Acura’s MDX midsize SUV flies a little under the radar. Acura is the luxury division of Honda. Most luxury automakers build an immense full-size luxo-barge SUV like the BMW X7 or Lexus LX to serve as their standard-bearer. Acura doesn’t bother. The top of its lineup is a luxury midsize SUV, the MDX.
The MDX is a little like the flagship of a moderately-sized navy. Sure, it’s no aircraft carrier but you’d better believe every bit of the destroyer the admiral commands is in tip-top shape.
Our expert test driver describes the MDX as “a strong contender in a class full of excellent vehicles.” Still, the MDX doesn’t enjoy the reputation it deserves.
The current model has been on dealer lots since the 2022 model year, with few changes. It’s not time for a complete redesign, but the flagship does need an update.
For the 2025 model year, that means styling tweaks and cabin tech upgrades. Acura hasn’t discussed pricing. We expect a minor increase from today’s $50,150 starting price (which includes a $1,350 destination charge).
Reworked Infotainment Tech
The big news is the infotainment system.
Until now, Acura has stubbornly stuck with an input system no one seemed to love. Even in 2023, when virtually every car on the market uses a touchscreen, Acura held onto a laptop-style trackpad to control the MDX’s center-stack display.
It’s gone. Hallelujah. It’s gone.
In its place sits a sensible 12.3-inch touchscreen, much like in almost every rival. That familiarity alone might help many shoppers feel more comfortable with the MDX. On a test drive, it no longer feels a generation behind a BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Removing it makes room for more center console storage. The infotainment system runs Google Maps and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Acura has partnered with Bang & Olufsen to bring upgraded audio systems to its vehicles.
For the MDX, that means a 19-speaker setup starting at the MDX with Technology Package trim, and 31 speakers in the top-of-the-line Type S.
Acura says it has improved both the hardware and the software behind its advanced driver assistance systems, delivering smoother acceleration and deceleration from the smart cruise control, a more sensitive blind-spot monitoring system, and automatic emergency braking “that can detect oncoming vehicles and additional potential collision scenarios.”
New Look
Exterior changes are subtle but communicate an update.
The grille gets a smaller surround, reducing the chrome-heavy look of the 2024 MDX. New front fascias – the Type S gets its own design – also streamline appearances.
Acura has announced no performance upgrades, but the 2024 MDX may feel a little smoother on the highway thanks to noise reduction.
“The 2025 Acura MDX with Technology Package, Advance Package, and MDX A-Spec models receive extensive updates to reduce road noise in the cabin by approximately 10%,” the company says. Changes include “upgraded front and rear fender liners and additional door insulators. To further reduce wind noise,” and laminated glass even for the rear windows.
