Fresh from its debut last year, the Acura MDX sees only minor changes for 2023. The 3-row luxury SUV from Acura is renowned for its stylish appearance, impressive power and handling, near bulletproof reliability, and solid resale value.
In typical Acura fashion, the MDX’s upgrades are bundled by trim, with only a few standalone options. This bundling makes getting the features you want easier while keeping the price down, another of the MDX’s strong suits.
Buyers can choose between two powerful V6 engines and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), a must-have for enthusiast drivers or anyone living where snow is a routine part of life. The front-drive 2023 Acura MDX can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while SH-AWD models can pull up to 5,000 pounds.
Shoppers looking at the MDX might also consider the Lexus RX 350L, Infiniti QX60, Audi Q7, Lincoln Aviator, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
2023 Acura MDX
(starting at $49,050)
The base MDX is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) model with the option to upgrade to SH-AWD. A 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, powers the MDX.
In a nod to the MDX’s sportier side, Acura adds the Integrated Dynamics System that allows the driver to select various degrees of steering feedback, throttle response, and gear shifts, all via four modes: Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Snow.
Even as a base model, Acura is generous to a fault. The MDX’s standard roster includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, and Acura’s Jewel Eye LED headlights.
The MDX includes automatic on/off headlights with wiper activation, heated side mirrors with reverse tilt-down, a power tailgate, and the ability to operate the windows and power sunroof remotely. A proximity key fob allows locking and unlocking of the doors simply by having the fob on your person. Once inside the MDX, the same fob enables the push-button starter.
The 2023 MDX is sure to please with an equally refined cabin, even without adding options. Faux-leather upholstery covers all three rows, with a second-row bench that quickly converts into two captain’s chair seats thanks to a removable center section. With its 50/50-split-folding third-row seat, the MDX can carry seven people.
Driver and front passenger enjoy heated 12-way power-adjustable seats with power lumbar support. The driver’s seat also hosts 3-position memory for the seat, mirrors, and power tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
Other MDX amenities include tri-zone automatic climate control, automatic up/down power windows, and a configurable digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster with various screen themes.
Prominently mounted atop the dash is a second 12.3-inch display. It hosts the MDX’s infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. Also included is AcuraLink Services, which now comes standard for three years and includes the Security and Remote packages.
If there’s a downside to the system, it’s the lack of a proper touchscreen. Controlling the infotainment and various systems is done via a console-mounted touch pad controller, requiring the driver to look away from the road when operating the system. However, natural voice recognition software can manage many features, so you can always go that route.
The MDX comes equipped with a 9-speaker premium audio system. Charging external devices is easy thanks to USB-A and USB-C charge ports in the front row and USB-A ports in the second row. The MDX also features a large wireless charging pad.
Finally, when it comes to safety, Acura has pulled out all the stops. Beyond the required traction and stability control, rear backup camera, and cabin airbags, the MDX features a long list of driver-assist systems courtesy of the AcuraWatch suite.
Included are forward-collision warning, collision mitigation braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, Traffic Jam Assist, and a blind-spot monitor.
AcuraWatch also features traffic sign recognition and road departure mitigation, which warns the driver if the MDX drifts from its lane. The system will vibrate the wheel to warn the driver and even apply brake pressure to help prevent the car from leaving the road.
Additional driver aids include rear cross-traffic detection, a rear camera lens washer, hill start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts the driver when the tires reach the correct pressure when adding air.
A tire repair kit comes standard, as do two years of complimentary maintenance.
Optional SH-AWD adds another $2,200 to the bottom line while also adding a compact spare tire.
The MDX offers several accessories, including various roof-mounted carriers, a hands-free power liftgate, remote start, 20-inch wheel packages, LED fog lights, a heated steering wheel, a trailer hitch, and more.
With its $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX costs $50,245. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $903. See 2023 Acura MDX models for sale
2023 Acura MDX includes:
- AcuraWatch – A complete suite of active driver-assist systems designed to help keep drivers aware of their surroundings, avoid accidents, and keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- 12-way power seats – Both driver and passenger enjoy the same level of comfort and lower back support, something not all competitors offer.
- Wireless charging pad – This makes it easy to charge a compatible smartphone without the need for unsightly wires.
- Power liftgate – Automatically opens and closes, making it easy to gain access when your arms are full.
2023 Acura MDX with Technology Package
(starting at $53,750)
When added to the base MDX, the Technology Package brings features expected of a luxury SUV for not all that much more money.
Opting for the Technology Package brings power-folding side mirrors, 20-inch alloy wheels, and GPS-linked climate control. The system monitors the sun’s location in the sky, adjusting the climate control by anticipating when more or less heat will rain down on the MDX’s exterior.
The MDX’s cabin enjoys multicolor ambient lighting with 27 color themes for the doors and footwells, Milano perforated leather upholstery, 3-position passenger seat memory, and second-row sunshades. The standard 3D view navigation with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic helps avoid traffic jams by calculating a faster route around problem areas.
