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Discussion starter · #83 ·


2022 Acura MDX A-Spec: The Sportiest-Looking Family-Friendly SUV On The Market Today
Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock
Elizabeth Blackstock
Saturday 2:00PM
https://jalopnik.com/2022-acura-mdx-a-spec-the-sportiest-looking-family-fri-1846852262#replies


Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

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When my boss over at A Girls Guide to Cars told me that there were quite a few people talking trash about the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec, I was genuinely surprised. This machine has its flaws, sure, but it’s also the most fun I’ve had behind the wheel of an SUV in quite a while—and it’s packed with features that are traditionally designed for minivans but that would make this MDX an incredibly fun road trip vehicle for adults, not just kids. There’s room for improvement (I’m looking at you, touchpad), but there are a lot more positives than negatives in this bad boy.

(Full disclosure: Acura provided the MDX for test-driving purposes at the Texas Auto Writers Association’s Spring Roundup. All opinions are my own.)

Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

What Is It?
The Acura MDX has been a mainstay in the 3-row luxury crossover/SUV market since its introduction in 2000. It has repeatedly been awarded high praise and has frequently been named the best luxury SUV of the year. Which means expectations are high when it comes to a redesign.

With the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec, you’re getting a whole host of upgrades: a new platform, body, chassis, and suspension architecture, plus the addition of a ton of great family-friendly tech features you’d normally expect from a minivan. Except, with its double-wishbone suspension in front and multi-link configuration in the rear, you’re going to have a hell of a lot more fun driving this than you’d ever get driving a minivan. Seriously. It’s no sports car, but it’s about as close as you’re going to get from a family machine. Even the red-and-black interior is going to get you feeling ready to race.

That is, in part, because you have multiple drive mode selections: sport, normal, comfort, snow, or individually customized options. On the higher trims, changing the mode also changes the interior color. On the standard trim, it’ll still change shades on the digital instrument cluster.

And you’ll benefit from a little larger body, which translates to a bit more space inside the MDX. We’re not talking massive upgrades, but just enough to make life more comfortable for those in the rear. That third row can be really cramped for anyone over four feet tall, but it’s designed for occasional use.


Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

Specs To Know
  • Base price for the Acura MDX: $46,900
  • Starting price for the Acura MDX A-Spec: $57,100
  • All-wheel drive
  • 3.5-liter V6 engine
  • 290 horsepower, 267 lb-ft of torque
  • 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
  • 5,000-lb towing capacity
  • Drive-by-wire throttle
  • 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Multi-functional second row with removable middle seat
  • Built-in Amazon Alexa
  • Bluetooth capable, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Safety and driver assistance features standard on all trims

Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

What’s Great
This is going to sound weird, but the best part of the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec is that it has all the best parts of a minivan without actually being a minivan. Rear-seat passengers have access to sunroof settings, music, navigation, and rear climate control through the CabinControl phone app, which is a godsend for anyone who has ever been at the mercy of toggling settings for children or—even worse—picky teens.

Those passengers can also have access to something called the Social Playlist, which is a feature that allows everyone to contribute songs to the playlist everyone is listening to. It’s kind of like a jukebox, but you’re probably not going to have to wait an hour for your song to pop up. As someone who likes building collaborative road trip playlists with friends, I love this feature. Everyone can add music as they see fit, and they also don’t have to touch my phone to do it.

To make that listening experience even better, you’ll have the Acura/ELS 3-D premium audio system with 16 speakers. You may not think you’re at a proper concert, but you’re also not going to want to get out of the car when your jam comes on.

Some of the other great features are CabinTalk, which gives drivers the ability to communicate to the rear seat passengers without having to raise their voice—always a nice option, and the wireless charging pad next to the cup holders. The pad doesn’t take up any space on the center stack, and it’s also covered by a leather-wrapped armrest, so you’re not going to get any obnoxious glare from the sun shining back in your face. That is much appreciated after a recent drive in a Silverado where, no matter what direction I was driving, the sun always bounced off my phone on the charging pad and pointed directly into my eyeballs.

