2023 Acura MDX - A Reliable Car?

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Overview

A good SUV is the 2023 MDX. But it's not flawless. It offers a stylish and up-to-date interior, comfortable first- and second-row seats, a wealth of standard amenities, powerful enough engines, a tonne of cargo space, and responsive handling. The infotainment system is challenging to use, the third row is cramped, and the brake pedal seems unreliable. The advantages here, however, outweigh the disadvantages. 

The MDX is a value-packed, stylish SUV with a lot to offer, but it works best for families who don't require or desire expensive frills and don't intend to go off-road. 

If you want a three-row luxury midsize SUV that isn't difficult to drive, is jam-packed with useful features, and has plenty of space for both passengers and goods, the MDX is a vehicle to take into consideration. The MDX lacks the opulence and driving performance of its peers, such the Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X5. However, the MDX is less expensive than its European competitors. There are also popular SUV models with three rows of seating, a luxurious cabin, and improved off-roading capabilities, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

Pros.

Cons.

  • A cozy, luxurious cabin.

  • Strange and mushy brake feel.

  • Powerful optional engine.

  • A complex infotainment controller.

  • Several common features.

  • Regular engines can be noisy.


Powertrain and Performance

The 2023 Acura MDX isn't exactly a performance powerhouse, but it handles well, and the turbo V6 engine in the Type S type provides a pleasant boost in power. Although there are differing views on the ride quality, most people think that the brakes might be stronger and have a more rounded feel. For the class, fuel efficiency is respectable.


It's surprisingly cosy to just peacefully drive around in. Before you step on it, the V6 is quiet; only then does it emit the delightful Honda roar. Although the body seems sturdy, the ride quality isn't; in fact, it may be the least opulent feature of the MDX. Due to the high traffic, the suspension is being transmitted through every road crack and ripple. That doesn't mean it feels rigid or unpleasant. 

Instead, it continually bounces and heaves because it is so soft. The smoothness and serenity that I usually associate with luxury vehicles are mainly missing. Since the suspension actually takes the edge off most road bumps, ride comfort is surprisingly good. Due to its agile handling, the MDX is also moderately enjoyable to drive.

Interior

There are some lovely interior features of the MDX. The front and second rows of the cabin have plenty of room. For adults, the third row is a little cramped, but children should be fine there. For a captain's chair layout and a center pass-through that makes third-row access even simpler, the middle seat of the second row can be removed. There are some lovely interior features of the MDX. The front and second rows of the cabin have plenty of room. For adults, the third row is a little cramped, but children should be fine there.


Large windows all around help with visibility, and an additional surround-view camera system offers even better 360-degree bumper-level visibility. Even while we value innovation in the auto industry, occasionally it doesn't work out. The new True Touchpad Interface for Acura's infotainment system is a definite misfire and may turn off many potential customers. The UI is difficult to understand and, at least in our testing, has a history of bugs. It's unfortunate because the system's design is actually rather ergonomic and stylish. Wheel curbing and fender scraping ought to be obsolete.

Fuel Economy

Even while we value innovation in the auto industry, occasionally it doesn't work out. The new True Touchpad Interface for Acura's infotainment system is a definite misfire and may turn off many potential customers. The UI is difficult to understand and, at least in our testing, has a history of bugs. It's unfortunate because the system's design is actually rather ergonomic and stylish. Wheel curbing and fender scraping ought to be obsolete.


Technology

One of the more annoying infotainment systems in the market is found in the MDX. The 12.3-inch display provides clear visuals, but the touchpad used to operate the infotainment system is glitchy and challenging to use while driving. Although there are a few physical buttons and knobs to make operating the music and climate controls a little bit simpler, this system remains one of the MDX's biggest flaws. 


Standard infotainment features: a 12.3-inch display, a touchpad controller, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, a Wi-Fi hot spot, wireless device charging, a nine-speaker audio system, satellite radio, HD Radio, USB ports and Bluetooth.

Available infotainment features: navigation, additional USB ports and a 12-, 16-, or 25-speaker ELS premium audio system.

