2025 Acura MDX Type S

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.

Interior

8/10

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. Luckily, our biggest gripe has been resolved since the touchpad has been replaced by a proper touchscreen. It’s not only easier to use but significantly more responsive and quicker overall, even if shorter drivers might find the 12.3-inch screen a bit too far away.

Otherwise the MDX interior is spacious and comfortable for front and second-row passengers, although the third row is mostly 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? Replacing the touchpad with a proper touchscreen infotainment system makes all the difference in usability and makes it easier to access the MDX’s plentiful technology. The wide center screen is attractive, easy to read, and very responsive to touch inputs, and the integrated navigation system works well. The new 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, exclusive to the MDX Type S, sounds terrific, with excellent separation of low, mid and high range, great staging, and practically zero distortion at higher volumes. Audiophiles who knew the previous ELS was a sleeper will be happy with this system too.

Acura has expanded its suite of driver assist features for the Type S, highlighted by a new lane change assistance that scans traffic and makes a lane change for you while you’re using adaptive cruise and lane keeping assistance. It also includes a new capacitive touch steering wheel that requires no more than a finger on the wheel to maintain lane keeping assistance rather than the full weight of the driver’s hands. Beyond that, the tech is largely the same as in the regular MDX, with multiple 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.

Storage

8.5/10

How’s the storage? Cargo space and storage capacity are strong points. The MDX offers 16.3 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

7/10

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.