Unveiling the 2025 Acura MDX: Luxury, Power, and Innovation!

2025 Acura MDX

The 2025 MDX is a delightful mid-size crossover with a premium interior and a stylish exterior. However, it falls short of the opulence of rivals like the Genesis GV80, Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, and Volvo XC90. Nevertheless, most models offer a taste of luxury, making it worth the higher price compared to its mainstream counterpart, the Honda Pilot. While the third row of the MDX may not be suitable for adults, the first and second rows are comfortable and well-equipped. The driver's seat is the most comfortable, as the MDX's agile handling makes it more enjoyable to drive than many luxury crossovers. Most models come with a 290-horsepower V-6 engine, but upgrading to the sportier Type S version unlocks a more powerful twin-turbo V-6 with 355 horsepower. The Type S also features an air-spring suspension system that enhances the SUV's already spirited handling and provides a plush ride when desired. If you are prepared to accept a compromise in terms of the prestige associated with the name badge, the MDX is a reliable option in its category and a highly capable dual-purpose device.

What's New for 2025?

Acura has given the MDX a subtle update for 2025, with only minor changes to the bumper, wheels, and grille. The grille now features a new mesh design.
Inside, the MDX's frustrating touchpad infotainment system has been replaced with a touchscreen setup featuring a 12.3-inch display. The center console has been redesigned, and new 16-way adjustable front seats with a more robust massage function are now available as an option.
The entry-level model now comes with a pair of additional speakers for its stereo, and the optional ELS Studio stereo has been replaced by a Bang & Olufsen setup with 19 speakers. The top-of-the-line Type S also gets Bang & Olufsen stereo, but it boasts 31 speakers.
Acura claims that new laminated rear window glass and additional sound insulation have reduced cabin noise. All models now come with a rear seatbelt reminder system, and Acura has upgraded some of the MDX's driver-assistance features to improve their performance.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2025 Acura MDX is available in three trims: Sport, Technology, and Advance. The Sport trim is designed for those who prioritize performance, while the Technology trim offers a well-equipped luxury crossover without the full extent of sporty features. The Advance trim is the top-of-the-line option, featuring a range of luxurious amenities.
For those who want a sporty experience, the Sport trim is the ideal choice. It comes with a host of performance-enhancing features, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension. The Sport trim also includes a sport-inspired interior with contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel.
However, if you're looking for a luxury crossover without the full extent of sporty features, the Technology trim is a great option. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension. The Technology trim also includes a range of luxurious features, such as leather upholstery with contrast stitching, adjustable interior ambient lighting, and a Bang & Olufsen stereo system with 19 speakers.
The Advance trim is the top-of-the-line option, featuring a range of luxurious amenities, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension. The Advance trim also includes a range of advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The regular MDX is equipped with a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The sporty Type S model is powered by a 355-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Our drive of the 2025 model revealed no significant differences on the road compared to previous models, as there have been no changes to the engines or suspensions. A prior test drive of an all-wheel-drive Advance model with the standard powertrain revealed surprisingly responsive handling and brisk acceleration. When we sampled the Type S, we commended its agile performance on the road and appreciated the extra power, but wondered if the model truly deserves its Type S designation.

0–60-MPH Times

The Type S is noticeably faster than the standard version, and during our test, it achieved a speed of 60 miles per hour in just 5.5 seconds, compared to the 6.4 seconds required by the less powerful model.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The standard version of the MDX has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Type S model, on the other hand, is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
Our all-wheel-drive A-Spec test vehicle, which we tested on a highway with a speed limit of 75 mph, returned a disappointing 22 mpg. The Type S model performed slightly better, achieving a fuel economy of 23 mpg.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The interior of the MDX exudes a sense of luxury, particularly in the top-of-the-line trim levels, which feature a combination of stitched leather on the dashboard and open-pore wood with metal and piano-black accents. Acura has also equipped the MDX with a wide range of amenities, including dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and they can be adjusted in 16 different ways, including the option for massage. The first and second rows offer ample space for passengers, but the third row is only suitable for children. While the interior is well-designed and offers a variety of convenience features, it does not quite match the level of sophistication found in the cabins of competitors such as the Genesis GV80 or the Volvo XC90.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2025 MDX boasts a generous 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display that can be reconfigured. It comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, in-dash navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. The standard stereo system has 11 speakers, but the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims feature a Bang & Olufsen-tuned 19-speaker setup. The Type S model also includes a Bang & Olufsen stereo, but it features a more impressive 31 speakers.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

All MDX models are equipped with state-of-the-art driver-assist technology. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, lane change assistance, and more.
For more information about the crash test results of the MDX, please visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Some of the key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The warranty package offered by the MDX is comparable to that of competitors such as the Buick Enclave and the Lexus GX. Both of these brands only provide coverage for the initial service visit, while Acura covers all services for the first two years or 24,000 miles.
The limited warranty covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles.
The powertrain warranty covers the vehicle for six years or 70,000 miles.
Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 24,000 miles.