A front-wheel drive (FWD) model is available for the first time in the United States, however not in Canada, where all-wheel drive is the sole configuration offered. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) models rated at 18/27/21 mpg (city/highway/combined) and FWD models rated at 20/28/23 mpg. The MDX is now powered by way of a 3.5-liter direct injected Earth Dreams V6 with Variable Cylinder Management.

In 2003, the Honda MDX went on sale in Japan and Australia. The Pilot seats eight, as the MDX seats seven, with two seating positions in the next row. The MDX was introduced as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. The MDX was the first crossover SUV to own third-row seating, and shares a platform with the Honda Pilot. In Japan, it filled a hole when the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) was discontinued in 1999. The MDX has been the absolute most expensive crossover in Acura's lineup, aside from the 2009-13 model years when Acura added a crossover to slot above the MDX, called the ZDX.

2025 MDX receives positive reviews because of its reliability, interior quality, and strong performance. The MDX is powered by way of a V6 engine, delivering a balance of power and fuel efficiency, available with all-wheel drive, which gives enhanced traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. Regular maintenance and care can help ensure its longevity. Acura has a reputation for Acura MDX building reliable vehicles, and the MDX has typically scored well in reliability ratings. The 2025 Acura MDX is really a midsize luxury SUV created by the Japanese automaker Acura, that will be the true luxury division of Honda.The 2025 Acura MDX Type S is a flagship model for Acura and has undergone several updates and redesigns through the years, and offers a mix of performance, comfort, and technology. The Acura MDX competes with other vehicles like the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Lexus RX.

However, some reviewers have noted that the third-row seats may become more suited to children or smaller adults due to limited legroom. The seats usually are upholstered in high-quality materials, such as for instance leather, and are created to give a supportive and luxurious driving experience. The MDX typically offers spacious and comfortable seating for seven passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in every three rows. The driver's seat often is sold with power-adjustable settings, including lumbar support.

Acura's infotainment system usually includes features like smartphone integration like CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. The MDX also offers a selection of advanced technology features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and numerous safety and driver assistance features. The middle console often houses a prominent infotainment display that delivers access to various functions, such as navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. The materials found in the cabin are usually of top quality, giving the vehicle reduced feel. The MDX generally provides ample cargo space for the class. Acura offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The MDX typically features a well-designed and high-quality interior. The third-row seats can be folded down to produce additional space for storage when needed.

Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three useful for low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED Headlights (first introduced on the RLX). Based on Acura the outside is more aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the newest model lapping Nürburgring 8 seconds faster than its predecessor. LED bumper mounted fog lamps are offered as a dealer installed option.

A 3.0-liter V6, 7-speed dual-clutch hybrid was put into the lineup, the trunk wheels are powered by twin electric motors and lithium-ion battery, and the hybrid is just for sale in all-wheel drive, while the regular variant of the 2017 Acura MDX began sales in Summer 2016, the hybrid will debut and begin sales in Spring 2017 (April 2017).

Acura equipped 2025 MDX with Acura's latest safety technologies including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, which work together to mitigate potential collisions and help maintain safe distances on the road. The Acura MDX comes with a surround-view camera system that gives a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, assisting with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. Additionally, the 2025 Acura MDX provides an innovative traffic jam assist feature, enabling semi-autonomous driving capabilities in congested traffic situations.

With regards to acceleration, the MDX was capable of going from 0 to 60 miles each hour in around 6.5 to 7 seconds, with regards to the specific model and drivetrain configuration. The 2021 Acura MDX came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The engine produced 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque and featured technologies such as for instance Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which allowed it to work in three different modes depending on driving conditions to optimize fuel efficiency. The MDX offered an easy and responsive acceleration, letting it perform well both in city driving and on the highway.