Even though three-row SUVs are rarely affordable these days, some manufacturers try their best. For example, take a look at Hyundai. This Korean automaker has a few three-row options to consider — the Santa Fe is its smaller, more affordable option. While the brand might not have the best reputation for quality and reliability since introduction to the United States, its recent model years have progressed in the right direction. The Santa Fe is somewhat small for a three-row model, but it might just be worth a test drive due to its low starting price. Plus, you can't go wrong with Hyundai's industry-leading warranties. That said, you could also get your hands on a used Acura MDX for less than half the price.We know that a 10-year-old vehicle is not everybody's first choice. Then again, if you need a three-row SUV on a budget (and you want something nicer than a Hyundai or Kia), you can't be too picky. The 2016 Acura MDX makes for an easy decision, though. It touts Honda's dependability in addition to relatively spacious three-row seating and some nicer luxury features that you won't find in the Santa Fe. In this article, we compare the new Santa Fe to a 2016 Acura MDX in terms of powertrain specs, pricing, interior features, and more. Setting A Baseline: 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs HyundaiBefore we talk about the '16 MDX and why you should consider it, let's set a baseline for comparison. We should note, though, that these two models are in different classes: they're both midsize models, but the Santa Fe has rivals like the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Highlander, whereas the MDX faces opponents like the Infiniti QX60 and GMC Acadia. Nevertheless, we chose to compare the two since the Santa Fe is one of the cheapest new three-row SUVs on the market.This Hyundai has two powertrain options. In its basic form, buyers get a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four that makes 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Nearly all trims can come with either front- or all-wheel drive, and the SUV gets reasonable fuel economy for its class. The Santa Fe Hybrid offers better fuel economy in both FWD and AWD formats, but lower power outputs. A Luxury SUV With Three Rows For Half The Price AcuraThe Santa Fe isn't too expensive when you stick to its lower trims, but some of us are on an even tighter budget. There's only one three-row SUV that starts at under $30k for the 2026 model year, but even a $30k budget can be too much for some families. If you're willing to drive a decade-old car, then the MDX is ready to serve. The 2016 MDX is in the middle of its third generation (2014–2020). The generation had a single facelift for the 2017 model year, but its powertrain and specs remained the same. 2016 Acura MDX Specs Overview AcuraSome of you may be familiar with the 2016 MDX's engine, since it's the same engine still used in the model today. Today, though, buyers can also upgrade to the Type S Advance that uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 355 horsepower. Opting for a cheaper alternative means going back in time to 2016, where your only choice is a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 that makes 290 hp. It came with either a front- or an all-wheel drive layout, and all MDX versions from 2016 were equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. Used Acura MDX Vs New Hyundai Santa Fe Pricing 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trims And Pricing HyundaiThe Santa Fe might be one of the most affordable midsize three-row SUVs on sale, but it's still not all that cheap. There are two ways to spin this Hyundai; if you want the more powerful (but less fuel efficient) gas-only powertrain, you can get away with spending a minimum of $35,050 on the SE trim. There are five trims to choose from, including the XRT off-road-oriented model meeting in the middle, and the Calligraphy topping its charts at $47,600.Its hybrid variant offers four trims — they're the same levels, except this variant excludes the XRT. Trims with a hybrid powertrain include the SE, SEL, Limited, and the Calligraphy. 2016 Acura MDX Current Values AcuraThe chart above represents the 2016 Acura MDX's FWD base model, and the average price it's listed for or has sold for recently. It doesn't necessarily represent exactly what you'll pay for one, since used car values are affected by variables like the number of owners, how many miles are on the odometer, its cosmetic condition, whether it has mechanical or electrical issues, and more. That said, we have it on good authority that a 10-year-old MDX is pretty cheap these days. Studying the state of the market today reveals that, regardless of which drivetrain you choose, you'll not need more than $15,000 to net an average-mile example in smart condition today. 2016 Acura MDX Vs New Santa Fe Dimensions HyundaiCars have only gotten larger as time went on, so it's no surprise to see that the new Santa Fe is roomier inside than an MDX from a decade ago. The 2026 MDX is slightly larger than its older sibling, nearly catching up to the Santa Fe's legroom. However, Hyundai has Acura beat in almost every dimension here. Both models can seat up to seven people, though. When speaking in terms of cargo space, Acura creatively counts the floor space between the first and second rows, which adds up to a larger volume overall. Excluding that extra usable space, the 2016 MDX can fit 68.4 cu. ft. of cargo behind the front row. Is A Used MDX Really That Luxurious? 2016 Acura MDX Features AcuraIt might be aging, but even the 2016 MDX has some nice features to entice used car buyers today. Some available safety feature highlights include forward collision warning, collision mitigation braking, lane departure, multi-view rear camera, a rear cross-traffic monitor, and more. Other available comfort features include remote start with the key fob, a 12-speaker sound system from ELS, tri-zone climate control, heated front seats, ventilated front seats, and more. Not every used example has every feature, though, so be sure to ask the seller before buying. 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Features HyundaiSince this article compares the cheapest three-row SUV to an older luxury model, we'll stick to the Santa Fe's base model for its features. Yes, the Calligraphy top trim level has plenty of features that can even rival older luxury SUVs, but this article is written in the name of saving money. Therefore, the Santa Fe base model has features like: Six-way adjustable driver's seat with two-way power lumbar support A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Second-row air conditioning vents Blind spot collision warning Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance Don't Let Age Scare You — Try The 2016 MDX AcuraThere's plenty to be afraid of when buying a used car. We know that not all sellers are trustworthy, and there may be undisclosed issues to worry about. In fact, we want to be up front about the 2016 MDX by letting you know that some owners have reported to the NHTSA complaints about the engine stalling and some people have reported broken connecting rods. There aren't enough complaints for us to consider it a regular occurrence or a common problem, though. When you have a budget of under $20,000 for a three-row SUV, there will always be risks. Keeping that in mind and getting proper pre-purchase inspections done is your best bet.
