“This vehicle is extremely well equipped, quite to road noise, and comfortable while driving long distances. Its sleek design is modern and beautiful. My family feels very safe in our new vehicle.”
Acura MDX: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Acura MDX is a three-row premium SUV known for combining family-friendly space and V6 power with more driver-focused handling than many large family vehicles. It balances everyday comfort and safety technology with a sportier feel than its practical layout might suggest.
The MDX has long mixed seven-passenger usefulness with a stronger focus on handling than the typical family SUV. Over time, it has added more safety and cabin technology while keeping a V6 at the heart of the lineup. Recent generations sharpened that formula, and the Type S brought a more powerful version without giving up the third row.
Strengths
- Its three rows and useful cargo area make it practical for family duty.
- The V6 delivers straightforward power across the lineup, while recent Type S models provide noticeably stronger acceleration.
- Its suspension and steering are designed to feel more responsive than those of many family-focused SUVs.
- All-wheel-drive versions use a system that can send power between the rear wheels to help the SUV turn more confidently.
- Driver-assistance technology has been a standard part of the lineup since the 2017 update.
- The fourth-generation cabin combines generous standard technology with a more upscale look and feel.
Who it's for
The MDX fits families who need three rows but do not want their SUV to feel bulky or dull from behind the wheel. It also suits shoppers moving into a premium vehicle who value everyday usability, a substantial set of standard features, and the confidence of all-wheel drive on many versions.
Acura MDX lineup
The base MDX covers the core premium-family role, while the long-running Technology Package is the step up for shoppers who place more value on cabin technology. Pick A-Spec for a sportier look rather than a major change in the MDX’s basic mission, or Advance for the more upscale side of the range. Since 2025, A-Spec Advance has blended the sport-styled and higher-end approaches. Type S Advance is the performance choice in recent years, pairing stronger turbo V6 acceleration with an adjustable air suspension while retaining three-row practicality.
Acura MDX generations
From 2009 to 2026, the MDX spans three generations. The current 4th Generation arrived for 2022, following the 3rd Generation (2014–2020).
4th Generation (2022–Present)
The fourth-generation MDX has a longer wheelbase, a stiffer body, redesigned suspension, a 10-speed automatic, and a more upscale digital cabin. It also introduced the turbocharged Type S performance model.
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2026Trim changes
Carryover from the refreshed 2025 model, with the same trims, V6 engines, touchscreen, and safety equipment.
2025Mid-cycle update
Sharper front styling, a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, a redesigned center console, and upgraded driver-assistance hardware. A-Spec Advance joined the range, while Type S Advance became the only Type S model.
2024
Carryover year with the same six-model range and the same regular and Type S V6 engines.
2023
Carryover from the 2022 redesign with no significant changes.
2022New generation
Full redesign with a longer wheelbase, stiffer body, redesigned front suspension, 10-speed automatic, digital instrument display, and the first MDX Type S.
3rd Generation (2014–2020)
The third-generation MDX moved to a lighter platform with a new 3.5-liter V6, a quieter cabin, and easier third-row access. It was also the first MDX generation offered with front-wheel drive, while later years added a hybrid model and more standard safety technology.
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2020Trim changes
The limited-run PMC Edition joined the lineup, combining Advance equipment with A-Spec styling.
2019Trim changes
The A-Spec sport-styling model joined the lineup. Acura also improved front-seat comfort and retuned the gas model’s transmission for smoother driving.
2018Trim changes
The dual-screen system gained a faster touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
2017Mid-cycle update
Reworked front and rear styling arrived with standard collision-avoidance and lane-assistance features. The MDX Sport Hybrid also joined the lineup.
2016
A 9-speed automatic and electronic gear selector became standard, while more versions received the expanded safety suite.
2015
Carryover from the 2014 redesign with no significant lineup-wide changes.
2014New generation
Full redesign on a lighter platform with a new 3.5-liter V6, a quieter cabin, a cleaner dual-screen layout, and front-wheel drive for the first time.
