I don't want to take up too much time, just need a short answer. Is the trans in the 2018-2020 MDX same as the ZF9 that was in 2015-2020 TLX V6? I had the TLX, it was the biggest turd I ever owned. Wife might be looking into MDX CPO and if it's the same trans, I need to tell her to forget it. Thanks

 

Yes, same ZF transmission, however there has been many improvements.

2016 is when it started with the MDX. 2017 was roughly the same quality, with minor kinks improved. Same with 2018. For 2019, Acura did a lot of changes to the transmission, including reprograming it to be smoother shifts. Very minor difference, but someone like yourself might be able to tell.

So, if your concerned about the transmission, look for 2019+

OR HERE Is A BETTER IDEA if you want an MDX and the transmission is a deal breaker: Get the Sport Hybrid. That uses a different transmission, a dual clutch, and offers Acura's Sport Hybrid Super Handling All Wheel Drive and it drives amazing. You will pay a premium for the car, but you will have a better car than the standard MDX

best of luck!

 

I have the 19 MDX which has the ZF9 Transmission. It is very smooth. It seems to be properly programmed as opposed to the pre 19 transmissions. I suggest you try it out before dismissing same. BTW, my Mother has a 96 Accord and we cant kill that thing. No issues whatsoever and still runs like a dream.

 

20 MDX here. Trans is smooth as silk.

 

There have been numerous software improvements for the ZF9. Several months ago dealer flashed my 2018 trans. Took a few miles for it to learn me. But it made big improvement.

 

Don't know about other MY, but our 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid was only $1500 premium over the standard ICE only model. Biggest no-brainer and easiest decision I've ever made. Love the MDX-SH so much, I got a matching RLX-SH late last year to add to the stable.