Acura recently handed me the keys to the 2025 Acura MDX Type S, a striking midsize SUV that seamlessly blends luxury with performance. The MDX Type S features a bold design, enhanced by aggressive styling and sporty accents, making it a standout in the crowded SUV market. With its powerful V6 engine, sophisticated all-wheel drive system, and a wealth of premium features, the MDX Type S promises an exhilarating driving experience without sacrificing comfort or practicality.
In this review, I’ll explore the PROs and CONs of the 2025 Acura MDX Type S to help you determine if this dynamic, feature-rich SUV is the perfect fit for your next vehicle purchase.
PRO: Performance SUV
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S delivers impressive performance, powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This power gives you quick acceleration and spirited handling, making it feel agile on the road.
PRO: All-wheel-drive
The advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhances traction and stability, allowing the MDX Type S to navigate both winding roads and challenging weather conditions with confidence. Additionally, the sport-tuned suspension provides a responsive driving experience, ensuring that enthusiasts will appreciate its dynamic capabilities.
PRO: Drive Modes
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S features multiple drive modes that enhance its versatility and performance. Drivers can choose from settings such as Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, each tailored to optimize the driving experience. In Comfort mode, the suspension softens for a smoother ride, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response and steering for a more engaging drive. Sport+ takes it a step further, maximizing performance with heightened responsiveness and a more aggressive tuning of the all-wheel-drive system, making it ideal for spirited driving on winding roads. This range of drive modes allows drivers to customize their experience based on their preferences and driving conditions.
PRO: Driver Centric
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S is designed with a driver-centric approach, prioritizing comfort and control at every turn. The cockpit features an ergonomic layout, placing essential controls and technology within easy reach, allowing for intuitive operation while driving. The supportive seats are crafted for long journeys, ensuring that both driver and passengers remain comfortable. Additionally, the high-resolution digital display and customizable gauge cluster provide vital information at a glance, enhancing the driving experience. This focus on the driver makes the MDX Type S not just a vehicle, but a haven for those who value both performance and practicality.
CON: Third Row Space
While the 2025 Acura MDX Type S does come with a third row, the space can feel quite tight, particularly for adults. With limited headroom and legroom, the third-row seats may be best suited for children or shorter passengers, making long trips less comfortable for taller individuals. This constraint can limit the vehicle’s overall practicality for families who frequently need to transport multiple adults. As a result, while the MDX Type S offers versatility in seating, the cramped third row could be a drawback for those prioritizing spaciousness in a midsize SUV.
CON: Busy Infotainment
The infotainment system in the 2025 Acura MDX Type S can be somewhat overwhelming, with a range of features and options that may take time to navigate. The central touchscreen, while high-resolution, presents a busy interface that can be distracting for drivers trying to access functions quickly. Some users may find the menu layouts and controls less intuitive than those in rival models, potentially leading to frustration while driving. Despite its advanced capabilities, this complexity might deter some drivers from fully enjoying the tech features available in the MDX Type S.
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