2024 Acura MDX Type S – Worth the Upgrade?
Stepping Up its Performance Game
A few months back, we reviewed the 7-seater Acura MDX which scored pretty high in our books. Since then, we’ve got a chance to test drive the Type S version – the highest trim you can get and we’re pretty impressed.
With a price tag of $76,300, expectations are high especially considering the German luxury alternatives you can get alike the Mercedes-AGM and BMW M class. Acura’s MDX Type S approach is to introduce a myriad performance, luxury and tech features grab a spot in the high-end luxury SUV playing field.
What’s Offered?
The MDX Type S features a plethora of upgrades including a tuned 3.0L turbocharged engine rated at 355 horsepower, adjustable ride-height air suspensions, 4-piston Brembo Front Calipers and quad-round exhaust tips as part of its powertrain package upgrade. Interior also gets upgraded front-seat massagers, a 1000 watts premium ELS Studio sound. Acura’s bread and butter Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system also makes its way into its standard features as well.
Road Practice
Road comfort remains the biggest perks of the MDX in general and the Type S hasn’t forgotten its roots. The adaptive air suspensions also helps absorb road chatter nicely and when switched into Sport / Sport+ mode, it drops down by 0.6″ for better road handling capabilities. The front 4-piston Brembo brakes also made positive impressions during our test drive.
While the Type S model touts performance, it’s not quite what you might expect – on the straight line anyways. Rated at just 355 horsepower, the MDX Type S wouldn’t be categorized as fast compared to more capable performance-oriented luxury SUV’s such as the Mercedes AMG class, or even the 375 horse power Genesis GV80. Still, the turbocharged V6 harmonizes well with its 10-speed automatic gearbox delivers silky smooth and predictable acceleration with an overall easy-to-drive experience.
Luxury Amenities
The Acura MDX Type S resorts to its proving grounds with a safe; and very reasonable luxury interior. Some of the high notes taken were its well-finished perforated leather steering wheel, large comfortable seats, and very-well designed digital infotainment system.
The interior also does an excellent job in keeping the cabin space quiet especially on highway roads and the ELS Studio sound system is a treat for music lovers.
Final Thoughts
The Type S upgrade entices added performance, but mostly in the road handling department with adaptive air suspensions, and Brembo disc brakes. Unfortunately, it’s missing the main ingredient to really elevate the Acura MDX to the next level, which is horsepower. We wished more juice can be squeezed out of its V-6 engine to better take advantage of its excellent powertrain setup. But truth be told, you can’t have it all. And what the Acura MDX Type S does have, is excellent road comfort and ease of driving with room to spare for a bit of drive excitement.