New 2023 Acura MDX provides family-friendly transportation in a premium package, with a handsome exterior and three rows of seats. To increase its desirability, Acura has equipped its flagship SUV with precise handling, particularly on the performance-oriented Type S. Even with the base 290-horsepower V-6 engine, the acceleration of this size SUV is brisk.
Acura equips the Type S with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that generates 355 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. The MDX’s cabin is undeniably luxurious, but it lacks the opulence of rivals such as the Genesis GV80, Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, and Volvo XC90. But if you can accept that, you’ll find that the MDX is both cheaper and more enjoyable to drive.
What’s New 2023 Acura MDX?
Acura has added a three-year, complimentary AcuraLink connectivity plan and a two-year, 24,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan to all 2023 MDX models.
As driving enthusiasts, the Type S’s performance ambitions intrigue us the most. We’d recommend the Technology trim, which includes leather upholstery with contrast stitching, adjustable interior ambient lighting, a 12-speaker ELS Studio stereo system, and low-speed front and rear automated emergency braking, to buyers seeking a well-equipped luxury crossover without a sporty character.
New 2023 Acura MDX Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The standard MDX is equipped with a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available as an option. Front-wheel drive is standard. Standard on the sporty Type S is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 with 355 horsepower and all-wheel drive.
Our test drive of a standard Advance model with all-wheel drive revealed surprisingly agile handling and brisk acceleration. When we sampled the Type S, we praised its nimble road manners and appreciated the added power, but we questioned whether or not it merits the Type S moniker. On our test track, it took the Type S only 5.5 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour, whereas the standard model required 6.4 seconds.
New 2023 Acura MDX Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The base MDX has EPA ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by 1 mpg on the highway. Our all-wheel-drive A-Spec test vehicle returned a disappointing 22 mpg on our highway fuel economy route at 75 mph. The Type S model performed marginally better, achieving 23 mpg. To learn more about the MDX’s fuel economy, please visit the EPA’s website.
New 2023 Acura MDX Interior, and Cargo
The cabin of the MDX has a luxurious appearance and feel, especially on higher-end trims, which feature French-stitched leather on the dashboard and interspersed metal and piano-black accents. Acura has also equipped the MDX with numerous creature comforts, including automatic dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and they are available with 16-way power adjustability and massage. The first and second rows of the MDX provide ample passenger space, but the third row is reserved for children. Although the interior is attractively designed and loaded with convenience features, it lacks the opulence of rivals such as the Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90.
New 2023 Acura MDX Infotainment and Connectivity
New 2023 Acura MDX features a large 12.3-inch infotainment display with a center-console-mounted touchpad controller, which is somewhat difficult to use. Standard features include a 12.3-inch digital reconfigurable gauge display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, in-dash navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.
Technology models include an ELS Studio stereo system, while A-Spec and Advanced models feature a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D system..
New 2023 Acura MDX Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Acura has been including more and more driver-assistance technology as standard equipment on its vehicles, and the new MDX has several desirable features. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites for more information on the MDX’s crash-test results. Key safety characteristics include:
- Standard emergency braking system with pedestrian detection
- Typical lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
New 2023 Acura MDX Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The MDX’s warranty package is comparable to those of competitors like the Buick Enclave and the Lexus GX; however, both of these brands only cover the first maintenance visit, whereas Acura covers everything for the first two years or 44,000 miles.
- The duration of the limited warranty is four years or 50,000 miles.
- The powertrain warranty is valid for six years or 70,000 miles.
- For two years or 24,000 miles, complimentary scheduled maintenance is included.
