For years, the **Acura MDX** has been a powerhouse in the luxury three-row SUV market, offering a perfect blend of value, performance, and versatility. While it may not flaunt the extravagant luxury of some of its pricier rivals, it excels in delivering exactly what families need: spacious seating, impressive cargo capacity, and a price point that undercuts many competitors. Sitting just above the two-row **RDX** in Acura’s lineup, the **MDX** has become a top choice for those seeking a practical yet fun-to-drive luxury crossover.
The MDX might not have hybrid options like some of its competitors, but it makes up for it with the enthusiast-oriented **Type S** model. This performance trim, much like a **BMW M** or **Mercedes-AMG** variant, cranks up the driving excitement with a more powerful engine and sportier handling, proving that luxury and performance can coexist in a family-friendly package. With **355 horsepower** under the hood in the **Type S Advance**, this SUV can satisfy both daily driving needs and the occasional thrill ride.
Stacked against heavy hitters like the **Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, Volvo XC90,** and **Genesis GV80**, the **Acura MDX** more than holds its own, offering exceptional value while boasting robust performance figures across its range.
### Why It Shines
– **Roomy interior** with versatile seating for seven.
– **Lower price** compared to many luxury rivals.
– **Type S model** brings a sporty edge to the lineup.
### Considerations
– The **infotainment system** has a learning curve.
– **Lacks the high-end luxury feel** of some competitors.
### The Verdict
When it comes to three-row luxury SUVs, the **Acura MDX** is a solid choice that strikes a perfect balance between value and performance. Its blend of practicality, driving fun, and safety make it a standout option in a crowded field.
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### **What’s New for 2024?**
After a full redesign in 2022, the **2024 Acura MDX** rolls forward without major changes. But with its proven formula of luxury, performance, and practicality, that’s not a bad thing.
### **Trims and Pricing**
The **2024 MDX** offers six trims: **Standard, Technology Package, A-Spec Package, Advance Package, Type S,** and **Type S Advance Package**. All trims come with **front-wheel drive** standard, while Acura’s advanced **SH-AWD all-wheel-drive system** is available for those seeking more traction.
– **Standard** (Starting at $51,045): This base model comes well-equipped with **19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights,** a **panoramic sunroof, heated front seats**, and a **12.3-inch infotainment system** with wireless **Apple CarPlay** and **Android Auto**. It also packs a full suite of driver-assist tech, making it one of the best values in the lineup.
– **Technology Package** ($55,745): Adds luxury touches like **20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery**, and a **12-speaker ELS Studio audio system** for those who want more tech and comfort.
– **A-Spec Package** ($61,445): Geared toward drivers who want a sportier look and feel, this trim adds **SH-AWD**, a **16-speaker ELS Studio audio system**, and ventilated front seats with **ultrasuede trim**.
– **Advance Package** ($64,995): Packs in high-end features like **16-way power-adjustable front seats**, **wood interior accents**, a **surround-view camera**, and **heated rear seats**.
– **Type S** ($69,345): For performance enthusiasts, the **Type S** cranks out **355 horsepower** from its **turbocharged V6** and adds **21-inch wheels** with performance tires.
– **Type S Advance Package** ($74,695): The ultimate MDX trim includes all **Type S** performance features plus luxury touches like a **head-up display, surround-view camera**, and more.
### **Engine and Performance**
The **2024 MDX** offers two engine options:
– A **3.5-liter V6** engine with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, mated to a **10-speed automatic transmission**.
– The sportier **Type S** gets a **3.0-liter turbocharged V6** with 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with the same transmission.
The standard V6 offers solid acceleration, getting from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, while the **Type S** shaves that down to 5.5 seconds for those craving a little more punch. For families in regions with harsh weather, **SH-AWD** is worth considering for its enhanced traction and confidence-inspiring handling.
### **Fuel Economy**
According to the **EPA**, a front-wheel-drive **2024 Acura MDX** with the standard engine is rated at **19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway**, while the all-wheel-drive version sees a slight dip to **25 mpg highway**. The **Type S**, with its more powerful engine, returns **17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway**. These figures put the **MDX** in line with many competitors, though rivals like the **Volvo XC90** offer slightly better fuel efficiency.
### **Interior and Cargo**
Acura’s designers have stepped up the **MDX’s** interior game, creating a cabin that feels upscale without going overboard. The use of **aluminum and wood trim** gives it a sophisticated vibe, and the **12.3-inch digital display** adds a modern touch. With a standard **panoramic sunroof** and ample headroom, the cabin feels open and spacious, even with a full load of passengers.
One standout feature is the **removable middle seat** in the second row, which makes accessing the third row much easier. While the third row is tighter, as is typical for three-row SUVs, the **MDX** excels in cargo space. With **18.1 cubic feet** of space behind the third row and up to **95 cubic feet** with the rear seats folded down, the **MDX** outshines competitors like the **Volvo XC90** and **Mercedes-Benz GLE**.
### **Infotainment and Connectivity**
The **2024 MDX** features a **12.3-inch high-definition display** with **wireless Apple CarPlay** and **Android Auto**, as well as **Alexa voice control**. Acura’s **True Touchpad Interface** is unique but may take some getting used to, as it relies on a console-mounted trackpad rather than a traditional touchscreen.
Passengers will appreciate the **CabinControl feature**, which lets them control audio and climate settings from their smartphones. With **USB-A, USB-C charging ports**, and available **4G LTE Wi-Fi**, the **MDX** ensures everyone stays connected on the go.
### **Safety**
The **2024 MDX** has yet to be crash-tested, but the nearly identical 2023 model earned top safety ratings, including a **five-star overall rating from the NHTSA** and a **Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS**. The **MDX** comes loaded with safety features like **forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking**, and **adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist**, which keeps the vehicle centered in its lane during stop-and-go traffic.
### **Acura MDX vs. the Competition**
The **2024 Acura MDX** holds its own in a highly competitive segment, offering a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and value. The **Type S** trim adds a sporty edge for enthusiasts, while the more affordable trims provide ample luxury at a lower cost than rivals like the **Mercedes-Benz GLE** and **Audi Q7**. For families needing space, versatility, and safety without compromising on style, the **MDX** remains a standout choice in the luxury three-row SUV market.
