2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to a sportier, modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system, creating a luxurious and functional cabin. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, though not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability, making the MDX a solid luxury vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S offered a more subtle yet appealing design, with chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. The interior featured quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, but some design choices, like the gloss black plastic, made controls challenging to use. The electronic transmission switchgear was also a point of contention. Despite these quirks, the MDX Type S maintained its luxury appeal, though it struggled to fully meet the expectations set by its price and performance-oriented design.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing cornering feel and control. The suspension upgrades, including a double-wishbone front setup, improved sporty handling and ride quality. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity contributed to a solid ride feel, while the transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering five drive modes for varied performance needs. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and comfort, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, however, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Despite the power increase, the Type S's additional weight and performance upgrades didn't fully integrate into a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, with issues like squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. The Type S's fuel economy was also disappointing, averaging 13.9 L/100 km during tests. While the turbocharged V6 offered quick acceleration, the overall driving experience fell short of expectations, making the standard MDX a more predictable and enjoyable choice.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for children, but the sliding seats allowed for adjustable legroom. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available with the rear seats folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like Walk Away Close and Hands-Free Access, while customizable interior lighting added to the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Acura MDX continued to offer three rows of seating, with the option to remove the second-row centre section for easier access. The Type S Ultra trim included luxurious features like 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage and quilted leather upholstery. However, the seats didn't fully support the performance-oriented design. The MDX's cargo area was spacious, with a hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage. Despite the stylish interior, the focus on design limited storage space, and accessing the third row remained challenging for adults.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system and digital instrument panel, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, available on higher trims, offered exceptional sound quality. Navigation, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot were standard, while features like CabinTalk and a head-up display were available on select trims.

In 2023, the MDX retained the 12.3-inch displays but required the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for infotainment control. While the TTI aimed to reduce distraction, it was less intuitive than a touchscreen and limited storage space. The MDX offered wireless connectivity and Amazon Alexa, but the native voice recognition system was less effective. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers provided excellent sound quality, and the head-up display added convenience, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with a focus on collision protection and pedestrian safety. The AcuraWatch suite included features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, enhancing safety and driver assistance.

The 2023 Acura MDX continued to offer comprehensive safety features, including collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with parking sensors and a surround-view camera available on higher trims. While the safety systems generally operated well, occasional false alerts and a braking incident during testing raised concerns. The MDX maintained its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA.