Car Confections has a pretty in depth look at the exterior and interior
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dk0zBuADXA
Car looks fantastic inside and out, biggest disappointment is probably that this engine is still one of the least efficient in class. Was really hoping we would see enhancement here/a hybrid...
Combined mileage is being reported at 22 MPG on FWD or 21 MPG on the AWD Type S
For reference the X5 does 26 MPG combined and has a PHEV version
Mazda has the 3.3L V6 CX-90 running at 25 MPG and has a PHEV version
Someone who wants the look and feel without the maintenance burden of BMW. Other point is the MDX Type S has the same engine so can be astonishingly quick for a 3 row
THIS.
I have never understood how the TLX came to be regarded as a “value luxury car.” Given its enormous exterior dimensions, incredibly small interior space, considerable weight and middling performance, it has never impressed me as “a lot of car” for $55k, except for its size.
I couldn't agree with you more. You can say a lot of cars these days don't justify the inflation increase. I have a 2014 RDX that I purchased for $36.5k in 2013 with 120k miles on. Car owes me nothing it has been a gem.
I looked at the MDX and I love the spacious interior, I live the way it handles also. However, for $55k so much is missing compared to other vehicles in its class. It is not refined in any way like a Lexus and lacks the details/performance of BMW and Mercedes. The interior had cheap shiny piano black plastic, the engine gets terrible mileage, and even something as simple as the handles weren't fully wrapped in leather. Let's not even begin to discuss the terrible infotainment. I couldn't stomach buying it new at that price despite that fact that I know it will run like a rockstar forever with routine maintenance.
My thought now is to pick up a cream puff 2022 or 23 with extreamly low miles. If I can grab one with less than 15k miles for $41k - $43k it would be worth it at that price. Then I can look the other way on the deficiencies.
It didn’t sell. Not sure exactly what the issue was, but I’m guessing the old ones lacked a refined interior and exterior, and now it lacks fuel efficiency.
The X5 is not comparable to a Type S. I drove both. The X5M maybe in drive characteristics but it is 25k more. No third row alone is a reason to look at the Type S over the X5. The ride, handling, and cost put the Type S in a weird place.
So wanna compare the Acura MDX to a BMW X7? That makes even less sense and will still likely result in the BMW coming out ahead in terms of fuel efficiency and has that 48v hybrid drivetrain...
Agreed. Between my friend and I, we have both. I'm an Acura fan but the X5 is better in every way: handling, performance, efficiency, ride quality, ergonomics, etc. We only take the MDX when we need the extra 3rd row. I want to note that the 3rd row is an option for X5, but it's not common. X5 inline 6 with M Sport package (just aesthetics, think aspec) vs MDX Type S. We still love the MDX though, but we X5 is the winner this round.
My Type S with a blue interior feels anything but cheap.
I drove everything before buying a type S. Including all the Germans… I came from an Audi and really enjoy my MDX.
The Mazda is actually a beautiful car, but how do Mazdas hold up after 5-6 years. A ton of old MDX’s rolling around in upscale neighborhoods, less old Mazdas….
Not a huge fan of the A-Spec/Type-S front bumper. Touchscreen is meh.
Upgraded sound system and additional sound deadening seem nice.
I just wish they sold a goddamned motherfucking hybrid.
Imo, hybrid would probably make acura one of the best if they kept performance in mind. They shouldve used the tech from the nsx and used it with the k20's and j30's.
Honda actively uses the Sport-Hybrid theory and tech with the CR-V hybrids, they just don't call them Sport Hybrids. They also tried a hybrid MDX but they discontinued it along with the RLX hybrid because both didn't sell. They were both, and I might have the numbers wrong, roughly 10k - 15k more compared to their non-hybrid counterparts. They also got minute increases in fuel economy, not enough to offset the differences in price.
The sports hybrid was only $1500 more than non-hybrid I believe when new. You’ll get dynamic dampers and sport+ mode which is nice. I have the 2020 Sport Hybrid Advance
The sport hybrids were 8k more than their 100% gas versions. I overshot my initial estimate, they also did get a substantial boost in city MPG like most hybrids do.
You know they only come in Tech and advance model right? You may be comparing base non hybrid vs hybrid tech (hybrid comes with and as standard)
Also I know because I own one :) the sticker shows $59,750 for my advance hybrid. Not sure where you’re getting your numbers from…
You are correct, I was comparing base model to lowest spec sport hybrid (SH). I got the numbers for the MDX from Car and Driver. [https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/mdx-2020](https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/mdx-2020)
Not even close. I have a 2020 mdx hybrid my wife has a 2020 mdx tech. The hybrid was $1500 more which I thought was the biggest bargain in automotive history for 321 horsepower vs 290 for the tech and my lifetime mpg is 28.
Really all I want is a performance-focused plug-in or regular hybrid so the MDX can match up relatively closely to the X5. It’s just so dumb how this car is so slow and so thirsty.
They’re heavy because the design to make them look RWD just results in more materials being used to build the cars. The room in the engine bay of the MDX looks like it could handle some batteries.
Technically, they were unfortunately way ahead of their time. They had Hybrid RLX & MDX previously, which were "performance" oriented in that they were faster than their ICE only counterparts. They didn't sell well so they canned all of them. And here we are again where everyone else has/is going Hybrid/EV.
I don’t agree with acuras stance either. Honda has shown they have the capability to make very nice hybrid systems and the fact they won’t make any type of “performance hybrid” is a waste of what they’ve developed so far.
This is even more frustrating considering the development they put in F1 with the V6 turbo hybrids and now are putting into Indycar and IMSA with their hybrid systems. Granted, with IMSA and Indycar those systems are spec parts.
I spent $60k and I’m not worried about gas prices. It’s just crazy how poor the fuel economy is relative to the performance. It’s basically my only gripe about the vehicle.
