Our Opinion - 2026 Acura MDX Review The Acura MDX is the brand’s best-selling SUV, known for its stylish design, three-row seating, and strong overall value. Although Audi and Volvo make more luxurious cars than the Acura, they still drive reasonably well. However, it’s still more fun to drive than a three-row SUV should be. The standard engine delivers 290 horsepower, while the high-performance Type S variant is equipped with a twin-turbo V6 that produces 355 horsepower. The V-6 engines are smooth to drive and have enough power to pass and merge, but they use about the same amount of gas as other cars in their class. Although the interior looks great, the materials used aren’t as high-end as those found in European SUVs. Specifically, the third-row seats are not well-suited for adult passengers and may feel cramped. The Buick Enclave, which is roughly the same size, offers the most interior space. What's New? Since the MDX was completely redesigned last year, no major updates are expected for the 2026 model year. Pros and Cons Pros Outside, it’s sharp. It’s quiet inside. Lastly, it features a touchscreen. Cons Type S isn’t quick. The third row is not very big. Maybe even more luxurious. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The base MDX features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. The sportier Type S model includes all-wheel drive as standard and is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 355 horsepower. When we drove the 2025 model, we didn’t notice many changes between it and the last one. This is largely due to the fact that the engines and suspensions remained unchanged. In a recent test drive, the all-wheel-drive Advance model equipped with the standard engine delivered surprisingly quick acceleration and solid performance. When we tested the Type S, we appreciated its increased power and agile handling, but we weren’t fully convinced it lived up to the expectations associated with the Type S badge. Safety Every MDX model includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, among other driver-support features. Key safety technologies include: Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assistance. Adaptive cruise control. Internal and External Cargo Capacity When it comes to high-end trims featuring open-pore wood, metal, and piano-black details, along with stitched leather on the dashboard, the MDX cabin exudes a luxurious look and feel. Acura has introduced several upgraded features to the MDX, such as heated front seats, leather upholstery, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, offering 16-way power adjustments along with a massage function. While the first and second rows provide ample space for passengers, the third row remains suitable primarily for children. The interior is well-designed and features numerous useful amenities, but it lacks the sophistication of the Volvo XC90 and Genesis GV80, which boast seats that resemble works of art. Fuel Economy and Actual MPG The EPA hasn’t published fuel economy estimates for the 2026 MDX yet, but the 2025 model was rated at up to 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. In our real-world testing, the all-wheel-drive A-Spec model matched the combined rating, delivering 22 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route. With 23 mpg, the Type S model performed slightly better than the standard model. Infotainment and Connectivity The MDX is equipped with a customizable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Standard features include a wireless smartphone charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, built-in navigation, and compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base sound system features 11 speakers, while the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims offer a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen system. The Type S model steps it up further with a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio setup. Range, Charging, and Battery Life In our test run, the Type S proved quicker than the standard model, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds compared to the standard version’s 6.4 seconds. Towing and Payload Capacity With all-wheel drive, the MDX can pull up to 5,000 pounds, and with front-wheel drive, it can pull up to 3,500 pounds. Anyone can add a trailer hitch to any MDX model. Price and How to Choose There are several models and options that can affect the 2026 Acura MDX’s price. As car enthusiasts, we’re particularly drawn to the Type S for its performance-oriented design and impressive speed capabilities. However, we suggest the Technology trim for individuals who desire a well-equipped luxury SUV but don’t require a sporty appearance. It comes equipped with a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, customizable ambient lighting, leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and a range of driver-assistance technologies.
