MDX vs Model X
Few matchups in the midsize luxury suv class come up as often as the MDX against the Model X. If you were hoping for a knockout, this isn’t it. The MDX and the Model X stay within reach of each other almost everywhere.
At a glance
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Safety & Tech Model X wins
- Off-road & Towing5.5
- Off-road & Towing5.5
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Model X has a bigger 17 in touchscreen
On this line of the spec sheet, the Model X is in a different league: 17 in, next to 12.3 in for the MDX. Screen size isn’t everything (physical controls and software speed matter too), but bigger is easier to read.
Design & Size
- MDX 198.4 in × 78.7 in × 67.9 in
- Model X 198.3 in × 78.7 in × 66.3 in
On overall dimensions, the MDX and the Model X are separated by very little.
Dimensions
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 198.4 in | 198.3 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | 78.7 in | 78.7 in |
| Height | 67.9 in | 66.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 116.7 in |
Engine & Performance
This section is descriptive. The MDX and the Model X list different components for engine & performance, and the table spells them out.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Neither pulls ahead on space & practicality; the numbers are close throughout. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to off-road & towing. Bottom line for off-road & towing: it’s a wash.
Safety & Tech
Model X leads
The Model X edges the safety & tech section, though the MDX stays close. The Model X stands out with a bigger 17 in touchscreen. The Model X’s larger display gives navigation and menus more room. For safety & tech, the Model X is the one to beat.
Largest touchscreen
MDX: 12.3 in Model X: 17 in A bigger touchscreen makes maps and phone mirroring easier to read at a glance.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | Dual electric motors |
| Total system output | 290 hp | N/A (not specified) |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | Single-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | FWD (SH-AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 22 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 19 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 26 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 352 mi Longest electric range |
| Fuel tank | 18.5 gal | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 16.3 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 71.4 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | 12.3 in | 17 in (winner) Biggest touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | N/A (not specified) | Not available (Tesla software; no Apple CarPlay / Android Auto) |
| Driver-assist suite | AcuraWatch | N/A (not specified) |
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 198.4 in | 198.3 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | 78.7 in | 78.7 in |
| Height | 67.9 in | 66.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 116.7 in |
Price
| Spec | MDX | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $51,800 | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Model X if…
- you rely on navigation and phone mirroring on a larger display (17 in vs 12.3 in)
- you trust Tesla and want to keep things familiar
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the MDX or the Model X?
There’s no single right answer. The MDX leads on the things a spec sheet can’t capture and the Model X on safety & tech.
Which is larger, the MDX or the Model X?
Size is essentially a tie. The official dimensions of the MDX and the Model X differ only marginally.
Executive Summary
The MDX against the Model X: two brands, one class, and more nuance than the marketing suggests. Still, if you care most about a bigger 17 in touchscreen, the Model X deserves a look.
If you’d rather have strength in the things a spec sheet can’t capture, go with the MDX. If safety & tech is what you’d miss, go with the Model X.
My pick: the MDX for the things a spec sheet can’t capture, the Model X for safety & tech, and no wrong answer between them.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.