I am in same position....this will be my last MDX and I have had 7 of them. The 2025 touch app system is very distracting and hard for driver to use. I drive my older model just so the controls are functional with SXM

 

I have successfully installed an add-on system from Crutchfield that adds a SXM brand tuner (also an interface device and antenna $300). The details are in another post DIY. My '25 now has SXM that has presets on the main screen (plus artist). Does not require a cell phone to work. It's not perfect but it works well.

 

I am in same position....this will be my last MDX and I have had 7 of them. The 2025 touch app system is very distracting and hard for driver to use. I drive my older model just so the controls are functional with SXM

I am in same position....this will be my last MDX and I have had 7 of them. The 2025 touch app system is very distracting and hard for driver to use. I drive my older model just so the controls are functional with SXM

If you touch the screen anywhere while negotiating a curve, going over a dip or bump... its always at the wrong time, you choose something that you don't want. The touch screen developer, probably setting at a desk, has no sense of this in a moving car.... and at arms length. Its good you are right handed! Goodbye presets...

 

I just got a new 25 MDX A-Spec Advance......I'm LIKING it (I use Love for people) - quieter, I'm feeling it rides a tad better as well (but that may Psychological effect ...LOL), massaging seats are dynamic, BUT I think the ELS stereo was little better IMO. I wsa not a fan of the TTIP. In fact in 2019, I took an MDX Advance over a RDX bc of the TTIP. In 2021, When I first saw on line and then in person, the new 22 MDX - Bingo I was hooked on the redesign, TTIP be damned. After some time though I did get used to it and having HUD and steering wheel controls and finally learning to use the "Shortcuts Icon - it was fine. Now with the new Raved about Touch Screen, eeehhhh, it's less than the big fanfare proports. And of course, losing the SAT radio is more unpalatable to me than others who haven't used it. Now I need to engage AA to use it! In my 22 I did NOT need to be in AA - which was a PIA bc of the SLOW reacting TTIP in AA Mode. I think I may do a "Deep Dive" [generally I dislike that term so regulalry used) into your suggested DIY add on !

 

raceparts is pounding this XM radio issue pretty good- rightfully so IMO. What is Acura thinking (of course other than there must have been some financial incentive to do this) of eliminating the XM Radio receiver/antenna? I too would prefer to simply push a button (after selecting XM Radio icon on the touch pad) and then select the stations I want. Yes, it may be cheaper by using streamer apps ( I personally have too many [3 + Amazon with my Prime account] for silly reasons.

 

FWIW......WA State Law enforcement says this about cell phones while driving:
Using a personal electronic device while driving.
(1) A person who uses a personal electronic device while driving a motor vehicle on a public highway is guilty of a traffic infraction and must pay a fine as provided in RCW 46.63.110
(c) "Use" or "uses" means:
(i) Holding a personal electronic device in either hand or both hands;
(ii) Using your hand or finger to compose, send, read, view, access, browse, transmit, save, or retrieve email, text messages, instant messages, photographs, or other electronic data; however, this does not preclude the minimal use of a finger to activate, deactivate, or initiate a function of the device......

Who makes the decision on getting a ticket? ......the person doing the writing I suspect not Acura who says you can use your phone to enable Sirius XM channel navigating.

Our next vehicle purchase will not be one without a satellite radio & OEM controls.

 

I wonder though, if You are engaging AA or CP, could you just use a Voice Command to ask to Play Sirius Radio Station # while driving. Thereby avoiding using your hands as a distraction or violation of this Law.

 

NO Sirius. And the salesperson said "just download it from the App Store". We know the answer to that. And the workaround is totally B___S___. Sounds like a class action lawsuit to me. Where do I sign up?

 

Class-action lawsuit for what? Because they removed a feature that existed in a prior version and provided an alternate way to access it? Go ahead, be the class representative for that one.

 

does sound like you're from boston

 

Whoooaaa, I didn’t realize it was gone especially after the sales person implied I had 6 months free access when I asked about it!

 

The dealer will tell you that you can stream from your phone. I discussed this with someone in the know. The new prodict cycle, usually five years was missed. So the new Hondas/Acura will not have SXM built in for the future. There is a big push back from customers like myself that are making noise. It is illegal in most states to use a hand held device while driving.

 

I'm about to transact a new 25 MDX ASpec Adv lease. I'm aware of the lack of a SAT RADIO UNIT! it is very annoying and petty on Acuras part. They are the only ones that I'm aware of doing this in 2025. A poster on a YT review channel said he works for one of the design teams at Acura. He proclaimed that over the past 7 years, listenership was down by over 40%, this they decided was the impetus to eliminate it. I responded BS! . It was a totally $$$$$$ thing. Maybe, just maybe, (my conjecture) a SAT UNIT interfered with the new Touch Screen or the new B&O sound system (which has not received Rave Reviews,) . The ELS system in my 22 MDX is great! Probably another cost savings?
On topic, I will try to insist that my dealer install a SAT UNIT which they will install to work with the main head unit. There are posts on Acurazine about these units. Whatta PIA for such a simple thing. However, I'm still attracted to the MDX.

