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2016 Acura MDX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Acura MDX is a new 9-speed automatic transmission across the lineup. This was a substantial mechanical and technology update, but not a full redesign.
About the 2016 Acura MDX
3rd generation (2014-2020), early update year before the 2017 styling refresh.
Acura positioned the MDX as a premium seven-passenger SUV that mixes family usefulness with a more car-like driving feel than many larger luxury rivals. The core appeal was strong V6 power, a quiet and comfortable cabin, flexible three-row seating, and a generous standard equipment list, with SH-AWD available for sharper handling and better bad-weather traction. Acura’s 2016 messaging leaned on performance, comfort, quietness, and advanced technology rather than rugged off-road themes.
The 2016 MDX is a premium three-row SUV with a 290-hp V6, leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, LED headlights, and a power tailgate. The SH-AWD version adds an all-wheel-drive system that can send power between the rear wheels for better grip and more responsive handling.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters replaced the previous 6-speed transmission on every MDX. SH-AWD models also received a lighter twin-clutch rear differential designed to transfer more power between the rear wheels.
Safety
The base MDX gained a multi-view rear camera with moving guidance lines as standard equipment, while the SH-AWD version moved from standard to optional camera equipment. AcuraWatch driver-assistance features expanded to more package versions but were not standard on the core base or SH-AWD models.
Tech
An electronic gear selector, Siri Eyes Free, a frameless rearview mirror, and an easy-entry driver’s seat were added across the lineup.
2016 Acura MDX specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 9-Spd Seq SptShft | Auto, 9-Spd Seq SptShft |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft | 267 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 90.9 cu-ft | 90.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 27.4 in | 27.4 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Side View Cameras | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Acura MDX?
The biggest change is the switch from a 6-speed to a 9-speed automatic transmission on every 2016 MDX. It also brought paddle shifters and an electronic gear selector.
Was the 2016 Acura MDX fully redesigned?
No. The 2016 MDX remained part of the third generation introduced for 2014, with no new platform or body structure. Its updates focused on the transmission, all-wheel-drive hardware, safety equipment, and cabin technology.
Is the 2016 Acura MDX meaningfully different from the 2015 model?
Yes. Every 2016 MDX received a 9-speed automatic, and SH-AWD models gained a lighter twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system. The 2016 model also added an electronic gear selector, Siri Eyes Free, a frameless mirror, and other equipment updates.
Is AcuraWatch standard on the 2016 Acura MDX?
No. AcuraWatch expanded to more package versions for 2016, but it was not standard on the core base or SH-AWD versions covered here.
Is the multi-view rear camera standard on every 2016 Acura MDX?
No. The base MDX gained the multi-view rear camera as standard equipment, while the SH-AWD version moved from standard equipment in 2015 to optional equipment for 2016.
2016 Acura MDX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Acura MDX.
4.1
2016 Acura MDX
(410 reviews)
“We chose Acura because of past experiences. We had two cars, an Integra and a TL. Both lasted greater than ten years and had very few repair issues during that time. We chose the MDX because of space considerations. We needed extra room for car pools and trips.”
“The vehicle offers me what I was looking for; comfort, safety and room for family and friends.”