The 2025 Acura MDX is making waves in the luxury SUV market, building upon its reputation as a top-selling and highly profitable vehicle for Honda’s luxury division. With over 1.2 million units sold since its debut in 2000, the MDX continues to be a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a premium three-row SUV. This 2025 model year introduces a series of noteworthy enhancements, primarily focusing on interior refinements and advanced technology, while retaining the core strengths of its well-regarded platform.
The changes for the 2025 Acura MDX are largely focused on elevating the in-cabin experience and updating the tech features, while the fundamental mechanics and exterior styling remain largely consistent. Among the most significant improvements are enhanced control interfaces and the introduction of a truly exceptional top-tier audio system. Having had the opportunity to evaluate a fully loaded MDX Type S with the Advance package – the flagship trim – under ideal summer driving conditions, traversing highways, urban environments, and winding rural roads near San Diego, this review delves into the key aspects that define the 2025 Acura MDX. The 2025 Acura MDX is available for purchase now, inviting you to experience these upgrades firsthand.
2025 Acura MDX Trim Levels and Pricing Overview
To provide a clear picture of the range, here’s a breakdown of the 2025 Acura MDX trim levels and their starting prices (excluding a $1,350 destination charge):
- MDX FWD: $50,900 (AWD option adds $1,200)
- MDX AWD: $53,100
- MDX FWD with Tech Package: $56,300 (AWD option adds $1,200)
- MDX A-Spec AWD: $61,500
- MDX AWD with Advance Package: $66,000
- MDX A-Spec AWD with Advance Package: $68,000
- MDX Type S AWD with Advance Package: $74,950
Source: Honda. Prices are MSRP and do not include the destination charge.
Competitive Landscape: 2025 Acura MDX Rivals
The luxury SUV segment is highly competitive, and the 2025 Acura MDX faces a strong lineup of rivals, including:
- Cadillac XT6
- GMC Acadia
- Genesis GV80
- Infiniti QX60
- Lexus RX
- Lincoln Aviator
- Mazda CX-90
- Volvo XC90
Top 5 Standout Features of the 2025 Acura MDX
The 2025 Acura MDX incorporates several compelling new features that enhance its appeal in the luxury SUV market. Here are five of the most impressive upgrades:
1. Immersive Bang & Olufsen Premium Audio System
A standout addition for the 2025 model year is the introduction of Bang & Olufsen as Acura’s premier audio provider. The MDX Type S boasts a standard, state-of-the-art 31-speaker system that delivers an unparalleled auditory experience. This system incorporates B&O’s signature tweeter placement in the A-pillars and an array of a dozen headliner-mounted speakers to create true three-dimensional surround sound. The aluminum speaker grilles not only contribute to the aesthetic but also aid in sound fidelity.
Users can customize their listening experience with an immersion slider, transitioning from traditional stereo to Dolby 7.4 surround sound. Replacing conventional tone controls is “Beosonic,” a touchscreen interface that allows for nuanced sound adjustments based on profiles labeled “bright,” “energetic,” “relaxed,” and “warm.” For purists who prefer audio as the engineers intended, the default settings offer a remarkable listening experience across all volume levels. Simultaneously, the customization options will satisfy audiophiles who enjoy fine-tuning their sound.
2. Effortless Automatic Lane Change Assist
The 2025 MDX introduces an automatic lane change feature that goes beyond basic lane departure warnings. When the driver lightly engages the turn signal – a level of pressure between a three-flash signal and fully engaging the turn signal detent – the system assesses the distance and speed of approaching vehicles in the adjacent lane.
Initially, this might seem overly sensitive, but in practice, the system proves remarkably intuitive. A simple tap of the indicator stalk signals a lane change request to the instrument cluster. If conditions are safe, the steering wheel smoothly guides the SUV into the next lane. The sensors are adept at judging traffic conditions, intelligently preventing lane changes if insufficient space is detected. Automatic lane change functionality is limited to interstate highway driving, where it is most beneficial.
3. Advanced Capacitive Steering Wheel Sensor
The 2025 MDX utilizes a capacitive steering wheel sensor, a significant improvement over many torque-based systems. Traditional systems, relying on steering wheel torque inputs to detect driver hand presence, can be unreliable. They are often easily tricked or, conversely, overly sensitive, failing to recognize a hand even with slight wheel adjustments.