 

I'm about to transact a new 25 MDX ASpec Adv lease. I'm aware of the lack of a SAT RADIO UNIT! it is very annoying and petty on Acuras part. They are the only ones that I'm aware of doing this in 2025.
On topic, I will try to insist that my dealer install a SAT UNIT which they will install to work with the main head unit. There are posts on Acurazine about these units. Whatta PIA for such a simple thing. However, I'm still attracted to the MDX.

Other car manufacturers are also eliminating the OEM interface. Yes $$$. Its mostly because the younger generation likes to rip music and stream everything. TV included. WHY Acura decided to keep AM/FM is beyond logic. Why does my 25 MDX have a Gmeter and paddle shift on a 7 passenger car? Promoting reckless driving while looking at your cell? Yes the new laptop in the dash is horrible, Gmap useless and all of this fingering while driving is just plain distracting.

 

To search/change stations?

 

Use the touchscreen. Ask XM to update their app so it works appropriately with Android Auto.

 

 

I agree when you spend 70K for a car and it doesn't have sirius it is a real let down. I don't care for google or android phones. I guess I'm stuck with this dinosaur or maybe time to return to Mercedes.

 

Well How Do You Like This?.... Per the email I received from Sirius yesterday.....Sirius Now Available in Teslas!! Probably via a SAT Headunit....

​

available in Tesla Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck vehicles View in a web browser

​

​

​

Is Acura paying Attention??

 

Starlink

 

I LOVE my 2024 MDX … I save LIKE for people except my bride of 43 years 😉. I also LOVE my touch-pad vs touch-screen, particularly with Satallite radio on the menu. After having driving a Cayenne GTS and a variety of Beemers, this is a great car. The Germans build a great vehicle no doubt, but i find the flawless execution of design and delivery of power in the Acura to be superior; not to mention at a much better price point. I liked the Acura so much I sold my Ford Maverick and bought a Ridgeline which is almost as smooth as the Acura because it has a 134” wheelbase and a unibody suspension, plus it has other nice features (in-bed trunk, swing-out tailgate, fold-up rear seat). Of note, the driving and environmental controls for the Honda are almost identical to that of the Acura which saves my pee-brain from having to re-learn how to drive and adjust temp every time I switch vehicles.

 

I LOVE my 2024 MDX … I save LIKE for people except my bride of 43 years 😉. I also LOVE my touch-pad vs touch-screen, particularly with Satallite radio on the menu. After having driving a Cayenne GTS and a variety of Beemers, this is a great car. The Germans build a great vehicle no doubt, but i find the flawless execution of design and delivery of power in the Acura to be superior; not to mention at a much better price point. I liked the Acura so much I sold my Ford Maverick and bought a Ridgeline which is almost as smooth as the Acura because it has a 134” wheelbase and a unibody suspension, plus it has other nice features (in-bed trunk, swing-out tailgate, fold-up rear seat). Of note, the driving and environmental controls for the Honda are almost identical to that of the Acura which saves my pee-brain from having to re-learn how to drive and adjust temp every time I switch vehicles.


View attachment 133047

I got you by 7 years on the Wifey thing. LOL

 

I bit the bullet and just leased a new 25 MDX A-Spec Advance on 2/1/25. I wrestled with the decision to buy my 22 MDX Advance at lesae end for $39,000 or lease a new 25 MDX (Or other model cars). For various reasons (some of which were "heart" vs "brain" driven), I did what I did knowing the issue of the eliminated SAT Radio Unit in the 25. I read the many posts on this thread about this issue; my test drives focued on the other principal features of the new MDX. I used Sirius / XM radio alot n my 22 MDX. Now just after 3 days of using my new 25, I never realized how much I missed the ease of access and use of Sirius in my 22. Even with the TTIP, which I had become accustomed to. Truth Be Told, the new Touch Screen is over - hyped. Yeah, it's responsive, easier to use (particularly "right out of the box") to the common driver, but really not a big a deal as proported - in my honest initial opinion. But I like that the 25 is quieter, rides just a bit better, has the impressive Massaging seats {i know My bad back and neck will thank Acura}, but leaves a me a bit puzzled why Acura changed to B&O Stereo system [ initial impressions to my ear is the ELS system was "better"]. However, notwithstanding whether one uses or likes SAT radio, Acura should have allowed or granted an option to have a SAT Radio unit Built in to the system for add'l charge (if that was the issue - $$$$$). Perhaps, only perhaps, if enough of us file complaints with Acura either directly or via this and other Forums, something could be offered??? It's a big If tho.

