I buy a lot of vehicles of all kinds and I'm always concerned about having sidewalls that are too "short." So, I do my homework on tire diameters and usually swap out, even going down from
20" to 19", etc. The MDX Type S comes with 275/40/21's...as you know. They are 29.7" in diam. You can drop down to a 275/45/20 tire size that is also...29.7" in diam. Yes, it means finding
new 20" wheels, and selling the factory installed 21's. My dealer always buys them off me for a decent enough price. Helps pay for the replacements.

IF I get a Type S Adv, I'm looking at going down to the 20" size using Continental DWS 06 Plus "normal" tires. Then there's the "spare issue"....that's really there too with the factory self sealing
tires. They're only good for a puncture...in the "right place" up to 1/4". IF you have a sidewall damage or something larger than 1/4"...then you are stuck with calling for help. I don't like that, and
am not happy with Acura for NOT having a spare tire system, as the Advance model has...and other AWD...as they have for years. IF you go to the 20" downsizing, you can order all the spare tire
parts and pieces individually from Acura and install. At this point there appears to be room under the rear floor...using the same "temp. spare" as the Advance model has and in the same recessed
location. That "recess" under the floor is still there on the Type S models. A "full size spare" is a no go since it's too big for the space and would hang down too far. The "temp spare" as used on the
Advance model is good enough and will prevent having to call for help if you're in the boondocks and need to get out of there!!

Just a note about ride quality. Long story...but, I had a '22 MDX Adv. It rode GREAT and I liked it a lot. Air suspension should be an option...I don't need it!! Honestly, not so sure WHY Acura decided to
go that route. This isn't an off road vehicle where that would be helpful. Ride quality was already great...???....so, what's the point? The clearance is great as it is. I don't know their rationale.

 

Been reading through all these posts on this forum, and then I came across your response to this thread, and wow this peaked my interest. Owning several BMWs over the years, and thinking about the BMW X3 M40i only to see that you sold yours after just one year, to purchase an RDX and Passport peaked my curiosity. I currently own a 2003 Porsche Boxster S, 2008 BMW 550i, and 2017 Porsche Macan GTS. Have leased two RDXs 2015 and 2018 in the past. Actually regret not buying the 2018 when it came off lease. Great vehicle, loved the V6 engine, and had just 30,000 miles. Hindsight is 2020.

I would purchase a new 2022 BMW X3 M40i, but they are coming without features because of the chip shortage that are deal breakers for me. So, no thanks.

Enjoying RDXs in the past, as a great daily driver, but knowing that the newer models now have a 4 cylinder, and the awesome V6 is a thing of the past, gives me pause. I like the exterior styling of the RDX, and the only one for me would be the A-Spec package, and desire the Advance Package, but hate the wheels on the Advance Package. Wondering if anyone has been able purchase an A-Spec with Advance Package and the A-Spec only package wheels?

I am considering the MDX, only because it has the V6 engine and digital instrument cluster. I don't need a vehicle that large, and think the RDX styling looks sportier, but not sure what would be the best daily driver. Looks like the MDX will be $21K more expensive with comparable packages.

 

I have a new A-Spec/Adv and the outside IS just like the A-Spec. Unlike you, I like the Adv. wheels, so I switched and put those on mine. But, it comes with the A-Spec wheels/tires. I just don't like black/dark wheels.
That 2.0 turbo with 272 hp.is quick. I had the '19 A-Spec when it came out with this engine, and liked it then. Just didn't like the ride. NOW, with the Adv. Pack. added it makes this a GREAT SUV. It's my wife's, but, I
enjoy it too. I too have had many of the Honda Motor Corp. 3.5 V6 engines in various vehicles. Never had an issue. I liked them a lot. But, no choice in the current RDX...but, again, the 2.0 has proven to be a strong,
fun engine. Does it use more gas if you put your foot in it???...Oh yes it does! Turbo 4 engines will not give you great fuel mileage...esp. if you like to drive with "fun in mind!" But, oh well, want to play, you pay.

 

I really miss driving the X3 M40i. If I had more garage capacity I would have kept it and the Mercedes for use when the weather is fair and the streets are clean. Unfortunately, Colorado weather beats the crap out of your vehicles. The X3 M40i really is one of the "Ultimate Driving Machines" Brutally quick for a SUV. German vehicles even with their faults are special vehicles like no others.
I'm really enjoying my 2021 RDX advance package. It's pretty peppy for what it is. I too hate the Advance Package wheels. I purchased a set of the technology package wheels which I'm having installed tomorrow.

