The Acura MDX is a vital model for the luxury Japanese automaker. In fact, the MDX is its best-selling vehicle of all time. This three-row crossover will see a complete redesign in the very near future, which makes sense given the outgoing third-generation model has been on the market since 2013, making it a dinosaur compared to its chief rivals, among them the BMW X5 and Audi Q5. However, those German competitors don't offer three-rows; buyers need to move up (and spend more) for the X7 and Q7. But there was one key thing the MDX lacked: a high-performance version. It appears this is changing.

According to leaked information obtained by the Civic11Forum, Honda/Acura has just filed a trademark application in the US for the nameplates "MDX Type S" and "Type S". Type S, of course, is the high-performance moniker used for power-boosted Acuras. And soon there'll be more of them.

Unfortunately, trademark applications don't provide details such as engine, power output, or any other mechanical information because, well, that's not what they're for. They simply exist to secure the naming rights, that's all. But fortunately, it's clearer than ever Acura is proceeding with its plan to regain its mojo. The NSX supercar shouldn't be the only form of excitement in Acura showrooms.

The all-new 2021 Acura TLX, which CarBuzz just recently experienced for the first time, is an excellent first step thanks to its well-tuned chassis and a far more dynamic exterior design. As for the next-gen MDX, Acura has remained mum on details and surprisingly there have actually been very few leaks.

We do know it'll boast TLX-inspired styling and could even share the sedan's powertrain, such as the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 335 horsepower which, ever so conveniently, is the engine of choice for the TLX Type S. Acura's excellent Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system is guaranteed to return as well.

Chances are, the MDX, even in Type S form, will continue to retain a nice price advantage over its Audi and BMW rivals. The base next-gen MDX should begin at less than $50,000.

Expect the official reveal to happen before the end of this year.