2025 Acura MDX vs 2025 Volvo XC-90
Compare the 2025 Acura MDX vs the 2025 Volvo XC-90
If you want a luxury midsize SUV, two vehicles are worth considering: the 2025 Acura MDX and the 2025 Volvo XC90. These vehicles combine high-class comfort with day-to-day usability.
Discover more about these two luxury options in this Acura vs Volvo comparison.
Interior Comparison
The interiors of the MDX and XC90 were created with families and serious drivers in mind. The Acura MDX boasts three rows of well-cushioned seats that can seat seven people. The standard upholstery is made of synthetic leather. Customers can choose a heated flat-bottom steering wheel, ventilated seats, quilted and perforated Milano leather, and an ebony headliner to offer the cabin a sportier, more upmarket look.
In addition, the MDX has a detachable middle seat, which allows passengers, particularly children, to enter the third row without having to fold down a seat. Up to 71.4 cubic feet of cargo space is available. This vehicle also features underfloor storage and a power liftgate.
The XC90 focuses on luxury and functionality, offering seats for seven people. The first and second rows are comfortable and spacious. The standard upholstery is a leatherette material known as Quilted Nordico. Genuine and Nappa leather upholstery are available, adding to Volvo's well-known, elegant, and relaxing Scandinavian design.
When the interiors of the MDX and XC90 are compared, it is evident that they suit different drivers. The MDX is perfect for those who need a sporty yet practical luxury SUV. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC90 is well-suited for those who value stylish design, a peaceful interior, and family-friendly features.
2025 Acura MDX | 2025 Volvo XC-90 |
Max Seating: 7 Max Cargo Capacity: 71.4 cubic feet Upholstery Options: synthetic leather (standard), Milano leather (optional) | Max Seating: 7 Max Cargo Capacity: 85.7 cubic feet Upholstery Options: Quilted Nordico (standard), genuine leather, or Nappa Leather (optional) |
Power and Performance
The Acura MDX and Volvo XC90 each provide their unique take on power, control, and confidence behind the wheel. The MDX's 290 horsepower V6 engine and snappy 10-speed automatic transmission provide solid power and smooth acceleration. The Type S's turbocharged V6 engine produces 355 horsepower, dramatically raising the threshold. Even on twisty roads, it drives smoothly, rapidly, and effortlessly, confounding competing three-row SUVs.
This vehicle offers both front-wheel drive and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when equipped with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).
Meanwhile, the XC90's B5 model has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The B6 model increases the horsepower to 295 and torque to 310 lb-ft. An 8-speed automatic transmission distributes power to all four wheels. The XC90 has a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds and can pull light loads.
The MDX is perfect for drivers who want their SUV to feel more like a performance vehicle than a family hauler. The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, is for buyers who prioritize comfort, composure, and efficiency over driving excitement.
2025 Acura MDX | 2025 Volvo XC-90 |
Base Engine: 3.5-liter V6 Horsepower: 290 Torque: 267 lb-ft Transmission: 10-speed automatic | Base Engine: turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system Horsepower: 247 Torque: 266 lb-ft Transmission: 8-speed automatic |
Available Engine: turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 Horsepower: 355 Torque: 254 lb-ft Transmission: 10-speed automatic | Available Engine: turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system Horsepower: 295 Torque: 310 lb-ft Transmission: 8-speed automatic |
Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds Max Payload Capacity: not specified | Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds Max Payload Capacity: 5,000 pounds |
Tech and Entertainment
Both the MDX and the XC90 showcase modern, high-end tech features. The MDX has a new 12.3-inch touchscreen that replaces its older TTI touchpad interface. The result is a sleeker, more responsive setup.
The XC90 has an 11.2-inch touchscreen that comes with Google Built-In, providing easy access to apps and services. The design is clean and minimalistic, in keeping with Volvo's minimalist design philosophy.
2025 Acura MDX Top Technology Features | 2025 Volvo XC-90 Top Technology Features |
Infotainment Screen Options: 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in Audio System Options: 11-speaker sound system (standard); 19- and 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen® audio systems (optional)
| Infotainment Screen Options: 11.2-inch touchscreen Audio System Options: 10-speaker sound system (standard); 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system (optional); 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins® sound system (optional) |
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, the MDX and XC90 mean business. The MDX boasts a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This designation proves the MDX’s crashworthiness and overall protection. Acura has also significantly improved its active safety features for 2025. All MDX trims are fitted with the updated AcuraWatch suite, which now includes more intuitive driver aids.
Volvo has always been a safety pioneer, and the XC90 continues that tradition with strong crash-test results from both the IIHS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, what sets the XC90 apart is how seamlessly it integrates advanced driver-assistance features into the daily driving experience.
The MDX is the right choice for tech-savvy, confidence-seeking drivers who want a safety system that thinks ahead. The XC90, on the other hand, is ideal for drivers who value refined, built-in safety that blends effortlessly into daily life.
2025 Acura MDX Safety Features | 2025 Volvo XC-90 Safety Features |
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Acura of Brooklyn’s Bottom Line
This 2025 Acura MDX vs. 2025 Volvo XC90 comparison shows that both vehicles are excellent options for luxury SUVs, but they cater to different types of buyers. The MDX is made for drivers who want more than just a people-mover. The XC90, by contrast, is a natural choice for those who prize quiet refinement and subtle luxury.
The MDX takes the lead for those wanting a more engaging, driver-centric ride without losing family-friendly amenities. Are you excited to experience the MDX firsthand? Why not take it for a test drive? If you're in Brooklyn, NY, there's no better place to visit than Acura of Brooklyn.
Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.