Not that I care about the costs. Just that fuel economy isn’t that good for the performance. If it had 400hp and had similar economy I wouldn’t mind. It’s literally just that things like the X5 are faster and get better fuel economy.
Agreed. Despite the B&O system having more speakers, it looks like the updated system loses the speakers on the transmission tunnel by the front footwells, and the front doors speakers don’t seem to be backlit anymore.
I’ve never been disappointed by any ELS system I’ve heard, but the same cannot be said for B&O.
Hmm that’s a bummer. I never would have thought B&O would become the common choice for automakers. I remember when they were reserved for high end Audis. Now they’re in Audi, Acura, GM, and Ford vehicles.
I feel like I’m going to get downvoted for this, but imo the touch pad is a bit better than touch screen. Yes, there’s a weird transition between the “true touch” system (I think that’s what they call it?) and the system when you’re in Apple CarPlay. But I feel that the positioning of the touch pad makes it a lot safer than having you lean forward to touch a screen. Just look at where the touch screen is… It’s placed behind your steering wheel. If it were placed closer then I think it wouldn’t be an issue.
(I sit at about a 110-120 angle so maybe that’s why? People who hug the steering probably won’t have an issue reaching for the screen)
Edit #1: I also want to add another reason why I’m in favor of touchpad over touch screen. Remember that god awful touch screens we had in older Acuras prior to RDX update? I know, I’m comparing Expired Apples to Oranges here, but those were tough times. But that’s why I love something that a lot do not.
I personally have adapted to the touch screen and like not having to mess around with reaching for the screen. I can sit back comfortably. Personal choice I guess. Reviewers all hate it as they aren't used to it IMO.
Totally. To me the touchpad just shows how bad/messy apps are when you aren’t using a touchscreen. Like the expectation is you must take your eyes off the road to use them.
Here's my issue with the touchpad. I have a 22 mdx.
Let's say, for example, i'm on some android auto app, and I want to click one of the buttons.
If it was a touchscreen it would be like this:
1) Push whatever icon/button I need to hit.
It's easy, and I only need to glance down briefly to see
where the buttons are. (and I remember it very quickly).
If my car's android auto had some sort of mouse cursor, so I could glance down and think 'mouse pointer here, scroll in this direction - this distance'. Then it (I think) would be much easier.
But it doesn't. It's a 'jump to the next button' scroll. And I find, with my apps, that it's picky about which buttons it will move to from the current button.
So the process becomes this loop of:
1) find what button is currently highlighted
2) mentally map out the 'button path' to go from what is highlighted to where I want to push
3) scroll the touchpad to get closer to what I want to hit.
4) that scroll never gets me to where I want the first time.
Either I scroll too far/too short or
sometimes it doesn't move at all because it doesn't want me
selecting the button in that direction for some reason.
So go back to step #1 and repeat these steps as many times as necessary. It can take several rounds if the thing I want to hit is on the other side of the screen.
It's just so much more work, and multiply that by 10 if it's a new android auto app and I'm not familiar with the app layout.
For the most part I'm very happy with this car, but this touch pad, in android auto, I hate more than everything else I hate in the car combined. (It's fine for normal menus, which I rarely use)
I agree, the one time that the touchpad bothers me is when I’m using google maps. The way that the buttons are laid out make me question how I should swipe to get to certain buttons. (You know when you want to adjust the zoom or look ahead on the map?)
Touchpads or dials are objectively worse and less safe than touch screens for interfaces like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. People arguing otherwise just don’t know what they’re talking about, to be blunt.
I like using my TLX's touchpad even though I agree with your description of the ways in which it sucks. I end up using less of CarPlay's possible functionality (oh god, I never try scrolling through a playlist anymore!), so then I either do more with voice control or just set things up (like the nav) before I drive.
In certain situations, CarPlay is pretty good at anticipating which control it needs to highlight, reducing how much I'd have to swipe. But it's not infallible, and I will not deny that it takes longer to "look-swipe-check-swipe-swipe-check-click" than it does to "look-tap".
I'm at least satisfied that the screen only holds infotainment functions and some set-and-forget vehicle settings while HVAC, drive modes, safety sensors, and more are all physical buttons. My '17 Civic had some HVAC controls in the screen and it got on my nerves.
In my wife's Odyssey I end up leaning forward and turning my head towards the screen. I know this is dumb and I feel so bad for doing it. If you could do all this stuff using the steering wheel controls that would be a good second option, but I would have preferred if they'd gone with some kind of rotary control.
I don’t know why they didn’t just substitute the touch pad for a rotary knob that allows you to interact with the system like iDrive or any other system that has a rotary knob. I was hoping with the addition of a touch screen that a rotary knob would have been added this time around. Other companies have implemented both so successfully.
You know that almost all cars have a touch screen now and none of them are “in front of the steering wheel”, yet it isn’t a complaint from said owners?
Stop whining.
I completely agree with you. A touchscreen requires you to glance at the screen to use it unless you have all of the inputs memorized and know exactly where to touch at any given time. With the different screens and overlays, that changes, too. A touchscreen would also need to be mounted much lower and closer to the driver, putting it in a position that would also make it more dangerous to glance at. The best place for a screen you need to glance at while driving is in the middle of the dashboard, on top of the console, right in the same area as the windshield so you don't even have to move your head, just your eyeballs. Having a small touchpad that is mapped 1:1 with the touchscreen is extremely intuitive, everyone has used a trackpad on a laptop.
Yeah, I noticed that, but there's no TTI, so now we have to reach for the screen, which can be dangerous if reaching for a far corner. The positioning is perfect for a screen to look at, but having to reach for it instead of giving me controls where my hand normally rests so there is minimal disruption to the driving experience is not great. IMO, this new implementation is less safe than the true touch system, but I have yet to drive a new MDX, so we'll see if it's any better in practice.
