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Volvo XC90 Vs. Acura MDX: Luxury & Performance Compared
Three-row luxury SUVs must combine spacious comfort with exceptional technology, which is why a Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX article is so illuminating. Both of these models have responsive engines, excellent tech upgrades, and an interior that prioritizes crafting a family-friendly atmosphere. However, as you'll find out at Volvo Cars of Virginia Beach, the Volvo XC90 raises the bar with fuel efficiency, Scandinavian flair, and third-row legroom.
Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX Comparison at a Glance
- While the Acura MDX has stronger engines, the Volvo XC90 has standard AWD.
- The Volvo XC90 also has much better fuel economy and a heftier 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped.
- The Acura MDX is longer, but it doesn't make good use of it; the Volvo XC90 has better overall legroom.
- Where the Acura MDX prioritizes sport-inspired features, the Volvo XC90 elevates your family's day-to-day with standard four-zone climate control, comfort seating, and carefully quilted Nordico upholstery.
- Both models offer elegant safety options, including a Lane Keeping Aid and Adaptive Cruise Control. But the Volvo XC90 adds Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other high-end safety features.
Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX Performance & Specs
The Acura MDX offers excellent horsepower and torque for its all-gas engines, at the cost of eco-friendly appeal and handling. Both SUVs elevate your drive with your choice of two different engines. The Volvo XC90 has a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder as its baseline, and the Acura MDX has a 3.5-liter V-6.
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| Volvo XC90 | Acura MDX | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine |
|
|
| Standard Horsepower | 247 | 290 |
| Standard Torque | 266 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD, AWD available |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 23 / 30 / 261 | 19 / 26 / 222 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs3 | 3,500 lbs (5,000 lbs w/ AWD)4 |
Notably, the only advantage that the Acura MDX has is with its power specs – a benefit that disappears when you look at the 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid, which posts up to 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. In addition, the Acura MDX is not AWD as standard, unlike the Volvo XC90. That means the Acura SUV incurs an additional cost to emulate the maneuverability of the Volvo SUV.
Acura MDX vs. Volvo XC90 Fuel Economy
No matter what engine you choose, the Volvo XC90 excels at fuel efficiency, reaching a maximum of 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 Compare that to the FWD estimation of the Acura MDX: at an EPA-estimated 19/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),2 the Acura MDX loses four combined MPG over any of our new Volvo XC90 SUVs.1,2
Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX Size & Dimensions
Compare Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX models side by side, and you'll see how the Volvo SUV carefully crafts its exterior to optimize space. The Volvo model is 3.4 inches shorter than the Acura MDX, yet it offers comparable or improved interior specifications.
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| Volvo XC90 | Acura MDX | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 7 (6 available) | 7 (6 available) |
| Length | 195 in | 198.4 in |
| Width | 79.1 in | 78.7 in |
| Height | 69.9 in | 67.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 117.5 in | 113.8 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 40.9 / 37 / 31.9 in | 41.6 / 38.5 / 29.1 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 38.9 / 38.5 / 36.3 in | 38.5 / 38.1 / 36.2 in |
| Cargo Capacity (Trunk / Max) | 10.6 / 85.7 cu ft | 16.3 / 71.4 cu ft (SAE J1100) |
Both models can seat six or seven passengers, but the Volvo XC90 doesn't forget the third row, giving those in the back a whopping 2.8 extra inches. With a longer wheelbase of 117.5 inches, the Volvo XC90 creates a more sturdy, cruiser-like driving experience than its Acura equivalent.
Acura MDX vs. Volvo XC90 Cargo & Towing Capacity
If that wasn't enough, take a look at what the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX cargo room says. According to SAE J1100 regulations, the Acura MDX can reach a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet. The 2025 Volvo XC90 has a larger maximum cargo capacity – 85.7 cubic feet when both rows are folded.
And what trailers can these models handle? The MDX requires an extra cost to get AWD, which means that its 5,000 pounds of towing capacity4 is hidden behind additional choices at checkout. Meanwhile, any Volvo XC90 engine or trim level can get you up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.3
Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX Interior Features & Tech
The last stop in our Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX tour is the comfort, convenience, and safety features of these two models – another win for the Volvo XC90. The SUVs in our new Volvo inventory always take the next step to keep your ride safe, secure, and enjoyable. For example, where the Acura SUV gets tri-zone climate control, the Volvo XC90 brings standard four-zone climate control. An 11.2-inch touchscreen keeps your dashboard open and breathable while giving you intuitive controls and easy wireless connectivity. Front and Rear Park Assist is standard on the Volvo XC90; the MDX requires an upgrade to the Technology Package to include front sensors.
And, while interior design is in the eye of the beholder, the Scandinavian appeal of the Volvo XC90 universally wins out. Rather than the bland "sport-like" accents of the Acura A-Spec Packages, the Volvo XC90 brings unique stylization, like the crystal gear selector knob by Orrefors® or genuine wood decor available in four different shades. The Acura MDX also brings its unique personalizations to the fold, but largely through sport appearance packages that emulate more traditional designs.
Shop the Winner of Our Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX Guide at Volvo Cars of Virginia Beach
While there are certainly benefits to both models, the Volvo XC90 brings a lot more to your family. Schedule a test drive at our location to see the benefits in person. Or, if you're confident in your purchase, you can begin your finance application today. We know that every mile you experience in a Volvo XC90 will be more memorable than the last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the Volvo XC90 or Acura MDX?
The Volvo XC90 has better fuel economy, thanks to its mild-hybrid system. The standard B5 engine provides an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with standard AWD,1 while the Acura MDX is stuck with an estimated 19/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 And that's with its FWD configuration – using AWD, the Acura MDX falls further behind the Volvo XC90.
Is all-wheel drive standard on both the 2025 Volvo XC90 and MDX?
No, all-wheel drive is only standard on the 2025 Volvo XC90. The 2025 Acura MDX is standard with front-wheel drive – an add-on is required to get AWD functionality. Considering that the Acura MDX all-wheel drivetrain is necessary to reach the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds,4 that means an Acura MDX needs many more optional features to be equal to a Volvo XC90.
Which model is quieter and more comfortable on the road, the Volvo XC90 or the Acura MDX?
Both vehicles provide extensive comfort features for their drivers, but the Volvo XC90 is legendary for its dynamic driving feel. That's because of its Scandinavian comfort seats for careful customization and a comfort chassis with FSD damper technology to ensure your ride is smooth no matter the road condition. The Acura model also brings well-crafted suspension, but doesn't have the personalized touch of seating arrangements like the Volvo XC90.
Featured Customer Review
Laurie Baggett
03/09/2025
Hands down the best car buying experience I have ever had. Roy Brunner my sales agent is one of the kindest people you will ever meet; he is knowledgeable, not pushy at all and wants the best fit for you - even if it means a different car. I am a single mom with a toddler so my time was very limited. Roy even arranged for my paperwork to be ready for me when I arrived at the dealership to sign. The process was seamless. You will love this dealership and become a customer for life. 10 out of a 10!
1EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
2Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
3When properly equipped.
4Towing requires the addition of the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. Please see your Acura dealer for details. Added cargo weight in the vehicle may reduce max towing capacity, see Owners Guide for details.