2023 Acura MDX vs 2024 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX was available in both standard and Type S versions, each offered with trim packages that ramped up the equipment levels. Buyers could choose from the base version to those fitted with Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages. The MDX Type S came in standard spec and an Advance package. Prices ranged from approximately $49,550 to $73,200, plus a destination charge of $1,195. A test model of the 2023 MDX Type S Advance arrived in a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint paired with an Orchid interior. Priced at $74,995, this model set a high bar for quality, luxury, and driving engagement. While it succeeded in many ways, it didn't completely meet expectations in some areas. The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to don the Type S badge. Its design was characterized by subtlety— a positive trait for those wary of overly aggressive styling. The Type S shared design elements with other MDX models, like chicane-style LED lighting and automatic high-beam LED headlights, but also featured specific touches like 21-inch wheels and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, the Type S Advance augmented the luxury with perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, a black headliner, and stainless steel pedal covers. Added features like open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard further elevated the interior’s feel. Despite these enhancements, certain angles gave a misleading impression of dents in the vehicle's profile due to the body’s tapering shape. Moreover, the glossy black plastic on the dashboard sometimes made using controls challenging. Even the electronic transmission switchgear confused some users, detracting from an otherwise well-designed cabin. Acura maintained the design excellence in the 2024 MDX. The large shield grille flanked by rakish headlights and accompanied by lower intake vents gave it a modern, refined look. Inside, the cabin was high-tech but somewhat cluttered with controls, making it a bit overwhelming at first glance and cumbersome to operate. Offered in base trim and several packages—Technology, A-Spec, and Advance—the new MDX came with standard features such as tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and power-adjustable heated front seats. The Technology Package added ambient lighting, navigation, and a 12-speaker ELS stereo system, while the A-Spec trim introduced a sportier persona with unique styling and a 16-speaker ELS audio system. The Advance package included features like a heated steering wheel, remote start, and heated second-row seats. The new-for-2024 Type-S Advance brought together all the features of the Technology and A-Spec packages, plus a 26-speaker ELS sound system and luxurious massaging front seats, offering a firmer massage for added comfort on long drives. Though not entirely surpassing the luxe feel of the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the MDX had superior massaging seats, enhancing long-distance driving comfort.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was driven by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This was a 65 hp and 87 lb-ft increase over the standard V6. However, the Type S also carried an extra 285 pounds of weight compared to the lightest AWD standard MDX. The 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, paired with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), allowed the engine’s power to be effectively utilized. The SH-AWD system could direct up to 70 percent of torque to a single rear wheel, offering dynamic performance in tight corners. Additionally, Agile Handling Assist used brake-based technology to further enhance cornering. The MDX Type S featured selectable driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, and an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, with 21-inch wheels and 275/40 all-season performance tires, the Type S was more suited for asphalt than off-road trails. Despite a long list of performance upgrades, the MDX Type S was not as cohesive in its execution. Complaints included an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, tire squeal, and poor brake pedal modulation. Moreover, fuel economy was a concern, with the test vehicle averaging only 16.9 mpg, well below the EPA-rated 19 mpg in combined driving. Misgivings aside, the MDX Type S was generally agreeable in city and highway settings in Normal mode. However, in Sport and Sport+ modes, the performance was less reliable and more fuel-intensive. Overall, the impression was that the dynamic components didn’t synchronize well, making the Type S less predictable and enjoyable than expected. Therefore, a standard MDX with an A-Spec package was recommended for a more balanced driving experience. The 2024 Acura MDX continued with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Type S carried over the same twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 offering 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels or Acura's SH-AWD. In testing, the 2024 MDX Type-S Advance exhibited strong acceleration without being harsh. The transmission managed power efficiently, offering quick throttle response. The vehicle's adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps while keeping the SUV light on its feet. Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension system with automatic leveling contributed to refined handling. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered various driving modes, including Sport+, a Lift mode for increased ground clearance, and others tuned for comfort and snow conditions. Although the MDX excelled on boulevards and highways, where it was refined and comfortable, the ride was on the firmer side. This was a trade-off for the sporty ride quality expected in modern luxury SUVs. The 2024 MDX Type-S Advance could handle corners quickly for its size, with responsive steering similar to a luxury sedan. When properly equipped, its towing capacity could reach 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for more than just daily driving.

Acura ensured the 2023 MDX was functionally rich, offering three rows of seating with the option for a two or three-seat second row. A triple-zone climate control system was standard, and our Type S Advance had 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage. The seating was wrapped in high-quality quilted leather upholstery with adjustable thigh and side bolsters, though the seat didn't quite hold the driver in place during spirited driving. Seven-passenger seating was standard, and the second-row seat could convert to a pass-through configuration for easier third-row access. The third row was tight for adults, making it more suitable for children. Cabin storage was limited due to design choices that favored aesthetic appeal over functionality. The underfloor cargo storage was useful, providing ample space for road trips, groceries, and more. The hands-free liftgate was a nice addition for ease of use. Cargo capacity was robust with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, and 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded. Maximum capacity was 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. The 2024 MDX maintained the three-row seating layout. The first two rows were comfortable, while the third row remained suited for children due to its size. Cargo space was slightly less behind the third row at 16.3 cubic feet but matched the 2023 model with 39.1 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded down. Like its predecessor, the 2024 model featured additional underfloor storage. The Type-S Advance model featured a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and integrated cupholders. Although lacking second-row captain’s chairs, the fold-out armrest offered the feel of individual seats for second-row passengers. The center seat could fold, aiding third-row access. Storage throughout the cabin included ample cupholders and a spacious center console. However, the cluttered center stack with button shifters and a prominent IDS dial detracted from its usability. Despite the valuable real estate these controls occupied, they seemed non-essential given the priority most drivers place on straightforward driving ease.

The 2023 MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a similar-sized infotainment display. Unfortunately, this screen wasn’t touch-sensitive, necessitating the use of a cumbersome True Touchpad Interface (TTI). This touchpad took up valuable console space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad, making it less intuitive than a conventional touchscreen. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The infotainment system’s built-in voice recognition was less effective, but Siri and Google Assistant functionality via CarPlay and Android Auto offered a workaround. A head-up display in Advance models provided vital driving information. The top-tier Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers delivered exceptional sound clarity and power. AcuraLink services included remote start and automatic collision notification with a three-year complimentary subscription. Despite its high-end audio and connectivity features, the touchpad interface significantly hampered accessibility and ease of use. The 2024 MDX’s Achilles Heel was its infotainment system. A 12.3-inch display wasn’t touch-sensitive and required operation via a frustrating touchpad. Although the display was visually appealing, its operation was counterintuitive compared to conventional touchscreens. However, the MDX did come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A fully digital instrument panel and multiple USB ports added to the convenience, and wireless device charging came standard. Charging ports were cleverly concealed within the center console, offering a sleek look but questionable practicality, given the touchpad’s inefficiency. Despite these clever touches, the poor infotainment system usability overshadowed some of the tech's smarter elements.

The 2023 MDX featured the Acura Watch suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and more. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. In terms of crash-test ratings, it earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA. However, it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact protection for the driver and front passenger from NHTSA. The technology accurately detected lane departures and maintained lane centering but occasionally issued false warnings and had slow adaptive cruise control responses. A concerning incident involved the system mistaking an overhead sign for an obstacle. The 2024 MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, similar to the 2023 model. These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and pedestrian detection. Stepping up to higher trims added parking sensors, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a head-up display. The 2024 model's crash ratings carried over from the 2022 and 2023 models, including a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Despite the strong safety scores, the touchpad-operated infotainment system posed a distraction risk.