Overview
The 2020 Acura MDX may not turn heads on the street, but it is surprisingly nimble. Seating up to seven passengers and capable of towing a whopping 5000 pounds, this three-row crossover can take your family wherever they want to go with ease. Though the third row is cramped for adults and its dual-touch screen infotainment system can be hard to navigate at times, this SUV's comfortable seats and luxurious features make it worth considering.
Both the dutiful V-6 engine and the cutting-edge hybrid powertrain in the Sport Hybrid model provide an exciting driving experience for MDX owners. The Sport Hybrid is especially smooth and quick, yetthis ride may not be as sophisticated or chic when compared to other SUVs within its class. Nonetheless, Acura's MDX remains a distinct and exhilarating choice that should definitely get your attention.
Engines, Transmission, and Performance
The 290-hp V6 engine of the MDX is indicative of three-row crossovers, and it powerfully propels this vehicle. The nine-speed transmission may be slow to downshift for quick accelerations at times; however, its shifts are generally seamless and surefooted. Meanwhile, the hybrid version of the MDX delivers impressive speed with virtually imperceptible transitions between its petrol powerplant and electric motors.
Despite the gasoline version's capacity to tow up to a remarkable 5000 pounds, Acura does not endorse trailer pulls with the hybrid model. However, no matter which variation you choose, driving an MDX is both enjoyable and gratifying; its optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system allows for more agility than what would be expected of three-row crossovers.
When put to the test, both versions of the MDX revealed a slight decline in braking power. The hybrid and standard models stopped after 188 feet—the same distance as one another. We noticed that proactive brakes lost some of their effectiveness with frequent hard stops.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
With EPA fuel-economy ratings almost identical to its competitors, the MDX still managed to exceed expectations and outperform them in our on-road highway fuel economy test. Topping off all others, the AWD nonhybrid version of this car earned a whopping 28 mpg! Undoubtedly making it one of the most efficient vehicles we have tested thus far.
The MDX hybrid, weighed down an extra 244 pounds and unable to smartly utilize its battery power on the highway, yielded a below-average 25 mpg in testing. Nonetheless, when it comes to city fuel economy, you can count on the MDX hybrid - boasting 26 MPG according to EPA standards compared with 19 MPG for nonhybrid all-wheel drive versions.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The MDX comes equipped with a multitude of impressive standards, but the interior materials do not possess an luxury feel like those found in Audi's Q7 or Volvo's XC90. Additionally, although it has a reclining and sliding second-row bench seat for additional comfortability, passengers who find themselves situated in the third row will be disappointed at how cramped it is compared to its competitors. Although there isn't as much space available than those two rivals' cargo holds, the practical storage tests prove that MDX is still far superior.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
When it comes to the highest ratings from both crash-test organizations and a range of standard driver-assistance features - with competitors typically charging thousands for them - the MDX stands out among its peers in terms of safety.
Is MDX bigger than Highlander?
The 2022 Acura MDX and 2021 Toyota Highlander are featured in the mid-size SUV segment, but they differ quite a bit in exterior dimensions. The MDX has a longer wheelbase, wider chassis, and an extra 1.3 inches on the front and 1.5 inches on the rear track.
Which is better Acura MDX or Lexus RX 350?
The 2022 Acura MDX far outpaces the 2021 Lexus RX 350L in so many ways - from the Jewel Eye® headlights and the first-class seating, to the 12.3" HD center display and more cubic feet of cargo space - you can't beat what the new MDX has to offer.
What is the average life of an Acura MDX?
The Acura MDX is a durable, robust SUV that can last between 250,000 – 300,000 miles when properly maintained and driven conservatively. Based on 15,000 miles driven per year, you can expect 16 – 20 years of service from your MDX before repair costs become uneconomical or it breaks down.