But if I can be shallow for a moment, one of the best things about this machine is just how good it looks. It has an aggressive, angular exterior that makes my inner race car child all warm and fuzzy. The exhaust tips are, honestly, kind of hilariously large, and I love it. Give me all the angles—I’m tired of bulbous SUVs plaguing the road, so anything that gives me a little visual relief is welcome indeed.

And yes, I’m going to bring it back to the gorgeous interior. I’ll always be sold on anything made of red leather, but Acura’s well-placed stitching, chrome accents, and sharp angles make you feel like you’re behind the wheel of something a hell of a lot sportier. I also loved the wide, black center stack that was framed on both sides by red leather. It’s an SUV I never wanted to get out of.

The looks are also complemented by the driving capabilities. The Acura MDX A-Spec feels lower than it is, and it hugs the ground, even on curvier back roads. I only had a few hours with the SUV, so I couldn’t tell you how it holds up on a road trip, but I’ve heard from other reputable sources that it does very well.

That being said, the stiffer new platform makes for sharper handling, even if there is the slightest delay between your steering input and the result (although it’s not enough to be off-putting, and it’s easy to get used to). The variable-assist power steering is incredibly solid and lends a really confident feel to the front end when you’re taking a turn. And the revised suspension makes the MDX feel far nimbler than it should. You’re talking about one hell of a long vehicle that can, at times, feel like a sedan half its size. My main qualm was the fact that there was a bit of a delay in response from the paddle shifters on the steering wheel; it’s your biggest reminder that you’re not actually driving something sporty. The throttle response, too, is a little delayed—but that bothered me a lot less than it has other folks, likely because my daily is now a ‘96 Suburban that lumbers around like a tired elephant.

Acura makes a big deal about performance on the MDX’s page on its website, but it’s important to keep in mind that this isn’t a car designed for the race track. It is, at the end of the day, a three-row SUV. You’ll have a lot more fun behind the wheel than you might in a budget base-model kid hauler, but it’s still an SUV. Its less about traditional performance specs like acceleration and braking at speed (example: the 0-60 time is seven seconds) than it is about the handling at speed. And on both highways and Texas backroads, it’s marvelous.


Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock


Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

What’s Weak
The biggest weakness here is the touchpad infotainment system, which a lot of other journalists have noted. There’s a touchpad interface where taps to the pad correspond with that same on-screen space. So, if you tap the top right of the touchpad, you’ll access the top right of the infotainment screen.

In some ways, that makes sense; other manufacturers who have implemented a touchpad have done so in a way that mimics your laptop touchpad, where you can scroll around but which takes an unfortunate amount of thinking and looking at the screen to use. Implementing a one-to-one correspondence seems like it should be more intuitive. Touch the middle of the pad, and you access the middle option on the screen.

But it’s hard to use, in part because the screen is rectangular and the touchpad is square, and it only corresponds to about three quarters of the overall infotainment screen. There’s another thin, vertical touchpad that adjusts the other quarter of the screen by swapping between audio and time displays, among other options. It can be tough to describe, which is why the system requires video explanations.

It’s also super sensitive. Like, distractingly so. I struggled to use this feature while immobile, and it was almost impossible to use while actually driving. Which sucks, because there are a lot of cool features hiding away in the infotainment system.

Fuel economy and 3rd-row space are also tight. It wasn’t comfortable for my 5'3" self in the 3rd row, which is not a good sign for most other folks who might be using it. And with an EPA-rated 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, you’d be forgiven for checking out a different segment of the SUV market that can give you more space and better fuel economy for a smaller price tag.


Photo: Elizabeth Blackstock

The Verdict
I’ll be honest—even with its drawbacks, I really liked the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec. The quality of the drive was enjoyable enough to make you forget about the fact that you’ll be making more frequent stops at the gas station, but if you’re opting for a luxury SUV, you’re probably not all that pressed about money anyway. The great tech features puts this SUV on par with minivans in terms of family friendliness, but the sporty red interior will make you feel like an absolute badass. If you have a family, some money to throw around, and a preference for anything but a minivan’s looks, then the Acura MDX A-Spec will be right up your alley.

