2023 Acura MDX Type S

Price Range: $67,850 - $73,200 ^{Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.}

+75

The Type S treatment doesn't turn the MDX into a superstar athlete, but it does make for an all-round nicer three-row Acura. A comfortable and spacious cabin and a generous list of standard equipment are highlights. But we think the regular MDX is a better value.Read full review

44 Owner Reviews

19 mpg

Combined MPG

Pricing

Year

Type

Edmunds suggests you pay

$60,659

6 Colors
1 Trim

Build & Price Acura.com/MDX

2 Offers Near Ashburn, VA

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by Edmunds Test Team

2023 Acura MDX Type S Review

byCameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

Comfortable cabin and ample cargo space
Balances sporty handling with a relaxed ride
Available 25-speaker ELS sound system totally rocks

Cons

Infotainment touchpad requires a steep learning curve
A bit pricey for what you get

What's new

No major changes for 2023
AcuraLink services included for three years
Maintenance is now complimentary for two years/24,000 miles
Part of the fourth MDX generation introduced in 2022

Overview

The 2023 Acura MDX is a top-tier midsize luxury SUV that offers three rows in a well-appointed, spacious cabin. That's not something to take for granted in a category where the third row can be, at best, an afterthought and, at worst, a place adults fear to tread, let alone sit.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.98 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$265/mo

$229/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

Acura fully redesigned the MDX for the 2022 model year, giving it sharper styling and better-quality interior materials. It also introduced the sport-oriented Type S trim, which has a strong turbocharged V6 engine. It's a pleasing complement to the MDX's all-wheel-drive system that, besides enhancing traction in snowy or icy conditions, helps the MDX feel more agile around turns on dry pavement.

Overall, there's a lot to like about the 2023 MDX, especially when you factor in value compared to European SUVs such as the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our test team's full report on the MDX's comfort, utility and more.

What's it like to live with?

We tested an Acura MDX SH-AWD Advance as part of Edmunds' long-term test fleet. We like this generation's more spacious interior, though operating the touchscreen interface is pretty controversial with our editors. Check out our MDX 20,000-mile long-term test to learn more about what it's like to own and live with.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.9

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the MDX Type S drive? The 355-hp V6 engine gives the MDX Type S more character, and the turbocharged power feels much more well suited to hauling around a vehicle of this size. It's not exactly a rocket ship, however. At our test track, the Type S accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. That's quicker than the standard MDX (7.5 seconds) but still a bit slower than a comparable Audi Q7 or Genesis GV80.

Around turns, the Type S feels sportier and more secure than the standard MDX. Its all-wheel drive and snappier transmission programming, in addition the extra power, make it a more enjoyable car to drive than the standard MDX. That said, we longed for better straight-line performance, and that's the biggest knock on the Type S.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the MDX Type S? How comfortable the MDX Type S is largely depends on how comfortable you want it to be. There are a range of drive modes to pick from that alter how firm the suspension is — Comfort is the most sedate. It's nearly ideal for everyday driving, soaking up most road imperfections with ease while maintaining excellent body control. Very little was able to flummox the Type S in our time behind the wheel, and we were impressed by the cabin's serenity regardless of speed.

The seats are a particular standout in the Type S. They're covered in a supple leather and offer plenty of adjustment range plus heating, cooling and massage. They're a fantastic place to rest, and no matter how much time we spent in them, our backs never came away fatigued.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Save as much as $8,386 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,386 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Type S trim.}

2023 Acura MDX Type S pricing in Ashburn, VA

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2024 Acura MDX
$50,900Starting MSRP
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Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The MDX Type S' cabin is largely the same as the one in the standard MDX. That means both its pros and cons carry over. Aside from the seats, a slightly different steering wheel, and some new trim, the MDX Type S is nearly identical to the standard car. That means the touchpad interface, which we've hoped Acura would replace at some point, is still here. It creates a large learning curve not everyone will be willing to tackle.

The MDX does have some nice interior aspects. The cabin has ample space up front and in the second row. The third row is a bit tight for adults but should suffice for kids. Getting in and out of the cabin takes little effort, and Acura's push-button seat release for the second row is very easy to use. Visibility is pretty good thanks to large windows all around, and the optional surround-view camera system provides an even better 360-degree bumper-level visibility.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The MDX's infotainment system interface is problematic, but otherwise there's lots of useful technology. The wide center screen is attractive and easy to read, and the integrated navigation system works well. The ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system that's exclusive to the Type S features 25 speakers and sounds great. The sound stage and harmonics are spot on, with almost no distortion at higher volumes, and it maintains deep bass through multiple genres of music. We can't recommend a car on its hi-fi alone, but the MDX Type S with this optional sound system will be a delight to audiophiles everywhere.

Beyond that, the tech is largely the same. There are seven USB ports throughout the cabin to help make sure everyone's devices stay topped up, and there's a wireless charger on top of all that. A full suite of driver assist features is standard on the Type S. They all worked well in our testing with the exception of the lane keeping assistance system. It was a little too sensitive, often prompting us to recenter the MDX within its lane when it didn't seem necessary.

