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2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid: Real-World Fuel Economy
By Joe Bruzek
June 27, 2017 Share
2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid;Cars.com photo by Joe Bruzek
CARS.COM — The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid isn't a hybrid solely focused on maximum miles per gallon, with a sport-injected hybrid system that takes inspiration from the Acura NSX supercar (and for the sake of accuracy, the less-exciting Acura RLX sedan where it debuted). Even so, the MDX Sport Hybrid's fuel economy increases a respectable amount compared with the regular MDX. I hit the streets on a 680-plus-mile road trip to see if the 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid is more sport or more hybrid.
As a bonus, I separately took the MDX Sport Hybrid on the same fuel-economy loop as a 2017 Lexus RX 450h hybrid we tested earlier in the year to measure how the near-identically priced hybrid luxury SUVs compare at the pump. The as-tested MDX Sport Hybrid's price of $58,975 compared closely to the RX 450h's $57,274 price.
The MDX hybrid clicked off 27.8 mpg after driving 368.5 miles from the western suburbs of Chicago to Dayton, Ohio, in nearly traffic-free interstate driving averaging 57 mph. The 27.8 mpg is an average of the 29.3-mpg onboard trip computer readout and the 27.8 mpg fill-up calculation. On the return trip of 315.8 miles, the MDX hybrid returned a near-identical 27.9 mpg, which is right in line with its 27-mpg highway rating.
The electrified MDX Sport Hybrid — with its compact hybrid battery, 2 electric motors driving the back wheels and a 3rd electric motor attached to the new 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission — is EPA-rated at 26/27/27 mpg city/highway/combined. It's a notable 29 percent increase from a typical MDX with all-wheel drive rated at 18/26/21 mpg (without the optional auto stop-start).
2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid;Cars.com photo by Joe Bruzek
The MDX hybrid's observed fuel economy stacks up well against its own ratings, but what about its chief competitor, the Lexus RX 450h? Cars.com's fuel-economy loop is a 120-mile jaunt across Chicagoland combining bumper-to-bumper traffic with highway cruising and shopping-center suburban sprawl. The RX 450h easily exceeded its EPA ratings on the loop with an impressive 35.7-mpg average. The MDX bettered its EPA ratings as well, returning 29.3 mpg, but came up considerably short compared with the RX. We didn't have the same conditions from test to test, however: 55 degrees for the RX versus 83 degrees for the MDX, and the RX's average speed was 32 mph compared with the MDX's 28 mph.
The RX hybrid is the SUV for those making a practical choice about fuel economy. Buying a luxury car isn't always about practicality, however, and what the numbers don't show is that I found the MDX Sport Hybrid to be a considerably more pleasant SUV to drive. Its adjustable ride-quality firmness, crisp shifts, on-demand power and hybrid system responsiveness are geared toward the driving experience and not simply pegging the gas-mileage indicator.
Keep an eye out for our 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid review for more details on Acura's hybrid SUV's driving experience.
2018 Acura MDX Brings Updated Tech and Sporty Colors; A Perennial Best-Seller Gets Even Stronger
Sep 19, 2017 - TORRANCE, Calif.
New MDX gets a refreshed dual-screen user interface with enhanced 7-inch capacitive touchscreen display and 30 percent faster response time
Standard Apple CarPlay™ support, Android Auto™ compatibility (both new for 2018) and standard AcuraWatch™ safety and driver assist features make MDX among the best-equipped vehicles in its segment
Expanded color palette adds sporty and sophisticated red hues
The powerful and sophisticated 2018 Acura MDX luxury SUV begins arriving at Acura dealerships tomorrow with a faster, more capable and modern user interface, vivid new colors and a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)1 starting at $44,200, just $150 more than the outgoing model. The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time3 and has been recognized by Edmunds.com as the “Most Wanted Luxury Midsize SUV” (2017) and as “Best Luxury Three-Row SUV for the Money” (2017) by U.S. News & World Report.
For 2018, the Acura MDX features a redesigned dual-screen user interface(ODMD 2.0) with more intuitive menus and command structures complemented by a new 7-inch capacitive touchscreen (previously resistive type) with a 30-percent faster response time. It includes support for Apple CarPlay™, which seamlessly integrates compatible iPhones in the car, allowing users to get directions optimized for traffic, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music. It also supports Android Auto™ compatibility – putting some of the most useful Android phone apps on the MDX's display.
