Acura’s MDX has always been one of the most popular three-row cross-over SUVs on the market and the complete design overhaul for the 2022 model year is certainly something most will be excited about. With design cues taken from the TLX and the well-received smaller RDX SUV, the all-new 2022 Acura MDX is sure to turn heads with its new and striking looks.
Above all, the 2022 MDX places emphasis on performance, thanks to the 290 horsepower 3.5 liter naturally aspirated V6 engine paired with the 10-speed automatic gearbox with Acura’s proprietary Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that will come standard across four trims (MDX, Tech, A-Spec and Platinum Elite).
Acura has completely skipped the 2021 model year and jumped right into 2022 with a ground-up redesign of the 3-row cross-over, with the most notable upgrades including the sportier exterior and the new luxurious interior with added versatility and increased cargo space.
A key ingredient to the make up of the MDX’s sporty performance is the naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb.ft of torque, which is coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission. To improve steering and handling, the 2022 MDX receives a new belt-driven electric power steering and an all-new double wishbone front suspension. Standard across its model lineup includes Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system that incorporates torque vectoring that can deliver up to 100% of the engine torque to the outside rear wheels while cornering to increase lateral G forces.
Drive mode selection between Snow, Comfort, Normal and Sport dynamically tunes the throttle and steering response as well as transmission shift points to improve comfort, traction or performance. The MDX also allows customization to create individual profiles to meet the driver’s needs as well.
Acura has done an impeccable job with the redesigned Acura MDX that is now sharper, sleeker and more compact. To retain the spirited driving experience, Acura has retained the use of a naturally aspirated V6 instead of a turbocharged V4 to continue to deliver an organic driving experience.
On city roads, the 2022 Acura MDX offers every bit of luxury from exceptional cabin sound isolation, a cabin space that pampers the occupants and premium audio from the ELS sound system equipped on our Elite tester model. A quick jab at the throttle reveals what Acura does best with the roar of the naturally aspirated V6 and ultra-responsive shifts via the 10-speed automatic transmission.
What used to be a plain-Jane stigma with the MDX, is no longer the case – especially with Acrua’s all-new redesigned interior. The overall design is impeccable and crafted with premium materials to create a luxurious and sophisticated cabin space.
Available is an upgraded 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio system that delivers crisp and pristine audio quality, which added an extra level of entertainment and luxury during our test drive.
Front driver seats are bucket-style and are 12-way power adjustable with a 4-way power lumbar support. Second row seating arrangement provides excellent comfort as well as flexibility thanks to the Smart Slide 2nd row with One Touch Walk-in for easy access to the third-row seats. Second row seats also allow the middle seat to be removed for added space and comfort and seats full-sized adults with ease. The third-row seats comfortably accompany kids or smaller-sized passengers. Both 2nd and 3rd row seats are easily folded down via a push of a button located in the rear cargo area.
The base 2022 Acura MDX starts at $56,405 and will come equipped with the 3.5 liter V6, 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, a panoramic sunroof and a 12” HD infotainment display that’s compatible with Android Auto and Apply Carplay. Jumping up to the highest Platinum Elite trim gets LED fog lights, ELS Studio Audio System, 16-way power adjustable front seats, genuine wood trim and perforated leather-trimmed seats that are ventilated as well.
