cabanalane

Looking for a 2024 because I don't need a new car now, but will later, so I'm asking this question.

2024 MDX A-Spec. Why do I want a MDX? Because I want something a bit nicer than the Pilot.

The Pilot is the front runner now. Why? Because it's new. My only question is on the engine. I'm familiar with the SOHC J35 V6 (used in the Odyssey).

My questions are:

- Is the DOHC J35 V6 "better" in terms of design? The current SOHC is proven, aside from the VCM issue.
- Is this DOHC J35 really a new engine?
- Is the DOHC J35 the future, meaning MDX, Odyssey, Ridgeline, Passport will eventually move aways for the SOHC J35 to DOHC?
- Does the MDX "recommend" premium fuel? I'll admit it up front, I don't plan on using premium. Decrease performance is not an issue as I'm stuck in traffic DD and go to the mall on the weekends.

I tend to keep cars for a "long time" as my current Odyssey is 10+ years old and 150K+ miles. So I guess the next one will carry me to 2034.

TIA

mrgold35

I'm personally waiting until the +2025 MDX because I'm not in a big hurry with my 19 MDX Adv Sport Hybrid:
- Acura usually does 3 model years and a Mid-Model Change with exterior, interior, powertrain, and technology updates (you will have the 22-24 and MMC +2025 to pick from in new, CPO, and used version/models)
- Acura "might" include Aspec+Adv model like they did with the RDX refresh
- The 2025 MDX "should" have the updated 3.5L J35 found in the current Honda vehicles with a touch more hp
- Any changes to the 2025 will most likely be the standard for the next 4 model years until +2029 MDX Gen rolls out
- Hopefully, car prices and interest rates should be closer to "normal" +18 months down the road
- Acura still might surprise us with a hybrid or plug-in hybrid with the RDX platform in a few years (just the wife and I with the option of going MDX or RDX as our next vehicles).

All Acura's vehicle run fine on 87-93 Octane, it is better to use top tier fuel whenever possible and sticking to scheduled maintenance to help keep everything running smooth for +150,000 miles

RebelShadow

I have a 2022 MDX and already have 131,000 clocked with no issues. I've run both 87 Octane and 93 Octane, while there is a noticeable difference in power levels with 87 obtain, it works but not as much fun!

RDX10

Is that miles?!?!?! How the heck did you manage that many already lol. Hell even kms that's crazy.

RebelShadow

I drive a lot. I am a field service tech for a telecommunications company that works on systems for DHS, prisons, sheriffs, & Jails and covered Mississippi, Louisiana, & Texas but now transferred to Tennessee. and yes, that was miles. Now at 132,000 miles

jason60051

Fellow Sport Hybrid owner here too. I’m also curious if they will add adjustable dampers in the advance models like they did with the 3rd gen after the refresh. I’m shocked the RDX advance has the adjustable dampers and the current mdx does not.

mrgold35

I really like the electronic damper system on the 17-20 Sport Hybrid. My previous MDX was an 11 MDX Adv with the active damper system (love the sporty ride; but, hated 14-16 city mpgs). I just got too spoiled with the extra hp/tq with the Sport Hybrid and the increase in combined mpgs equal to my old 06 TSX 5AT with a 205hp 2.4L. The combo of hp/tq/mpgs is the reason for not upgrading to the MDX Type-S (unless they add the Sport Hybrid system down the road). I will probably end up skipping the entire 4th Gen MDX models since it looks like there won't be a Sport Hybrid or plug-in hybrid version. I might end up jumping from the Honda/Acura ship into something else after almost 35 years if they still lag behind in hybrid/PHEV SUV/CUV models.

RDX10

I mean honestly that is a great testament both to the comfort of the MDX and reliability. Wishing you many more happy miles!

RD335

Manufacturers’ octane recommendations are tied to cylinder compression ratios. Gas with a higher octane can withstand a higher compression before detonating, meaning the higher the octane, the lower the likelihood the fuel will detonate at the wrong time. If detonation happens at the wrong time frequently, it can harm your engine over time. If the manufacturer recommends 87 octane fuel, the engine does not require higher octane fuel and it’s a waste of money because lower compression engines have no need for it. Advertising has confused people into believing high octane gas is somehow linked to higher performance for any engine. It is not.

augie05

Very true. I always use the recommended octane per the manufacturer. It may cost a few bucks more to fill up the car but worth it to me for peace of mind, improved performance and better long-term reliability. Most people blow 10x more than that just getting coffee or whatever every day.

BTW -- We really enjoy driving our 2023 MDX. We have about $5K miles and no issues/problems other than the charging pad doesn't like my iPhone with a case.

Colorado Guy AF Ret.

I buy a lot of cars, often. Mostly Acuras the past 11 yrs. Name it, I've owned it...except the NSX. I had a '22 MDX Adv. and liked it a LOT. The Type S just swayed me for
a "try out." Liking it....but, I'd take that 3.5, 10 speed auto again. It was great with the retuned trans and had plenty of power. I've also had the 3.5 in MANY other Acuras.
Never complained about that engine. The A-spec would be a great vehicle that you would enjoy, I'm sure.

ColoRDX

87 octane vs 93 octane power level? I've only 5k miles on my 2023 Advance. I cannot really, honestly tell any noticeable performance difference between 87 vs 93. Does the 93 octane just feel quicker to you or have you done some actual performance testing?