If you are in the market for a sporty SUV, you've likely looked at the Acura RDX and the Nissan Murano. Though the RDX is one of the sportiest SUVs around, the Nissan Murano is certainly a fan-favorite, though it remains unchanged from the previous year, except for a few features. So, which sporty SUV is right for you? Let's find out!
2021 Acura MDX Vs. 2021 Nissan Murano
Though both SUVs offer a luxury sporty look, they do have multiple differences that set them apart from each other. Let's compare the two so you can make the most informed decision when it comes time to buy!
Interior
Both vehicles come with luxurious interiors and standard moonroofs. The Acura MDX offers more legroom for the driver and passengers and offers seven seats to the Murano's five.
Exterior
The MDX offers a lower and wider ride for 2021 and a more robust suspension than ever before. The Murano has a windswept look that looks good but is showing its age.
Trim Levels
All-new for 2021, the Acura MDX is available in four trim levels, ranging from the MDX to the MDX Technology, MDX A-Spec, and MDX Advance. The high-performance 2021 MDX Type S debuted in the summer of 2021 as well.
The 2021 Murano also comes in four trim levels with the S, SV, SL, and Platinum models with standard and available features and amenities being the main differences between trim levels.
Performance
Both SUVs have a 3.5L V6 engine, but the Acura offers more horsepower at 290 than the Murano's 260. The Acura MDX has a 10-speed transmission while the Murano has a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The MDX comes standard with front wheel drive but offers available Super-Handling All-wheel drive while the Murano only offers front-wheel drive. Front-drive MDX models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while AWD MDX versions can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Though the Murano slightly edges the MDX out when it comes to fuel economy at 20 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway to the MDX's 19 in the city, and 25 on the highway, the MDX still offers more in the way of towing capacity and horsepower.
Safety and Tech
The Acura MDX leads the pack in safety features and includes AcuraWatch, Acura's suite of safety assist features. AcuraWatch includes:
● Lane-departure warning
● Lane-keeping assist
● Adaptive cruise control
● Road departure mitigation
● Forward collision warning
● Traffic jam assistant
● Collision mitigation
● And more!
If tech features are most important to you, the Acura MDX will not disappoint, for the 2021 model, the MDX gets two 12.3 inch digital infotainment screens. One is an information cluster, while the second is for infotainment, navigation, audio, and smartphone connectivity. This can be controlled by Acura's True Touchpad on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as well as Amazon Alexa.
In the Murano, the infotainment screen is 8-inches and also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes equipped with Nissan's Safety Shield 360 with comparable safety features to the Acura MDX.
Bottom Line
Though these vehicles are neck and neck in terms of MPG, cargo space, and other features, the Acura MDX edges out the Murano in terms of infotainment and tech features, horsepower, towing capacity, and its overall sporty interior and exterior feel. Plus, for 2021, the RDX got completely redesigned internally.
Test Drive a 2021 Acura MDX Today!
Ready to test drive the all-new 2021 Acura MDX? Come visit our showroom at Maus Acura North Tampa or give our sales team a call to schedule a test drive today; 813-535-6287!