Storage

8.5/10

How’s the storage? Cargo space and storage capacity are strong points. The MDX offers 18.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, slightly more space than many other three-row midsize luxury crossovers. The second- and third-row seats fold flat, and there's bonus storage underneath the rear load floor. There's 39.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row and a max of 71.4 cubic feet. There is also a plethora of cubbies and large door bins for bottles and other small items.

Got small kids? The middle seats have three sets of car seat anchors, making it possible to fit three (small) child safety seats across. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That's a decent amount and suitable for a small trailer, but some rival European SUVs can pull even more.

Fuel Economy

7.0/10

How economical is the MDX Type S? The EPA says the MDX Type S returns 19 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's an average figure for a three-row luxury SUV with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. On our real-world mixed-driving evaluation route, the MDX Type S posted a respectable 20.9 mpg, which indicates the EPA's estimate seems realistic.

Value

7.5/10

Is the MDX Type S a good value? The standard MDX offers strong value, but less so for the Type S. Yes, you're getting a roomy and comfortable SUV that's well built, but all of those qualities can be found in the standard MDX, too. The Type S doesn't take performance high enough to warrant all that extra dough in our opinion.

Wildcard

7.5/10

For something of this size, yes, the MDX Type S is fun to drive. And it is a well-rounded luxury SUV. But there's an expectation of performance with the Type S moniker, and this MDX version doesn't fully deliver. It doesn't look or feel special enough compared to the standard MDX to fully justify its price.

Which MDX does Edmunds recommend?

We suggest going with the A-Spec. Not only does its sporty body kit give the MDX much-needed flair, but the ventilated front seats are a near must-have for a luxury SUV. It's also the least expensive way to get the MDX's premium sound system. We like the all-around appeal of the Type S, but its value is dubious relative to the regular MDX.

Compare 2023 Acura MDX trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Acura MDX models

The 2023 Acura MDX is a seven-seat midsize SUV offered in six trim levels (also referred to as packages): MDX, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, Type S and Type S Advance. The base and Technology trims come standard with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive as an option. All other MDX trims come standard with AWD. Standard feature highlights include:

MDX
Starts you off with:

3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 267 lb-ft of torque)
10-speed automatic transmission
19-inch wheels
Panoramic sunroof
Simulated leather upholstery
Tri-zone climate control
Heated front seats
Reclining and sliding second-row seats with removable center seat
Digital gauge cluster display
12.3-inch central display with touchpad controller
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (with wireless connectivity)
Nine-speaker audio system
Wireless charging pad
Wi-Fi hotspot
USB ports in the first and second rows

You also get AcuraWatch, a suite of advanced safety features that bundles:

Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane keeping assist (steers the MDX back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the MDX and the car in front)
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)

Technology
Adds on:

20-inch wheels
Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
Power-folding mirrors
GPS-linked climate control
Passenger-seat memory controls
Leather upholstery
Rear window sunshades
Customizable interior ambient lighting
Navigation system
12-speaker ELS sound system

A-Spec
Builds on top of the Technology package with a sportier look plus:

Unique flat-bottom steering wheel
Cabin intercom system (allows you to broadcast your voice to rear passengers using the speakers)
Ventilated front seats
16-speaker ELS premium audio system

Advance
Adds to the A-Spec's equipment (not counting the unique features) with:

Roof rails
Hands-free liftgate
Adaptive suspension dampers (adjust to enhance handling and ride comfort)
Remote engine start
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the MDX and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
Upgraded front seats with leather upholstery
Heated outboard second-row seats
Heated steering wheel
Second-row household-style power outlet
Third-row USB ports

Type S
This sport-oriented MDX is equipped similarly to the A-Spec but with:

Turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (355 hp, 354 lb-ft)
Sport-tuned adaptive air suspension (adjusts to enhance handling, ride comfort and ride height)
Transmission and AWD system tuned for sportier performance
21-inch wheels
Brembo front brakes
Type S-specific front-end styling

Type S Advance
Combines the extra performance of the Type S with the features of the Advance trim. It also has:

25-speaker ELS Studio sound system
Upgraded front seats with massage

Acura MDX Reviews

Owner Reviews

3.3

44 reviews

5(41%)

4(7%)

3(14%)

2(18%)

1(20%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Tough beginning!!!

Mickey and Connie, 10/08/2022

2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

We had to drive about 200 miles to get the MDX type S we were looking for. We knew the type S did not come with a spare tire, so we thought we had the extra cost spare tire kit coming when we picked it up. Unfortunately the kit was and is on back order. Well the stars on the way home were not aligned in our favor and of all things we had a blowout.. Acura care sent a flatbed and by 10 …

Nice car

Bill, 02/14/2023

2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

First Acura in 30 years. My, how things change! I've got about 8000 miles on mine. Nice on the road on an 8 hour drive to Florida. It's certainly not the Corvette's or Mustang Bullitt I've owned in the past, but it goes as fast as I want and I'm not too gentle on it. (85-90 mph) Heck of a lot more comfortable then the other sports cars I've owned. Looks like a "MOM VAN" and the …

Problems @1,500 miles

Gigi Giani, 05/16/2023

2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

This is my first Acura. "Love" the look, only "like" the car. At 1,500 miles my rear, right wheel sensor failed. Every light on the dash came on. Was told supply chain issues so can't get the replacement part for a month. Also, the car isn't extremely quiet. The tires are loud and road noise can be heard. Lastly, always had a problem with using my phone in the car. When I call out the …

Nice ride, but needs more.

