There are a total of six trims built around two engines and three packages. The base model comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that develops 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. In standard guise or with the Technology Package, it can be equipped with FWD or AWD. When upgraded to the Advanced or A-Spec packages, AWD is standard. The Type S is AWD, too, but comes with a 3.0-liter turbo V6 that makes 355 hp and 354 lb-ft. Every configuration is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
The base-level model is equipped with 19-inch allow wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and DRL, a panoramic moonroof, as well as three rows of seating. The interior boasts tri-zone climate control, 12-way power front seats with heating, and leatherette upholstery. Safety features include lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, while a 12.3-inch touchscreen grants access to smartphone integration, Wi-Fi capability, and HD Radio, among others.
The available package sub-trims enhance this offering with larger wheels, an upgraded sound system, leather or suede upholstery, second-row heated seats, massage functions for the front seats, and more safety tech like a head-up display and surround-view camera.
The FWD MDX has a base price of just under $50,000 in the US, while the Technology Package retails at an MSRP of around $55,500. An SH-AWD system can be added to both these models for an additional $2,200. A-Spec and Advance Package models come standard with the SH-AWD system. The A-Spec Package retails for just under $60k, while the Advance Package goes for a few grand more.
The Type S starts in the high $60k area and the Type S Advance tops the charts at over $70k. The price of the Acura MDX excludes the handling and destination charge of $1,195.
Acura does things a little differently from other manufacturers. What we usually refer to as trim levels, it calls packages. You can add the Technology Package, plus A-Spec or Advance. The latter two can't be ordered together, though. Once you've added everything, there are only a few standalone options left. These are primarily lifestyle-related items, including crossbars for the roof rails ($322), a fork mount bike attachment ($182), or a kayak attachment ($246).
While the base Acura MDX is a fine vehicle, we think this SUV is best enjoyed with the $4,700 Technology Package, adding premium leather sport seats, 20-inch wheels, parking sensors, built-in navigation, a 12-speaker ELS Studio audio system, and more. From there, you can choose between the sporty A-Spec ($3,500) and luxurious Advance ($7,050) Packages. The Advance Package is tempting, but we'd go for the more aggressive styling and cabin found in the less expensive A-Spec Package. This package requires SH-AWD for $2,000, but includes sportier exterior details such as 20-inch grey wheels, Ultrasuede seats with heating and ventilation in front, a 16-speaker ELS Studio sound system, and more. With the Technology and A-Spec Packages, a new MDX costs around $60,000.
Acura MDX 3.5L vs 3.5L w/Technology Package
Acura MDX 3.5L vs 3.5L w/A-Spec Package
Acura MDX 3.5L vs 3.5L w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L vs Type S
Acura MDX 3.5L vs Type S w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package vs 3.5L w/A-Spec Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package vs 3.5L w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package vs Type S
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package vs Type S w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/A-Spec Package vs 3.5L w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/A-Spec Package vs Type S
Acura MDX 3.5L w/A-Spec Package vs Type S w/Advance Package
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Advance Package vs Type S
Acura MDX 3.5L w/Advance Package vs Type S w/Advance Package
Acura MDX Type S vs Type S w/Advance Package