We seriously looked at the MDX with the X5, since we have had 2 Odysseys and my Mother in Law had an 03 MDX, all of which were good vehicles. That said, as much as my wife liked the interior on the MDX (not the fake black wood, but the styling of the center console, etc.) the driving dynamics were just too close to the Van we currently have. The BMW just has a feel, from the shut of the doors, to the shift of the transmission to the feel of the steering, that Acura has yet to capture. Even though the price of admission was much higher, I have no regrets so far with the decision to go with the 4.8i. I say drive both (extensively, highway, town, rough roads, etc.) and make your decision based on that experience.