Additional standard features: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, tri-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, a power liftgate, a universal garage door opener, proximity keyless entry and push-button start.

Other available features: remote engine start and a hands-free power liftgate.

Value

The warranty's coverage is standard. Roadside support lags a little below European competitors, although the basic and powertrain warranties are marginally better.

Value is still a significant motivator for MDX.

The MDX is taken to new heights of luxury thanks in large part to the use of soft leather and accents like open-pore wood. A V6 engine, a full complement of cutting-edge driving aids, and many more items that are frequently options on rivals are included at an entry price of roughly $47,000.

Read More - 2023 Acura Integra Prices, Reviews & Vehicle Overview

Comfort 

The front seats in the MDX might be the most comfortable in the class. They are quite supportive and highly customizable. Although they are not quite as comfortable as the front seats, the second row chairs may move and recline. Since the suspension really softens the majority of road imperfections, ride comfort is surprisingly decent.


The rear interior, however, has very few vents, with just one vent for the second row in the central console and none for the third. The seat ventilation is only marginally effective, but the seat heaters perform admirably.

Storage

The MDX had roomy door bins and a good-sized center armrest bin up front, although the former MDX no longer had a customizable compartment. Three kid safety seats can be placed across thanks to the middle seats' three sets of car seat anchors.

The all-wheel-drive MDX can tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is appropriate for a small trailer, but keep in mind that some competing European SUVs, like the Audi Q7, can pull more than 7,000 pounds.

Strong characteristics include cargo room and storage capacity. The MDX's third-row storage space is 18.1 cubic feet, which is a little more than many other three-row midsize luxury crossovers. Additionally, there is extra storage under the rear load floor and the second and third rows of seats may be folded flat. Behind the second row, there is a minimum of 39.1 cubic feet of room and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet.

Dimension And Weight

  • Length: 16.5 feet long.
  • Curb weight: 4271 to 4788 pounds.

Expert Advice

As of this writing, Acura hasn't made any formal announcements on the 2023 MDX. If anything changes, we'll revise our advice, but based on the MDX from the previous year, we advise choosing the A-Spec. In addition to giving the MDX some much-needed flare, the sporty body kit and ventilated front seats are almost necessities for a luxury SUV. Additionally, it's the cheapest option to acquire the top-of-the-line, best-in-class sound system of the MDX.

The seven-seat Acura MDX is a midsize SUV that is available in six trim levels, or packages: MDX, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, Type S, and Type S Advance. Front-wheel drive is standard on the base and Technology trims, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

Interested in checking out the vehicle? Checkout our website carweek.com to see or search for the latest new cars near you? Explore New cars now!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. Is Acura coming out with a new MDX?

Answer - The brand-new 2022 Acura MDX is the company's three-row flagship SUV. The new Acura MDX, now in its fourth generation, completely omits the 2021 model year and refers to itself as the 2022 MDX.

Q. Is Acura MDX considered luxury?

Answer - Yes, Acura is regarded as a luxury brand since it has high-end amenities both inside and out that provide a general driving experience that is characterised by comfort, performance, and style.

Q. Is Lexus more reliable than Acura?

Answer - Similar to Honda and Toyota, both Acura and Lexus automobiles receive top ratings for both long-term dependability and safety.

Q. Which is better, Acura or Honda?

Answer - Honda and Acura vehicles differ in that Honda vehicles are known for their dependability, efficiency, and excellent safety ratings. Furthermore, Honda will be a better option if you're searching for a small car, midsize car, small SUV, or midsize SUV, despite some overlap between Honda and Acura's product lines.

Q. Is Acura on the same level as Lexus?

Answer - While Acura is superior in terms of performance, Lexus is more concentrated on luxury. Compared to the Lexus portfolio, the lineup offers more vehicles that push sportiness and performance to new heights. For a higher trim and additional improvements, any Lexus car that is on par with an Acura in terms of performance requirements will cost you more.

Q. What is the most reliable car brand?

Answer - As the most dependable automaker, Toyota takes the top spot. Toyota cars are renowned for their durability and have a longer average lifespan than any other brand.