Two new eye-catching exterior colors expand the MDX color palette for 2018: Basque Red, available on base and Technology trims, and sporty San Marino Red on Advance trims.
Powertrain
The 2018 Acura MDX features a 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC® 24-valve V6 engine rated at 290 peak horsepower (SAE net) and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (SAE net) and is available in front-wheel drive or with Acura’s signature Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. The MDX with front-wheel drive and Idle Stop (included with Advance package) has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city/27 highway/23 combined2, while the MDX with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) and Idle Stop (included with Advance package) is EPA rated at 19 mpg city/26 highway/22 combined2.
The 2018 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model receives the same updates as the conventional MDX and will go on sale this winter. The MDX Sport Hybrid is the newest model in Acura's lineup to utilize its revolutionary three-motor Sport Hybrid powertrain with electric torque vectoring, joining the NSX supercar and RLX Sport Hybrid as the third member of the Acura family to benefit from this proprietary technology.
2018 MDX Pricing and EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
Premium Features
The 2018 MDX offers a broad range of standard and available comfort and convenience features including an available Surround-View Camera System (a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera is standard), heated steering wheel, Smart Entry Keyless Access System and push-button start. The 2018 Acura MDX Technology and Advance packages add two 20-inch wheel and tire options, Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, power folding side mirrors and HD Traffic.
In addition, the Advance grades include LED fog lights, genuine wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel and a Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles. Advance models can also be equipped with two second-row captain's chairs and a center console with two additional USB ports for third-row passengers. An ultra-widescreen Rear Entertainment System is also available on models with the Advance Entertainment Package.
Standard Safety and Driver Assistive Technology
Similar to other Acura models, the 2018 Acura MDX offers the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard equipment, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). The 2018 Acura MDX earned a 5-Star NCAP overall vehicle score from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is expected to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The 2018 MDX was designed and developed in the U.S. and is produced exlusively at the company’s East Liberty, Ohio manufacturing center using domestic and globally-sourced parts.
More aggressive styling appears to be the order of the day. Many automakers are applying an extra dose of pumped-up sporting pretenses. The latest machine to get this treatment? The new 2019 Acura MDX A-Spec, which was unveiled on Wednesday at the 2018 New York auto show and is due in showrooms in the summer.
This game is familiar by now. Revised fascias, dark trim pieces, and a fresh badge to denote the altered dynamic presence. That's what the MDX A-Spec delivers for the crossover SUV shopper that would prefer they were driving something with more actual punch. As opposed to the increased visual punch they've ordered up.
Now that's not entirely fair to the MDX A-Spec specifically. After all, this is a vehicle that comes packing the truly delightful Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system and the choice of 290- and 352-horsepower powertrains. Additionally, the styling upgrades actually work rather well here on the mid-size luxury SUV. The reworked front fascia fits the face perfectly while the body-colored side sills help create a vision of a more athletic stance. The 10-spoke 20-inch grey alloy wheels help out there as well.
Inside the cabin, MDX A-Spec variants receive sport seats boasting red or black leather trim contrasted by black Alcantara inserts. There's also contrasting stitching, unique A-Spec gauges, sport pedals, and faux carbon fiber trim. Your hands will enjoy the thicker A-Spec steering wheel that comes fitted with paddle shifters.
While we wish Acura was also announcing a TLX Wagon A-Spec, we have to live in the real world which is dominated by 2 and 3-row SUVs. The MDX is a money-printing machine, and the addition of the up-styled A-Spec certainly won't hurt those sales. But there is a bit more interesting news casually sprinkled into the N.Y. auto show arrival of this MDX.
While the A-Spec badging could easily stand for Appearance Spec Only, you know that you're in for a bit more dynamic entertainment if you find an Acura product labeled Type-S. Acura is re-confirming the return of Type-S models in the near future, and this is exciting news. When an Acura gets the Type-S treatment, that means you can expect more aggressive chassis tuning, more performance, and more power. Hopefully Acura finds a way to filter its Type-S goodness through the entire lineup.
Yes, even the MDX. Because we live in a time when even crossovers and SUVs can be a blast to drive.
Acura also used the N.Y. auto show to present a redesigned 2019 RDX. To learn about other vehicles appearing at the show, head to our dedicated hub.
Surprised to see an A-spec trim for the MDX since it's probably the last model year. Then again it's probably pretty cheap to just paint some grilles and rims, get some new seats, and make more A-Spec badges...
Surprised to see an A-spec trim for the MDX since it's probably the last model year. Then again it's probably pretty cheap to just paint some grilles and rims, get some new seats, and make more A-Spec badges...
