2022 Acura MDX Review: Luxury SUV Pros and Cons

content: Introduction

If you're shopping for a luxury three-row SUV, the redesigned 2022 Acura MDX likely caught your eye. After driving this SUV for over a year in Edmunds' long-term test fleet, we've uncovered critical insights that impact your buying decision. Our testing reveals where the MDX shines brilliantly and where it falls short against competitors like the Audi Q7 and Lexus RX L. This comprehensive review delivers the unfiltered truth about daily ownership – from its impressive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive to the controversial True Touchpad interface.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Engine and Transmission Performance

The MDX's 3.5L V6 produces adequate power but disappoints in real-world acceleration. Our testing confirmed it's slower 0-60 mph than the previous generation MDX. The 10-speed automatic transmission frequently delivers jerky shifts that undermine the luxury experience. During mountain driving and daily commuting, this powertrain combination consistently felt underpowered and unrefined compared to German rivals.

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

Acura's torque-vectoring SH-AWD system is a genuine engineering triumph. When cornering, you can physically feel the system transferring power to the outside rear wheel, creating a remarkably agile driving experience for a three-row SUV. The suspension strikes an impressive balance between firm cornering support and comfortable ride quality. Unlike many competitors, the MDX delivers engaging dynamics without sacrificing daily comfort.

Fuel Economy Reality Check

Despite its EPA rating of 21 mpg combined (AWD models), our real-world average plummeted to 17.8 mpg over the test period. Highway driving yielded 23.8 mpg at best, while city-heavy usage dropped consumption into the 16 mpg range. With current fuel prices, this represents a significant ownership cost that luxury buyers should carefully consider.

Interior Comfort and Quality

Seating and Cabin Materials

The MDX delivers exceptional seat comfort with 16-way power-adjustable front seats (heated and ventilated in Advanced trim). Genuine open-pore wood and quality leather touchpoints create authentic luxury appeal. Second-row accommodations are equally impressive with ample legroom and available sunshades. However, the third-row remains cramped – suitable only for children or short adult trips.

Material Inconsistencies

While some surfaces impress, the overabundance of piano black plastic collects fingerprints and dust relentlessly. The center console combines disparate materials in a visually disjointed "layer cake" effect. Hard plastics dominate lower cabin areas, contrasting sharply with the premium elements. This material inconsistency is particularly noticeable in the $62,000 Advanced trim we tested.

Technology and Controls

True Touchpad Interface

The 12.3-inch center screen displays crisp graphics with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the True Touchpad interface frustrates many users with its non-intuitive operation. Unlike a laptop trackpad, it requires precise screen mapping rather than cursor movement. During our testing, editors reported significant learning curves and ongoing frustration with smartphone integration. A simple touchscreen addition would resolve most issues.

Practical Technology Features

The digital gauge cluster and surround-view camera system deliver exceptional clarity that enhances daily usability. The 16-speaker ELS audio system provides concert-quality sound. However, the USB port design looks cheaply integrated, and our test vehicle's power steering wheel developed loud groaning noises during adjustment – unacceptable in this price segment.

Practicality and Ownership

Cargo and Towing Capabilities

With 95 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, the MDX outperforms key rivals like the Audi Q7 (70 cu ft). We successfully transported large items like disassembled futons and multiple luggage sets. Clever touches include side compartments for helmets and underfloor storage. The MDX also boasts a respectable 5,000-pound towing capacity – sufficient for small boats or campers.

Maintenance and Reliability

During our year-long test, the MDX required only one $120 service at 6,000 miles. We encountered minor glitches including false brake warnings and a heads-up display showing incorrect speed limits, but no recalls affected the 2022 model. Carmax valuation estimates between $44,000-$55,000 after a year suggest strong resale value retention.

Final Verdict

Competitive Positioning

The MDX secures second place in the luxury three-row SUV segment behind the Audi Q7 in our rankings. Its strengths – including exceptional SH-AWD handling, comfortable seating, and above-average cargo space – make it a compelling choice. However, the subpar transmission and polarizing touchpad interface prevent it from claiming the top spot.

Who Should Consider the MDX

Buyers prioritizing driving dynamics over straight-line speed
Families needing maximum cargo flexibility
Those valuing Acura's reputation for reliability
Drivers in snowy climates who'll benefit from torque-vectoring AWD

The MDX's greatest achievement is making a three-row SUV feel genuinely engaging to drive – a rare feat in this class. Yet the powertrain refinement and fuel economy fall short of luxury expectations. If Acura addresses these issues in future models, they could dominate the segment.

Actionable Takeaways

Test drive extensively: Experience the transmission behavior and touchpad interface before committing
Consider the A-Spec trim: Saves $4,000 over Advanced package while retaining key features
Budget for fuel: Real-world consumption significantly exceeds EPA estimates
Prioritize AWD models: The SH-AWD system transforms the driving experience
Explore alternatives: Cross-shop the Audi Q7 and Lexus RX L for different strengths

"After living with the MDX for a year, what surprised me most was how the driving experience made me forgive its flaws. That torque-vectoring system is witchcraft in mountain driving." - Edmunds Testing Team

Which factor matters most in your luxury SUV decision: driving dynamics, technology interface, or cabin quality? Share your priorities below!