Acura MDX

Edmunds awards the Acura MDX an impressively high rating, calling it one of the best-rounded three-row luxury SUVs on the market. The review highlights the MDX's refined ride quality, which strikes an ideal balance between comfort and athleticism, absorbing road imperfections while remaining composed through corners. Edmunds praises the well-built cabin and notes that the MDX offers generous standard equipment, including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The publication is particularly impressed with the MDX's suite of standard safety features, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist, all of which performed well in Edmunds' testing. The reviewer finds the second-row seating spacious and comfortable, with easy access to the third row via tilting and sliding seats. However, Edmunds also notes the infotainment system's touchpad interface takes time to master, and rear visibility is somewhat limited due to the sloping roofline. The Type S trim receives special praise for its enhanced power and handling capabilities, making it a compelling alternative to European rivals like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 at a lower price point. Edmunds concludes that the MDX represents excellent value in the premium three-row segment, combining Honda's legendary reliability with upscale amenities and engaging driving dynamics.

Kelley Blue Book's review of the Acura MDX positions it as a smart choice for luxury SUV shoppers seeking reliability and resale value without sacrificing style or performance. KBB awards the MDX high marks for its athletic handling and smooth powertrain, noting that the 290-horsepower V-6 provides ample motivation for most driving situations. The publication appreciates the MDX's upscale interior, which features premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and a clean, modern design language. KBB's reviewers are particularly enthusiastic about the MDX's family-friendly credentials, including standard seating for seven, multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, and a spacious cargo area behind the third row. The reviewer notes that the MDX's predicted reliability rating is excellent, backed by Acura's strong reputation for building dependable vehicles. KBB also highlights the comprehensive warranty coverage, which includes a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. While the infotainment system's trackpad interface receives some criticism for its learning curve, KBB considers it a minor quibble in an otherwise excellent package. The Type S model earns praise for its upgraded Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers, and more aggressive styling. KBB ultimately recommends the MDX for buyers who want a premium three-row SUV that offers genuine driving enjoyment, strong resale value, and long-term ownership peace of mind.

The Acura MDX has long been a favorite in the three-row luxury SUV segment, and Car and Driver's comprehensive review confirms it remains a top contender. The publication praises the MDX's sharp handling and responsive steering, noting that it feels more agile than many of its rivals despite its size. The standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 290 horsepower and pairs with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering adequate acceleration for daily driving. Car and Driver particularly appreciates the MDX's well-appointed interior, which features premium materials and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The reviewer highlights the available Type S trim, which adds a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 355 horsepower, sportier suspension tuning, and more aggressive styling for enthusiasts seeking greater performance. However, the review notes some drawbacks: the infotainment system's trackpad interface remains finicky and distracting to use while driving, and fuel economy is disappointing for a vehicle in this class. The third row is also relatively cramped compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade. Overall, Car and Driver rates the MDX highly for its engaging driving dynamics, upscale cabin, and strong value proposition, though it stops short of class-leading status due to the infotainment ergonomics and fuel efficiency concerns. It earns a spot on the publication's recommended list with a strong overall score.

MotorTrend's evaluation of the Acura MDX emphasizes its dual personality: a genuinely sporty three-row SUV that doesn't sacrifice luxury comfort. The review commends the MDX for its excellent body control and composed ride quality, attributes that set it apart in a segment often prioritizing soft comfort over driving engagement. MotorTrend notes the standard V-6 delivers confident, if not explosive, performance with 290 horsepower, while the Type S variant's 355-hp turbocharged engine transforms the vehicle into a legitimate performance SUV. The publication lauds the MDX's interior redesign, describing it as a major step up from the previous generation with high-quality materials, supportive seats, and thoughtful storage solutions. The second-row captain's chairs in higher trims provide easy access to the third row, though MotorTrend echoes other critics in noting the third row is best reserved for children or occasional use. The trackpad-based infotainment controller draws criticism for being less intuitive than a touchscreen, and the reviewer notes that the MDX's fuel economy trails most of its competitors. Despite these issues, MotorTrend concludes the MDX excels as a driver-oriented luxury SUV that offers a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and reliability, making it a strong recommendation for buyers who value the sportier end of the three-row spectrum.