2025 Acura MDX vs. 2025 Audi Q7 Comparison

Some lovely midsize SUVs are out on the road today. Anytime a luxury or premium brand gets started in this arena, it’s rarely a matter of whether it’s an excellent vehicle that results. Instead, the question is how nice of a vehicle we will get. In the case of the 2025 Acura MDX and 2025 Audi Q7, the results are near the top.

Both are 3-row crossover SUVs with room for at least seven people, motivated by robust engines with plenty of power. Each has a unique and appealing style. Additional differences crop up between these two premium SUVs, which we sort through below.

2025 Acura MDX

The Acura MDX got its last major update in 2022, and it gets a minor refresh for 2025, with slight revisions to the grille and front bumper. A simple, sculpted exterior makes the MDX look smaller than it is. On the inside, the SUV is an impressive mix of soft-touch materials, top-notch technology, and plenty of space.

The base model is also powered by a 3.5-liter V6, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It’s connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission and features front-wheel drive (FWD) for the base model, but if you move up two trim packages to the A-Spec, all-wheel drive (AWD) becomes standard spec. Also, jump to the Type S — and its $69,800 starting price (including a $1,350 destination fee) — and a 355-hp V6 with AWD awaits.

The comfort and convenience tech on the base level model is impressive, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless smartphone charging, Wi-Fi, and Amazon Alexa capability. For 2025, the infotainment system is all-new, with a 12.3-inch screen running Google software. Other tech and feature highlights new for 2025 include an available 16-way massaging seat, two optional Bang & Olufsen sound systems, and the debut of AcuraWatch 360, the brand’s semi-autonomous driver-assist system.

Pricing starts at $51,500, including a $1,350 destination fee.

Acura MDX Highlights

Big tech: The interior tech making the cabin a nice place on every MDX is a massive selling point, but additional standard features like a powered tailgate help separate it from the mainstream class.

AcuraLink: Free for three years, AcuraLink brings features such as maintenance scheduling, automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, and remote lock/unlock — to name just a few.

Safety First: This current generation of MDX has earned the highest accolade of Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star (maximum) overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the MDX models for sale near you.

2025 Audi Q7

Anyone looking for a simple and understated look appreciates an Audi. Only an Audi will do if you want to add the word “sleeper” to the description. This is the 3-row dadmobile that seats seven that even mom approves once it’s in the driveway. For 2025, the Q7 gets a restyled grille and new exterior lights.

The base “45” is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, putting out 261 hp. The “55” gets you a 3.0-liter V6 putting out 335 hp, and if you’re looking to be the envy of the school dropoff/pickup line, move up to the 500-horsepower V8-powered SQ7, although it’s a five-digit price jump to do so.

The interior is laden with convenience and safety tech supported by enough soft, genuine leather to make this a luxurious cabin for families. Pricing for the Q7 starts at $61,795, including a $1,295 destination fee.

Audi Q7 Highlights

Considerable power: The Q7 doesn’t start with immense power, just 261 hp, but it can be cranked up to 500 hp and a zero-to-60 time of just 4.3 seconds (i.e., sleeper). It will cost more than $90K, but sometimes a dad’s gotta do what a dad’s gotta do.

Bang your head: There are many outstanding automotive audio systems, and the Bang & Olufsen that becomes standard with the Premium Plus is among the best. It’s crystal clear, even at the top of the volume range.

More tech, please: In this vehicle class, you expect a lot of convenience technology, and in the Q7, you get it. Whether it is the wireless smartphone integration, Remote Parking Assist Plus, Hands-Free Tailgate, or soft power closing doors.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Q7 models for sale near you.

Similarities

They’re midsize 3-row premium SUVs with contemporary styling, top safety ratings, similar sizing, and robust powerplants — a fantastic combination. 

Conclusion

Premium segment vehicles command big price tags. However, you get a lot with that high price. If you’re looking for practical luxury on a budget, the Acura is probably your choice, but if you’ve got more refined tastes and the budget to match, look at the Audi. Both are great vehicles.