Acura made it official. The upcoming MDX is entering the new generation after eight years. The redesign and the drivetrain upgrades are the highlights of the luxury SUV. The company already confirmed that the 2022 Acura MDX Type S is finally joining the lineup. For quite a while sources claimed the plan is there, but no one had any close information about the performance model. Now, we know what is going to lay under its bonnet.
The 2022 Acura MDX will be an all-new SUV. But, it is not the only one in the mid-size luxury class. Infiniti is preparing the QX60 based on the Monograph concept, and Lincoln set some challenges with the Aviator earlier. We also expect a response from the Lexus, the manufacturer that holds the best-selling vehicle in the mid-size luxury segment, RX.
Expectations from the new MDX are huge, especially with the new Type S in the game. The SUV is a seven-seater and we will see how designers are going to organize the interior space to make all the passengers feel comfortable. A hybrid unit is not confirmed yet, but be sure it is coming back. The Sport Hybrid in combination with the Super-Handling AWD is something special. Acura might take it to another level, though.
2022 Acura MDX Type S is Finally Here
The 2022 Acura MDX will keep a 3.5-liter V6 engine as the base choice. The powerplant is ready to deliver 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. Experts think this is one of the most reliable engines in this market, which can be found under the hood of the Honda Pilot as well. However, for the premium MDX, it delivers 10 hp and 5 pound-feet more. Front-wheel drive is standard and you can get a huge boost if you select the Super-Handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD). It is a trademark of the Acura brand, which is very competitive with 4Matic, Quattro and xDrive systems.
A hybrid will also be part of the lineup. Engineers are pairing a 3.0-liter displacement with electric motors to get 320 hp. Fuel economy is getting the biggest boost. Nevertheless, we can hear that the 2022 Acura MDX could become a plug-in hybrid. But, these rumors are out for quite awhile and some of them were related to the Type S SUV.
The performance-oriented package is centered around a turbo V6 engine, the same one we find in the hybrid model. There are no too many details upon the 2022 Acura MDX Type S, but that SUV is getting 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. A fuel economy and 0-60 mph time will be announced when the vehicle debuts this summer. Acura will probably show its jewel at the NAIAS, which was canceled in 2020 because of the coronavirus.
2022 Acura MDX Interior and Exterior Changes
The Type S will definitely make a unique appearance with a lot of sporty and aggressive details. However, since the 2022 Acura MDX is introducing a new generation, the luxury SUV will also get a new design. The front fascia is taking the most changes. But, the overall look is also different. The new SUV is longer and wider than before. Nevertheless, the MDX remains a mid-size seven-seater. The prototype is also lower than before and engineers are installing double wishbone front suspension. Two features promise a more exciting ride. We can also see a fresh shade called Performance Red Pearl. Dual exhaust tips are highlights of the more dynamic tail.
Designers also had a lot of work inside the cabin. Upholstery materials are new and the overall layout should bring more room. As said, a wider and longer body will also increase comfort. Leather seats are showing there is no messing around with the luxury level. The all-new Acura MDX also offers massage and ventilation to front buckets. Top of the lineup trims will come with the panoramic moonroof. Teaser images are also showing a new dashboard and a larger display at the central console.
There are no details about optional packages. There are no doubts that A-Spec trim is coming back since this was one of the highlights of the previous edition. Even if not, Acura will replace it with some other cool bundle. Type S is definitely the package worth of waiting for.
Release Date and Price
The debut of the 2022 Acura MDX is set for the summer of 2021. We are quite sure that the Japanese company is aiming the main stage – Detroit Auto Show. But, it is still questionable if the largest automotive happening will take place or it will be canceled for the second straight year. No luck seeing NAIAS since organizers moved it from January to June, though. The SUV will gain some value after the redesign. The MSRP will be closer to $50,000 before upgrades. With all the stuff the company offered for the current version, the SUV could add about $15,000. With the Type S model, the price will definitely go over $65,000.