I’m also super surprised to see Acura making so many changes so fast. In 2016 the MDX got the 9 speed auto, in 2017 it got the new looks and Hybrid model, in 2018 they put in all new head units, in 2019 they release the A-Spec model. Just a note though, this is most likely not the last year of production for this generation. The 2G MDX went from 2007-2009 and 2010-2013. This 3G looks to be following the same trend 2014-2016, and 2017-2020. Same with the 1G RDX which went from 2007-2009, and 2010-2012 then 2013-2015 and 2016-2018.
Yea that might make sense if they are doing another 7-year cycle for the MDX. I guess having the A-spec trim for the MDX, and more updates per year allows them to extend the cycle, which would give them more time to come up with the 4G MDX.
Best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all-time boosts luxury appeal with upgraded interior and expanded color palette
A-Spec sport appearance package available for the first time on MDX
Available Active Damper System and wider wheel & tire option improve dynamic experience
9-speed automatic transmission enhanced for smoother, more fluid acceleration feel
The 2019 Acura MDX arrives in dealerships today boasting upgraded interior fitment, new available premium exterior colors, drivability and dynamics enhancements, and an A-Spec sport appearance package. The 2019 MDX with standard AcuraWatch® technology and available Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) carries a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP1) of $44,300 (excluding $995 destination and handling) while the new MDX A-Spec starts at $54,800 with standard SH-AWD®. The 2019 MDX lineup will be further strengthened by the arrival of the 2019 MDX Sport Hybrid, going on-sale next month.
With nearly a million units sold since its inception, the MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time2. It is the only three-row luxury SUV in segment with 6 straight years of more than 50,000 sales3, and is the #1 retail-selling 3-row model in segment year-to-date4.
Interior and Exterior – More Luxury, More Choices Building on a major design refresh in 2017 and key technology updates in 2018, the 2019 Acura MDX comes with new interior enhancements designed to up the luxury quotient. New features include available authentic Desert Olive Ash wood trim, high-contrast seat and door panel stitching, and contrasting front seat side garnishes. Driver and front passenger seats now feature standard 4-way power lumbar adjustments, while the Technology and Entertainment packages receive an updated 2nd-row seat configuration, allowing easy passage to the 3rd row. The MDX with Advance Package adds trim-exclusive matching wood center console trim.
The 2019 MDX expands its color palette to a total of 9 options, including a rich new Gunmetal Metallic and 4 new available premium colors—Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Canyon Bronze Metallic and the A-Spec-exclusive Apex Blue Pearl.
Newly-designed 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels grace the Advance Package with a machine finish and Shark Grey accents, gaining a half-inch in width (up from 8.0 inches) and shod with wider 265/45-series tires (up from 245/50). MDXs with the Advance Package also gain body-color lower garnishes.
A-Spec Variant Joins MDX For the 2019 model, MDX adds an all-new A-Spec sport appearance variant. Available exclusively with Acura's torque-vectoring Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), A-Spec features a more athletic stance highlighted by exclusive half-inch wider 20-inch Shark Grey aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in low profile 265/45-series tires. An aggressive new front fascia, body-color lower sills, larger-diameter exhaust finishers, as well as gloss-black and dark chrome trim for the headlights, grille, window surround and rear tailgate spoiler further distinguish the MDX A-Spec.
Interior enhancements feature sport seats trimmed in rich red or black leather with black Alcantara™ inserts, high-contrast stitching, unique A-Spec gauges, sport pedals, Alcantara door inserts, gloss-black trim, a thicker-rimmed A-Spec-badged steering wheel with paddle shifters, and an exclusive A-Spec door step garnish.
Performance, Ride and Handling Refined The 2019 MDX can now be optioned with Acura's Active Damper System (ADS), previously available only on the MDX Sport Hybrid, offering both ride comfort and handling advantages while further expanding the dynamic "range" of the driver-selectable Integrated Dynamics System.
The responsive 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC® 24-valve V6 engine continues to power MDX with 290 peak horsepower (SAE net) and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (SAE net), in either standard front-wheel drive configuration, or the available SH-AWD® system. SH-AWD® delivers up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels and the ability to distribute up to 100 percent of that torque between the left and right rear wheels to optimize available traction and sharpen steering and handling response.