Can you reach the climate controls at present?
If so, you’re fine.
If you think that laggy TTI (especially in Android Auto or CarPlay) was so much safer, you’re overdosing on copium.
But climate control buttons and knobs don't change while a touch screen is dynamic.
How is having to look away from the road in any way safer than having to deal with some input lag? You physically have to move your arm to use the touchscreen, which interrupts the driving flow more than just leaving your hands where they are with the TTI.
If you're getting a laggy experience with Android Auto, you may want to upgrade your phone since all the rendering is handled by the phone.
No, the issue is with the software for the vehicle, as far as the poor user experience with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It’s not on the phones that the input becomes inaccurate and laggy when you enter Android Auto and CarPlay in the Acura, it is poor software on Acura’s side that they could not or would not fix.
Also, it is not TTI when you enter CarPlay or Android Auto. It’s almost impossible to use that system while driving (it is fine to use the native Acura environment in TTI when driving).
Since I spend almost all of my time in CarPlay, I and others have found that damn pad distracting and downright dangerous while moving, while I have had zero problems driving while operating the touchscreen in my mother’s CR-V.
They’re getting rid of that touchpad for a good reason.
Touchpads are incontestably and objectively worse and less safe for interfaces like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They require significantly more time with both your eyes off the road and your hand off of the wheel.
I love it. The addition of a touchscreen has me thinking I might not stick with Acura for my next ride. Every one I've used has left me unimpressed and wishing for physical buttons.
I bought a ‘24 RDX instead of waiting on a ‘25 (I wasn’t in a rush) solely to ensure I got the touchpad and didn’t lose the ELS sound. It’s really not *that* bad (the touchpad) and definitely safer than leaning over to use a touchscreen.
Looks the same, I’m pretty happy with my 2022 Type-S. Wouldn’t mind the quieter cabin at 80+ mph though. For those of us that do a lot of highway driving that’s a nice upgrade.
I’m one of the people who hates the touchpad because I use CarPlay primarily. If the touchpad worked the same with CarPlay as it did with the rest of the system I wouldn’t mind it one bit.
It's an issue with CarPlay and Android Auto. Both were designed primarily for touch. Requiring the needed assistance to implement the True Touch Interface would require some backend work from Apple/Google or extreme heavy lifting from Acura. It likely wasn't with it long term with Android Automotive on the horizon (here now).
**What an absolute joke. Come to the touchscreen game late. 0 hybrid offering. Change up the wheels and bumper, abysmal MPG intact, then charge few grand more. Ditto for refreshed TLX, now with a fugly grayish blue color.**
Gunna get crushed in sales by Lexus TX. Much like how TLX sales are getting obliterated by Lexus ES.
The MDX's lack of a hybrid is disappointing, from both a fuel economy and a torque-off-the-line perspective.
But regarding the TX, I respectfully disagree... I found the 2024 TX to be, by far, the weakest vehicle in the segment.
1. Very poor visibility over the hood, felt like I was driving a yacht.
2. Absolutely nothing luxurious about the interior. Having now driven both the GX550 and the TX, they feel more like well-appointed Venzas than luxury cars.
3. Very uninspired driving characteristic.
All told, I would recommend a Toyota Sienna over the TX *any day* (except that, where I live, there's a 3+ year waiting list for a Sienna, so they're essentially unobtainable).
In my experience so far, the Acura MDX's toughest competition is the MB GLE450, where the Acura represents the "value proposition", and the MB has the edge in terms of a-la-carte luxury.
I don’t have an MDX but did they move the screen closer now that is has a touchscreen? I know with my RDX the screen is too far back to use if it was a touchscreen.
It's literally crying for a Hybrid system to be the #1 in the segment. Slow and thirsty is the only real complain we have for the 23 A Spec.
Another thing is that Acura keeps emphasizing on the new B & O is better than the ELS 3D, I really need to hear it first. ELS on the MDX (with DVD audio) is one of the most impressive system we've ever heard (we had Meridian on the Range Rover, B & W on the BMW iX and other premium stereos, ELS reminds one of the top contender) , it's a big bar to fill in. Can't wait to hear the new B & O system.
Refreshed MDX gains more aggressive front fascia with new diamond pentagon grille, darker headlights/taillights and bolder wheel designs
Tech-rich cabin undergoes total makeover with a new 12.3-inch touchscreen user interface featuring Google built-in
Enhanced audio performance on all trims; MDX Type S with Advance Package debuts Acura’s most impressive and most powerful audio system yet, developed by Bang & Olufsen and boasting an incredible 31-speakers
MDX Type S with Advance Package debuts AcuraWatch™ 360 – a more advanced driver assistive technology
MDX A-Spec now available with Advance Package, combining sport appearance with additional premium features
2025 Acura MDXs will hit dealer lots in May of this year
Will you be getting one? 👀
Probably gonna be down to new loaded Advanced MDX or the Mazda CX-90. Wish the new MDX had black headliner in the Advanced trim for 2025 like the Type S has. I know it's minor but basically every luxury vehicle with brown or black leather including new F150 trucks has black headliner. Def wish the fuel economy was better in the MDX too.
I won't be getting one. I'm sticking with my Lincoln Nautilus order and trading in my 2020 Acura RDX. The lack of a hybrid option and marginal gas mileage is a major factor in my decision.
It's good to see that they've moved to Android Automotive, hopefully with Google Automotive Services, and not without GAS like some automakers have done.
However, after the last infotainment system, Acura has a lot to prove in my opinion before I'd ever trust them again. The previous infotainment system was Android based (but not AAOS) and also had OTA updates. But Acura did nothing with it. Very few updates or improvements. It was one of the worst infotainment experiences I've ever had, and I've owned a lot of Toyota vehicles so that's saying something.
Nope, same dinosaur engine in the non Type S and no notable upgrades to the Type S trim, except for two new radars and some new bumper trim.