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If you’re anyone else, I’d go ahead and wait until some of the big issues are addressed before you put this one on your “must have” list. It’s a great machine, but it’s no longer the best in its class, largely thanks to that touchpad.
Elizabeth Blackstock
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Weekends at Jalopnik. Managing editor at A Girl's Guide to Cars. Lead IndyCar writer and assistant editor at Frontstretch. Novelist. Motorsport fanatic.


 
Discussion starter · #84 ·

Why The 2022 Acura MDX Is One Of The Best SUVs On The Market
19 hours ago by Jared Rosenholtz Opinion / 12 Comments



Acura's best-selling SUV is improved in every way.

With over 1 million copies sold, the Acura MDX is the best-selling 3-row luxury SUV of all time. Now in its 4th generation, the 2022 Acura MDX has some big shoes to fill, continuing more than 20 years of success for Honda's luxury division. Production at Honda's East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio is well underway, and MDX deliveries are in full force, but is it still the best all-around 3-row luxury crossover to spend your hard-earned dollars on?

CarBuzz recently spent a week driving the 2022 MDX A-Spec, the sportiest appearance package available currently. From our test drive, we discovered that this latest MDX makes several notable improvements over the outgoing model in a bid to become its segment leader once again. This might be the best MDX yet.

Sportier Than Ever
Acura is quick to market the MDX as a sports car with seven seats. While this message might be a slight exaggeration, the MDX is nimble and fun to drive. The A-Spec model doesn't add any notable performance upgrades, but it looks properly aggressive with grey wheels and other sporty accents. Combined with an available red interior, and the A-Spec model should turn heads in the school pickup line.

Acura built this latest MDX on its new Light Truck Platform with improved body rigidity, double-wishbone front suspension, and multi-link rear suspension, all of which add up to a charismatic driving experience. The steering feels extremely light but offers a quick response, and the new 10-speed automatic transmission is a massive improvement over the old nine-speed box.


More Performance To Come
The base MDX uses a carryover 3.5-liter VTEC V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It produces plenty of power for a base engine in this segment, though there are more potent options available. We love how this VTEC engine wails at high RPMs, though it doesn't get up to speed as quickly as rivals due to its lack of torque. A turbocharged Type S model with 355 hp will improve the base model's 6.2-second 0-60 mph time.


Better Technology
By the end of its life cycle, the previous generation MDX felt dated with its dual-screen setup. This new MDX uses Acura's latest True Touchpad interface, which is not our favorite control method. Though the controller has a steep learning curve, the technology present in the MDX is stout. The available 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system is among the best we've tested at any price, putting some of the pricier European options to shame.

The 12.3-inch infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus the best integration of Amazon Alexa we've experienced in a car. Simply say "Alexa" and the system responds instantly to any request. It works just like the Alexa device in your home and makes other in-car voice command systems feel obsolete by comparison.


Flexible Seating
Most SUVs make buyers choose between a more practical bench seat in the 2nd row or more comfortable captain's chairs that will give children more room. In the MDX, buyers get the best of both worlds. The center seat in the MDX's 2nd row is removable, meaning buyers can have a 3-seater bench or captain's chairs on demand. That center seat can also stay in place and act as a cupholder and an armrest.

Taking the seat out is a bit tricky because it weighs about 20 pounds, but it will store conveniently in your garage. Getting into the 3rd row is easier with the middle seat removed, but Acura makes it simple to hop back there even with it in place with well-placed eject buttons for the 2nd-row outboard seats.


Clever Trunk Design
As with the seat design, Acura nailed it with the trunk space. The trunk yields 16.3 cubic feet of space behind the third row, but a removable floor adds 1.8 more cubic feet. Drivers can leave the floor installed to create a hidden storage area or remove it to fit taller items in the trunk. In another stroke of genius, Acura's designers made one side of the trunk floor carpeted while the reverse side is plastic. This is perfect for muddy cleats or sandy beach chairs because the plastic underside is easy to wash down.


