The segment of mid-size luxury SUVs has always been not just about competition, but also a matter of prestige. This is where car manufacturers love to show off their latest technology achievements. The MDX is one of those amazing models, which has always been famous for offering fantastic value for money. The new generation continues in the same way, with further improvements in various aspects. The 2023 Acura MDX will represent the second production of the current, fourth-generation, so we don’t expect to see bigger changes.
On the other hand, minor tweaks are always possible, especially in terms of standard and available equipment, trim levels, equipment groups etc. Still, the overall layout will certainly remain the same, which means that we may count on familiar characteristics and features. This SUV has so many things to offer, starting from an attractive styling, well-built interior, engaging handling, capable engine options and a long list of standard equipment, whether it’s about safety or tech goodies.
When it comes to things we don’t like about the MDX, the first thing that comes to mind is the infotainment system, which isn’t as easy to use as you would probably expect.
2023 Acura MDX Design
Design-wise, the recent redesign has brought a lot of interesting changes and we have no doubt that the 2023 Acura MDX will continue in the same way. The new, fourth generation looks sleeker than before and there is nothing to complain about regarding aesthetics. So, the next year shouldn’t bring more notable changes, though there is always a chance to see things like new color options on the offer.
Mechanically, the new generation rides on a new chassis and one of the first things that you’re about to notice is that the handling is even more engaging than before. This is one of a few sporty mid-size SUVs, which offers a surprisingly high level of athleticism for a vehicle of this size.
Also, it’s worth mentioning that the new generation is notably bigger than before, which brings a couple of important benefits, especially on the inside.
Interior
Once again, we expect that the 2023 Acura MDX will carry on in the same way. It will offer a well-built, comfortable and spacious cabin, which comes standard with three rows of seats. To remain you, this is the first mid-size SUV to offer 7 seats.
When it comes to interior quality, you can notice a notable improvement compared to the previous generation. The materials are finer, while the build quality is even better. So, there is no reason for the next year’s model to change in this aspect. Still, we won’t exclude the possibility to see things like new color schemes or some new materials on the offer.
Besides good build quality, the MDX will continue to offer a high level of comfort. As we already mentioned, the new generation is bigger than before. It features 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, and that definitely has a positive impact on the passenger space. The first two rows of seats are pretty generous with space, while the third row seems functional as well. We particularly like the front seats, which are massive and supportive. The driving position is excellent, while the outward visibility is good in most directions. Also, we really like the flexibility of the second-row seats, which can recline and slide, while the center seat is removable.
The cargo capacity is also pretty good for the segment. You may count on about 16.3 cubic feet of room behind the third-row seats, 39.1 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded down, and 71.4 of the total cargo volume.
2023 Acura MDX Engine
Under the hood, we expect no surprises from the 2023 Acura MDX. It will continue in the same way, featuring Honda’s well-known 3.5-liter V6, which does not put out around 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough to move this three-row SUV from zero to sixty in a little bit over six seconds. More importantly, the engine is incredibly refined. It works smooth across the whole rev range and it definitely doesn’t miss a turbo.
The engine comes in pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which also feels refined and does a pretty good job. In standard versions, it sends power to the front wheels, but you can also get the company’s well-known SH-AWD system. This is arguably one of the best all-wheel-drive systems in the class. With all-wheel drive, the handling is even more impressive and we can definitely say that the MDX rides like a much smaller and lighter vehicle.
The average fuel economy is typical for the class and goes around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Trim Levels
Although a few additions in terms of standard and available equipment are probable, most of the things will remain the same, including the trim level organization and key features of each version.
So, the offer will start with a model that’s simply called MDX. This base version comes with a pretty long list of standard equipment, starting from large 19-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, you will find simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, 9-speaker audio system, Wi-Fi hotspot, tri-zone climate control and more.
The Technology trim brings a couple of pretty significant upgrades. Some of the highlights are goodies like 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a 12-speaker audio system, navigation, ambient interior lighting, memory settings for the passenger etc.
The offer continues with the A-Spec trim, which brings a couple of pretty exclusive features. First of all, this model comes standard with all-wheel drive. Also, you may count on a flat-bottom steering wheel, upgraded seats, ventilated front seats, premium 16-speaker ELS sound system etc.
Finally, there is the range-topping Advance trim level, which comes with a plethora of exclusive features. Some of the highlights are goodies like roof-rails, hands-free liftgate, surround-view camera, head-up display, upgraded front seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel and more.
2023 Acura MDX Type S
The recent redesign is bringing another big novelty – the resurrection of the iconic Type S badge. This version comes with lots of upgrades over the base model. First of all, there is a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, which puts out around 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. With such power, we expect that the 2023 Acura MDX Type S will be able to hit 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
Of course, the engine won’t be the only upgrade. We count on upgraded suspension, Brembo front brakes and other mechanical upgrades. Naturally, this model will also come with lots of unique styling details that will accentuate the model’s performance character. On the inside, you may count on sports seats, upgraded instrument cluster, paddle shifters, upgraded mode selector with new drive modes etc.
2023 Acura MDX Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Acura MDX will arrive sometime in the last quarter of 2022. The starting price will go around 48.000 dollars. On the other hand, the Type S model should start at around 65.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, Volvo XC90 etc.