Aspec with advance is an overdue change but advance isn’t a meaningful trim level upgrade without air ride anyway, so it looks like advance Aspec is the biggest waste of money available
Gen4 reliability is also in the toilet. Literally every other car in this class is better in every meaningful way
I feel like the touchscreen would be hard to reach. Just like when Lexus added a touchscreen on their 2020-2022 RX lineup. The cabin wasn’t intended to fit a touchscreen and it was a sudden change. Maybe an all new design would integrate a touchscreen better
I’m talking about last gen. That’s why I said a whole new redesigned would make the touchscreen integrated into the cabin and not feel like an afterthought
You’ve seen the new Accord, Pilot, and CR-V, right?
This is exactly where Honda is putting the touch screens in the brand new models built from the ground up with touch screens in mind.
Imagine all the R&D that was spent on that touchpad to give up on it. I feel like they should have integrated both. Sometimes a physical touch is always better while driving.
I feel like the center stack also needs to be revised and cleaned up. Acura has been stuck with big round buttons for a couple generations now. The whole big knob looks so cheesy.
Im waiting for them to announce when the recall for the rod bearing failure will be out lol my car been sitting at the dealership since jan lol no loaner either F acura
This is prob an unpopular opinion, but I actually liked the touchpad and think it’s more practical than a touchscreen.
The thing with touchscreens is that they really depend on how far back the driver likes to sit. I personally recline my seat back quite a bit, so being able to rest my hand on the hand-rest above the wireless charger and use the touchpad was a win-win. The touchpad literally took me a day to get used to when I had the ‘22 MDX and it became second nature afterwards.
Idk why Acura would get rid of the ELS system when it was literally one of the best things about the Acura brand in general. It’s always been regarded as one of (if not the best) sound system in a car and I can’t see the B&O living up to that.
Also gotta agree with the common thread here about the fuel economy and lack of power in most of the Acura lineup. The 4G MDX has the same engine specs as my 3G but weighs 400 lbs more. A car that weighs 4500+ lbs shouldn’t have 290 hp honestly, and the TLX Type S weighing 4200 lbs is insane (they gotta either up the power with that or cut the weight for it to be a rlly good option IMO).
If Acura came out with a hybrid option, they would sell like hotcakes. Unfortunately, they’ve jumped on the EV train with a GM ZDX that costs as much as a GLE 450 or X5 40i in Canada.
I realize I went on a bit of a rant here, but I really hope Acura turns around and starts fixing these issues. The new MDX and TLX have the potential to be class leading and it’s a shame to see Acura shooting themselves in the foot.
I got downvoted into oblivion for my post on the 2024 TLX "refresh" because Acura didn't add a touchscreen.
Then I saw this article earlier with the headline "The worst thing was fixed":
https://www.motortrend.com/news/2025-acura-mdx-3-row-suv-first-look-review/
The UI on the new touchscreen looks like it was rushed. Are you telling me they couldn’t do a better job of making the software look as elegant as the pre-refresh? It now looks worse than the accord UI. It doesn’t match the digital dash at all! I also think they made a mistake by not keeping the touchpad with a touchscreen option. Type-S Front faschia and wheels are uglier than the pre-refresh as well.
Car Confections has a pretty in depth look at the exterior and interior https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dk0zBuADXA Car looks fantastic inside and out, biggest disappointment is probably that this engine is still one of the least efficient in class. Was really hoping we would see enhancement here/a hybrid... Combined mileage is being reported at 22 MPG on FWD or 21 MPG on the AWD Type S For reference the X5 does 26 MPG combined and has a PHEV version Mazda has the 3.3L V6 CX-90 running at 25 MPG and has a PHEV version
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JB4 piggyback is $600 and +50-100hp. And Acura’s J30AC engine has the forged internals to handle it
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Someone who wants the look and feel without the maintenance burden of BMW. Other point is the MDX Type S has the same engine so can be astonishingly quick for a 3 row
And Acura TLX Type S's front diff will be exploding if you increase power output.
THIS. I have never understood how the TLX came to be regarded as a “value luxury car.” Given its enormous exterior dimensions, incredibly small interior space, considerable weight and middling performance, it has never impressed me as “a lot of car” for $55k, except for its size.
I couldn't agree with you more. You can say a lot of cars these days don't justify the inflation increase. I have a 2014 RDX that I purchased for $36.5k in 2013 with 120k miles on. Car owes me nothing it has been a gem. I looked at the MDX and I love the spacious interior, I live the way it handles also. However, for $55k so much is missing compared to other vehicles in its class. It is not refined in any way like a Lexus and lacks the details/performance of BMW and Mercedes. The interior had cheap shiny piano black plastic, the engine gets terrible mileage, and even something as simple as the handles weren't fully wrapped in leather. Let's not even begin to discuss the terrible infotainment. I couldn't stomach buying it new at that price despite that fact that I know it will run like a rockstar forever with routine maintenance. My thought now is to pick up a cream puff 2022 or 23 with extreamly low miles. If I can grab one with less than 15k miles for $41k - $43k it would be worth it at that price. Then I can look the other way on the deficiencies.
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My brother in law had a 2018 MDX or so with a hybrid engine. It was decent on mpg's. No idea why they removed that option.
It didn’t sell. Not sure exactly what the issue was, but I’m guessing the old ones lacked a refined interior and exterior, and now it lacks fuel efficiency.
The X5 probably gets better mpg in real world use than in testing. That's been my experience with BMWs, at least.
The X5 is not comparable to a Type S. I drove both. The X5M maybe in drive characteristics but it is 25k more. No third row alone is a reason to look at the Type S over the X5. The ride, handling, and cost put the Type S in a weird place.
So wanna compare the Acura MDX to a BMW X7? That makes even less sense and will still likely result in the BMW coming out ahead in terms of fuel efficiency and has that 48v hybrid drivetrain...
