Compare The Acura MDX Vs. Genesis GV80
An Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 comparison is the optimal way to determine which luxury SUV is the right choice for you. The Genesis GV80 features a powerful engine and excellent towing ratings. However, the Acura MDX offers a bit more, with standard seven-seat capacity, dynamic passenger space, and 95 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Let us at Muller Acura of Merrillville give you the full details of each model and show you how the Acura SUV rises above the competition.
2026 Acura MDX vs. 2026 Genesis GV80 at a Glance
- The Genesis GV80 has an edge in specs, though the Acura MDX prioritizes features that make every mile count.
- The Genesis SUV is a five-seat configuration by default, while the Acura SUV has consistent three-row seating for growing families.
- For an edge in cargo space, choose the Acura MDX, which contains up to 95 cubic feet with the rear rows down.
- While both iterations bring high-end amenities to the table, the Acura MDX has better overall value.
Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 Specs
We begin with the engines, where both models bring their A-Game. The Acura MDX offers a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, and an available 355-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6. The two engines of the Genesis SUV are slightly stronger, at 300 horsepower and 375 horsepower.
Notably, when it comes to supporting that horsepower, the Genesis SUV falls a bit behind. It has four standard drive modes, an available electronic limited-slip differential, and high-performance suspension. The variants within our Acura MDX specials also have four standard drive modes; however, two extra modes are optional, along with Brembo® brakes and adaptive air suspension with auto leveling.
Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 Dimensions: Interior & Exterior
Next, let's put these automobiles side by side and see how the Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 size comparison looks. The Acura MDX is always a three-row SUV, while the Genesis GV80 is a standard two-row SUV, with three-row seating available in certain trims. However, with either configuration, the Genesis has a much smaller standard passenger volume of 108.7 cubic feet vs. the nearly 140 cubic feet you get in the Acura model.
That's in part thanks to the extra length provided by the Acura MDX: At 198.4 inches, this midsize SUV has nearly 4 inches on the Genesis GV80 (as you can see in the chart below). That extra size becomes more apparent when you compare cargo volume. For three-row Genesis variants, your cargo ranges from 11.6 cubic feet in the standard trunk to 71.7 cubic feet when the back rows are not in use. Meanwhile, the Acura MDX has 18.1 to 95 cubic feet, respectively.
GV80 vs. MDX Comparison Chart
| Acura MDX | Genesis GV80 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
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|
| Horsepower |
|
|
| Torque |
|
|
| Transmission | 10-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 19 / 25 / 211 | 20 / 26 / 222 |
| Drivetrain | RWD, SH-AWD avail | RWD, AWD avail |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs3 | 6,000 lbs4 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 116.3 in |
| Length | 198.4 in | 194.5 in |
| Width | 78.7 in | 77.8 in |
| Height | 67.9 in | 67.5 in |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 - 7 |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 41.6 / 38.5 / 29.1 in | 41.6 / 38.7 / 30.3 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 38.5 / 38.1 / 36.2 in | 40.2 / 38.4 / 34.3 in |
| Cargo Volume (Min / Max) | 18.1 / 95 cu ft | 11.6 / 71.7 cu ft |
Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 Technology & Safety Features
Much like in our Acura MDX vs. Lexus TX guide, the Acura MDX floors the competition with unmatched features and safety technology. Let's start with audio: The Acura MDX has a Bang & Olufsen® Ultra Sound System with 31 speakers on its high-end trims, while Genesis GV80 drivers are stuck with a maximum of 18 speakers. How about seating? Both models offer 16-way leather seating in the front row with ventilation. However, only the Acura MDX has a nine-way massage function for its front row, while the GV80 requires the Mood Curator with a simpler massage function. Plus, where the Acura MDX again revels in customizability with the help of the 27-color Iconic Drive system, the Genesis GV80 uses the Mood Curator with just four themes.
Safety is a closer match, yet the Acura MDX continues to find ways to win out. For example, both options acquire a Head-Up Display halfway through their lineups. However, the MDX provides a unique Head-Up Warning system that catches your attention without taking your eyes off the road. The new ACE platform that the Acura SUV is built on protects you in the worst-case scenario.
See the Winner of the Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80 Comparison at Muller Acura of Merrillville
Now that you've seen the advantages offered by the Acura SUV, it's time to consider a test drive. At our Acura dealership, you'll have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of this dynamic model. You can also see the Acura MDX 2026 vs. 2025 comparison to see if last year's SUV matches the versatility and performance metrics of this year's.
Once you view current inventory options at Muller Acura of Merrillville and find the premium car or SUV that calls to you, our representatives are here to make your ownership or leasing journey easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acura more reliable than Genesis?
The Acura brand is well-known for reliability, as shown by its ranking of second out of 32 brands on RepairPal.5 The website estimates that Acura cars cost approximately $501 per year in maintenance costs, which is incredibly low – especially for a luxury brand.5 Genesis vehicles have an average cost of $524 – impressive in its own right, but not as low as Acura.6
Which has better performance: the Acura MDX or the Genesis GV80?
The Genesis GV80 has better horsepower and torque, but the Acura MDX has exceptional supporting features that make it a more enjoyable drive. A 10-speed automatic transmission, for example, provides smoother, more accurate shifts. The iBooster Brake System lets you stop on a dime, whether you're on the interstate or on busy streets. An integrated driving system further enhances your experience with up to seven available drive modes.
Which SUV offers more interior space: the Acura MDX or Genesis GV80?
The Acura MDX is a sure choice for your interior space needs. With a passenger volume of 139.1 cubic feet, you and up to six additional passengers get to relax in an interior that caters to a whole family. It also comes with up to 95 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear rows are not in use, making your upcoming adventure even more memorable.
1Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
2All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
3Towing requires the addition of the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. Please see your Acura dealer for details. Added cargo weight in the vehicle may reduce max towing capacity, see Owners Guide for details.
4When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/acura
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/genesis