2024 Acura RDX Car Review

The Acura MDX 2024 is a premium three-row SUV for drivers who choose sporty driving above pure luxury. Most variants are powered by a 290-hp V-6 engine with lots of torque. Every MDX is enjoyable to drive, but this is especially true in the sportiest Type S model, which comes standard with all-wheel drive, a 355-hp turbocharged V-6, and an adjustable air suspension system. Seating in the first and second rows is comfortable for adults, but the third row is only suitable for children. The inside design is upmarket and offers a considerable quantity of tech features, but if you're looking for pure luxury and the best materials, rivals like the Genesis GV80, Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, and Volvo XC90 will be better suited. However, the Acura is less expensive than the others, so if you're not picky, it'll save you money while providing a more pleasurable driving experience in your driveway.

• 2024: no notable changes
• 2023: no notable changes
• 2022: fully redesigned with updated styling, more interior space, more standard features, and new performance-focused Type S trim
• 2021: skipped model year
• 2020: no notable changes
• 2029: updated transmission and engine start-stop system; A-Spec package introduced

Pricing and Trims

The basic model of the 2024 Acura MDX starts at $49,850 and includes features like a synthetic leather interior and a panoramic sunroof. The MDX with Technology Package ($54,550) has navigation as well as a real leather interior. The A-Spec Package ($60,250) adds standard all-wheel drive and ventilated front seats to the MDX. The MDX Advance Package ($63,800) adds heated second-row outboard seats as well as other driver-assist features, including a head-up display. The MDX Type S ($68,150) adds performance-oriented equipment such as a 355-hp engine and adjustable air suspension. Finally, the top-tier MDX Type S with Advance Package ($73,500) has massage front seats and a 26-speaker premium radio.

As car fans, we're primarily interested in the Type S's performance ambitions. However, if you want a well-equipped luxury crossover without the sporty flair, we recommend the Technology trim, which includes features like leather upholstery with contrast stitching, adjustable interior ambient lighting, an ELS Studio stereo system with 12 speakers, and low-speed front and rear automated emergency braking.

Engine

The 2024 MDX includes a 290-horsepower V6 engine, front-wheel drive, and a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. All-wheel drive is offered for $2,200 on the two entry-level trims and is standard on all other models. Type S variants come with a turbocharged 355-horsepower V6, all-wheel drive, and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The standard V6 is strong enough for most driving circumstances, with good acceleration off the line and enough verve to get up to speed on the interstate. But it's far from thrilling. The Type S's turbocharged V6 feels significantly more lively and has a renowned average zero-to-60-mph speed of roughly 6 seconds. The 10-speed automatic transmission is seamless, but shifting may be slow at times.

Ride and Handling

Because of its precise and well-weighted handling, the MDX is a joy to drive. It also features a tiny turning radius, which is useful for navigating busy parking lots and other tight situations. The ride quality of the MDX, on the other hand, has split critics. Some people appreciate the SUV's solid yet pleasant ride, while others claim it's floaty and unsettled over bumps. The brakes have also been criticized for being mushy, with extended pedal travel and poor feedback.

Interior

The interior of the 2024 MDX is premium and rather big, with a luxury feel throughout. The interior is enhanced by high-end construction elements such as Milano leather upholstery and open-pore wood. However, the MDX lacks the quality feel of some of its more expensive competitors.

The MDX offers adequate load space for the premium midsize SUV class, although some competitors are more roomy. Behind the third row, you'll discover 16.3 cubic feet of space, and folding the third-row seats flat will give you 39.1 cubic feet. Folding down the second and third rows frees up 71.4 cubic feet of space. A little storage nook under the rear cargo floor adds a little more space. A power liftgate is standard on the MDX, and a hands-free power liftgate is available as an option.

The first two rows are very roomy, and the seats in the front row are very comfy. The second-row seats have less cushioning but can nevertheless comfortably accommodate people. For enhanced comfort, these seats can slide and recline. The third row is quite cramped and should only be used by children.

Infotainment

The MDX's infotainment system might be difficult to operate. The huge center display provides clear visuals, although it is not touch-enabled. Instead, a touchpad, similar to a trackpad on a laptop, is used to explore the system and handle the majority of the features. This center console-mounted controller has a steep learning curve and might be distracting to use while driving. On the plus side, there are several basic features and tactile knobs and buttons for quick and easy modifications to audio and climatic settings.

• Standard infotainment features: a 12.3-inch display, a touchpad controller, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, a Wi-Fi hot spot, wireless device charging, Bluetooth, satellite radio, HD Radio, a nine-speaker audio system, and multiple USB ports
• Available infotainment features: navigation, additional USB ports, and a 12-, 16-, or 25-speaker ELS premium audio system
• Additional standard features: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, tri-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, and a panoramic moonroof
• Other available features: ambient LED interior lighting, an in-cabin intercom system, and remote start

Fuel Economy

The MDX is estimated to have above-average fuel efficiency for the premium midsize SUV class. Models with the basic V6 and front-wheel drive receive an EPA-estimated 19/26 mpg city/highway, while all-wheel-drive models score 19/25 mpg city/highway. Type S versions achieve 17/21 mpg in the city and on the interstate.

Safety

Acura has been integrating more and more standard driver-assistance technology into its vehicles, and the MDX offers numerous appealing features. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) websites for more information on the MDX's crash-test performance. The following are important safety features:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian recognition is standard.
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assistance is standard.
• Adaptive cruise control is standard.

Warranty

The MDX's warranty package is comparable to those of competitors like the Buick Enclave and the Lexus GX; however, both of those manufacturers only cover the initial maintenance visit, whereas Acura covers everything for the first two years, or 24,000 miles.

• The limited warranty period is four years or 50,000 miles.
• The powertrain warranty is valid for six years, or 70,000 miles.
• Free planned maintenance is provided for two years, or 24,000 miles.

Competitive Cars

Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80

The Genesis GV80 is a well-honed and value-packed premium midsize SUV challenger that outperforms the MDX in a few areas. It offers a more premium interior, an easier-to-use infotainment system, a smoother ride, and more powerful engine options than the Acura. In comparison to the GV80, the MDX has superior fuel efficiency, a cheaper starting price, and a similar set of standard equipment. Both are worthy rivals, so your decision will most likely be based on personal preference.

Acura MDX vs. Lexus RX 350

The Lexus RX 350 is a sector staple with a lot to admire about it. The RX offers a well-designed cabin, good gas consumption, a smooth ride, and a plethora of standard amenities. However, the MDX and RX share some significant flaws. Both vehicles feature vexing infotainment systems and are less premium than many competitors in their class. The MDX features a bigger luggage room and a more powerful optional engine than the RX. The MDX can also seat up to seven passengers, although the RX can only seat five.