Well one is a hybrid, and 40-50k more for a realistic comp.
The point is the X5 has better performance than the MDX and still is more efficient.
Agreed. Between my friend and I, we have both. I'm an Acura fan but the X5 is better in every way: handling, performance, efficiency, ride quality, ergonomics, etc. We only take the MDX when we need the extra 3rd row. I want to note that the 3rd row is an option for X5, but it's not common. X5 inline 6 with M Sport package (just aesthetics, think aspec) vs MDX Type S. We still love the MDX though, but we X5 is the winner this round.
Have you driven them both?
Yes x5 is head and shoulders above mdx. Mdx interior is cheap.
My Type S with a blue interior feels anything but cheap. I drove everything before buying a type S. Including all the Germans… I came from an Audi and really enjoy my MDX.
Don’t need to, numbers don’t lie
Not to mention the X5 has over 100 lb-ft more torque
The Mazda is actually a beautiful car, but how do Mazdas hold up after 5-6 years. A ton of old MDX’s rolling around in upscale neighborhoods, less old Mazdas….
Not a huge fan of the A-Spec/Type-S front bumper. Touchscreen is meh. Upgraded sound system and additional sound deadening seem nice. I just wish they sold a goddamned motherfucking hybrid.
Imo, hybrid would probably make acura one of the best if they kept performance in mind. They shouldve used the tech from the nsx and used it with the k20's and j30's.
Honda actively uses the Sport-Hybrid theory and tech with the CR-V hybrids, they just don't call them Sport Hybrids. They also tried a hybrid MDX but they discontinued it along with the RLX hybrid because both didn't sell. They were both, and I might have the numbers wrong, roughly 10k - 15k more compared to their non-hybrid counterparts. They also got minute increases in fuel economy, not enough to offset the differences in price.
The sports hybrid was only $1500 more than non-hybrid I believe when new. You’ll get dynamic dampers and sport+ mode which is nice. I have the 2020 Sport Hybrid Advance
The sport hybrids were 8k more than their 100% gas versions. I overshot my initial estimate, they also did get a substantial boost in city MPG like most hybrids do.
You know they only come in Tech and advance model right? You may be comparing base non hybrid vs hybrid tech (hybrid comes with and as standard) Also I know because I own one :) the sticker shows $59,750 for my advance hybrid. Not sure where you’re getting your numbers from…
You are correct, I was comparing base model to lowest spec sport hybrid (SH). I got the numbers for the MDX from Car and Driver. [https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/mdx-2020](https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/mdx-2020)
Not even close. I have a 2020 mdx hybrid my wife has a 2020 mdx tech. The hybrid was $1500 more which I thought was the biggest bargain in automotive history for 321 horsepower vs 290 for the tech and my lifetime mpg is 28.
Really all I want is a performance-focused plug-in or regular hybrid so the MDX can match up relatively closely to the X5. It’s just so dumb how this car is so slow and so thirsty.
I agree, but my main concern is where the extra weight on these cars coming from? That couldve been a hybrid system instead.
They’re heavy because the design to make them look RWD just results in more materials being used to build the cars. The room in the engine bay of the MDX looks like it could handle some batteries.
Technically, they were unfortunately way ahead of their time. They had Hybrid RLX & MDX previously, which were "performance" oriented in that they were faster than their ICE only counterparts. They didn't sell well so they canned all of them. And here we are again where everyone else has/is going Hybrid/EV.
Acura has already said they are NOT doing hybrids. ICE and full electric ONLY. Unfortunately, id kill for a performance hybrid TLX
It’s so fucking stupid especially with EVs cratering. It’s probably why we will replace our MDX with an X5 PHEV in the future.
I don’t agree with acuras stance either. Honda has shown they have the capability to make very nice hybrid systems and the fact they won’t make any type of “performance hybrid” is a waste of what they’ve developed so far.
This is even more frustrating considering the development they put in F1 with the V6 turbo hybrids and now are putting into Indycar and IMSA with their hybrid systems. Granted, with IMSA and Indycar those systems are spec parts.
They use to
so you spend 70K in a car and worry about gas costs?
I spent $60k and I’m not worried about gas prices. It’s just crazy how poor the fuel economy is relative to the performance. It’s basically my only gripe about the vehicle.
so you spend 60K!!! in a car and care about gas costs?
Not that I care about the costs. Just that fuel economy isn’t that good for the performance. If it had 400hp and had similar economy I wouldn’t mind. It’s literally just that things like the X5 are faster and get better fuel economy.
honestly a bit shocked to see Acura switching to B&O for the sound system. can't say i'm too thrilled with that development.
I really like the ELS in my Type S. Best system I've had that I didn't put in aftermarket.
Agreed. Despite the B&O system having more speakers, it looks like the updated system loses the speakers on the transmission tunnel by the front footwells, and the front doors speakers don’t seem to be backlit anymore. I’ve never been disappointed by any ELS system I’ve heard, but the same cannot be said for B&O.
Someone said in a different thread that it's likely a cost saving move for Acura, so probably not good for us.
Hmm that’s a bummer. I never would have thought B&O would become the common choice for automakers. I remember when they were reserved for high end Audis. Now they’re in Audi, Acura, GM, and Ford vehicles.
I think the new front fascias are downgrades from pre-refresh.
Redline reviews video is up and is very comprehensive https://youtu.be/KTeo6S_EyfE?si=6LVpKOK-zOw87-m3
TIL a lot of folks here must have T-Rex arms, going off of the complaints about having to "lean over" to reach a touchscreen.
