In the realm of midsize luxury SUVs, the 2023 Acura MDX stands out as a top-tier option. It presents a well-appointed and spacious cabin, accommodating three rows of seating. This is a notable advantage, as it is not common to find such generous space and comfort in this vehicle category. Many SUVs in this segment often treat the third row as an afterthought, resulting in limited legroom and discomfort for passengers. However, the Acura MDX defies this trend, offering ample room and a pleasant seating experience even for adults, ensuring that the third row is a desirable and inviting space to occupy. The 2022 model year marked a complete redesign for the Acura MDX, bringing with it a refreshed exterior design with sharper styling cues and an upgraded interior featuring improved materials. A notable addition to the lineup was the sport-oriented Type S trim, which boasts a powerful turbocharged V6 engine. This engine, combined with the MDX's all-wheel-drive system, not only enhances traction on slippery surfaces but also contributes to a more agile driving experience on dry roads, particularly when taking corners.
When considering the 2023 MDX as a whole, it offers numerous appealing qualities, particularly when comparing it to European SUVs like the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, all while providing excellent value. For a comprehensive analysis of the MDX's comfort, utility, and more, be sure to explore our Expert Rating provided below by our experienced test team.
What’s New in 2024 Acura MDX
For those with a keen interest in performance, the Type S variant of the MDX holds particular appeal due to its sporty aspirations. However, if you're seeking a well-equipped luxury crossover without the emphasis on sportiness, we recommend considering the Technology trim. This trim level offers a range of desirable features, including leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, adjustable interior ambient lighting, a premium ELS Studio stereo system with 12 speakers, and low-speed front and rear automated emergency braking. Choosing the Technology trim ensures a luxurious driving experience with ample amenities to enhance comfort and convenience.
Price: $51,045
Pros
- The MDX offers a comfortable cabin with plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
- It strikes a good balance between sporty handling and a smooth, relaxed ride.
- The MDX comes well-equipped with a generous array of features and driver aids, providing excellent value for the money.
Cons
- The standard engine of the MDX can be noisy and may not match the power output of its turbocharged rivals.
- The infotainment touchpad in the MDX requires a steep learning curve to fully master and navigate effectively.
2024 Acura MDX Performance
One of the standout qualities of the MDX lies in its steering and handling capabilities. Acura's latest iteration of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive impressively enhances the nimbleness of the MDX while providing excellent traction in wet weather conditions. Despite its size, the MDX exhibits remarkable agility and can confidently tackle turns with the prowess of a much smaller SUV. The steering is accurate, offering a natural and engaging feel that enhances the driving experience, whether navigating corners or embarking on long highway journeys.
However, it's worth noting that the base MDX's V6 engine falls short in comparison. While it possesses smooth revving characteristics, it lacks the punch and power found in its turbocharged rivals. In performance tests, the MDX Advance model took 7.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, which is slower than most other luxury three-row midsize SUVs we've evaluated, including the previous MDX model. Additionally, the 10-speed automatic transmission could benefit from improved responsiveness and smoother shifting. Fortunately, the MDX Type S variant, equipped with a turbocharged engine and sportier tuning, exhibits a livelier character, addressing some of these performance concerns.
2024 Acura MDX Mileage
The base MDX offers EPA fuel-economy ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Type S variant has slightly lower ratings of 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. However, during our own testing on a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, our all-wheel-drive A-Spec test vehicle achieved a disappointing 22 mpg. The Type S model performed slightly better, returning a result of 23 mpg.
2024 Acura MDX Interior & Comfort
The cabin of the MDX exudes a premium aesthetic, particularly on higher-end trims that showcase French-stitched leather on the dashboard and a combination of open-pore wood, metal, and piano-black accents. Acura has paid attention to detail and provided an abundance of creature comforts, including dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and can be further enhanced with features like 16-way power adjustability and massage functionality. The first and second rows offer ample space for passengers, but it's worth noting that the MDX's third row is more suitable for children. While the interior boasts an attractive design and numerous convenient features, it may not match the luxurious ambiance found in competitors such as the Genesis GV80 or the Volvo XC90.
2024 Acura MDX Interior & Comfort Technology
While the MDX offers a range of useful technology, its infotainment system interface poses some challenges. However, there are still plenty of noteworthy features to appreciate. The wide center screen is visually appealing and easy to read, while the integrated navigation system functions effectively. The available 16-speaker ELS sound system delivers impressive audio quality, capable of filling the cabin with clear and powerful sound.
In terms of connectivity, our top-trim Advance test vehicle was equipped with USB ports for all three rows. Additionally, every MDX model includes wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration without the need for a USB cable. The MDX also offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, which perform well overall. Notably, the adaptive cruise control operates smoothly and significantly eases the task of navigating through congested traffic during rush hour.
Final Words
We recommend opting for the A-Spec trim. Not only does it add a sporty body kit that enhances the MDX's visual appeal, but it also includes ventilated front seats, which are highly desirable in a luxury SUV. Furthermore, choosing the A-Spec trim is the most cost-effective way to enjoy the MDX's premium sound system. While we appreciate the overall appeal of the Type S variant, its value proposition becomes questionable when compared to the standard MDX.
