Can You Find the Right Level of Luxury in the 2022 Acura MDX?

The 2022 Acura MDX was in contention for the MotorTrend SUV of the Year Award, but this luxury SUV didn’t win. Is that a telling problem?

Can you find the right luxury features and qualities in this midsize three-row SUV, or has it dropped down into the premium class? If you select the Type S variant, you might find the added performance and features you desire, but that might not be realistic for your daily drive. The MDX, compared to other models, felt underpowered, unrefined, and tight in the third row. That said, we’re pretty sure there are some redeeming qualities to this SUV.

If More Power is Right for You, Look to the Type S

When you want your luxury SUV to offer some exciting dynamics and fun on the road, you’ll want to reach to the Type S version of this Acura SUV. This model gives you a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that makes 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power heads to the torque-vectoring AWD system through an impressive 10-speed automatic transmission. This version of the MDX also features adaptive dampers, improved front Brembo brakes, and an air suspension to make it more dynamic on the road.

What Powertrain is Included in the Regular MDX

If you’re looking at the 2022 Acura MDX as a family-friendly SUV that can handle a good drive to wherever you want to go, the power offered might be enough for you. The base powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that uses the same 10-speed automatic transmission as the Type S. This engine delivers 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. If this powertrain sounds familiar, that’s because it’s used in several Honda models. For the standard powertrain, you have the option of either FWD or AWD, and the fuel mileage is better than what you find in the Type S>

Steering Could be a Factor for Your Driving Decision

Are you trying to find an athletic SUV that you can toss about on the roads? If so, you’ll want to look at the Type S version of the MDX. This model has quick steering and the standard SH-AWD system that allows this SUV to stay tight in any corner when you’re out for a drive. You’ll be pleased with the impressive maneuverability and the dynamic handling of this sporty version of the MDX SUV.

The Regular MDX Offers a Milder Ride

When you want a more relaxed drive in the 2022 Acura MDX that you drive, the standard model could be right for you. This version doesn’t have the snappy steering of the Type S. If you select an FWD version, you won’t have power on all four wheels during your drive. Using the Comfort model allows you to enjoy a more appealing cabin area than in the Normal setting. Of course, if you put this SUV in Sport mode, you will have a bit more fun and aggression coming from this SUV.

A Sound System Only Offered in the Type S

If you want the best audio system offered in the MDX lineup, you’ll want to choose the Type S with the Advance Package. This model costs $73,245, but it brings you a 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system. This system delivers crisp, clean, and impressive sounds from your audio system, no matter the volume level chosen. If this is the sound system you want in your MDX, you must reach this level and pay the higher price to have this sporty version of the Acura SUV you want to drive.

Could Nine Speakers Be Enough for You?

When you’re not concerned about incredible sound quality from your audio system, the base version of the 2022 Acura MDX could be right for your drive. This model starts at $48,000, and it gives you:

• Synthetic leather upholstery
• Power front seats
• Tri-zone automatic climate controls
• Power tailgate
• Panoramic sunroof
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
• 12..3-inch infotainment screen with the Acura True Touchpad interface
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Amazon Alexa
• Wireless device charging
• 9-speaker audio system
• USB charging ports
• CabinTalk feature
• AcuraWatch Safety Package
  • Forward-collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Road-departure mitigation
  • Lane-departure warning
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alerts
  • Driver attention monitor

Regardless of Model, Something Should Change

Whether you choose the standard MDX or the Type S model, both have an infotainment system that is meant for the garbage can. This system is a fussy touchpad-operated system that can be difficult to understand and control. Most vehicles now offer a touchscreen, which makes it difficult for some drivers to get used to what Acura offers. Maybe the next version of the MDX will fix this problem, although there are some mixed feelings about it.

This Larger SUV Offers More Room

The 2022 Acura MDX is a little bigger than the previous version. This added size translates to a little bit more space in each of the three rows. The third row is still too small for full-size adults, but it’s just fine for some kids and smaller adults. This row gives passengers 2.4 inches of extra legroom compared to the previous version of this SUV. This luxury SUV can either be a six-seater or fit seven passengers depending on whether the middle of the center row is removed and replaced with captain’s chairs.

Which Version of the MDX Will You Drive?

Are you looking for a luxury SUV that is quiet, comfortable, and composed, or do you desire some upgraded driving dynamics? Part of why MotorTrend didn’t offer the award to this Acura is likely the lack of sportiness in the standard model. This doesn’t have to be the same issue for you. If you want an SUV that’s great for a family of four or five people with a little extra room for friends to ride along, the standard model could be right for you.

On the other hand, when you’re after a dynamic driving performance, an incredible sound system, and standard AWD, the 2022 Acura MDX Type S is the model you want to drive. It could be time to visit your local Acura dealer to find out which one is right for you.