1 / 4Illustrative AI renders — not manufacturer photographs.
Acura MDX
Acura's three-row flagship, refined and rewarding
Acura MDX review
The fourth-generation Acura MDX is the brand's largest and most premium SUV, built on a stiffer platform that sharpens its driving manners without sacrificing family practicality. It seats up to seven across three rows, pairs a smooth V6 with available all-wheel drive, and tops out with the genuinely quick Type S. Positioned below European luxury rivals on price, it leans on value, reliability and a long features list to win over US buyers shopping the midsize-luxury three-row class.
Acura redesigned the MDX from the ground up for 2022, and the changes show. The body sits on a dedicated architecture rather than a shared Honda platform, giving the SUV tauter body control and a more planted feel through corners. The standard 3.5-liter V6 makes 290 horsepower, which is adequate rather than thrilling, but the 10-speed automatic shifts cleanly and the available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive genuinely improves grip and confidence in poor weather.
Inside, the cabin is a clear step up from the previous MDX. Materials feel richer, the available Milano leather and open-pore wood look the part, and the front seats are supportive on long drives. The third row remains best suited to children or short trips, a common trait in this class, and cargo room behind it is modest until you fold the seats. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen is controlled by a touchpad rather than a touchscreen, which divides opinion and takes time to learn.
The Type S is the enthusiast's pick. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 produces 355 horsepower, adds an adaptive air suspension and bigger brakes, and transforms the MDX into something genuinely brisk and composed. Fuel economy is unremarkable across the lineup, and there is no hybrid option, which is a notable gap as rivals electrify. Ride quality is generally good, though larger wheels can make the surface feel firm.
Value is the MDX's strongest argument. A well-equipped MDX undercuts comparable German and British luxury rivals while offering Acura's reputation for dependability and a strong standard safety suite. It is not the sharpest-driving or most luxurious option in the segment, but it covers the fundamentals well and asks a fair price for doing so.
Pros & cons
What we like
- Strong value versus luxury rivals
- Quick, composed Type S model
- Upscale, well-built interior
- Standard AcuraWatch safety suite
- Confident all-weather AWD
What could be better
- Tight, kids-only third row
- No hybrid or electric option
- Touchpad infotainment frustrates
- Average real-world fuel economy
Acura MDX price & variants
| Variant | Fuel / Transmission | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| MDX Standard Best value | GasAutomatic | $45,900 |
| MDX Technology | GasAutomatic | $51,200 |
| MDX A-Spec | GasAutomatic | $56,300 |
| MDX Advance | GasAutomatic | $61,700 |
| MDX Type S | GasAutomatic | $69,500 |
| MDX Type S Advance | GasAutomatic | $75,500 |
Key specifications
Model Overview
Engine & Transmission
Dimensions & Capacity
Fuel & Performance
Comfort & Convenience
Safety
Acura MDX colours
Platinum White PearlExpert rating breakdown
Owner reviews
Great family hauler that feels premium
We cross-shopped the X5 and the MDX gave us more for the money. The interior feels genuinely upscale and the AWD has been excellent in winter. The third row is tight for adults, but my kids fit fine.
Love it, but the touchpad takes practice
The ride is smooth and quiet on highway trips and the seats are comfortable for long drives. My only real gripe is the infotainment touchpad, which felt fiddly for the first month. Fuel economy is just okay.
The Type S is seriously fun
I went for the Type S and have no regrets. It pulls hard, sounds good, and the air suspension makes it ride beautifully. It is not cheap to fill up, but the performance is worth it for me.
Alternatives to the Acura MDX
Hyundai Palisade
4.4$37,000 – $54,000Starting MSRP
Rivian R2
4.3$45,000 – $68,000Starting MSRP
Audi Q5
4.2$45,000 – $58,000Starting MSRP
BMW X3
4.4$50,000 – $65,000Starting MSRP
Acura MDX — frequently asked questions
Does the Acura MDX come with all-wheel drive?
Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, while Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is available across the range and standard on the Type S. AWD is recommended if you face snow or frequent wet conditions.
How many people can the MDX seat?
The MDX seats up to seven with a second-row bench, or six when fitted with second-row captain's chairs. The third row is best for children or short trips.
Is there a hybrid or electric MDX?
No. The current MDX is offered only with gas V6 engines. Buyers wanting electrified power will need to consider rivals such as the Volvo XC90 or Lexus RX.
What is the difference between the standard MDX and the Type S?
The Type S swaps the 290-hp 3.5L V6 for a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0L V6, and adds adaptive air suspension, larger brakes, standard AWD and sportier styling.
What kind of fuel economy should I expect?
The V6 MDX returns roughly 21 mpg combined, while the Type S is a few mpg lower. Real-world figures depend heavily on city driving and how hard you use the throttle.
How reliable is the Acura MDX?
Acura has a strong reputation for dependability, and the MDX shares much of its engineering with proven Honda components. Regular maintenance and the standard warranty help keep ownership costs predictable.
Image is an AI-generated illustration. Specifications and prices are indicative and may vary by variant and city — please confirm with an authorized dealer. Last updated 2026-06-26.