Bosses realized they made a mistake by removing a hybrid model from the Acura MDX lineup. It will be fixed soon and the new system is on the way. Our sources report this was the plan and that the 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid was never in doubt. They are not going into details about the drivetrain. Nevertheless, in the past couple of seasons, rumors mentioned an update and a more powerful configuration. With the performance-oriented Type S out, engineers could focus on a more efficient ride.
So, it remains a question of what will we find under the bonnet of the new 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid. The SUV was redesigned and the company introduced a lot of novelties. Besides the fresh styling, we see the Type S package finally at dealerships. But, a hybrid model was missing. We won’t call it replacement just yet, but rather the expansion. With such options, Acura MDX is going to be even more attractive and competitive in the mid-size luxury SUV market.
2023 Acura MDX Hybrid Specs
The company revoked an old drivetrain for the revisit. The same V6 drivetrain might be back as the base of the 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid. A 3.0-liter is good for 260 horsepower and electric batteries are increasing outputs. Last time, the MDX was at 320 hp. It was more than Lexus RX 450h could do. But, Toyota replaced a V6 engine for its Highlander, making it less powerful, but more fuel-efficient. The new RX could also turn to the configuration that will provide 35 mpg.
Bosses have a tough decision – shall the new 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid deliver more power or return a better mileage? Honda, the parent company, is going to deliver more hybrid and PHEV vehicles. The new Pilot hybrid might answer some questions. However, this one is another hot topic for rumors, without official statements.
2023 Acura MDX Hybrid – PHEV
We’ll check out some old stories speaking about the 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid as the drivetrain for the Type S model. The performance-oriented SUV is pairing the petrol unit with a turbocharger, instead of the electric battery. The system delivers 355 hp. That is something we’ve heard about the Type S. But, experts thought that a 3.5-liter engine would be the center of the plug-in hybrid system with such or even higher outputs. So, the part of rumors about the power output was close to the plans. Why wouldn’t we believe in the stories about the plug-in hybrid MDX?
Standard Drivetrain Specs, SH-AWD
Under the hood of the base MDX will be a 3.5-liter petrol engine, one of the most reliable units you can find in the market. It delivers slightly more power for the luxury SUV than for the Honda Pilot. Outputs are 291 hp and 262 lb-ft. Compared to the old hybrid version, the downside of this configuration is the gas mileage (22 mpg standard vs 27 mpg hybrid, combined fuel economy). The new 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid is going to make an even larger gap. On the other hand, if you want your SUV to tow more, then the 3.5-liter mill is a better choice with 5,000 pounds, compared to 3,500 lbs.
In both cases, a seven-speed DCT is a power router. For the base setup, the front wheels are rolling, while the all-wheel drive is optional. On the hybrid model, SH-AWD was standard and engineers will definitely keep such a configuration. The SH-AWD (Super-Handling) is being praised for the great balance and grip it brings. It costs a bit higher and consumes slightly more fuel, but fans of the off-road ride will appreciate the upgrade.
2023 Acura MDX Hybrid Price and Release Date
The vehicle is still in development and the company is not making official statements. One thing is sure – when the new 2023 Acura MDX Hybrid, the price will be higher than before because of all the upgrades on the system. The MSRP of the premium SUV starts above $45,000 and the hybrid drivetrain was $53,000. Have in mind that SH-AWD was there as well. Now, expect the starting price above $55,000. If engineers go after a mighty PHEV, then the cost of the SUV is jumping over $60k. We will know more once we hit 2022 season.