, especially from BMW, sometimes seem spare even when they're well-equipped while equivalent Japanese products tend to be technological yet inviting and even welcoming. Such is the case with the MDX, which delivers a new nine-speed automatic transmission with push-button electronic gear selection for those who like to at least partially stir their gears. A new all-wheel drive system, Siri Eyes Free for iPhones, and natural voice recognition are also part of the MDX's new suite of equipment.
Exterior Styling
The Acura MDX's exterior styling remains unchanged for 2016, and that's because the Japanese automaker got it right the first time. Looking more like a sport-themed wagon than the largish SUV it is, the MDX's looks appeal to most everybody. The BMW X5 presents softer lines than it did in previous model years and it leaves no doubt that it's intended for smooth highways and roads rather than the deep bush or outback. Some critics note that the X5's front fascia area is also busy looking and tends to distract from the more flowing lines evident from the 'A' pillar back. The MDX suffers no such distracting looks up front, though, and the entire assemblage works well together.
Ever since its mid-80s debut, Acura has stood for luxury, quality and looks and 2016 MDXs don't fail to deliver all three aspects in large heaps. Acuras also deliver a great deal of value, durability and reliability, something that contributes to the short amount of time they spend on dealer lots before selling. If a three-row luxury mid-size SUV is in the offing, schedule a preview and test drive of the 2016 Acura MDX today.
* Based on 2016 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.