The 2019 model year also brings significant drivability enhancements to MDX. Its 9-speed automatic transmission gains a smoother, more fluid acceleration feel in normal driving by prioritizing 2nd-gear starts. When demand is higher in conditions such as full-throttle acceleration, certain uphill and towing situations, and when S-mode is selected, 1st gear starts are then prioritized for maximum available acceleration and pulling power.
Further drivability refinements are realized via an upgraded Idle Stop feature that is now standard across the MDX lineup for 2019. System enhancements shorten engine re-start response and operational smoothness via a new brake pressure trigger and software upgrades, resulting in a more natural, seamless feel.
The 2019 MDX with front-wheel drive has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20/27/23 mpg (city/highway/combined)5, A-Spec is rated at 19/25/21, and all other models with SH-AWD® have an EPA rating of 19/26/22 mpg (city/highway/combined)2.
Standard Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology
All 2019 MDX trims will come standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
In addition to AcuraWatch technology, all MDX's boast a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features, including Acura's Advance Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, advanced front, side, and side-curtain airbags, front pre-tensioning seatbelts, 4-channel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
2019 MDX Pricing and EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
TrimMSRP6 MSRP6
Including $995 Destination Charge EPA MPG Rating
(city/highway/combined)5 MDX (FWD) $44,300 $45,295 20/27/23 MDX (FWD) with Technology Package $49,300 $50,295 20/27/23 MDX (FWD) with Technology & Entertainment Packages $51,300 $52,295 20/27/23 MDX (FWD) with Advance Package $56,050 $57,045 20/27/23 MDX (FWD) with Advance & Entertainment Packages $58,050 $59,045 20/27/23 MDX (SH-AWD) $46,300 $47,295 19/26/22 MDX (SH-AWD) with Technology Package $51,300 $52,295 19/26/22 MDX (SH-AWD) with Technology & Entertainment Packages $53,300 $54,295 19/26/22 MDX A-Spec (SH-AWD) $54,800 $55,795 19/25/21 MDX (SH-AWD) with Advance Package $58,050 $59,045 19/26/22 MDX (SH-AWD) with Advance & Entertainment Packages $60,050 $61,045 19/26/22 MDX Sport Hybrid TBA ← ←
About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive luxury nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance, representing the original values of the Acura brand – a commitment to evocative styling, high performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of quality and reliability.
The Acura lineup features six distinctive models – the RLX premium, luxury sedan, the TLX performance luxury sedan, the ILX sport sedan, the five-passenger RDX luxury crossover SUV, the seven-passenger Acura MDX, America's all-time best-selling 3-row luxury SUV and the next-generation, electrified NSX supercar as a new and pinnacle expression of Acura Precision Crafted Performance.
5 of the 6 models in the Acura lineup are made exclusively in central Ohio, using domestic and globally-sourced parts, including the ILX and TLX luxury sports sedans (Marysville Auto Plant), the RDX and MDX luxury SUVs (East Liberty Auto Plant) and the Acura NSX supercar, which is built to order at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio.
For More Information
Additional media information including pricing, features & specifications and high-resolution photography is available at AcuraNews.com. Consumer information is available at Acura.com. Follow Acura on social media at Acura.us/SocialChannels.
This heavily disguised SUV test mule is Acura's impressive effort to conceal a prototype for a sporty MDX Type S. There's no way to identify the vehicle as a performance-oriented model from the body, but our spies are able to snap a few shots underneath the machine to reveal the dual exhaust arrangement.
Acura covers this test mule that it's almost impossible to tell that this is one of the company's products, let alone that the machine is an MDX. The company even switches out the headlights from the SUV's standard LED headlights for placeholder pieces with big amber turn signals.
The company also disguises the interior and makes sure that none of its emblems are visible. The design of the vents on the center stack and the location of the engine start button lower on the console gives the model away as an MDX.
The photos underneath the SUV finally tell us something important about this MDX. Two exhaust pipes emerge from the engine, suggesting a V-oriented cylinder layout for the mill. The pipes terminate with a pair of outlets at each corner.
In January 2018, Acura announced that it was reviving the Type S badge for future performance models. The company said that it had a new turbocharged V6 under development for these vehicles, and the powerplant was exclusively for Acura-branded machines. The automaker said the Type S models wouldn't be too hardcore and would occupy a sporty spot akin to Audi's S-branded products.
Spy shots in 2018 showed Acura testing a heavily camouflaged TLX that we suspected might be the Type S. However, there haven't been any recent photos of the sporty model's development.