 

I love my SAT radio too and I definitely prefer the touch pad vs touch screen and appreciate the screen where it is in my 2022. Set back. I was given a 2025 loaner and was not happy with the entertainment set up. I also LOVE my wrist rest!

 

Agree … 100%. I have sat radio in my 2024 and would miss is greatly if it was not easily accessible.

 

They didn't offer the sat option because nobody would buy it.

My last 6 or 7 cars came with satellite radio, I never once have even selected the output on any of the cars. Judging by the amount of spam mail I get asking me to subscribe to sirius, I am a typical user.

 

They didn't offer the sat option because nobody would buy it.

My last 6 or 7 cars came with satellite radio, I never once have even selected the output on any of the cars. Judging by the amount of spam mail I get asking me to subscribe to sirius, I am a typical user.

It’s sad when a person, or group, or company projects their choices onto those of others … there are several million sat radio users, and I happen to be one. It’s the first thing I do when I get a new car or truck. Can’t imagine not having it. Happy my 2024 type S has it.

 

Using the old words from a song ....."You Don't Know What You've Got Till It's Gone" ! I have the SRM app on my Google Phone which I never had to use either in the car or at home (I play it at times at home via using Alexa). In th ecoming days i will Fool with it in the new 25 MDX. Since I mostly use my MDX locally doing whatever in Suburbia (Retirees do that), I either would listen to Talk Radio either on AM radio and /or Sirius XM ncluding switching off to some of my Fav channels - easily, now not so. As Posted earlier, even TESLA has now added SAT RADIO to their cars... I guess Acura needs that extra $200 or so by eliminating the unit / Receiver. At least it was There and you could subscribe or not.

 

I'm not being a PIA

This thread is full of boomers questioning why a function that nobody uses would be removed when it's obvious.

 

I am a "Boomer" and I would not even consider buying the MDX if it doesn't have (or the dealer can't install) Sat radio.

 

For the question on how I get my numbers, of the 34million subscribers, at least 10mil come from new cars sold in the US each year, that come with a subscription. So, something like 20mil paying subscribers of 208mil working age US residents. 90% dont use

 

There is ample data out there about total subscribers, down the month. As of Q424 total subscribers is a little under 34M. What’s confusing is comment that 90% of subscribers don’t use the service they pay for, is your subjective opinion? Not that I care that much, but from what I can learn, the actual usage of XM isn’t published.

 

You can stream it though your phone. As far as changing stations simply push the left rotating wheel on the steering wheel to the left or right, this also works when streaming music. Also the same wheel button can be pushed to answer and hang up phone calls. I hope this helps.

 

this does not change channels at least on Android Auto.

 

Well if you guys are Dinosaurs, what bucket do I fall into at 73! I only have my 25 ASpec Advance since last Saturday, so I'm still acclimating to it. I can say that so far so good with the vehicle's operation. Notwithstanding the traffic info advantage over Google Maps (or Waze), the NAVI in my 22 MDX was very good, clear and easy to operate and Manage.

 

As a new 25 MDX A-Spec Advance Lessee (2/1/25) - only 1 week of driving the New MDX, I will post my comments about the my experiences in other threads. But suffice it to say, that I too miss my SAT Radio and the wrist pad too. We are creatures of habit, and after 3.5 years, I became very accustomed to that wrist pad. Additionally, honestly, the Touch Screen is Over-Hyped. Comparing it to the TTIP, they both require some taking your eyes off the road. Raceparts is correct in his assessment that on "bumpy" road, the touchscreen can be more of a challenge. But both systems work integrally with steering wheel and HUD controls to make various selections. I will say that the Touch Screen should NOT be your overriding influence to upgrade your MDX (vs the 2022-24). Having said that, the Massaging seats are fantastic, the new MDX is definitely Quieter and Rides Better than my 22 MDX Advance, and I'm really liking the overall Look of the A-Spec Advance [the metal pedals and the Steering Wheel especially] , and with some focused adjustments- the B & O sound system is great, better in some respects and less so in other respects (I've learned to tone down /Tweak & balance the 3D Surround sound Beotone feature).

 

I just picked up my 2025 MDX ASPEC. Of course at delivery, realized there's no XM radio anymore. I loved flipping through the stations on XM using the steering wheel control on my last MDX. While I understand you can add the XM app to stream music there's no way to control anything from the steering wheel. You are constantly taking your eyes off the road to do anything using the touch screen. Anyone have any advice to suggest an app that will give you that ability to have "channels" that you can change using steering wheel controls?? HELP!!