Grumpy Sailor, 01/25/2023

2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

I’ve had my MDX Type S Advance for 3 weeks now. Impressions: 1. Great sound system!!!! 2. Already in the shop for warranty work. I’m annoyed with that. 3. Fun to drive, very comfortable. 4. Interior is TOO LOUD. This is supposed to be a premium product, built for long, comfortable drives. My 10 year old pickup is just as quiet. Disappointing. 5. The infotainment system took a few …

See all 44 reviews of the Acura MDX

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2023 Acura MDX videos

2022 Acura MDX Review: One Year and 12K Miles in Our Acura Luxury SUV | Long-Term Review

NOTE: This video is about the 2022 Acura MDX, but since the 2023 Acura MDX is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

The Acura MDX is one of our highest-rated midsize luxury SUVs, and about a year ago we added one to our long-term fleet. In this video, Ryan ZumMallen from Edmunds reviews what the past year has been like driving the 2022 Acura MDX SH-AWD with the Advance package. Ryan runs through…

2023 Acura MDX Features & Specs

Type:

Type S

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$67,850
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	19 MPG
Cost to Drive	$265/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

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Acura MDX vs. Audi Q7

Like other German luxury SUVs, the Audi Q7 typically costs more than the MDX. And by our own rating scale, the Q7 doesn't seem impressive enough to justify the added expense. But the Audi is a little more refined in just about every aspect, and there are more luxury features to be had across the board. The Q7 has an easier-to-use infotainment system than the MDX too.

Compare Acura MDX & Audi Q7 features

Acura MDX vs. Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is one of the better picks for a three-row luxury SUV. Highlights include a roomy third row, elegant interior design, and an available plug-in hybrid powertrain that's powerful and efficient. Both the MDX and XC90 would be a welcome addition to your garage.

Compare Acura MDX & Volvo XC90 features

Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80

The Genesis GV80 doesn't enjoy the same name recognition as the MDX, but it's no less impressive. The GV80 is the first SUV from Hyundai's luxury arm, and it earns a lot of points for its pleasant ride, quick acceleration and helpful advanced driving aids. Both of these SUVs, though, suffer from a distracting-to-use tech interface.

Compare Acura MDX & Genesis GV80 features

Build Your 2024 MDX

At a Glance:

6 Colors
1 Trim
$50,900starting MSRP

Build & Price Acura.com/MDX

Safety

Our experts’ favorite MDX safety features:

Lane Keeping Assist System: 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.

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	4 / 5
Driver	4 / 5
Passenger	4 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	15.1%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original	Good
Side Impact Test – Updated	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good

FAQ

Is the Acura MDX a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 MDX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the MDX has 18.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Acura MDX. Learn more

What's new in the 2023 Acura MDX?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Acura MDX:

No major changes for 2023
AcuraLink services included for three years
Maintenance is now complimentary for two years/24,000 miles
Part of the fourth MDX generation introduced in 2022

Learn more

Is the Acura MDX reliable?

To determine whether the Acura MDX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the MDX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the MDX's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2023 Acura MDX a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Acura MDX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 MDX and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 MDX is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2023 Acura MDX?

The least-expensive 2023 Acura MDX is the 2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $67,850.

Other versions include:

Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $67,850
Type S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $73,200

Learn more

What are the different models of Acura MDX?

If you're interested in the Acura MDX, the next question is, which MDX model is right for you? MDX variants include Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A), and Type S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of MDX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

2023 Acura MDX Type S

Pricing

Acura MDX Video Shorts

2023 Acura MDX Type S Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.98 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Save as much as $8,386 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,386 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Type S trim.

Edmunds suggests you pay

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which MDX does Edmunds recommend?

Acura MDX models

Acura MDX Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Tough beginning!!!

Nice car

Problems @1,500 miles

Nice ride, but needs more.

Helpful shopping links

2023 Acura MDX videos

2022 Acura MDX Review: One Year and 12K Miles in Our Acura Luxury SUV | Long-Term Review

2023 Acura MDX Features & Specs

Compare the Acura MDX

Acura MDX vs. Audi Q7

Acura MDX vs. Volvo XC90

Acura MDX vs. Genesis GV80

Safety

Our experts’ favorite MDX safety features:

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

IIHS Rating

2023 Acura MDX First Impressions

What is the 2023 Acura MDX?

Edmunds says

FAQ

Is the Acura MDX a good car?

What's new in the 2023 Acura MDX?

Is the Acura MDX reliable?

Is the 2023 Acura MDX a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2023 Acura MDX?

What are the different models of Acura MDX?

Related 2023 Acura MDX Type S info

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2023 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.98 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Save as much as $8,386 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,386 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Type S trim.}