Leveraging the advanced technology and human craftsmanship of Acura's bespoke supercar factory, the 2020 Acura MDX PMC Edition makes its debut at 2019 AutoMobility LA. Covered in lustrous, PMC-exclusive Valencia Red Pearl paint, the Acura MDX PMC Edition is the latest limited edition vehicle from Acura's prestigious Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio. Hand-assembled by the same master technicians who build the NSX supercar the 2020 Acura MDX PMC Edition will launch early next year with just 300 vehicles built for the U.S. market and 30 for Canada. U.S. pricing is expected to be in the mid-$60,000 range.
The MDX PMC Edition is powered by Acura's 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC® V6 engine with 290 peak horsepower (SAE net) and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (SAE net), mated to a quick-shifting and highly refined 9-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®).
To create this line-topping PMC edition, Acura combines the premium features of the MDX Advance Package with the sporty character of the MDX A-Spec package - a unique and exclusive build in the line-up. PMC Edition-exclusive exterior design elements include: Valencia Red Pearl paint, gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels, a body color grille surround with gloss-black grille mesh, black chrome exhaust finishers; and gloss-black treatment for the roof, roof antenna, exterior mirrors, window molding, rear license plate garnish and door handles.
Inside, the Acura MDX PMC Edition is further distinguished by black Milano leather seats with Alcantara™ inserts, black piping and red stitching for the seats, doors linings and center armrest. Its thick A-Spec sport steering wheel is adorned in dimpled black leather with red stitching and metal-finished paddle shifters, complemented by a red illuminated meter and A-Spec floormats. An individually numbered serial plaque on the lower console designates the 2020 MDX PMC Edition as a limited edition vehicle handcrafted at Acura's Performance Manufacturing Center.
Following the hand-assembly process, each Acura MDX PMC Edition receives the same quality control process as NSX, including a dyno check, paint inspection, rough-road simulation and water leak test. To protect the paint during shipping, the PMC Edition is wrapped in a specially designed car cover and transported to Acura dealers via enclosed, single-car carriers.
2021 Acura MDX Leaked Again… This Time In Patent Images
[img]data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABAAAAAJCAYAAAA 7KqwyAAAAGXRFWHRTb2Z0d2FyZQBBZG9iZSBJbWFnZVJlYWR5c cllPAAAABpJREFUeNpi/P//PwMlgImBQjBqwLAwACDAAOVfAw9/ZDvcAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC[/img] May 04, 2020 at 2:46am 0 By: Adrian Padeanu
It appears to be bigger than the outgoing model.
It was only a few days ago when fully revealing images of the all-new Acura TLX surfaced the Internet via the patent office and now the MDX has leaked the very same way. Published on the French forums of Worldscoop, the images are said to come from the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) where the next-gen TLX was found as well last week.
It’s actually not our first look at the two future Acura models as both the TLX and MDX showed up unexpectedly on the RDX’s infotainment system nearly a year ago. At that point, Honda’s premium division said the designs were more along the lines of conceptual renderings rather than the actual road-going models, but the production models appear to be nearly the same.
Gallery: 2021 Acura MDX patent images
4 PhotosWhile it may not look too attractive at a first glance, history has taught us these patent images don’t do the cars any justice. Seeing the MDX in this grayish shade doesn’t paint an entirely accurate picture of the actual vehicle, which we’re hoping will be available with larger wheels because these look a tad small. Speaking of size, the fourth-gen model gives us the impression it has grown in size as the hood seems longer and the rear section aft the C-pillar also appears to have been extended.
An Early Look At The Next-Gen MDX:
New Acura MDX, TLX Allegedly Leaked Through RDX Software Suite
2020 Acura MDX Type-S Spied Showing Its Grille And Not Much Else If you recall, spy shots from July 2019 showed a prototype flaunting quad exhaust tips to suggest a Type S variant is in the pipeline. The range topper will feature a newly developed six-cylinder turbocharged engine hooked up to the company’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). Exclusive to the Acura brand, the new powertrain is rumored to have a 3.0-liter displacement and well over 300 horses channeled to both axles.
[CSB]
Was driving my aunt's '12 MDX (with only 36k on it) yesterday, first time I've been in one in a long time. Quite nice, I'd consider trying to buy it from her, if it didn't get such atrocious MPG. It's not too far off from my dad's 4wd Silverado.
[/CSB]
2021 Acura MDX Switches To More Revealing Camouflage Ahead Of Fall Debut
BY Dan Mihalascu | Posted on August 20, 2020 0The redesigned 2021 Acura MDX has been spotted undergoing testing in the United States with a new, more revealing body wrap and no padding whatsoever.