I have the 2025, the electronic set up blows

 

That's a Strong Opinion about it..... I would not say It Blows, but it is lacking in some respects. From my fresearch into various Cars as i contemplated either Buying my 22 MDX (at lease expiration) or leasing other new cars, i found that significant research shows that there is No Perfection. After weighing many factors (price included), I settled on the new 25 MDX A-Spec Advance. Was it the Wisest Decision......probably Not ; perhaps buying my 22 MDX with 22.7K Miles may may have been. Having said that, I am enjoying my new 25 MDX and learning some of the nuances of the changes / improvements.

 

Starlink is the best. Get the promo deal, hardware for your car you can buy at Best Buy. Locked in a promo deal for $29.99/mo for 5 years -- it goes anywhere in the world, perfect, reliable internet with uploads and download speeds that will blow your mind. Full video conferencing from anywhere -- and it can come with you. Places that have no reception at all you can be your own hot spot, even Antartica if you had a reason to go there. It powers my whole house too.

 

Starlink is the best. Get the promo deal, hardware for your car you can buy at Best Buy. Locked in a promo deal for $29.99/mo for 5 years --

Not cheap, and does it work in your vehicle hands free? Would you also need various subscriptions for Pandora or SXM, a TV interface? What does the Starlink tuner cost and do you need one for the house, and each car?

 

Kayak0628, welcome aboard the Forum. I trust you have acquired a new 25 MDX. Informally looking at this thread seems to indicate many, if not most owners are frustrated by this XM Radio Receiver commission. Why? Perhaps jointly we could garner enough such support and file a group grievance to Acura! How many 25 MDXs have they sold to date ? A few thousand Nationwide?

My singular emailed protest went nowhere. Their retort was .....they would offer a recommendation of any after market unit or supply any such cure via the Dealerships. Many times the Squeaky Wheel gets the Oil.

Kayak0628 posted his comments on the DIY Thread.

The following is an email I sent to Acura Customer Service responding to their Stock answers when I filed an inquiry about the Eliminated SAT RADIO Receiver......
THX for your reply. However, I would like to inform you of two Acura Car Forums : 1) MDXers.org and 2) Acurazine.Com/forum, both of which Threads that contain posts of angry and disappointed Acura 2025 MDX owners with No SAT RADIO Receivers. Like myself, the fact that SAT Radio was eliminated was never pointed out by salespeople at Acura Dealerships. I knew of it via watching certain reviews on You Tube. I invite you please to pass this along to Senior management at Acura so that they can have a sense of the disappointment of this removal. There are posters that Stream Sirius XM and never initiated the Sirius/XM service, but many more did. This is the only car offered in 2025 without it!!

Yes, one can have a Streaming app for Sirius / XM but that requires the use of your Phone. With the built in SAT Radio Receiver, I could play Sirius XM without that need.

FWIW, at the minimum, Acura should have had that option to include that Receiver for an additional charge with full disclosure in advance!

This 2025 MDX A-Spec Advance is my 3rd Acura since 2019. I also have a 2016 Honda CRV Touring model (my wife's car). I am a devoted customer - truly enjoying my MDXs - but very perturbed by this issue. And You will see many others are on the Forums.

 

Kayak0628, welcome aboard the Forum. I trust you have acquired a new 25.

Kayak0628 posted his comments on the DIY Thread.

The following is an email I sent to Acura Customer Service responding to their Stock answers when I filed an inquiry about the Eliminated SAT RADIO Receiver......
THX for your reply. However, I would like to inform you of two Acura Car Forums : 1) MDXers.org and 2) Acurazine.Com/forum, both of which Threads that contain posts of angry and disappointed Acura 2025 MDX owners with No SAT RADIO Receivers. Like myself, the fact that SAT Radio was eliminated was never pointed out by salespeople at Acura Dealerships. I knew of it via watching certain reviews on You Tube. I invite you please to pass this along to Senior management at Acura so that they can have a sense of the disappointment of this removal. There are posters that Stream Sirius XM and never initiated the Sirius/XM service, but many more did. This is the only car offered in 2025 without it!!

I agree with Almatti, Kayak and other SXM subscribers that something needs to be said to Acura and why not SXM? This must be a major loss to their revenue. BTW several other Honda, Toyota and I believe Ford models have eliminated the SXM tuner..., $$$ ? Acura like other manufacturers plan car generations in multi year segments. The MDX being fourth gen I believe. So, SXM somehow (on purpose?) Missed the cut off and is not going to be re-considered for probably five years. SXM could very well loose me as a customer if I relocate somewhere that my cell phone reception is better.

So, yes Acura/Honda and probably a statement/post from someone at SXM is needed. I have installed a SXM brand tuner in my 25 (third) MDX. It works... but the cumbersome big screen display of the new MDX lacks the user friendly features my 2018 had in my opinion. In some cases there is something to be said about an OEM system.

Serious: what happened and what can be done?