2023 Acura MDX: Luxury Redefined with Power and Panache

In the realm of premium SUVs, the 2023 Acura MDX stands tall with its striking design and a trio of seating rows, offering an impeccable blend of family-friendly convenience and opulent aesthetics. Acura's flagship SUV not only boasts a handsome façade but also promises an exhilarating driving experience, particularly in its performance-oriented Type S variant. Let's delve into the details of what makes the 2023 Acura MDX a standout choice in the competitive luxury SUV market.

What's New for 2023?

While the physical appearance remains unchanged, Acura has injected a dose of added value to the 2023 MDX. Every model now comes with a two-year/24,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan and three years of free access to the AcuraLink connectivity plan.

Price Points and Recommendations

The 2023 Acura MDX offers a range of trims, each catering to diverse preferences and budgets. Here's a quick breakdown of the pricing:

Base

$50,745

Technology

$54,945

A-Spec

$60,645

Advance

$64,195

Type S

$68,545

Type S Advance

$73,895

For those inclined towards spirited driving, the Type S beckons with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 churning out 355 horsepower. However, if you seek a well-equipped luxury crossover without the sporty inclinations, the Technology trim emerges as a compelling choice.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The standard MDX is propelled by a robust 290-hp 3.5-liter V-6, mated to a seamless 10-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive comes standard, all-wheel drive is available as an option. Stepping into the performance realm, the Type S takes the stage with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, delivering an impressive 355 horsepower and featuring standard all-wheel drive. Whether experiencing the nimble handling of the regular model or reveling in the Type S's extra power, the MDX offers a driving experience that exceeds expectations.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Efficiency is a crucial factor, and the MDX doesn't disappoint. The base model boasts EPA fuel-economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the Type S, with its enhanced performance, still maintains respectable figures at 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. During our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, the all-wheel-drive A-Spec achieved 22 mpg, with the Type S model slightly edging ahead at 23 mpg.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Step inside the MDX, and you'll be greeted by a premium cabin adorned with high-quality materials. The top-tier trims boast French-stitched leather, open-pore wood, and metal accents, creating an ambiance of luxury. Creature comforts include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. The front seats, with available 16-way power adjustability and massage features, ensure a comfortable journey. While the first and second rows offer ample space, the third row is more suitable for younger passengers. Despite the MDX's luxurious interior, some rivals may outshine it in terms of sheer opulence.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2023 MDX boasts a sizable 12.3-inch infotainment display, accompanied by a center-console-mounted touchpad controller. While the system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability, in-dash navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, the touchpad interface may pose a slight learning curve. The Technology trim comes equipped with an ELS Studio stereo system with 12 speakers, while the A-Spec and Advanced models elevate the audio experience with a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D setup.

Specifications

2023 Acura MDX SH-AWD

Vehicle Type

Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

Price as Tested

$58,625 (base price: $49,925)

Engine

SOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection

Displacement

212 in3, 3471 cm3

Power

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque

267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm

Sisa Modal

900

Transmission

10-speed automatic

Curb Weight

4514 lb

Fuel Economy (Observed)

16 mpg

75-mph Highway Driving

22 mpg

Highway Range

400 miles

2023 Acura MDX Type S

Vehicle Type

Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

Price as Tested

Base/As Tested: $67,895/$73,745

Engine

Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection

Displacement

183 in3, 2997 cm3

Power

355 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque

354 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

Transmission

10-speed automatic

Curb Weight

4712 lb

Fuel Economy (Observed)

17 mpg

75-mph Highway Driving

23 mpg

Highway Range

420 miles

Conclusion
The 2023 Acura MDX is a testament to Acura's commitment to delivering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. While it may not boast the most lavish interior in its class, the MDX's overall package, coupled with its competitive pricing, makes it a noteworthy contender in the upscale SUV segment. Whether opting for the base model or indulging in the exhilarating Type S, the MDX ensures a driving experience that transcends the ordinary, making it a standout choice for discerning buyers in the luxury SUV market.