 

Too bad our timing wasn't better. I would have given you the Advance Package wheels I'm replacing tomorrow with Teck Pkg. wheels. I agree, I'm not a fan of the black/dark wheels either. As a young guy in the old muscle car days, those with old rusted/corroded wheels who couldn't afford new ones would spray paint their wheels black or sometimes white. Oh how times have changed!

 

Are you saying you like the Tech wheels better than the Advance wheels?? I'm also a non-fan of the standard Advance wheels and have considered the Tech wheels.

 

We just test drove a Type S with the red interior and have to admit - it did look quite nice. In person sitting in the car, it doesn't come across with the garish hues that show online in the Acura Build pages. My wife also agreed the online display doesn't do it justice - the red wouldn't necessarily be a deal breaker as we'd initially presumed!

The demo had accumulated over 140 miles in the few days since arriving - sales person rides along with all demos....

 

We drove a Type S demo today - White Pearl/Red. My wife liked the massage seats and we both agreed that in person, the red interior had an elegance to it instead of the flashy, 'in your face' impression we got from pictures.

In the end, we finalized on a White Pearl/Espresso Advance. No doubt, accelerating in the Type S was fun, but sitting at a stoplight, driving through town at the 45 speed limit, pulling back into the lot and parking - doing the everyday stuff - everything I really wanted is in the Advance. And it has the tried and true 3.5 V6 of which I've had a couple and they were flawless. Plus the Advance comes with a spare.

That said, I will be a bit envious every time I read about someone taking delivery of a Type S!!

 

You'll be very happy with the Advance. I had a '22 Advance! I know....but, at the time my wife thought it was too big for her to wheel around town in. She had at one time the '19 RDX A-Spec and liked it's
size a lot. So, I traded down for the '22 RDX A-Spec Advance and it is nice! And I got a nice check too. LOL! But, I DO miss the Advance MDX!! I was very impressed and enjoyed driving it every time.
I've owned a lot of Acuras..MDX's, RDX's, TLX's, TSX...all have been great...AND the 3.5 V6 engines have all been great engines....in my past Hondas too!
In the new MDX many say it's underpowered. Matter of perspective and opinion. I've owned, again, MANY Acuras and other vehicles. Acura reprogrammed the 10 speed trans for the 3.5 in the new MDX
and I can say it will get up and move just fine! First 2 gears are really low....and off the line really quick and fast shifts. And, yes, the good part too, you get a temp. spare and tools.
The ELS sound system is GREAT...enough power and speakers! Don't need 1,000 watts and 25 speakers as in the Type S! LOL!!
Ride and handling are very good! Esp. compared to the previous Gen. of the MDX.

Other than that...for me personally...no black vehicles. LOL! Each to their own. Have you ever owned one, esp that large...and trying to keep it looking great?? Way too much work.
Enjoy your new MDX Adv!!

 

Yup. I do like the Tech wheels best of what is offered for the RDX. Nice gray and machined finish. Advance wheels (in my opinion) looks like a starfish crawled into the wheel and the a-spec wheels are too dark. I found a set of 4 new OEM Tech wheels on e-Bay for $599.99. I'm having them installed today.

 

I am in the same BOAT... retired at 70 yo, BUT we use my wife's 2016 CRV for the occassional Grandkids (4, 1) to do School deliveries or pick ups with the Huge Child seats. wyliec, I wrestled with the same 3 issues. No. 3 was not an option in July - August 2021. I leased my MDX Advance in August 2021. Do I really need a 3 Row SUV (actually the 3rd Row like in sooo many vehicles is "ridiculous" for other than very small people / kids)? NO, but I loved the redesign , the enhanced handling, the 10 spd AT, and the adaptability of removing the cemnter console seat in the second row 9although i have yet to do that). I traded in via an early lease termination Offer for my 2019 MDX Advance. I'm sure if I had a Type S to drive in July, I "MAY" have opted for it albeit, the lease payment would have been easily another $150 a month with all other things equal (Equity + $1K Loyalty , etc.). And for the way I drive this car , doing mostly local stuff, and 2X a month 240 miles round trip to visit the other Grandkids, the Thrill of the S would not endure too long especially with the escalading Gas prices. To date, I have 4100 miles on my MDX , and I am disappointed with typical MPGs both locally (Suburban) and Highway. City 13-14 MPGs and Highway (jersey Turnpike 70-80 MPH ) Max 23 MPGs. That's at least 10% below the 2019. The Type S's power, air suspension, better brakes, Auto Suspensiomn Dampening, massaging seats are Inviting but expensive. Well, Who Knows, God Willing, maybe in a year or so, an early termination may be in the Cards. The Advent and Eruption of EVs being shoved down our Collective throats (I have lots of opinions on this Crusade , not for this Forum), the future value of gasolione only cars are in jeopardy.
Good Luck with your Decision and new MDX !!