2nd Generation (2007–2013)
The second-generation MDX used a 3.7-liter V6, standard all-wheel drive, and three-row seating. Its major update came for 2010, bringing revised styling, a 6-speed automatic, and cabin and chassis changes.
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2013
Final year of the generation, with no significant changes from 2012.
2012
Carryover year with the same V6, 6-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and package structure.
2011
Carryover from the 2010 update with no significant lineup-wide changes.
2010Mid-cycle update
Revised front and rear styling, a new 6-speed automatic, updated chassis tuning, and refreshed cabin details.
2009
Carryover year with no significant lineup-wide changes.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Acura MDX.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Acura MDX a three-row SUV?
Yes. The MDX is a four-door SUV with three rows and seating for seven. Newer models have a split-folding third row, one-touch third-row access and up to 95 cubic feet of cargo room with seats folded.
Does the Acura MDX come as a hybrid?
Yes, but only among older used examples. The Sport Hybrid joined the third-generation MDX for 2017 and continued through 2020. The fourth generation introduced for 2022 uses gasoline V6 engines, including a turbo V6 in the Type S.
Is every Acura MDX all-wheel drive?
No. Second-generation MDXs had standard all-wheel drive, but front-wheel drive joined the range with the third generation. On newer models, the base and Technology grades appear in front- or all-wheel-drive form, while higher grades use all-wheel drive.
What is the Acura MDX known for?
The MDX is known for combining seven seats and useful cargo space with a more driver-focused feel than many family SUVs. Its defining hardware includes a V6, a broad safety suite and Acura’s torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system on many versions.
Is the Acura MDX a good fit for families?
Yes, especially for families that need seven seats but still want a premium cabin and responsive handling. The split-folding third row, easy third-row access, safety features and generous cargo capacity support everyday errands and longer trips.
What are the main Acura MDX generations?
Used shoppers will mostly see the second generation from 2007–2013, third from 2014–2020 and fourth from 2022 onward. The third added front-wheel drive and later a hybrid. The fourth brought a longer wheelbase, 10-speed automatic, modern displays and the Type S. There was no U.S. 2021 MDX.
How much can an Acura MDX tow?
Recent MDX specifications range from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity, depending on the vehicle’s drivetrain and equipment. Check the exact used MDX and its towing hardware before planning to pull a trailer.
Acura MDX Reviews
What owners are saying about the Acura MDX.
4.2
Acura MDX
(8,545 reviews)
“I've enjoyed the vehicle. Wish it would have come w a remote start, pretty standard on most vehicles, I had to pay to have it installed, I did not want the entertainment package, no need for DVD. Also, the fan speed, is not as easily accessible as I would like, especially while driving, should be able to control w a simple dial.”
“The 2020 Acura MDX is reliable and safe, and has all of the features that I'm looking for in a vehicle!”
“I felt MDX lacked refinement. Not so powerful engine and there is a lag in transferring the power once you floor the pedal. Its solely for families who don't need performance. Ride quality is good.”
“Take a Test Drive especially if you have Spouse., make sure the ride is good enough for her. I don't mind Sporty suspension setup but make sure the better half is in agreement\”
“I really enjoy riding my vehicle it offers various performance modes to suit different driving. I have the Sports Model, which comes equipped with Brembo brakes. The ride is smooth, handles turns exceptionally well, and delivers impressive horsepower all while remaining comfortable.”
Sources
- acura.com — Suvs / 2026 / Mdx
- acura.com — 2026 / Mdx / Pricing And Specs
- acura.com — News And Press / Press Release Detail
- acura.com — MDX / 2025 / Acura 2025 MDX Fact Sheet
- acura.com — MDX / 2024 / Acura 2024 MDX Fact Sheet
- acura.com — News And Press / Press Release Detail
- acura.com — 2025 / V2 / Acura 2025 MDX Fact Sheet
- acura.com — MDX / 2022 / Acura 2022 MDX Fact Sheet
- acura.com — MDX / 2023 / Acura 2023 MDX Fact Sheet
- acura.com — 2022 / Mdx / Features
- acura.com — MDX / 2022 / Acura 2022 Mdx Fact Sheet
- acura.com — News And Press / Press Release Detail