Compared to the 2022 model, the 2023 Acura MDX includes very few changes—limited alterations to the exterior and interior result in fairly minimal price increases, while the engine options, transmission, and drivetrain remained the same from the 2022 to the 2023 model year.
Since its 2000 debut, this six-cylinder midsize SUV has grown in popularity due to its easy handling, impressive endurance, and striking performance. With three rows and up to seven seats, the MDX makes for the perfect family vehicle with the exterior stylings of a sporty, luxury SUV.
To help you choose the best model for you, we’ll go over pricing, fuel efficiency, safety features, and trims for the 2022 and 2023 models of the Acura MDX.
2023 Acura MDX vs. 2022 Acura MDX: what’s the difference?
The MDX is the largest vehicle currently offered by Acura
, with the five-seat RDX
following closely behind. This popular Acura midsize SUV can seat up to seven passengers and includes a fold-up second-row seat. It stands among vehicles like the Audi Q7
and Mercedes-Benz GLE
in the luxury SUV class. After the Acura MDX went through a full redesign in 2022, the 2023 model was virtually changeless.
Let’s take a look at how the 2023 Acura MDX compares to the 2022 model.
Pricing
The 2023 MDX’s prices have gone up by $1,550 for the base trim and $800 for the Type S trim, compared to the starting MSRP for those trim levels on the 2022 model year. Check out the table below for a price comparison of each trim level.
General specs
Like many other vehicles, the Acura MDX starting prices went up between 2022 and 2023, but unlike other manufacturers, Acura did not change much in the MDX to justify the price increases. In fact, the 2022 and 2023 models share the same engine, transmission, horsepower, and drivetrain.
Here’s a look at the MDX’s 2022 and 2023 specs:
| | |
|---|
| 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower) | 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower) |
| 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (355 horsepower) | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (355 horsepower) |
| 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission |
| FWD (standard) or AWD (optional) | FWD (standard) or AWD (optional) |
| | |
Fuel economy
Since the 2023 and 2022 MDX models have identical powertrains and builds, their fuel economy specs are also the same. Of course, your gas mileage will depend on where and how you drive, but the EPA-estimated miles per gallon for the Acura MDX are as follows:
Base engine (3.5-liter V6) w/ FWD): 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
Base engine (3.5-liter V6) w/ FWD): 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
Type S engine (3.0-liter turbocharged V6) w/ AWD: 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined
Although Acura previously offered hybrid capabilities with the 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid, they discontinued the hybrid MDX and paused production of the MDX in 2021 to perfect the redesigned 2022 model. Since then, Acura has affirmed that they have no plans of re-introducing a hybrid MDX in the coming years, so if fuel efficiency is a priority for you, the MDX may not be the best SUV for you.
MORE: Which Acura is better: the MDX or RDX
Safety ratings
Both the 2023 and 2022 Acura MDX models are Top Safety Picks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and they both get five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
. These ratings are thanks to Acura’s AcuraWatch driver assistance suite, standard on all 2023 and 2022 MDX models, which includes forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts. These vehicles also include a surround-view camera that captures 360 degrees of the vehicle's surroundings and helps with pedestrian detection and traffic sign recognition.
Styling and interior changes
As previously mentioned, not much has changed for the 2023 Acura MDX, including the exterior and interior
. But the 2022 MDX introduced some noteworthy upgrades that take both newer models to the next level for style, comfort, and technology. Here’s what they include: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Mousepad-controlled infotainment system
Nine-speaker audio system
Digital gauge cluster display
Simulated leather upholstery
USB ports in first and second rows
Cabin intercom system (A-Spec and Type S trim)
Adaptive suspension dampers (A-Spec and Type S trim)
Remote engine start (A-Spec and Type S trim)
Massage front seats (Type S trim)
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience in your MDX, the A-Spec or Type S trims may be the best options for you. If you’re looking to stick with the base trim but want some extra flair, the following add-ons are available:
Front and rear parking sensors
Customizable interior ambient lighting
GPS-linked climate control
12-speaker ELS sound system
Type S
With the 2022 Acura MDX redesign, Acura introduced a new luxury trim called the Acura MDX Type S. The Type S differs from other MDX models with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with up to 355 horsepower on an all-wheel drive system. With 21-inch wheels, Brembo front brakes, and a unique Type S front-end styling, this MDX stands apart from the rest.
The Type S is the most expensive trim level on the Acura MDX, and there are minimal differences between the 2022 and 2023 models.
2023 Acura MDX vs. 2022 Acura MDX: which should you buy?
If you’re choosing between the 2023 Acura MDX and the 2022 Acura MDX, go for the cheaper model unless you really love the 2023 version. These two models are basically photocopies and feature very few changes that are hardly noticeable to the average driver.
Whether you’re buying new or used, the 2022 MDX will be cheaper than the 2023 MDX, saving you hundreds to thousands of dollars for nearly the same vehicle.
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