Acura MDX Type S: Feature, Performance & Fuel Economy Review

The Acura MDX Type S changes what we expect from family SUVs. This vehicle brings serious power to the three-row segment. Families no longer need to choose between speed and space. The Type S badge means performance. It also means luxury. This SUV handles like a sports car but seats seven people. Parents can drop kids at school, then enjoy spirited driving on the way to work.

Acura introduced the Type S to compete with German rivals. BMW and Mercedes charge much more for similar features. The MDX Type S offers better value. It costs less to buy and maintain. The reliability record speaks for itself. Acura builds vehicles that last.

Engine Power and Performance

The heart of this SUV pumps out impressive numbers. A 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 sits under the hood. This engine makes 355 horsepower. Torque peaks at 354 pound-feet.

Power Numbers:

• Engine size: 3.0 liters with twin turbos
• Maximum power: 355 horses
• Peak torque: 354 lb-ft
• Speed from 0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Drive system: All-wheel drive
• Fuel type: Premium gas required
• City mileage: 17 mpg
• Highway mileage: 21 mpg
• Combined rating: 19 mpg
• Tank size: 18.5 gallons

The twin turbochargers deliver power without delay. Push the gas pedal and the SUV responds immediately. Low-end torque comes on strong at just 1,400 rpm. This means quick acceleration from any speed. The 10-speed transmission shifts smoothly. Paddle shifters let drivers take control. Gear changes happen quickly in sport mode.

Transmission Features:

• Ten forward gears for efficiency.
• Paddle shifters on steering wheel.
• Sport calibration included.
• Quick downshifts when needed.
• Smooth operation in traffic.
• Manual mode available.
• Intelligent shift programming.

Size and Space Details

This SUV measures large in every direction. Three rows of seats fit comfortably inside. The exterior looks muscular and wide.

Outside Measurements

Dimension	Measurement
Total Length	198.4 inches
Width (without mirrors)	78.7 inches
Height	67.9 inches
Wheelbase	113.8 inches
Ground Clearance	7.3 inches
Curb Weight	4,540 pounds

Inside Space

Row	Headroom	Legroom
First Row	38.5 inches	41.7 inches
Second Row	38.1 inches	38.5 inches
Third Row	36.3 inches	29.1 inches

Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 people

Cargo Room:

• Behind third row: 16.3 cubic feet
• Behind second row: 48.4 cubic feet
• Maximum space: 95.0 cubic feet

The third row actually fits adults for short trips. Most competitors offer cramped back seats. Children sit comfortably back there. Folding the rear seats creates massive cargo space. Groceries, sports gear, and luggage all fit easily.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Type S looks different from regular MDX models. Special touches set it apart. Chrome accents catch the eye.

Outside Features:

• Unique front bumper design.
• Large air intakes for cooling.
• Black diamond grille.
• Type S badges on grille.
• LED jewel eye headlights.
• Automatic high beam function.
• 21-inch black wheels.
• Performance tires included.
• Four exhaust outlets.
• Tinted rear windows.
• Power moonroof.
• LED taillights.
• Shark fin antenna.

The front fascia looks aggressive. Large intakes feed air to the turbocharged engine. The black grille demands attention. Side mirrors fold automatically. Chrome trim surrounds the windows. The rear spoiler adds sporty character. Quad exhaust tips announce performance intentions.

Interior Quality and Features

Step inside and premium materials surround you. Leather covers the seats. Real wood or aluminum trim decorates the dashboard. Everything feels solid and well-built.

Seat Details:

• Milano leather upholstery.
• Type S embossed headrests.
• Ultrasuede inserts.
• 16-way power driver seat.
• Heated front seats.
• Cooled front seats.
• Heated second row.
• Sport seat design.
• Captain chairs available.
• Third row folds flat.

Comfort Items:

• Heated steering wheel.
• Three-zone climate control.
• Ambient lighting.
• Power liftgate.
• Remote start.
• Wireless charging pad.
• Five USB ports.
• Panoramic moonroof.