Capacitive sensors, in contrast, detect the presence of human skin, offering a more accurate and reliable method for determining driver engagement. This technology is crucial for features like automatic lane change, which requires a subtle and precise understanding of driver input.
4. Intuitive Touchscreen Interface Replaces Touchpad
A welcome change in the 2025 MDX is the integration of a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, positioned closer to the driver for improved reach and visibility. This replaces the less user-friendly touchpad interface of the previous model. The touchpad, located on the center console, required drivers to divert their gaze from the road and navigate an often-unintuitive operating system. The new touchscreen offers a far more direct, glanceable, and responsive interaction, significantly enhancing the user experience.
5. Seamless Google Built-in Integration
The 2025 MDX incorporates Google built-in, providing a seamless and integrated connected experience. This includes Google Maps for navigation and access to a wide array of apps through the Google Play Store. Google’s voice recognition is known for its accuracy and robustness, and it performs exceptionally well in the MDX. For smartphone users, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain fully compatible and standard features.
Comprehensive Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
The 2025 Acura MDX is equipped with a suite of safety and driver-assistance features, designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Cornering Speed Assist
- Automatic Front Braking
- Active Lane Change Assist
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
- Front and Rear Cross Traffic Monitoring
- Blind Spot Information System
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Automatic High Beam Headlights
Performance, Power, and Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Acura MDX offers a choice of powertrains and drivetrain configurations. Buyers can select between front-wheel or all-wheel drive and a naturally aspirated or turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The MDX Type S, the performance-oriented model, delivers 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged engine. Standard MDX models utilize a naturally aspirated engine producing 290 horsepower. During testing of the MDX Type S, the vehicle demonstrated confident acceleration and effortless passing power. The cabin remained quiet and comfortable, featuring premium materials like black wood trim, leather, and navy upholstery with contrasting white stitching. Climate and audio controls are conveniently managed through physical buttons, toggles, and the touchscreen interface.
Fuel economy for the MDX Type S is estimated by Acura at 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Models with the naturally aspirated engine are expected to achieve 19/26/22 mpg (FWD) and 19/25/21 mpg (AWD). Acura recommends premium fuel for optimal performance and fuel efficiency in all MDX models.
Key Selling Points of the 2025 Acura MDX
- Available Bang & Olufsen premium audio system for an exceptional sound experience.
- Enhanced radar systems for improved blind spot and cross-traffic detection.
- Automatic Lane Change Assist for added convenience on highways.
- Capacitive steering wheel sensor for more reliable driver engagement detection.
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display replacing the previous touchpad interface, improving usability.
- Google built-in for seamless navigation and connected services.
- Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration.
- Updated grille and front fascia for a refreshed exterior appearance.
Why Consider the 2025 Acura MDX?
The 2025 Acura MDX stands out as a refined and familiar luxury SUV, now enhanced with welcome technological and interior upgrades. These improvements ensure the MDX remains competitive and appealing in its segment, offering a compelling option for buyers seeking a premium three-row SUV. While a complete model redesign may be on the horizon in the coming years, the 2025 Acura MDX delivers a refreshed and sophisticated driving experience that solidifies its position as a leader in the luxury SUV market.
2025 Acura MDX Specifications at a Glance
Vehicle Category: Midsize Luxury Three-Row SUV
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive
Price Range: $50,900 – $74,950 (excluding $1,350 destination charge)
Model Tested: AWD Type S with Advance Package
Price as Tested: $74,950
Engine: 3.5L Turbocharged V6
Power Output: 355 hp @ 5,500 rpm; 354 lb-ft of torque @ 1,400-5,000 rpm
Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
Estimated Fuel Economy (MPG): 17 City / 21 Highway / 19 Combined (Premium fuel recommended)
Wheelbase: 113.8 inches
Length: 198.4 inches
Width: 78.7 inches
Height: 67.9 inches
Ground Clearance: 7.3 inches
Passenger Volume: 139.1 cubic feet
Cargo Space: 16.3 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 39.1 cubic feet (behind 2nd row), 71.4 cubic feet (behind 1st row)
Curb Weight: 4,776 pounds
Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
Assembly Location: East Liberty, Ohio
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter *@**mark_phelan*. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