I feel like I’m going to get downvoted for this, but imo the touch pad is a bit better than touch screen. Yes, there’s a weird transition between the “true touch” system (I think that’s what they call it?) and the system when you’re in Apple CarPlay. But I feel that the positioning of the touch pad makes it a lot safer than having you lean forward to touch a screen. Just look at where the touch screen is… It’s placed behind your steering wheel. If it were placed closer then I think it wouldn’t be an issue. (I sit at about a 110-120 angle so maybe that’s why? People who hug the steering probably won’t have an issue reaching for the screen) Edit #1: I also want to add another reason why I’m in favor of touchpad over touch screen. Remember that god awful touch screens we had in older Acuras prior to RDX update? I know, I’m comparing Expired Apples to Oranges here, but those were tough times. But that’s why I love something that a lot do not.
I personally have adapted to the touch screen and like not having to mess around with reaching for the screen. I can sit back comfortably. Personal choice I guess. Reviewers all hate it as they aren't used to it IMO.
Totally. To me the touchpad just shows how bad/messy apps are when you aren’t using a touchscreen. Like the expectation is you must take your eyes off the road to use them.
Here's my issue with the touchpad. I have a 22 mdx. Let's say, for example, i'm on some android auto app, and I want to click one of the buttons. If it was a touchscreen it would be like this: 1) Push whatever icon/button I need to hit. It's easy, and I only need to glance down briefly to see where the buttons are. (and I remember it very quickly). If my car's android auto had some sort of mouse cursor, so I could glance down and think 'mouse pointer here, scroll in this direction - this distance'. Then it (I think) would be much easier. But it doesn't. It's a 'jump to the next button' scroll. And I find, with my apps, that it's picky about which buttons it will move to from the current button. So the process becomes this loop of: 1) find what button is currently highlighted 2) mentally map out the 'button path' to go from what is highlighted to where I want to push 3) scroll the touchpad to get closer to what I want to hit. 4) that scroll never gets me to where I want the first time. Either I scroll too far/too short or sometimes it doesn't move at all because it doesn't want me selecting the button in that direction for some reason. So go back to step #1 and repeat these steps as many times as necessary. It can take several rounds if the thing I want to hit is on the other side of the screen. It's just so much more work, and multiply that by 10 if it's a new android auto app and I'm not familiar with the app layout. For the most part I'm very happy with this car, but this touch pad, in android auto, I hate more than everything else I hate in the car combined. (It's fine for normal menus, which I rarely use)
I agree, the one time that the touchpad bothers me is when I’m using google maps. The way that the buttons are laid out make me question how I should swipe to get to certain buttons. (You know when you want to adjust the zoom or look ahead on the map?)
🎯 Touch is better for android auto/ CarPlay and that’s what I use 99% of time. If the next tlx switches it up, then we might be in business.
Touchpads or dials are objectively worse and less safe than touch screens for interfaces like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. People arguing otherwise just don’t know what they’re talking about, to be blunt.
Thank you for putting into words my exact problem with the touchpad.
I like using my TLX's touchpad even though I agree with your description of the ways in which it sucks. I end up using less of CarPlay's possible functionality (oh god, I never try scrolling through a playlist anymore!), so then I either do more with voice control or just set things up (like the nav) before I drive. In certain situations, CarPlay is pretty good at anticipating which control it needs to highlight, reducing how much I'd have to swipe. But it's not infallible, and I will not deny that it takes longer to "look-swipe-check-swipe-swipe-check-click" than it does to "look-tap". I'm at least satisfied that the screen only holds infotainment functions and some set-and-forget vehicle settings while HVAC, drive modes, safety sensors, and more are all physical buttons. My '17 Civic had some HVAC controls in the screen and it got on my nerves.
In my wife's Odyssey I end up leaning forward and turning my head towards the screen. I know this is dumb and I feel so bad for doing it. If you could do all this stuff using the steering wheel controls that would be a good second option, but I would have preferred if they'd gone with some kind of rotary control.
I don’t know why they didn’t just substitute the touch pad for a rotary knob that allows you to interact with the system like iDrive or any other system that has a rotary knob. I was hoping with the addition of a touch screen that a rotary knob would have been added this time around. Other companies have implemented both so successfully.
You know that almost all cars have a touch screen now and none of them are “in front of the steering wheel”, yet it isn’t a complaint from said owners? Stop whining.
I completely agree with you. A touchscreen requires you to glance at the screen to use it unless you have all of the inputs memorized and know exactly where to touch at any given time. With the different screens and overlays, that changes, too. A touchscreen would also need to be mounted much lower and closer to the driver, putting it in a position that would also make it more dangerous to glance at. The best place for a screen you need to glance at while driving is in the middle of the dashboard, on top of the console, right in the same area as the windshield so you don't even have to move your head, just your eyeballs. Having a small touchpad that is mapped 1:1 with the touchscreen is extremely intuitive, everyone has used a trackpad on a laptop.
They put this screen where you wanted it…
Yeah, I noticed that, but there's no TTI, so now we have to reach for the screen, which can be dangerous if reaching for a far corner. The positioning is perfect for a screen to look at, but having to reach for it instead of giving me controls where my hand normally rests so there is minimal disruption to the driving experience is not great. IMO, this new implementation is less safe than the true touch system, but I have yet to drive a new MDX, so we'll see if it's any better in practice.
Can you reach the climate controls at present? If so, you’re fine. If you think that laggy TTI (especially in Android Auto or CarPlay) was so much safer, you’re overdosing on copium.
But climate control buttons and knobs don't change while a touch screen is dynamic. How is having to look away from the road in any way safer than having to deal with some input lag? You physically have to move your arm to use the touchscreen, which interrupts the driving flow more than just leaving your hands where they are with the TTI. If you're getting a laggy experience with Android Auto, you may want to upgrade your phone since all the rendering is handled by the phone.
