2020 Acura MDX Hybrid
What’s new
- No significant changes for 2020
- Part of the third MDX generation introduced for 2014
Pros & Cons
- Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money
- Excellent all-wheel-drive system allows for sharp handling
- Generous interior storage
- Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
- Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than those of some rivals
- Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does
- Dual-screen infotainment system can be quite difficult to use
- Handoff between all-electric and engine power is clunky
2020 Acura MDX Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2020 Acura MDX Review
Who says you have to pay a luxury-car price for a luxury car? It's a question evoked by the 2020 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid crossover SUV, which is one of the best in its class even though it's also one of the least expensive. This three-row SUV is comfortable, quiet, smooth, spacious, and unusually fun to drive. We think it's an excellent choice for those shopping for something a little nicer than a standard SUV but without a budget-breaking price tag.
Unlike many of its rivals, the Acura MDX Sport Hybrid is well-equipped. Of course, there are few packages to bolster the MDX's luxury credentials, culminating in a trim that features upgraded leather, a surround-view parking camera, and USB ports for all three rows. Even at its most expensive, the MDX tops out where many other European luxury SUVs begin. Of course, those rivals offer high-octane engines to beef up their performance game, but we think you'll be satisfied with the MDX Hybrid's balance of power and fuel economy.
The MDX is well-rounded, but it's not without its faults. First and foremost is its infotainment interface. Functions are split between an upper display screen (controlled via a dash-mounted knob) and a lower touchscreen display. Both are sluggish, and it's difficult to remember which screen the function you want to access is located. Additionally, the interior materials don't quite reach the quality of what's used in the MDX's more expensive rivals.
But if you can live with the strange screen setup and nice — rather than exceptional — cabin materials, you'll find the MDX to be a smart pick for a luxury SUV that won't overly tax your bank account.
Our verdict
7.7 / 10How does it drive?
7.0It's also quicker than the standard MDX, provided you're in the right setting. The Sport mode keep the engine turned on while you're stopped, which makes the powertrain responsive when you hit the gas. If you're in other modes, there's a frustrating delay while you wait for the engine to fire up. Stopping smoothly can be difficult because the brake pedal offers little feedback.
How comfortable is it?
8.0The Sport Hybrid keeps the engine off at low speeds, which makes this version even quieter than the regular MDX. Alas, the powertrain sends a shudder through the cabin when the engine kicks back on.
How’s the interior?
7.5The controls need a rethink, however. The two-screen infotainment system and push-button shifter require a steep learning curve. Some interior chrome trim can be overly reflective in direct sunlight.
How’s the tech?
7.5Many advanced driving aids are standard, but their operation can seem half-baked. For instance, our test vehicle's adaptive cruise system accelerated and braked the vehicle suddenly in heavy traffic, and in several instances it accelerated after coming to a complete stop, even though the car in front hadn't moved.
How’s the storage?
8.0Small-item storage space is plentiful. The center console offers deep storage space and multiple configurations that provide space and security for larger items. Second-row storage is similarly comprehensive. The main downside here is the lack of towing capability for the Sport Hybrid.
How economical is it?
8.0Is it a good value?
8.0The Acura's basic warranty is for four years/50,000 miles, and powertrain coverage is six years/70,000 miles. That's roughly the same as what Japanese rivals offer but better than what some European competitors do. The MDX also comes with free roadside assistance for four years/50,000 miles. Unlike some other brands, there's no complimentary maintenance plan.
Wildcard
8.0Which MDX does Edmunds recommend?
2020 Acura MDX models
The 2020 Acura MDX is a three-row luxury SUV that seats up to seven. It's offered in four trim levels (also referred to as packages): an unnamed base model, Technology, A-Spec and Advance. The base MDX is well-equipped, and the Technology package includes a few desirable additions. The A-Spec is more of an appearance package but has some unique upgrades. The range-topping Advance has all the features you'll likely want in this class of vehicle.
The MDX is driven by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower, 267 lb-ft) paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive-only Sport Hybrid (available in the Technology and Advance trims only) uses a smaller 3.0-liter V6 in conjunction with three electric motors (combined 321 hp, 289 lb-ft) and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It delivers an estimated 27 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is 5 mpg better than the regular AWD MDX.
Highlights of the base trim include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, heated mirrors, a power liftgate, a sunroof, and keyless entry and ignition. Inside, you'll find power-adjustable front seats with heating, driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Tech features include a dual-screen infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen and an eight-speaker sound system with five USB ports, satellite radio, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane and road departure warning and mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
The Technology trim adds niceties such as 20-inch wheels, automatic wipers, front and rear parking sensors, power-folding side mirrors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, upgraded interior trim, a navigation system, a color driver information display, and a 10-speaker premium audio system with HD radio.
The A-Spec trim level (AWD only) is similar to the Technology but has blacked-out exterior trim, wider wheels and tires, a thicker-rimmed steering wheel, faux suede seat inserts, front-seat ventilation, and unique cabin cosmetics.
The Advance requires the Technology package and further adds adaptive suspension dampers, wider wheels and tires, roof rails, auto-dimming mirrors, a 360-degree parking camera, a heated steering wheel, premium leather, front-seat ventilation, heated second-row captain's chairs, second-row sunshades, and two additional USB ports for the third row.
Technology or Advance models with AWD can add an Entertainment package, which consists of a rear entertainment system and a household-style 110-volt outlet. If you add it to the Technology package, it also comes with a 9-inch screen and 11 audio speakers. Pair it to the Advance package, and you'll instead get a 16.2-inch screen (with an HDMI input) and 12 audio speakers. Note that selecting the Entertainment package with the Technology trim also adds second-row sunshades and replaces the standard second-row bench seating for heated captain's chairs.
