Safety First in 2025: Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander
Luxury innovation meets family-friendly practicality in this detailed comparison of advanced safety features and crash-test performance.
Both the 2025 Acura MDX and 2025 Toyota Highlander prioritize safety, with advanced technologies and strong crash-test performance. However, they cater to different markets, influencing their safety features and effectiveness. Here’s how they compare:
Acura MDX: High-Tech Safety for Luxury Buyers
Standard Safety Features:
- AcuraWatch™ 360 Suite:
- Includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
- New additions like Front Cross Traffic Warning, Lane Change Collision Mitigation, and Active Lane Change Assist are exclusive to higher trims.
- Next-Generation Hardware:
- High-definition front cameras and millimeter-wave radars enhance accuracy.
- Advanced features like a driver attention monitor help prevent fatigue-related accidents.
Crash Safety:
- Acura’s ACE™ (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure ensures exceptional crash protection.
- MDX models consistently receive high ratings in safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Notable Additions for 2025:
- Standard rear seatbelt reminders.
- Enhanced pedestrian detection systems.
Toyota Highlander: Proven Reliability with Comprehensive Safety
Standard Safety Features:
- Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 (TSS 3.0):
- Standard across all trims, it includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Road Sign Assist.
- Upgraded for 2025 with enhanced radar and camera systems for better detection of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles.
- All-Trims Standardization:
- Unlike the MDX, most Highlander safety features are included even at base trim levels, ensuring affordability and accessibility.
Crash Safety:
- The Highlander’s strong body structure and advanced airbag system contribute to excellent crash test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.
Notable Additions for 2025:
- Improved emergency braking response and adaptive lighting for better nighttime safety.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Acura MDX | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Safety System Suite | AcuraWatch™ 360 (advanced tech) | TSS 3.0 (accessible at all trims) |
| Advanced Driver Assistance | Lane Change Collision Mitigation, Active Lane Change Assist (Type S) | Comparable but less advanced |
| Crash Test Ratings | Consistently high | Consistently high |
| Pedestrian Detection | Enhanced, especially in Type S | Strong, especially in urban settings |
👋🏼 Read Our Full Article on the Acura MDX vs. Toyota Highlander to gain more insights on which one to buy.
Which SUV Has the Best Safety?
- Acura MDX: Best for those who want cutting-edge, luxury-focused safety features and advanced driver assistance systems. It edges ahead in innovation but reserves some features for higher trims.
- Toyota Highlander: Best for families seeking comprehensive safety at a lower price point. Its all-trims standardization of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 makes it more accessible without compromising effectiveness.
Conclusion: If budget isn’t a concern and advanced technology appeals to you, the Acura MDX offers a slight edge. For practical buyers prioritizing reliable safety features across the board, the Toyota Highlander is the winner.
Next, read about road trip comfort when comparing the long trip comfort MDX vs Highlander.