The 2022 Acura MDX has officially arrived, and its design closely mirrors the Prototype showcased last October. Like its companion model, the TLX, this fourth-generation MDX is both wider and longer than its predecessor, emphasizing a sportier look with extended hood space.
According to Acura, this new SUV offers more than just an athletic style. Engineered to deliver a sport sedan-like driving experience, it features a new, sturdier platform and introduces a double-wishbone suspension in the front for sharper handling, all while maintaining a comfortable ride. Additionally, a new belt-driven, variable-ratio power steering system enhances agility and responsiveness.
The front brakes have been upgraded, now 30mm larger and 2mm thicker, reducing fade earlier, and come with a revamped brake booster. Standard wheel sizes have increased to 19 inches from the previous generation’s 18, with optional 20-inch wheels featuring resonators to minimize road noise.
Inside, passengers will enjoy a more spacious environment across all three rows, featuring a stylish new dashboard inspired by the redesigned TLX and RDX models, along with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen operated via Acura’s “absolute positioning” touchpad. Users will find wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and wireless charging available as standard, eliminating the need for USB cords. In contrast to the TLX, which retains analog gauges for speed and RPM, the MDX boasts a fully digital instrument cluster, also measuring 12.3 inches.
Borrowing from the Honda Odyssey minivan, the seven-seat 2022 MDX has a removable middle seat in the second row that can serve as additional seating, fold down as an armrest/cupholder, or be completely removed for better access to the third row. Also available is CabinTalk, a feature that amplifies the front row voices for rear passengers, ensuring effective communication during rides.
Standard interior features include heated and memory front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a next-generation front passenger airbag, reminiscent of a baseball catcher’s mitt, that first appeared on the TLX.
Beneath the hood lies a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque—mirroring the figures of the previous model. This engine is now paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. For those desiring enhanced performance, Acura’s fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system can distribute up to 70 percent of torque to the rear wheels, with the ability to redirect up to 100 percent of that torque between the left and right rear wheels. Additionally, the new active shutter grilles open for required cooling and close to reduce drag as necessary.
For those seeking a performance upgrade, the upcoming Type S variant, set to be released later, will feature Acura’s new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, offering 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, in addition to SH-AWD, 21-inch wheels, Brembo front brake calipers, nine-mode massaging front seats, and the most advanced ELS Studio 3D audio system to date installed in any Acura.
While the Type S model is expected to debut in late summer 2021, the standard 2022 Acura MDX will arrive at dealerships on February 2, with a starting price of $47,925.
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