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Acura MDX
2025 · Acura
MDX
71
🔷 Premium
OctaneScore / 100
👁 11 reviews
Critics Consensus
Luxury buyers willing to overlook mediocre fuel economy and a genuinely cramped third row in exchange for cutting-edge cabin tech, composed handling, and better value than German competitors—though pricing creep and infotainment fixes may come too late for the most value-conscious.

Things to Look For

Redesigned infotainment system with Google integration and touchscreen3 reviewers
355-hp turbocharged V6 with SH-AWD handling and adaptive air suspension2 reviewers
Livability and cargo flexibility with usable three-row seating2 reviewers
Poor fuel economy; 19-22 mpg combined, comparable to V8 engines3 reviewers
Third row is cramped and undersized for adults2 reviewers
Year-over-year price increases weaken value proposition2 reviewers
Whether tech and performance improvements justify the premium pricing

Score Breakdown

Performance
76
Livability
74
Driving Tech
88
Cabin Tech
88
Value
72
Reliability
68
Design
78
Economy
24

11 Reviews

Redline Reviews
Redline Reviews
Apr 10, 2026
64🔷 Premium
Redline Reviews gave the 2026 MDX Type S a solidly positive assessment (64.3/100), praising its exceptional comfort and strong value proposition—the Type S seats offer 16-way adjustability with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, and the panoramic sunroof comes standard without extra cost. The vehicle also impresses with its turbocharged J30 AD engine delivering 355 hp and 0-60 times around 5.3 seconds, plus a redesigned exterior with the diamond pentagon face that has "aged very nicely." However, practicality concerns temper enthusiasm, as the MDX occupies an awkward middle ground between larger competitors like the Lexus TX and Genesis GV80, and notably lacks third-row air vents at this price point—a gap the reviewer called "inexcusable." This Type S is best suited for buyers prioritizing premium seating comfort and performance in a mid-size luxury SUV who can overlook its spatial compromises.
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SavageGeese
SavageGeese
Oct 21, 2024
59🔷 Premium
SavageGeese gives the 2025 MDX a mixed 59/100 rating, praising its standout livability features like top-tier massage functionality and improved noise insulation, along with genuinely upgraded driving technology including new millimeter-wave sensors and better lane-tracing capabilities. The cabin tech received a meaningful overhaul with Android 12, though the repositioned infotainment screen created a generic-looking dashboard, and storage solutions fall short compared to the Honda Pilot. Value is the toughest sell at $60,000–$75,000, placing it directly against superior competitors like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7, while fuel economy remains merely average. The MDX Type S is worth considering as a family-focused three-row vehicle if comfortable ride quality and quiet refinement matter more to you than segment-leading performance or exceptional fuel efficiency.
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TheStraightPipes
TheStraightPipes
Sep 13, 2024
75⭐ Super
TheStraightPipes gave the 2025 Acura MDX Type S a positive 75/100 rating, praising Acura for finally addressing the infotainment problems that plagued previous generations with a flawless touchscreen system supporting both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The standout features include its driving technology and design, highlighted by SH-AWD handling, multiple drive modes, and updated styling with quieter Continental CrossContact RX tires, though the turbo V6 engine suffers from noticeable lag and the third row is cramped for adults. At nearly $88,000 CAD and climbing toward $100,000, the value proposition hinges entirely on whether the infotainment and tech improvements justify the premium price tag. This MDX suits buyers prioritizing cutting-edge cabin tech and family hauling capability who can overlook the engine's sluggish turbo response and cramped rear seats.
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Auto Buyers Guide
Auto Buyers Guide
Jul 9, 2024
66🔷 Premium
Auto Buyers Guide gave the 2025 Acura MDX a solidly positive review with an OctaneScore of 66/100, praising its cabin technology (perfect 100/100) and strong performance capabilities, including the Type S's 355-horsepower turbocharged V6 and the base model's rare naturally aspirated engine option. The design also impresses with what the reviewer calls "the right blend of elegant but also aggressive styling" compared to competitors like Volvo and Lexus, while the interior delivers efficient packaging that rivals larger competitors despite the MDX's smaller exterior footprint. However, fuel economy is a significant weakness, with the Type S achieving only 19 mpg combined and pricing that has increased year-over-year, creating a value proposition that ranks lowest at 33/100—particularly frustrating since you must step up to the pricier Type S to get the more comfortable adaptive air suspension. The MDX is best suited for luxury buyers prioritizing intuitive technology and performance who can overlook modest fuel efficiency and pricing concerns.
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Redline Reviews
Redline Reviews
Jul 9, 2024
69🔷 Premium
Redline Reviews gives the 2025 Acura MDX Type S a solidly positive review with a score of 69/100, praising it as one of America's best-selling luxury three-row crossovers for 25 years. The standout strengths are its cutting-edge cabin technology—featuring Google-based infotainment and a premium 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo—paired with excellent driving assistance tech including a 360-degree camera with multiple viewing modes and an upgraded radar sensor. The Type S delivers impressive performance with 355 hp from its turbocharged V6 and adaptive air suspension that adjusts ground clearance from 6.7 to 9.4 inches, though buyers should note the MDX lacks hybrid electrification options and the base engine's 0-to-60 time trails competitors with hybrid or turbo engines. This is the ideal vehicle for luxury crossover shoppers prioritizing advanced tech, upscale interiors, and sport-tuned performance over fuel economy.
