2022 Acura MDX A-Spec Video, Review, and Pricing

By: Joshua Lee
October 16, 2022

Acura has been busy redesigning its lineup to remind us that they are still creating “Precision Crafted Automobiles”. This has evolved to “Precision Crafted Performance” since the introduction of the NSX back in 1990 and the tagline promises that performance, power, and luxury will be met for its refined customers. Acura has transformed their midsize three-row SUV, the MDX, at the right time hoping that this fourth-generation model will attract more customers in such a competitive market.

Honda Canada has given us the keys to the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec for our weeklong drive. The A-Spec package gives the MDX gloss black exterior accents, darkened headlights and taillights, LED fog lights, 20” Shark Grey wheels, and A-Spec badging.

The MDX A-Spec has the same 3.5L V6 engine from its last generation that puts out 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque but is now paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is smooth and linear while shifts are quick. This engine has Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) which lets the car run on six or three cylinders depending on driving conditions for improved fuel efficiency and features an Active Shutter Grille where shutters in the lower grille will open for engine cooling and close again to reduce aerodynamic drag.

The MDX feels sharper to drive with its all-new chassis and double wishbone front suspension. Acura’s standard fourth-generation SH-AWD system has “40% more rear torque capacity” and “can transfer up to 70% of engine torque to the rear axle during normal driving conditions”. We found that the MDX handles with precision in turns and ride quality is comfortable and quiet. The power steering is effortless at maneuvering in tight spaces and low speeds but we feel it would benefit more tightness in sportier driving. There are five different driving modes for the MDX and switching to Sport provides a slightly heavier steering response.

The redesigned MDX is one of the most visually appealing SUVs in the market. Its wide stance, broader shoulders, Diamond Pentagon grille, four-element Jewel Eye LED headlights with embedded Chicane daytime running lights and LED taillights impose a striking athletic charm. The MDX is 7cm longer in wheelbase, 3.5cm wider, and 0.8cm lower than its predecessor. Most noticeably, Acura has increased their dash-to-axle ratio by 15cm resulting in a “cab rearward” proportion and a longer hood.

Stepping inside the MDX A-Spec, you have supportive leather seats with Ultrasuede inserts which are heated and ventilated. A heated flat-bottom steering wheel with metal paddle shifters, sport pedals and footrest complete the sporty look. We like the attention to detail with contrast stitching, gloss black and metal accents throughout the interior. The 16 speaker and subwoofer ELS Studio 3D premium audio system provides excellent sound and there are 27 LED ambient lighting schemes for personalization. Second row passengers get the best view out of the panoramic moonroof and the removeable center seat acts as a large center console when folded down. Removing the center seat gives easier access into the third row which is best suited for kids and smaller adults. The MDX features underfloor storage behind the third row and a 40/20/40 split for the second row. Another convenient feature Acura has put into the MDX is the Walk Away Close tailgate; you can press the button in the cargo area and walk away with your hands full as the tailgate automatically closes and locks.

The 12.3” digital driver’s display is easy to read and steering wheel controls access information such as navigation, trip computer, and maintenance. We like the 12.3” landscape-oriented display for the infotainment system but find Acura’s touchpad complex to operate. A touchscreen or rotary knob could fix this problem. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard and works quickly. A back up camera is clear on the ultra-wide display, but if you wanted the 360-degree camera, it is only available in its higher trim levels.

There are six trim levels to choose from; the base starts at $59,300, Tech at $63,300, A-Spec at $66,300, Platinum Elite at $70,300, the 355 horsepower Type S at $80,400, and the Type S Ultra at $84,400. Our A-Spec model came to a total of $66,800 with Performance Red Pearl as a $500 option.

Fuel economy isn’t the best with its V6 engine and requires premium gasoline. Acura says the MDX will do 12.6/9.4/11.2 L/100km city/highway/combined and we found we were close to the combined fuel consumption of 11.7L/100km for the week.

With only the touchpad interface requiring improvement, the Acura MDX A-Spec is well equipped with tech and safety features while its upscale interior is certainly a place you want to be in everyday. It’s also very easy to drive and alleviates the fact that this SUV weighs over 4000lbs. Being Acura’s current flagship, the MDX A-Spec is a worthy contender in the luxury SUV segment looking just as distinctive and lower in price than its expensive German rivals.