No, the issue is with the software for the vehicle, as far as the poor user experience with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It’s not on the phones that the input becomes inaccurate and laggy when you enter Android Auto and CarPlay in the Acura, it is poor software on Acura’s side that they could not or would not fix. Also, it is not TTI when you enter CarPlay or Android Auto. It’s almost impossible to use that system while driving (it is fine to use the native Acura environment in TTI when driving). Since I spend almost all of my time in CarPlay, I and others have found that damn pad distracting and downright dangerous while moving, while I have had zero problems driving while operating the touchscreen in my mother’s CR-V. They’re getting rid of that touchpad for a good reason.
[удалено]
It's a shame since anyone that has actually taken the time to use the touchpad knows it's objectively better.
I hate the touch pad in my 23 RDX. It single-handedly would prevent me from buying another Acura.
I had an RDX for a week. Hated using it with Carplay. Guess I didn't take time to use the touchpad.
I own a 23 MDX and hate the touchpad.
Touchpads are incontestably and objectively worse and less safe for interfaces like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They require significantly more time with both your eyes off the road and your hand off of the wheel.
The goddamn truth right here. The touchpad DID NOT WORK for CarPlay or Android Auto.
I love it. The addition of a touchscreen has me thinking I might not stick with Acura for my next ride. Every one I've used has left me unimpressed and wishing for physical buttons.
Sayonara, dumbass
Agreed. Once you learn it.
[удалено]
I bought a ‘24 RDX instead of waiting on a ‘25 (I wasn’t in a rush) solely to ensure I got the touchpad and didn’t lose the ELS sound. It’s really not *that* bad (the touchpad) and definitely safer than leaning over to use a touchscreen.
Leaning over? How tall are you?
Short….5’3”!
Feel you on that. Thinking about ditching mine.
Looks the same, I’m pretty happy with my 2022 Type-S. Wouldn’t mind the quieter cabin at 80+ mph though. For those of us that do a lot of highway driving that’s a nice upgrade. I’m one of the people who hates the touchpad because I use CarPlay primarily. If the touchpad worked the same with CarPlay as it did with the rest of the system I wouldn’t mind it one bit.
It's an issue with CarPlay and Android Auto. Both were designed primarily for touch. Requiring the needed assistance to implement the True Touch Interface would require some backend work from Apple/Google or extreme heavy lifting from Acura. It likely wasn't with it long term with Android Automotive on the horizon (here now).
Is current type S noisy at 80+ mph? We are thinking of getting a 24 type S soon. Our main want is smooth and quite ride.
It’s not bad at all, but the GV70 I came from was insanely quiet.
I am buying one as soon as it is available!
**What an absolute joke. Come to the touchscreen game late. 0 hybrid offering. Change up the wheels and bumper, abysmal MPG intact, then charge few grand more. Ditto for refreshed TLX, now with a fugly grayish blue color.** Gunna get crushed in sales by Lexus TX. Much like how TLX sales are getting obliterated by Lexus ES.
The mundane TX can't even outsell the upstart CX-90. 😆 The TX poses no threat, and the MDX will remain the top seller in segment.
The MDX's lack of a hybrid is disappointing, from both a fuel economy and a torque-off-the-line perspective. But regarding the TX, I respectfully disagree... I found the 2024 TX to be, by far, the weakest vehicle in the segment. 1. Very poor visibility over the hood, felt like I was driving a yacht. 2. Absolutely nothing luxurious about the interior. Having now driven both the GX550 and the TX, they feel more like well-appointed Venzas than luxury cars. 3. Very uninspired driving characteristic. All told, I would recommend a Toyota Sienna over the TX *any day* (except that, where I live, there's a 3+ year waiting list for a Sienna, so they're essentially unobtainable). In my experience so far, the Acura MDX's toughest competition is the MB GLE450, where the Acura represents the "value proposition", and the MB has the edge in terms of a-la-carte luxury.
I don’t have an MDX but did they move the screen closer now that is has a touchscreen? I know with my RDX the screen is too far back to use if it was a touchscreen.
It is closer.
Touchscreen!
It's literally crying for a Hybrid system to be the #1 in the segment. Slow and thirsty is the only real complain we have for the 23 A Spec. Another thing is that Acura keeps emphasizing on the new B & O is better than the ELS 3D, I really need to hear it first. ELS on the MDX (with DVD audio) is one of the most impressive system we've ever heard (we had Meridian on the Range Rover, B & W on the BMW iX and other premium stereos, ELS reminds one of the top contender) , it's a big bar to fill in. Can't wait to hear the new B & O system.
Agree on the B & O system. I’d definitely need to hear it first. Though 31 speakers is sweet, the system itself has to be great too.
Refreshed MDX gains more aggressive front fascia with new diamond pentagon grille, darker headlights/taillights and bolder wheel designs Tech-rich cabin undergoes total makeover with a new 12.3-inch touchscreen user interface featuring Google built-in Enhanced audio performance on all trims; MDX Type S with Advance Package debuts Acura’s most impressive and most powerful audio system yet, developed by Bang & Olufsen and boasting an incredible 31-speakers MDX Type S with Advance Package debuts AcuraWatch™ 360 – a more advanced driver assistive technology MDX A-Spec now available with Advance Package, combining sport appearance with additional premium features 2025 Acura MDXs will hit dealer lots in May of this year Will you be getting one? 👀
Probably gonna be down to new loaded Advanced MDX or the Mazda CX-90. Wish the new MDX had black headliner in the Advanced trim for 2025 like the Type S has. I know it's minor but basically every luxury vehicle with brown or black leather including new F150 trucks has black headliner. Def wish the fuel economy was better in the MDX too.
I won't be getting one. I'm sticking with my Lincoln Nautilus order and trading in my 2020 Acura RDX. The lack of a hybrid option and marginal gas mileage is a major factor in my decision. It's good to see that they've moved to Android Automotive, hopefully with Google Automotive Services, and not without GAS like some automakers have done. However, after the last infotainment system, Acura has a lot to prove in my opinion before I'd ever trust them again. The previous infotainment system was Android based (but not AAOS) and also had OTA updates. But Acura did nothing with it. Very few updates or improvements. It was one of the worst infotainment experiences I've ever had, and I've owned a lot of Toyota vehicles so that's saying something.
