The Lexus TX is proving that demand exists for large luxury SUVs with three rows, with Lexus moving 28,112 TX SUVs in the first half of the year. The sales figure makes the TX the brand’s third-best seller so far, behind only the RX and NX, and leaves it just 2,600 units behind the NX.
Lexus TX Sales Highlight a Growing Opportunity
The TX’s performance shows it is more than a niche family vehicle for Lexus. Its sales have established the three-row SUV as a core model, demonstrating that buyers are willing to pay for a larger luxury SUV with three full rows.
That success has also highlighted an opportunity for Acura. Reports last month indicated that the brand is developing a new three-row SUV positioned above the MDX. The vehicle has reportedly been referred to internally as the Acura XL, although that name is not expected to reach showrooms.
Honda Sees Opportunity in the Premium SUV Market
Honda has not confirmed plans for a larger Acura SUV, but American Honda planning chief Gary Robinson acknowledged that there is room for additional products in the premium SUV market when questioned by Automotive News.
“There’s opportunity in different places, and SUV is the biggest part of the premium market today,” said Robinson.
Robinson did not provide specifics about future Acura products, but his comments point to the opportunity beyond the current MDX. SUVs remain a major part of the North American market, while buyers seeking additional space do not necessarily want to move into a full-size, truck-based vehicle.
Lexus is addressing that demand with the TX, while Volvo, Genesis, Cadillac and Lincoln are also competing in the large-crossover segment. Acura’s MDX remains the brand’s largest offering, leaving room for a model aimed at buyers who want additional space while staying with the Acura badge.
How a Larger Acura Could Differ From the MDX
A flagship three-row Acura crossover would not necessarily need to replace the MDX. Instead, it could provide additional space and serve a different role within the lineup.
The MDX is about 198 inches long, while the Lexus TX measures more than 203 inches. That additional length provides greater third-row room and cargo space, two areas that matter to family SUV buyers.
A larger Acura could also use Honda’s current platform and electrified powertrains already in the pipeline. That approach would allow the brand to combine additional space with newer technology and improved efficiency without developing an entirely new SUV from the ground up.
A Potential New Acura Flagship
Acura could position the larger model as its flagship rather than moving the MDX out of the lineup. That would give dealers a more expensive option while allowing the MDX to remain the sportier choice.
The Lexus TX’s sales performance demonstrates that buyers are responding to this formula. Acura has not confirmed plans to compete directly with the TX, but Honda executives have acknowledged the opportunity within the premium SUV market as the brand considers what could come beyond the MDX.
