If you’re shopping premium three-row SUVs, the Acura MDX or Volvo XC90 are probably at the top of your list—and with good reason. Both deliver handsome design, family-friendly space, and top-tier safety. But their personalities differ: the MDX leans sport-luxury with a smooth V-6 and athletic chassis, while the XC90 emphasizes Scandinavian calm, advanced efficiency, and serene comfort. Here’s a clear, real-world comparison to help you choose.
Powertrains & Performance
Acura MDX: Most MDX trims use a 3.5-liter V-6 (290 hp) paired with a 10-speed automatic; front-wheel drive is standard with available SH-AWD. If you want extra punch, the Type S swaps in a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and standard SH-AWD for noticeably stronger acceleration. Acura+1Car and DriverCarPro
Volvo XC90: Volvo’s lineup centers on a mild-hybrid turbo four (badged B5 in recent model years) and the XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid. The Recharge combines a turbo engine with a rear electric motor for a stout 455 hp plus ~32–33 miles of EPA-rated electric range, enough to cover many daily errands on electricity alone before the gas engine ever starts. Green Car ReportsCar and DriverMcLaughlin Volvo Cars
Takeaway: If you crave a traditional, smooth V-6 and a performance variant, the MDX Type S is the driver’s pick. If you want electric commuting without going full EV—and big power—the XC90 Recharge is uniquely compelling.
Ride, Handling & Character
The MDX’s double-wishbone front suspension and tight body control give it a confident, athletic feel, especially with SH-AWD actively shuffling torque to help rotate the chassis. The Type S adds adaptive air suspension (available) and bigger brakes for back-road fun that belies the three-row size. Acura
The XC90 prioritizes calm. Steering is light but precise, the cabin is hushed, and available air suspension smooths battered pavement without float. Even the powerful Recharge feels composed rather than flashy—quick when asked, relaxed the rest of the time. (Bonus: EV mode makes school-run mornings blissfully quiet.) Green Car Reports
Interior Space & Practicality
Both seat up to seven; some XC90s offer second-row captain’s chairs for six. If you live with the third row up often, the MDX gives you more everyday cargo room behind it—published figures list up to 18.1 cu ft—while the XC90’s maximum cargo volume with rows folded stretches to about 85.7 cu ft (excellent for a luxury SUV). Hopkins AcuraMike Hale AcuraU.S. News Cars
Volvo’s clever storage solutions (hidden under-floor bin, low load-in height) are terrific, and its seat comfort is legendary on long trips. Acura counters with handy small-item storage and a removable second-row center seat for easier third-row access.
Tech & Infotainment
For 2025, the MDX adopts a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in (Google Maps, Assistant, and Play), replacing the old touchpad interface. It’s a major usability leap and brings the MDX in line with the latest connected systems. Acura+1
The XC90 already runs Google built-in on recent models, and for 2025 gets an 11.2-inch portrait screen with higher resolution and ongoing software enhancements via over-the-air updates—fitting Volvo’s minimalist, app-forward approach. U.S. News Carsvolvocarsvilla.com
Bottom line: Both now deliver native Google experiences. If you disliked the MDX’s former touchpad, the new touchscreen likely fixes your biggest gripe. Volvo’s interface is clean and fast, with a particularly strong native Maps experience.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Both SUVs are safety standouts. For 2024, the Acura MDX and Volvo XC90 each earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, the institute’s highest rating—exactly what you want in a family hauler. Advanced driver-assist suites (adaptive cruise, lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection) are widely available on both. IIHS+2IIHS+2
Efficiency & Running Costs
If fuel economy is a priority, the XC90 Recharge can slash your fuel spend when you charge at home—those ~32–33 electric miles cover many commutes, and you still have a long gas-assisted road-trip range. The non-hybrid MDX returns solid V-6 numbers, and the Type S trades some mpg for performance. Green Car ReportsHonda News
Insurance and maintenance costs vary, but both brands offer long service intervals and broad dealer networks. If your driving pattern suits a PHEV—lots of short trips with easy charging—the Volvo can feel like two cars in one: an EV in town and a powerful hybrid on the highway.
Design & Cabin Feel
Taste is personal, but there’s a clear vibe difference. Acura’s cabin is sport-lux, with bold shapes and (on Type S) aggressive accents; Volvo’s is Scandinavian calm—airier colors, open-pore wood, and seats that support for hours. Families who spend long days in the saddle often gravitate to the Volvo’s seat ergonomics; drivers who like a cockpit-like feel may prefer Acura.
Which One Should You Buy?
-
Choose the Acura MDX if you want a naturally aspirated V-6, engaging dynamics with SH-AWD, and the option for Type S performance—all now paired with a modern Google-based touchscreen. It’s the athlete of the two, with more cargo space behind the third row and pricing that can undercut hybrid rivals. AcuraMike Hale Acura
-
Choose the Volvo XC90 if you value serene ride quality, minimalist luxury, and the ability to do much of your daily driving on electricity. The Recharge powertrain’s blend of 455 hp and usable EV range is a rare trick in this class, and the XC90’s interior remains a benchmark for comfort and quiet. McLaughlin Volvo CarsGreen Car Reports
Final Thoughts
You can’t go wrong here. The MDX delivers classic V-6 smoothness, athletic handling, and—now—excellent onboard tech. The Volvo XC90 counters with plug-in hybrid efficiency, soothing composure, and one of the most inviting cabins on the road. Your decision comes down to how you drive: if you’ll use third-row cargo often and crave a sportier edge, start with the MDX; if your routine includes short trips and you can charge at home, the XC90 Recharge can make daily life quieter, cleaner, and surprisingly quick. Either way, both SUVs put safety first and family comfort a close second—exactly the priorities that matter.