In its bailiwick of midsize luxury SUVs, the Acura MDX has a reputation as one of the most enjoyable to drive, thanks to a robust 290-horsepower V6 engine and frisky handling.
There are six models in the 2025 MDX lineup, including the speedier top-of-the-line Type S Advance with an exclusive 355-horsepower twin-turbo V6 and air suspension, for rousing acceleration, even better handling and a smooth, quiet ride.
In ascending order of price and standard features, the five other trims are Base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance. Pricing starts at $52,250, including destination charge, for the Base model with front-wheel drive.
MDX is updated for 2025 with minor exterior styling revisions, among them a bolder face on all models. The previous trackpad infotainment system has been replaced by a 12.3-inch touchscreen system. Technology trims and above get a new 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, which has 31 speakers in the Type S Advance. The AcuraWatch 360 suite of driver assistance systems debuts in the Type S Advance.
I drove the Type S Advance model, whose boosted horsepower speaks for itself in terms of rapid acceleration. The lower horsepower of the standard engine wouldn’t diminish the MDX’s appeal much if at all, but the air suspension’s great benefit would be missed.
Driving the MDX Type S Advance reminded me of gliding in a kayak on still water. MDX is so quiet and smooth, yet still imparts road feel, the way a kayak imparts water feel. The similarity ends there. Type S has it all over a kayak with its extremely comfortable front seats and 31-speaker audio system. I guess the ability to travel without torturous physical exertion should be mentioned, too.
All-wheel drive is standard on the Type S Advance, and like all other MDX models, it comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The EPA-estimated fuel economy rating for the 2025 Acura MDX Type S Advance is 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined.
The MDX interior is a feast for the eyes, and I wasn’t exaggerating about seat comfort in that MDX-versus-kayak critique above.
Nixing the trackpad infotainment system in favor of a nice big easy-to-use touchscreen was a chef’s kiss by Acura. I used to complain about touchscreens, until trackpads came along and raised the ante on frustration. Touchscreens now? Marvelous.
Acura’s high-quality new infotainment system is straightforward and responsive. It includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, navigation, wireless phone charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
2025 ACURA MDX TYPE S ADVANCE
Base price, including destination charge: $76,300
Price as driven: $76,900
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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