Drive Notes: 2025 Acura MDX SH-AWD Type S

Changes for 2025 are minimal — a new front fascia, a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen with built-in Google, and a newly available Bang & Olufsen audio system.

The Type S I drove takes the previously optional Advance Package and makes it standard, adding features like a head-up display, second-row heated seats, heated steering wheel, and massaging front seats. There’s also a newer version of AcuraWatch 360, which is Acura’s suite of advanced driver-assist systems.

Underhood is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 making 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission gets the power to ground via all-wheel drive.

Let’s get to it.

Pros

• As big and heavy as the MDX is — curb weight for my tester was 4,776 pounds and it felt heavier than that — it offers relatively strong passing punch when needed. Few things this large will ever be truly fast, but if you need to get around someone who’s too busy texting to keep up with freeway speed, you can do so easily with a stab of your right foot.
• The steering feels nicely weight and sporty, and there is decent handling here — but again, this is a heavy three-row crossover utility vehicle. It’s sporty for what it is, and that makes it more fun, but remember what it is at heart.
• The ride is comfortable even in the sportier drive modes.
• In general, I think there’s a nice mix of knobs and buttons here for HVAC controls, and the touchscreen was mostly easy to use, with one major issue I will talk about below.
• The third-row seats drop easily.
• I liked the location of the wireless phone charger.
• The exhaust sounds great when you kick the spurs.

Cons

• Apple CarPlay had a tendency to disconnect after each shutdown, and I had to manually reconnect. Not the biggest deal in the world, but annoying nonetheless. Seemed to be worse if a valet started the car first and then I got in — my phone paired better when I was the one starting the vehicle.
• Tire noise was a tad intrusive at freeway speed.
• Did I mention this thing is heavy? And big? Parking in urban environments wasn’t always easy.
• I didn’t track fuel economy, but the range number I saw disappointing — I think it was under 200 miles with half a tank to go. That city mpg figure of 17 is also disappointing.
• I still don’t love the push-button shifter.
• The nearly $77K as-tested price was eye-popping, even for a top-trim with performance intentions. And that price included only the $600 Urban Gray paint job (sorry, no chance to photograph this one) and D and D fees. So it started at $74,950.

Overall, I liked the Type S version of the Acura MDX. It’s probably in need of a full redesign, though, and even with Google built in, the infotainment system screams “old”. It’s relatively athletic for its size — it’s like an NFL lineman who can run a bit — and it’s not lacking for luxury. If it could shed some pounds — difficult to do with today’s feature-laden vehicles — get a more-modern infotainment system, and get a teeny bit more sound-deadening, it would be a really strong choice.

Even with its few flaws, it’s still a pretty solid option in this class — especially for the enthusiasts who wants to have a bit of fun with their family hauler. Even with its curb weight, it does offer some authentic performance.

That’s more than a lot of luxury crossover can offer. If you can handle the price, the MDX will be an engaging pick.

[Images: Acura]

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