2024 Acura MDX Type S

　　

2024 Acura MDX Type S Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　, rating written byDan FrioNews Editor

　　Nick Yekikian has worked in the automotive industry since 2019. He has written close to a thousand car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 200 vehicles over the course of his career. Nick is the News Editor at zzdcar and has also contributed to MotorTrend, Automobile Magazine and Super Street. When Nick isn't zipping around town in his latest used-car find, he's probably making digital art in Photoshop or playing disc golf with friends.

　　Sporty handling, a roomy interior and cushy ride make the Acura MDX one of the better picks for a luxury three-row SUV in 2024. It also offers most of the same features as rival SUVs for less money. And unlike some other SUVs in the class, the MDX's third-row seat is roomy enough that your adult friends won't mind riding back there on short trips. There's even an available cabin intercom system so you can keep the conversation flowing (or issue an occasional parental directive to younger passengers) and two very good sound systems to choose from.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Acura MDX Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$251/mo  for MDX Type S

　　MDX Type S

　　Type S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) - $68,450 MSRPType S 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) (Most Popular) - $73,800 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　Now in its fourth generation, the MDX has never quite enjoyed the shine of European luxury SUVs such as the Audi Q7, BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE. Lexus also has a compelling new option with its new three-row TX SUV. But even among this group, the MDX is worth a look. Be sure to read our test team's Expert Rating below for a deeper dive into the MDX's strengths and flaws.

　　

What’s it like to live with?

We drove an Acura MDX SH-AWD Advance for about a year as part of zzdcar' long-term test fleet. We liked this latest MDX's comfort, utility and more spacious interior, but the touchscreen interface was a low point. We also struggled to match EPA fuel economy ratings. Read our MDX 20,000-mile long-term test to learn more about what it's like to own and live with this current-generation MDX.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

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.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below