Priced Right
The Acura brand is known for a good value that undercuts most European and Japanese competitors, and this 2022 MDX is no exception. Priced starting at $46,900, the MDX is less expensive than the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac XT6, Genesis GV80, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90. Only the Lexus RX and Infiniti QX60 ring in with lower starting prices, though both SUVs are much older than the MDX. Even in its higher trim levels, the Acura MDX presents an excellent value in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
 
Discussion starter · #85 ·
Tale of the Tape: 2022 Acura MDX vs. 2021 Lexus RX 350L

Tale of the Tape: 2022 Acura MDX vs. 2021 Lexus RX 350L
It's urbane versus sporty when it comes to these 2 3-row, upscale crossovers




by Brian Harper | 14 hours ago






Tale of the Tape: 2022 Acura MDX vs 2021 Lexus RX 350L



Tale of the Tape: 2022 Acura MDX vs 2021 Lexus RX 350L





Literally the jacks of all trades and the masters of some, mid-sized crossovers from the luxury manufacturers prove a very popular choice among consumers looking to up the posh quotient in their rigs while still requiring the services of a family pack mule. It’s a crowded marketplace, occupied by well-known and established players such as the Lexus RX, Acura MDX, Mercedes GLE (formerly M-Class) and BMW X5, along with newer models like the Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Aviator. In all, some 20 different makes and models vying for your attention.

A mainstay at the top of the sales chart is the RX, available as a 5-seater (RX 350) and the longer 3-row RX 350L as well as the hybrid RX 450h, also with 2 or 3 rows. As crossovers go, it’s urbane and unruffled, decently powered but not overly sporty, this despite the more aggressive look of the F Sport versions. The current, 4th-generation RX has been around since the 2016 model year, with the longer Ls added in 2018.


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Honda’s premium Acura division has been selling the MDX crossover since 2001. Despite some early criticism it was essentially a tarted-up, sportier version of the Honda Pilot, the MDX has, over the years, carved out an identity of its own, 1 that sells well in Canada. More to the point, the new 4th-generation (2022 model year) MDX is now at the dealerships. And since it and the RX 350L are closely priced and both seat 7 — the RX L is also available as a 6-seater — it’s worth looking at whether the new Acura can shake the mature Lexus from its perch.

Models/Features
Lexus offers the RX 350L in four trims, starting with the Premium Package ($59,200), which comes with such features as a power sunroof, LED headlights and taillights, Lexus Display Audio with remote, an 8-inch touchscreen, remote touchpad, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats and paddle shifters. It then moves up to the Luxury Package ($67,100) and Executive Package 7 Passenger ($73,000) before topping out with the Executive Package 6 Passenger ($73,750). Both the Executive Packages come standard with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, power folding rear seats, power rear door with kick sensor, panoramic view monitor, and a wireless charging system for personal electronics. The only difference is that the 6 Passenger replaces the 3-person second row with captain’s seats.

The new and less expensive MDX is also available in 4 different trims, starting with the $56,405 base model, which comes with advertised features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi tethering, 12.3-inch HD colour centre display with touchpad interface, panoramic sunroof and 12-way power-adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seat, including 4-way power lumbar support. Next is the $60,405 Technology Package and $63,405 A-Spec, the lineup finishing up with the $67,405 Platinum Elite Package. The topline Platinum Elite adds features such as LED fog lights, side roof rails, CabinTalk in-car PA, colour head-up display, surround-view camera system, ELS Studio 3D audio system with 16 speakers including subwoofer, USB charge ports in all 3 rows, 16-way power adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seat including 4-way power lumbar support, genuine wood trim, perforated leather-trimmed seats, and ventilated front seats.

Powertrain/Drivetrain
Do you prefer the solid, reliable power of a normally aspirated 6-cylinder engine, rather than the turbocharged 4-cylinders so many manufacturers are stuffing into the crossovers? Well, then, you’re in luck. Both Lexus and Acura are on the same page with the robust feel that their respective V6s provide.

In the case of Lexus, its 3.5‑litre motor comes with variable valve timing “with intelligence,” allowing the 6 to switch between Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles. The result is 290 hp and 263 lb‑ft of torque, with power routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Using drive mode select, drivers can choose from among 4 driving modes. Normal provides an ideal everyday balance of performance and energy conservation. Sport mode puts an edge on powertrain responsiveness, and Eco operates the powertrain at its most efficient. The RX 350L comes with standard Dynamic Torque Control AWD. Under normal cruising conditions, the system engages front-wheel-drive to help reduce fuel consumption.
Image

The 2022 MDX also uses a 3.5L V6, one rated at 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The i-VTEC setup for the intake valves is combined with variable cylinder management to widen the power band and maximize fuel efficiency. For the 1st time, the MDX also applies active shutter grille technology to improve the engine’s thermo-efficiency. The V6 is now paired with Acura’s 10-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and standard paddle shifters. The company says this transmission offers a wider gear ratio range, more discrete gears, 4-gear direct downshifts and lower 1st gear compared to the previous model’s nine-speed automatic transmission.