Following the patent images we featured in May, these spy shots provide the best look yet at Acura’s next-generation midsize SUV. Corroborating these photos with the patent images, it’s pretty clear this prototype wears the production body complete with the production headlights and taillights.
The design language is obviously inspired by the recently-released 2021 Acura TLX sedan, and that’s a good thing because the new MDX looks less bulky and more athletic than before.
At the front, highlights include the diamond pentagonal grille that focuses attention on the massive Acura logo, sleek LED headlights with integrated DRLs underlining the 4 clusters, and a sculpted bumper featuring vertical inlets.
Seen from the side, the MDX 3-row crossover looks flatter than the outgoing model and features an ascending third lateral window for a sportier appearance. Out back, the sleek LED taillights are clearly inspired by those of the new TLX sedan, while the seemingly smaller rear window and flat tailpipes add to the sporty look.
As for the interior, one of the photos reveals a “floating” central display that looks consistent with the leaked images we showed you one year ago. Expect a sporty dash with a digital instrument panel, slim center console, ambient lighting and all the bells and whistles available in the Acura universe right now.
The 2021 MDX is expected to share the all-new platform with the 2021 TLX. As a result, we can expect a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine to act as the entry-level variant. Hooked to a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offers 272 hp (203 kW / 276 PS) and 280 lb-ft (379 Nm) of torque in the TLX and it comes with standard FWD or optional AWD.
We also know the 2021 Acura MDX will offer a Type S variant, likely powered by the same 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine from the new TLX Type S. On said model, the power plant delivers 355 hp and 354 lb-ft (479 Nm) of torque in combination with a 10-speed auto and standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. Besides these 2 gasoline engines, a Sport Hybrid variant also looks likely for the 2021 MDX.
Expect the new generation MDX to be revealed in the fall and go on sale next year.
Next-Generation Acura MDX Prototype Set to Debut Oct. 14
October 1, 2020 — TORRANCE, CALIF.
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Acura’s best-selling vehicle and America’s all-time best-selling 3-row luxury SUV gets its most ambitious redesign ever
MDX takes on flagship role with dramatic gains in style, performance and craftsmanship
After more than two decades and one million units sold since MDX first debuted, Acura is set to unveil the most ambitious redesign of America’s all-time best-selling 3-row luxury SUV of yet. The fourth-generation MDX, debuting in prototype form Oct. 14, will usher-in new levels of Acura design, performance, technology and craftsmanship, assuming the mantle as the brand’s new flagship model.
“We’re accelerating Acura’s commitment to Precision Crafted Performance and this fourth-generation MDX is the most ambitious and consequential redesign of an Acura core model in our history,” said Jon Ikeda, vice president and Acura brand officer. “This all-new MDX will take us into new territory in terms of performance, prestige and emotional appeal.”
A teaser image and short video released today, highlight the sharply sculpted beltline running the perimeter of the wider, lower and longer MDX, connecting the Jewel Eye® LED headlights at the front to the Chicane™ LED taillights in the rear.
The original MDX was the industry’s first three-row SUV to be based on a unibody platform, offering superior comfort, space and driving performance than existing truck-based SUVs. The model earned critical praise, including 2001 North American Truck of the Year and 2001 Motor TrendSUV of the Year awards. Over the past two decades, cumulative sales have surpassed 1 million units, securing MDX’s place as the best-selling Acura model, accounting for roughly one-third of the brand’s U.S. sales since its launch.
I am genuinely excited to see what Acura is going to do with the MDX, now that it is the flagship model. But I swear, if they give this car RWD proportions at the cost of 2nd and 3rd row legroom, and then try to sell us on a 2.0T that's slower than the outgoing V6...
I can't wait for the next MDX vs <Competitor's car> "review" where they list "Chicane™ LED taillights" as standard for the MDX and not available on the other car.
FYI, according to Car and Driver, Acura will skip 2021 MDX model year and go straight to 2022: "The MDX will be all-new for 2022, borrowing styling and technology from the recently revamped RDX and TLX models; Acura has confirmed there will be no interim 2021 model. The 2022 MDX prototype will be revealed on October 14th."
Our 2018 lease is up August 2021, so we're hoping to slide into a 2022 MDX. Type-S would be preferred, but not sure if it will be out at that time. Looking forward to the 10/14 reveal
06-01-2017, 10:03 AM
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2019 Acura MDX A-Spec
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