The front seats hug your body during spirited driving. Long trips remain comfortable. Perforated leather breathes well. Ultrasuede adds a premium touch. The steering wheel feels perfect in your hands. Contrast stitching shows attention to detail.

Technology and Infotainment

Modern tech fills the cabin. Two large screens handle most functions. The system responds quickly to inputs.

Screen and Audio:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen.
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
• 25-speaker ELS audio system.
• Apple CarPlay wireless.
• Android Auto wireless.
• Bluetooth connectivity.
• HD Radio.
• WiFi hotspot.
• Navigation system.

The touchscreen works like a smartphone. Pinch to zoom on maps. Swipe between menus. The True Touchpad offers another control method. Physical buttons remain for climate controls. This matters when driving. The ELS audio system sounds incredible. Twenty-five speakers create concert hall quality sound.

Safety Systems Included

Safety tech comes standard. Cameras watch all directions. Sensors detect danger before you do.

Driver Assistance:

• Forward collision warning.
• Automatic emergency braking.
• Lane departure warning.
• Lane keeping assist.
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Blind spot monitoring.
• Rear cross traffic alert.
• Traffic sign recognition.
• Auto high beams

The collision warning saves lives. It alerts you to stopped traffic ahead. Hard braking happens automatically if needed. Lane keeping assist prevents drift. The system gently steers you back to center. Adaptive cruise maintains distance from cars ahead. It even works in stop-and-go traffic.

Structural Safety:

• Eight airbags total.
• Advanced body structure.
• Stability control.
• Traction control.

Driving Modes Explained

Four modes change how the SUV behaves. Switch between them based on conditions. Each mode adjusts multiple systems at once.

Comfort Mode:

• Soft suspension setting.
• Gentle throttle response.
• Early transmission shifts.
• Light steering effort.
• Smooth ride quality.
• Best for daily commuting.
• Maximum passenger comfort.

Normal Mode:

• Balanced suspension.
• Progressive power delivery.
• Smart shift timing.
• Natural steering weight.
• All-around capability.
• Good for most situations.
• Efficient fuel use.

Sport Mode:

• Firm suspension.
• Quick throttle response.
• Later gear changes.
• Heavier steering.
• Rear power bias

Sport+ Mode:

• Stiffest suspension.
• Aggressive power delivery.
• Performance-focused shifts.
• Maximum steering feedback.
• Most rear power.
• Enhanced engine sound.
• Track-ready setup.

The difference between modes feels dramatic. Comfort mode glides over rough roads. Sport+ mode transforms the character completely. The steering gets heavy. Shifts come rapid-fire. The exhaust growls louder.

All-Wheel Drive System

The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system sets this SUV apart. It does more than send power to all four wheels. The system distributes torque intelligently.

SH-AWD Features:

• Rear-biased power split.
• Independent rear wheel control.
• Torque vectoring capability.
• Predictive traction management.
• 70% power to rear possible.
• Left-right torque distribution.
• Enhanced cornering ability.
• All-weather traction.
• Reduced understeer.
• Stability in turns.

Most SUVs push through corners. The MDX Type S rotates eagerly. The outside rear wheel gets extra power. This pulls you through the turn. The effect feels magical. Grip levels remain high. Snow and ice pose no problems.

Suspension and Handling

The adaptive suspension adjusts constantly. Sensors read the road surface hundreds of times per second. Dampers respond immediately to conditions.

Chassis Components:

• Adaptive shock absorbers.
• Sport-tuned springs.
• Lower ride height.
• Larger stabilizer bars.
• Performance bushings.
• Reinforced body structure.
• Quick steering ratio.
• Electric power steering.

The suspension manages body roll beautifully. Hard cornering stays flat. The SUV feels smaller than it is. Steering response comes quickly. Turn-in feels sharp and precise. Brakes bite hard with good pedal feel. Fade resistance impresses during mountain driving.

How It Beats Competitors

German rivals charge much more money. BMW X5 M50i costs thousands extra. Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 runs even higher. The Acura delivers similar performance for less.