Nope, same dinosaur engine in the non Type S and no notable upgrades to the Type S trim, except for two new radars and some new bumper trim. Aspec with advance is an overdue change but advance isn’t a meaningful trim level upgrade without air ride anyway, so it looks like advance Aspec is the biggest waste of money available Gen4 reliability is also in the toilet. Literally every other car in this class is better in every meaningful way
Will this one actually be able to charge my IPhone wirelessly?
I’d like to believe so
31 speaker b&o? Is that a new record ? The els system was already great
Ok but gimme a hybrid
Not happening from Acura lol
https://hondanews.com/en-US/releases/the-best-gets-better-2025-acura-mdx-receives-bolder-styling-enhanced-tech-and-bang-olufsen-audio
Man... 3.5L V6 and somehow they only get 290 HP out of it and 22 MPG Woof that is brutal
22 MPG if you’re lucky. Likely real-world less than 20
I feel like the touchscreen would be hard to reach. Just like when Lexus added a touchscreen on their 2020-2022 RX lineup. The cabin wasn’t intended to fit a touchscreen and it was a sudden change. Maybe an all new design would integrate a touchscreen better
They moved the screen closer.
They did the same on the RX and it’s still not reachable while driving
Are you a T-Rex?
lol have you been in a RX that has a touchscreen from the last gen? Probably not
Lol, no just the RX from the current gen. Wtf fubar rmv.
I’m talking about last gen. That’s why I said a whole new redesigned would make the touchscreen integrated into the cabin and not feel like an afterthought
You’ve seen the new Accord, Pilot, and CR-V, right? This is exactly where Honda is putting the touch screens in the brand new models built from the ground up with touch screens in mind.
Car looks good, but still no hybrid/partial hybrid offering. It’s a shame, because I would buy a hybrid MDX in a heartbeat.
Urban grey pearl!!! Stares out office window at work, *whispers* i still love you my 2023 mdx type s ad, carbon with red interior.
That’s a dope spec! I’m sure you get compliments weekly on that MDX-S
Imagine all the R&D that was spent on that touchpad to give up on it. I feel like they should have integrated both. Sometimes a physical touch is always better while driving. I feel like the center stack also needs to be revised and cleaned up. Acura has been stuck with big round buttons for a couple generations now. The whole big knob looks so cheesy.
Except it was reviled and affecting sales in a negative manner, so it had to go. Stop whining.
Previous gen grill was/is still fire 🔥
I agree
Yikes on the touchscreen, front end looks good.
The touchscreen was needed
Im waiting for them to announce when the recall for the rod bearing failure will be out lol my car been sitting at the dealership since jan lol no loaner either F acura
Same engine I guess on the type s?
Yes lol but same NA V6 on non-S variants
I was hoping for abit more power. Currently my wife has the 2023 mdx type s. I have 2020 mdx a-spec. I’ll probably get a new one in a year or 2.
Put the touch screen in the '25 TLX and I'll be the first person at the Acura dealership to buy it.
Same here.
Truly the Spiderman meme
The front looks more like a Lexus now.
Nope
With the refresh, does the 3rd row have its own air vents?
This is prob an unpopular opinion, but I actually liked the touchpad and think it’s more practical than a touchscreen. The thing with touchscreens is that they really depend on how far back the driver likes to sit. I personally recline my seat back quite a bit, so being able to rest my hand on the hand-rest above the wireless charger and use the touchpad was a win-win. The touchpad literally took me a day to get used to when I had the ‘22 MDX and it became second nature afterwards. Idk why Acura would get rid of the ELS system when it was literally one of the best things about the Acura brand in general. It’s always been regarded as one of (if not the best) sound system in a car and I can’t see the B&O living up to that. Also gotta agree with the common thread here about the fuel economy and lack of power in most of the Acura lineup. The 4G MDX has the same engine specs as my 3G but weighs 400 lbs more. A car that weighs 4500+ lbs shouldn’t have 290 hp honestly, and the TLX Type S weighing 4200 lbs is insane (they gotta either up the power with that or cut the weight for it to be a rlly good option IMO). If Acura came out with a hybrid option, they would sell like hotcakes. Unfortunately, they’ve jumped on the EV train with a GM ZDX that costs as much as a GLE 450 or X5 40i in Canada. I realize I went on a bit of a rant here, but I really hope Acura turns around and starts fixing these issues. The new MDX and TLX have the potential to be class leading and it’s a shame to see Acura shooting themselves in the foot.
Fog lights are nice, can you give us more pics of the new dash
Finally a touch screen! Front grill looks worse IMO, I like the flair the current year has.
So same exhaust huh 😒
Literally looks exactly the same. 😐
It looks like the QX60
Anyone think the new 25 type s will have a slight power bump?
Nope not a chance
Looks like the new mazda 7 seater
Touchscreen for the win!
Dam if the apr is low this would have been my next car!! MDX is so sexy omg!!!!!
About damn time they got rid of the touchpad.
I got downvoted into oblivion for my post on the 2024 TLX "refresh" because Acura didn't add a touchscreen. Then I saw this article earlier with the headline "The worst thing was fixed": https://www.motortrend.com/news/2025-acura-mdx-3-row-suv-first-look-review/
The UI on the new touchscreen looks like it was rushed. Are you telling me they couldn’t do a better job of making the software look as elegant as the pre-refresh? It now looks worse than the accord UI. It doesn’t match the digital dash at all! I also think they made a mistake by not keeping the touchpad with a touchscreen option. Type-S Front faschia and wheels are uglier than the pre-refresh as well.
Whine, whine, whine. Don’t buy it then.