The MDX’s standard audio gets the boot, upgraded with a 12-speaker Acura/ELS Studio system.
The Technology Package also adds front and rear parking sensors, low-speed automatic emergency braking, and rain-sensing wipers on the safety front.
SH-AWD is a $2,200 upgrade.
With the $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX w/Technology Package costs $54,945. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to approximately $987. See 2023 Acura MDX with Technology Package models for sale
2023 Acura MDX with Technology Package includes:
- ELS Studio Audio – One of three available ELS systems, the 16-speaker version in the Technology Package adds more power and presence than the stock system, as well as more features.
- Front and rear parking sensors – Can detect objects in front of or behind the MDX and alert the driver with an audible warning. If the driver fails to respond, the system automatically stops the vehicle.
- Perforated Milano upholstery – Looks and feels luxurious, with additional colors beyond the base model’s black and beige.
- Rear sunshades – While manual sunshades built into the rear doors may not be a high-tech feature, their job in helping protect rear seat occupants from additional glare and heat is invaluable.
2023 Acura MDX A-Spec
(starting at $59,450)
The A-Spec adds a sportier look to the MDX, building off the Technology Package SH-AWD. The A-Spec gets a larger rear anti-roll bar, unique black exterior styling elements, and Shark Gray 20-inch alloy wheels.
A-Spec upgrades include ventilated sport seats with red or black Ultrasuede inserts, a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, an ebony headliner, sport pedals, and A-Spec sill plates.
Rounding out the A-Spec upgrades are LED fog lights and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system. The A-Spec’s standard in-car PA system allows the driver to communicate with rear-seat passengers via the car’s speakers.
With the $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX A-Spec costs $60,645. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $1,090. See 2023 Acura MDX A-Spec models for sale
2023 Acura MDX with Advance Package
(starting at $63,000)
The MDX with the Advance Package combines all the features from the Technology Package, then tosses in even more luxury and technology.
Along with the standard SH-AWD, the Advance Package brings a 360-degree Surround-View Camera, a 10.5-inch head-up display, a hands-free power liftgate, 20-inch wheels, remote start, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Standard 16-way heated and ventilated front seats include adjustable side bolsters and thigh extensions for a more comfortable driving experience.
Other thoughtful features include LED exterior door handle lighting, USB-A ports in the third row, an interior color-matched headliner, and upgraded ambient lighting in the foot wells, door pockets, and dashboard.
The Advance Package also features a second-row 110-volt outlet, open-pore wood trim, and roof rails.
With the $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX w/Advance Package costs $64,195. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $1,154. See 2023 Acura MDX with Advance Package models for sale
2023 Acura MDX with Advance Package includes:
- 16-way sport seats – Adjustable 16-way front seats include thigh extension cushions for better leg support and adjustable side bolsters to hold you better in tight turns.
- Hands-free power liftgate – Adds another level of convenience to the power liftgate, activated by simply swiping a foot below the bumper. Walk away, and the liftgate automatically closes.
- Surround-View Camera – Projects a 360-degree view outside the vehicle and includes a front camera that makes it easy to see obstacles when off-roading.
- Head-up display – Projects important driver information onto the windshield, making it easier to keep one’s eyes on the road.
2023 Acura MDX Type S
(starting at $67,350)
The Type S takes the MDX to a new level, injecting it with 355 horsepower conjured up by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. The Type S gains an air suspension with adjustable ride height and adaptive dampers. These two upgrades allow further expansion of the Integrated Dynamic System, adding Sport+ and height-increasing Lift modes.
Stopping power comes courtesy of Brembo front disc brakes with 14.3-inch rotors and red 4-piston brake calipers. A revised front fascia, quad exhaust finisher with active exhaust valves, and 21-inch wheels with self-sealing tires complete the performance upgrades.
Along with most of the features from the MDX A-Spec, the Type S amenities include remote start and the Type S interior and exterior Sport Appearance Package.
With the $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S costs $68,545. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to approximately $1,232. See 2023 Acura MDX Type S models for sale
2023 Acura MDX Type S includes:
- Adaptive dampers – Adjust automatically to varying road conditions, helping to keep the tires firmly planted while simultaneously providing a controlled and settled ride.
- Air suspension – This advanced suspension smooths over road imperfections for a more comfortable ride. It can also adjust ride height, lowering the vehicle for easier entry and lifting it for the rock-strewn trail.
- 3.0-liter turbocharged engine – This little dynamo puts out 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, enabling the MDX to hit 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds.
2023 Acura MDX Type S with Advance Package (starting at $72,700)
The ultimate MDX comes in the form of the Type S Advance Package. Building off the Type S, the Advance Package adds massaging front seats with nine modes, a head-up display, a Surround-View Camera, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition premium audio system.
Unique to the Type S Advance is Orchid leather upholstery with Azurite Blue piping.
With the $1,195 delivery fee, the 2023 Acura MDX with Type S Advance Package costs $73,895. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $1,328. See 2023 Acura MDX with Type S Advance Package for sale