Finally, there's the all-wheel-drive MDX Sport Hybrid, which comes standard in the Technology trim, with adaptive suspension dampers and an additional Sport+ driving mode. The Advance package is optional, but it is not available with the Entertainment package.
Sponsored cars related to the MDX
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Acura MDX.
Trending topics in reviews
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- interior
- technology
- value
- transmission
- infotainment system
- safety
- driving experience
- steering wheel
- brakes
- sound system
- warranty
Most helpful consumer reviews
Purchased 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid with Advance package. Wonderful car and, in Comfort Mode, the most comfortable riding car I've ever driven. Quiet environment and great on winding roads. Purchased White Pearl with Expresso interior. Beautiful.
Spent months looking around at different cars (Mercedes, Audi, Subaru, Toyota) and ultimately decided I wanted the Sport Hybrid with Advance package. I found a new 2019 with the Canyon Bronze that I wanted about 100 miles from my house so got a great deal on a new car. With Acura's incredible warranty on certified I would have been just as happy with a certified used with low miles.. I had some reticence based on what I had read about the infotainment and the quality of the materials on the interior. My wife has a 2017 Honda Pilot Elite with the 9 speed transmission and will admit that I don't love it. But the Sport Hybrid doesn't share the same transmission. So far I am very pleased with my purchase. The car has great acceleration, very smooth, the infotainment system is perfectly fine and it is nice to have Apple Car Play/Nav/Camera in one screen and the Stereo on another. The safety features (lane keep, brake hold, adaptive cruise, etc.) are a great feature and are standard on all MDXs. You pay a lot extra on other vehicles for those features and once you have them you realize how great they are. Very pleased with the quality of the interior, too. Things I don't love are that that the controls for the seat heater/cooler aren't terribly easy to use, but if you put it on auto I have found it is not an issue and I don't have to use the controls very often. I wish it had a digital speedometer like our Pilot and our Mercedes. You get used to having one so it is a bit of an adjustment when you switch to pure analog. I don't love the push button gear shifter. I think with time I will get used to it and it will not be an issue at all. The Pilot has it and my wife said she got used to it. Overall, exceptionally happy with the vehicle and highly recommend. I have only had it for a few weeks so if my feelings change I will repost.
Highly recommend the Acura MDX hybrid
2020 MDX Hybrid AWD Advance model. Bought based on great experience with 2014 model. Very happy in every way. Great car and more refined than previous model yet retains the sportiness that we love. Hybrid has amazing power.
Features & Specs
| Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package 3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $59,650 |
| MPG | 26 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual |
| Horsepower | 321 hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package 3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $52,900 |
| MPG | 26 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual |
| Horsepower | 321 hp @ 6300 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite MDX safety features:
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Identifies lane markings and works to keep the vehicle within its detected lane if it starts to drift due to driver inattention.
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Allows you to set a speed and maintain a desired distance from the car ahead. Will bring you to a stop if needed.
- Surround-View Camera System
- Four exterior cameras create a 360-degree view of the MDX's immediate surroundings.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Acura MDX vs. the competition
Acura MDX vs. Acura RDX
Redesigned just last year, the Acura RDX — a crossover in the next size class down from the MDX — has a new interior layout that makes the cabin look quite different from the aging MDX. That's not to say it's better, however. Our editors are split on whether its touchpad interface and single display screen are an improvement over the MDX's dual-screen setup. In any case, we think the RDX is a good choice in its class. It costs quite a bit less than the MDX, but it also only has two rows of seating.
Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot
The MDX and the Honda Pilot share a common platform, so think of the Pilot as an MDX without the luxury badge and leather-and-wood-soaked interior. That said, the Pilot is a great car in the three-row SUV class and looks quite nice in its upper trim levels. It also offers most of the features the MDX has, along with a more intuitive infotainment system and a more traditional SUV profile that gives it slightly more cargo room. Shoppers looking to save some money would do well to consider the Pilot.
Acura MDX vs. Audi Q7
The MDX is considerably less expensive than the Audi Q7, to the extent that a fully loaded MDX costs just a few thousand dollars more than a base Q7. On the other hand, the Q7 feels more refined, with a smooth and powerful turbocharged V6 engine, agile handling, and a greater range of available features. Its cabin is also more upscale, and its infotainment system is infinitely easier to use than the MDX's. We think the Q7 is worth the extra money, but you're not giving up too much by going with the MDX.
FAQ
Is the Acura MDX a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Acura MDX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Acura MDX:
- No significant changes for 2020
- Part of the third MDX generation introduced for 2014
Is the Acura MDX reliable?
Is the 2020 Acura MDX a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Acura MDX?
The least-expensive 2020 Acura MDX is the 2020 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $52,900.
Other versions include:
- Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) which starts at $59,650
- Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) which starts at $52,900
What are the different models of Acura MDX?
More about the 2020 Acura MDX
2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Overview
The 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid is offered in the following styles: Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM), and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM).
What do people think of the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 MDX Hybrid 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 MDX Hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 MDX Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels including Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid?
2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
The 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $60,675. The average price paid for a new 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) is trending $10,663 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $10,663 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $50,012.
The average savings for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) is 17.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
The 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $53,925. The average price paid for a new 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) is trending $9,357 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9,357 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $44,568.
The average savings for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) is 17.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.0L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2020 Acura MDX Hybrids are available in my area?
2020 Acura MDX Hybrid Listings and Inventory
There are currently 10 new 2020 [object Object] MDX Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $53,000 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 [object Object] MDX Hybrid for sale near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid MDX Hybrid you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Acura MDX Hybrid for sale - 3 great deals out of 5 listings starting at $13,320.
Find a new Acura for sale - 4 great deals out of 16 listings starting at $10,622.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid and all available trim types: Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, Sport Hybrid SH-AWD. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Acura lease specials