Value Advantages:

• Lower purchase price.
• Standard features included.
• Cheaper maintenance costs.
• Better reliability ratings.
• Longer warranty coverage.
• Lower insurance rates.
• Better resale value.
• More standard safety tech.

Performance Benefits:

• Better fuel economy.
• Unique torque vectoring.
• Sharper handling.
• Quicker steering response.
• More engaging driving feel.
• Balanced weight distribution.
• Superior visibility

The Germans offer prestige. Acura offers substance. The MDX Type S performs just as well. It costs less to own and maintain. Reliability proves superior. Three rows actually seat seven people. The value proposition wins clearly.

Real-World Driving Experience

Living with the MDX Type S brings daily satisfaction. Morning commutes feel enjoyable. Weekend drives become events.

Acceleration Feel:

The turbocharged engine pulls hard from any speed. Passing on highways happens confidently. Merging into traffic feels effortless. The power delivery stays smooth and linear. Turbo lag barely exists. Punch the throttle and surge forward.

Corner Handling:

Turn-in feels immediate and precise. The SUV rotates willingly through curves. Body roll stays minimal even when pushing hard. Grip levels impress on dry pavement. Wet roads pose no concerns. The torque vectoring system works brilliantly.

Brake Performance:

The Brembo calipers stop this heavy SUV quickly. Pedal feel remains firm and progressive. Repeated hard stops show no fade. The brakes inspire confidence on mountain roads. Emergency stopping distances stay short.

Ride Comfort:

The adaptive dampers balance sport and comfort. Rough pavement gets absorbed well. Highway cruising stays serene. Wind noise remains low at speed. Road noise stays controlled. Passengers ride in comfort.

Fuel Economy Reality

Premium gas costs more at the pump. The turbocharged engine needs high octane fuel. Real-world mileage varies by driving style.

Fuel Usage:

• City driving: 17-18 mpg typical
• Highway cruising: 21-23 mpg achieved
• Combined average: 18-20 mpg expected
• Sport mode: 14-16 mpg possible
• Tank range: 350-400 miles
• Premium fuel required
• Better than V8 rivals
• Reasonable for performance

The mileage beats larger-engine competitors. BMW X5 M50i drinks more fuel. Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 runs similarly thirsty. The twin-turbo V6 delivers efficiency with power. Fill-ups come less frequently than expected.

Maintenance and Ownership

Regular service keeps the MDX Type S running perfectly. Acura dealers handle maintenance well. Costs stay reasonable for the class.

Warranty Protection:

• Basic coverage: 4 years/50,000 miles
• Powertrain: 6 years/70,000 miles
• Corrosion: 6 years/unlimited miles
• Roadside help: 4 years/50,000 miles
• Extended plans available

The warranty beats many competitors. German brands offer shorter coverage. Service costs run lower than European rivals. Parts availability stays excellent. Acura dealers provide good service.

Comparing Trim Levels

The Type S sits at the top of the MDX lineup. Lower trims cost less but lack power.

Regular MDX:

• 290 horsepower V6
• Standard suspension
• 20-inch wheels
• Less equipment
• Lower price

Technology:

• Same 290-hp engine
• More tech features
• Better audio system
• Additional safety items

MDX A-Spec:

• Sport appearance
• Same base engine
• Visual upgrades only
• No performance gains

MDX Type S:

• 355 horsepower turbo
• Adaptive suspension
• 21-inch wheels
• Brembo brakes
• All features included
• True performance upgrade

The Type S justifies its premium. You get genuine performance improvements. The engine transformation changes everything. Suspension upgrades make real differences. Brakes handle the extra power properly.

Conclusion

The Acura MDX Type S successfully combines family practicality with genuine sports performance. Its 355-horsepower turbocharged engine delivers thrilling acceleration while three comfortable rows seat seven passengers. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and adaptive suspension create engaging handling that rivals German competitors. Standard luxury features, advanced safety technology, and superior reliability make it exceptional value. Lower pricing than BMW or Mercedes alternatives, combined with better warranty coverage and reduced maintenance costs, strengthens the ownership proposition. This SUV proves families need not sacrifice driving excitement for practicality.