 

For those cross shopping with the RDX—

Doesn’t the MDX with its double wishbone suspension handle much better?

 

anoop, The Non S Type MDX does handle very well, especially for its size its Mid sized SUV. I did not test drive the S Type (which has Auto Dampening and air suspension in the Advance ). However, I did test drive the RDX , 2X and almost went with it. I ws able to put it through its Paces (no salesperson aboard due to COVID), hitting corner hard, highway entrances, local suburban roads, etc. It was quicker, and took the winding turns very well. if it weren't for my perception that the seats (I have lots of spinal issues ), wouldn't be as comfortable as the MDX on longer Grandpa trips, i would have Optd for the RDX. I don't really need the size of a 3 Row SUV (see my earlier Post about that), but the MDX was alluring, and it Grabbed Me.. I'm not sure of the actual MPGs for the RDX (I'm sure they are lower than quoted - all cars are), the MDX is "disappointing" to me. At least 10-15% Less than the EPAs. One benefit is that many here have saiod , the MDX runs just Fine on 87 Octane regular gas. I usually use Premium, but have begun to Blend in some regular. The RDX with its Turbo - I beleive requires Premium gas.exclusively. You should check out YT video reviews of the new 2022 RDX and posts on this Forum for opinions, then go drive one. Just keep in mind.....Inflation is a disease and its here to Stay and increase. { thank you potus}.

 

According to Edmunds, all current gen Acuras (including Type S) have Premium gas as a recommendation only. They all can take regular with a performance hit.

 

Elin, if I had a turbo, Type S or RDX, I'd use Premium to realize the Performance of the car. Turbos do perform better with higher octane gas. I would tend to think then what is the point of getter the Type S with more umph if you don't realize it's designed potential. The RDX would probably take some experimenting to measure how much of a performance hit

 

The cost of gas right now has nothing to do with who is president. Nor the last president. But way to inject politics into a discussion about the Acura MDX...

 

texashoser, You are Right. I beg to differ with you but this is topic for entirely different Forum. This has mnothing to do with To Type S or Not.

 

I agree with texashoser "the cost of gas right now has nothing to do with who is president" and you regarding nothing to do with the Type S

 

OK. I'll try to get this back on topic. I'm going to pick up my Type S Advance tomorrow, had a 2022 A Spec. Hope I like it as much as the other. Drove the S Tech at the dealership. Liked it a lot. I'll check in when I get a good first impression!

 

Did you recover the cost of the A spec?

 

Me too? Same question? How many miles were omn the A Spec you Traded In for the new Type S?

 

Took my 2020 MDX in for service today and was checking out the 2022 inventory. They have 8 Type S on the lot, 2 A-Specs and no Techs or bases at all. Just really surprised me.

 

maybe they are asking for a higher premium and have fancy dealer accessories on those.

 

You might be right. Just checked my next nearest dealer who has 17 MDXs on the lot and 8 are type S, the rest are advance or A-Specs. Just wasn't what I expected to see. I thought the type S would be so much harder to find.

 

I had the same thought…. Last week one of the local dealers had a TOTAL new inventory of 8 vehicles - TLX, ILX and MDX. IIRC they had no RDX models. Two Type S MDX- Advance demo unit and Tiger Eye Tech.

 

My local dealer had a Type S they were asking $82K for, which included a $10K markup. I'm 100% certain someone will pick it up at that price because people have too much funny money. By comparison they seem to ask $2K-$5K over MSRP for RDX models and most are sold even before they get there although I think they had 3 on the lot the last time I was in for service.

 

At $82K, $10K over MSRP, and $20K over my 2022 MDX Advance leased in August ?? It would almost take Wild Horses to make me do that. But as anoop said, If Someone wants this nice SUV that much and has $$$$ to burn, they will go for it. And in Callie, you pay 40-50% more for gas than us in the NY/ Northeast area. But, To Each Their Own. This market factoid is actually very interesting, in light of the Push for EVs. Evidently, there is still demand for Gas Powered SUVs and further attests to the attractiveness of the new 2022 MDX.