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Auto Buyers Guide
Auto Buyers Guide
Jun 29, 2024
66🔷 Premium
Auto Buyers Guide gives the 2025 Acura MDX a positive review with a score of 66/100, praising its performance and value as a best-selling luxury three-row SUV priced from $52,200 to $76,500. The vehicle excels in cabin technology with Google integration and a redesigned infotainment screen closer to the driver, strong performance with a smooth 355-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine, and improved livability including expanded storage and a larger wireless charging mat—though the Type S's adaptive air suspension is not available on the Advanced trim. However, buyers should be aware that fuel economy is mediocre at 19-22 MPG combined, and the shiny black plastics throughout the interior scratch easily. The MDX is best suited for luxury SUV shoppers prioritizing smooth driving dynamics, modern technology, and interior space over fuel efficiency.
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Redline Reviews
Redline Reviews
Jun 29, 2024
77⭐ Super
Redline Reviews gives the 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec Advance a strong 77/100 rating, praising its cabin technology (94/100) with the new 12.3-inch touchscreen and upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system, alongside its standard safety and performance features including the all-new 290-hp V6 engine and full AcuraWatch 360 Plus driver assistance. The design updates impress with an exclusive Apex Blue Pearl color and refreshed styling, while the vehicle maintains strong value positioning at $50,900 as America's best-selling three-row luxury SUV. The main caveat is average fuel economy at 19 city/25 highway on premium gas, and cargo capacity trails larger competitors. The MDX is the ideal choice for families prioritizing quality, technology, and reliable luxury over maximum space or fuel efficiency.
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Auto Buyers Guide
Auto Buyers Guide
Apr 9, 2024
95⭐ Super
Auto Buyers Guide gives the 2025 Acura MDX a highly positive review with an OctaneScore of 95/100, praising its redesigned front-end styling, completely overhauled infotainment system with Google integration, and strong value proposition—noting that the Type S Advanced at $75,000-$76,000 offers significantly better pricing than European competitors while including premium features. Performance stands out particularly in the Type S model, which delivers 355 horsepower and a dynamic super handling all-wheel drive system that rivals the Lexus RX and Volvo XC90. The MDX's livability scores slightly lower at 62/100 due to a third row that, while usable, doesn't match some competitors in size, though the removable middle seat offers flexible seating configurations. The 2025 MDX is best suited for buyers seeking a well-rounded luxury three-row SUV with strong tech and performance credentials at a competitive price point, with Auto Buyers Guide specifically recommending the Type S variant.
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Redline Reviews
Redline Reviews
Apr 9, 2024
87⭐ Super
Redline Reviews gave the 2025 Acura MDX Advance/Type S a strong 87/100 rating, praising its cabin technology (heads-up display, new touchscreen interface, wireless CarPlay standard), impressive performance (355 hp, 5.5-second 0-60, adaptive air suspension), and attractive design with new 21-inch wheels and enhanced front styling. The cabin tech and design standout at 91 and 89 points respectively, while livability offers solid cargo flexibility with 71.4 cubic feet when both rear rows fold. However, reliability scores lag at 60/100, with concerns about soft-touch door panel materials that lack stitching and feel scratchy compared to leather alternatives. This MDX suits buyers prioritizing tech-forward features and performance in a premium three-row SUV without demanding luxury material finishes.
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Redline Reviews
Redline Reviews
Dec 15, 2023
70🔷 Premium
Redline Reviews gives the 2024 Acura MDX Type S a solidly positive 70/100 score, praising it as one of their favorite driving SUVs with standout strengths in driving technology (perfect 100/100), design, and performance—notably the turbocharged 3.0L V6 producing 355 hp with super handling all-wheel drive capable of sending 70% of power to the rear wheels, plus the fully adaptive air suspension and jewel LED headlights with integrated radar. The main drawback is fuel economy, which scores a weak 25/100 with real-world testing showing around 16-17 MPG city despite EPA ratings of 17/21, making it a thirsty choice for those concerned about efficiency. At mid-$70,000s and about $8,000 more than the A-Spec, it's a reasonable premium for the powertrain and handling upgrades, though value depends on whether you prioritize performance and luxury features over running costs. This Type S is best suited for luxury SUV buyers who prioritize driving dynamics and tech features over fuel economy and can comfortably absorb its gas consumption.
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SavageGeese
SavageGeese
Jun 26, 2023
58🔷 Premium
SavageGeese gave the 2024 Acura MDX Type S a mixed 58/100 rating, praising it as one of the best three-row SUVs available today. The standout strengths are its exceptional livability with a usable three-row design and highly configurable cargo area, strong value proposition at $70,000 compared to German rivals, and benchmark-setting chassis and suspension that make it nimble and fun to drive. However, significant drawbacks include disappointing fuel economy around 20 mpg (comparable to V8 engines), a frustrating infotainment system that relies entirely on wireless Android Auto to be tolerable, a transmission flaw that drops into neutral during hard cornering, and poor camera resolution that lags behind competitors. The MDX Type S is ideal for practical luxury SUV buyers prioritizing value, space, and driving dynamics over cutting-edge technology and efficiency.
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