The MDX’s rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system uses torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive technology, with 40 per cent more rear torque capacity and 30 per cent quicker front-to-rear torque transfer than the 3rd-generation system in the previous MDX. It can transfer up to 70 per cent of engine torque to the rear axle during normal driving conditions, while continuously apportioning up to 100 per cent of that rear-axle torque between either the left or right rear wheels.

Dimensions
To create the 3-row RX L, Lexus extended the RX’s body length by 110 mm at the rear and used a steeper tailgate window angle than on the 2-row models, ensuring good headroom for third-row passengers and greater cargo room behind the 3rd row than what rival models were offering. The L is 5,002 mm long, with a 2,789-mm wheelbase. Width and height are 1,895 mm and 1,710 mm respectively.
Image

The new MDX is incrementally larger all around compared with the Lexus, starting with a length of 5,039 mm and a wheelbase of 2,890 mm. Width and height are 2,000 mm and 1,724 mm respectively. In terms of interior space, the 3rd row sees a 10-mm improvement in headroom, a gain of 60 mm in legroom and a seating position that’s 50 mm higher from the floor, compared with the outgoing model.

So, does this translate into better interior accommodations for driver and passengers? Mostly, yes, other than headroom, for which the RX L enjoys a five-mm advantage for front-seat occupants as well as a more significant 43 mm improvement for those in the rear-most row. The MDX is certainly the better choice for those characterized as “leggy,” most noticeable for those in the 2nd- (+194 mm in legroom) and 3rd rows (+136 mm). Ditto shoulder room, the MDX is friendlier front and back to those who are broader across.

Got stuff? Then you want the new MDX, which has a lot more cargo capacity than the RX L. Behind the 3rd-row seats, the Acura offers 462 litres compared with the Lexus’s 212 litres. Fold those seats down and the MDX increases carrying room of 1,107 litres versus 651 litres for the L. Fold the 2nd row away and the MDX provides 2,022 litres of space compared with 1,657 for the RX L.

As for towing, again the MDX is the clear winner, with a maximum tow capacity of 2,268 kilograms versus the RX L’s 1,585 kg.
2022 Acura MDX A-Spec



2022 Acura MDX A-Spec cargo area, 3rd row folded Clayton Seams

Despite their size, neither crossover gets high marks for 3rd-row comfort. In his road test of the RX 350L, Driving.ca contributor Peter Bleakney noted: “The advertised 3rd row is a compromise at best. Adults in the back? Forget it. Even the act of crawling back there is for the small and agile only, and barely minimal legroom is only available when the 2nd-row bench is scooted forward. So instead of a 7-seater, I’d think of this more of a 5+2.”

As for the MDX, contributor Stephanie Wallcraft offered this assessment: “While the 3rd row is easy to access with the 1-button retracting 2nd-row seats, it still feels like a penalty box despite an added 10 mm of headroom, 60 mm of legroom, and 50 mm higher gap from the floor to the seat cushion. As a result, the 2022 MDX is still best thought of as a 2-plus-1 with a 3rd row that’s best suited to occasional use.”

Cabin
Though some of the more notable cabin amenities have already been covered (see Models/Features), it’s worth noting the 2020 RX lineup was updated with a new available 12.3-inch touchscreen and Lexus Remote touchpad plus 2 extra USB outlets in the rear. Plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity was added. All models with the Premium package are equipped with Lexus Display Audio with Remote, which includes Enform Remote, Enform Service Connect and Enform Safety Connect . All other models come equipped with Lexus Navigation with Remote, which further adds navigation and Enform Destination Assist. Other standard technology features include smart key with push-button start.