 

A lot of people believe that the bump in gas prices is temporary. Only time will tell whether they are correct. If it continues to go up and we hit $10 gas, I think people will start to give up, but we are not there yet. Gas at my local station has fallen recently from a high of $6.40 to $6.20 for premium.

 

Well, I don't think I got the most for the trade. 10k miles I was in the midst of some family issues. $53.

Got the S Type today, put 80 miles on it. As of now, with limited miles I'd say I'm very happy I made the purchase. I'll fill in as the miles add. Looking forward to checking the milage on the first tank.

 

InWi, I presume you Bought your 2022 MDX A spec? I leased my 2022 MDX Advance in August 2021(and love it, the novelty really has not worn off). Although the Type S is very tempting (it was not out in August), breaking the lease would be a slaughter financially. So, I'll wait and see what happens into next year with a possible Early lease termination deal offer from Acura. That's how i got my 2022 MDX, via a Early Lease termination deal on my 2019 MDX Advance which included a $1K Loyalty from Acura at that time.

Good Luck with your New Type S MDX !!!

 

$82k for an Acura??? An Acura???

 

What's wrong with that?
There is an argument to be made that an $82k Acura is a better buy than an $82k German anything. I've had several $82k German anythings and if I could do it all over again would rather spend that money on an Acura or Lexus. I would have had less grief and imo more enjoyment. To each their own.

 

Acura was always affordable luxury-ish/sporty-ish and a lot of bang for the buck. But once you approach this pricing territory you start getting out the microscope and for this kind of money Acura starts falling short.

 

Acura has better bang for the buck and maybe even fun. Definitely not better reliability, not anymore at least. My 2019 RDX is the worst car I have owned in terms of reliability and I have owned 3 BMWs and put about 300K miles in total across them. I won't buy another BMW because they have removed the fun steering and suspension so now you just pay for engine and badge.

The $82K includes a $10K dealer markup. I don't think I'd pay markup, let alone that much of a markup, unless I was desperate for a car and there was no alternative. Otherwise, I think the Type S is actually very reasonably priced. To get a 3 row German performance SUV, you are probably looking close to $100K when comparably equipped, but the German tech has much better execution.

 

Overhyped and overpriced is the Type S (dressed up Honda)

 

Alexdv, I can't make the same observations. I never had a German car. Driven them, test drive them but did not have one over any period of time. But from what I hear from family Members and associates, they are very disappointing with problems and do have very expensive upkeep costs.
I will say, in 2013 , shopping for a replacement of my Infiniti G37 X, I test drive an Audi 6 with a Super charged 326 HP 6 Cylinder engine with Fantastic Torque and unbelievable road manners. But at $225 more per month and needing a $5000 cap cost for a lease, I passed. I leased the 2013 Infiniti M37X. It never received it's proper acclaim and was very underappreciated bc it wasn't a BMW, Audi, or a MB, even an Acura. That M37X was fantastic car, the best value out there, but didn't have BS special name.

 

I made a similar comment in another thread concerning MDX Type S sitting on lots and one member basically said "fake news"!

Not surprising to me given how dealerships try to get what they can get and existing high premium gas prices (no one would dare put regular gas in a Type S, right?).

 

My guess is anyone buying a Type S, especially with a markup, probably doesn't care about gas prices. So, I think they are sitting because they are probably going to be low volume and dealers want to milk it. The Type S is well reviewed and Acura has many fans.

 

By the same token, no one hoping Acura is the "value preposition" will favorably compare the asking price against German competition.

So do we really believe folks shopping German are seriously considering MDX Type S? I think Acura has priced the MDX Type S in no man's land IMHO.

 

Acura found a gap in the market that they tried to fill. Unfortunately, sometimes gaps exist not because companies aren't positioning something there, but because consumer demand in that spot doesn't exist. By all measures, the MDX Type S offers something the competitors doesn't...but it seems like customers aren't exactly looking for something in that area. Honestly, if Acura could get the MSRP down to $60K by forgoing things like the bigger brakes, bigger wheels, air suspension, aero, and whatever else extra outside of the powertrain, and position this as a true alternative to the X5 40i or Q7 55, I think they could have a sales winner. Yeah, it might not be a true "Type S", but frankly I doubt many people in the market for a 3-row crossover is looking for the Type S experience, and would just rather have a normal MDX with more power.