Skip to main content

The Acura MDX is one of the most well-respected SUVs on the market. However, it also comes at a relatively high price tag. This is one reason why people choose the 2023 Kia Telluride over the latest Acura MDX. The two vehicles have their differences, but they have more in common than many would think. 

Here’s why many are choosing the Kia Telluride 2023 over the Acura MDX 2023. 

The Kia Telluride performance is similar 

A silver 2023 Acura MDX
2023 Acura MDX | Acura

Performance is one of the many reasons people are choosing the Kia Telluride 2023 over the 2023 MDX. The new Telluride comes standard with a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, according to Edmunds. It has a maximum output of 291 horsepower and a torque of 262 lb-ft. The 2023 Telluride transmission is an eight-speed automatic.

The Acura MDX 2023 has a 3.5-liter V6 under its hood. This front-wheel drive vehicle has a maximum output of 290 horsepower. Regarding speed, the new Kia Telluride accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.6-6.9 seconds. The Acura option is a bit faster as the test takes under 6 seconds. 

Both SUVs have great interiors 

Inside the 2023 Kia Telluride
2023 Kia Telluride | Kia

The Kia Telluride has an incredible interior that uses top-of-the-line materials. The difference is that the 2023 Acura MDX’s interior has a more premium feel due to the overall design. However, most people would pick the Telluride interior over the MDX due to the price. After all, the Kia Telluride has many of the same features but has a much more approachable and user-friendly layout.

However, where the Telluride interior surpasses that of the MDX is space, both have roughly the same seating layout. However, the third row in the Telluride is more usable. In the MDX, the third row is pretty much only big enough for kids. In addition, there’s a lot of space for suitcases and various other items. 

The 2023 Telluride and Acura MDX 2023 have similar interior technology 

2023 Kia Telluride interior technology
2023 Kia Telluride | Kia

The differences between interior technology in the two cars are also negligible. This is especially true when the difference in price is considered. The Kia Telluride and 2023 MDX have a 12.3-inch touchscreen. However, the MDX has a center touch controller, which many describe as frustrating. 

On the other hand, the new MDX is perhaps better when it comes to optional interior technology. For one, buyers can add a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D system. For the Telluride, there is an optional 10-speaker Herman/Kardon system. Both vehicles have optional smartphone charging. 

In terms of price, the 2023 Telluride starts at $35,890. The 2023 Acura MDX begins at $49,550. This makes the new Telluride perfect for people who want many of the same capabilities as the MDX but for a much lower price. They aren’t the same SUV, but there’s much overlap between the people that would buy either option.

Related Who Wins the Battle of Best Acura SUV?

Who Wins the Battle of Best Acura SUV?