2022 Acura MDX A-Spec



2022 Acura MDX A-Spec cabin Clayton Seams

Meanwhile, Acura touts the MDX’s new, all-digital Acura Precision Cockpit, which replaces physical gauges with a customizable 12.3-inch driver’s meter that conveys information to the driver in personalized fashion — drivers can choose between Advanced and Crafted settings. The True Touchpad Interface features an ultra-wide 12.3-inch, HD centre display that works with a touchpad. Included are physical Power, Volume and Seek controls, positioned within reach to the immediate right of the touchpad, along with more accurate swipe zones and handwriting recognition, and other performance enhancements.

Verdict
As always, the final verdict is pending until we can actually get these 2 premium-priced three-row crossovers together for a back-to back. Yet, looking at the 2, it would seem the new MDX’s primary advantages over the RX 350L are that it is less expensive at both the base and top trim levels and, more importantly as a family vehicle, has a larger, roomier cabin. This shakes out in the sales numbers; while the RX lineup as a whole handily outsells the MDX in Canada, only about 7 per cent of those sales are the longer L versions, meaning that, three-row to 3-row, the MDX is a far more popular choice.

Beyond that, it’s a matter of personalities, the Lexus, as previously stated, is an urbane, nattily appointed cruiser, simply one the most refined and relaxing crossovers in its segment. And, for those who want to embrace a greener persona, there’s the hybrid-powered, more fuel-efficient RX 450hL.

Not shirking its mantle as Acura’s flagship SUV, the MDX is, nonetheless, designed with a much sportier attitude in mind, with handling dynamics to back up this claim. And, in foregoing a hybrid model with which to compete with the 450hL, Acura instead bolsters its sporting credentials by adding an MDX Type S model to its lineup later this summer, 1 brandishing more aggressive styling, a 355-hp, 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine and 4-piston Brembo front brakes.
 
Discussion starter · #88 ·


2022 Infiniti QX60 Vs. 2022 Acura MDX: Family Luxury Faceoff
14 hours ago by Jared Rosenholtz Comparison / 12 Comments
117546


Both SUVs are all-new.

It's been nearly a decade since the current Infiniti QX60 launched as the JX35, and a new version is finally here. The 2022 Infiniti QX60 arrives with a completely refreshed design language, modernized interior, and updated powertrain. As before, the QX60 is a 3-row mid-size SUV, putting it in competition with some compelling alternatives. Among the other SUVs in this segment, we think the 2022 Acura MDX is the QX60's closest competitor. It too was refreshed this year for a new generation, and it too comes with three rows and a V6 engine under the hood.

We loved the new MDX in its sporty A-Spec trim, but can the QX60 come along to sweep potential buyers away from Acura showrooms? Let's compare the QX60 and MDX to find out.


Design: 2 Luxury Flavors
Both Acura and Infiniti have struggled to land on lasting design languages in the past, but each seems to have hit its stride with these latest efforts. The QX60 adopts styling from the Monograph Concept, which should act as the brand's familial look moving forward. There are interesting details throughout, including kimono folds in the headlamps, an origami-inspired grille, and an available 2-tone roof. We'd describe the QX60 as elegant but not aggressively styled.

The latest MDX embraces similar styling as the TLX sedan, opting for hard creases and angular lines. Especially in its A-Spec Trim, the MDX looks like a sportier vehicle. There's no true "winner" between these 2 in the styling department, but we'd lean slightly towards the more aggressive MDX.


Interior Design: Elegance Or Aggression
As with the exterior design, these 2 cabins both offer luxury in different flavors. Infiniti went for a more traditional luxury feel with available diamond-stitched semi-aniline leather and open-pore wood. The technology here is a huge upgrade over the outgoing QX60, now with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and available 10.8-inch head-up display. We've used a lesser version of this setup in the Nissan Rogue and found it highly intuitive.

The Acura takes a more modern, youthful approach to luxury with its cabin design. In A-Spec guise, the MDX features sporty red leather seats with black and aluminum accents. Acura's cabin tech is pretty stellar, but the True Touchpad controller is hampered by a steep learning curve. Both interiors look like nice places to spend time, so this is once again a matter of personal taste.


Practicality: Space For Families
The QX60 and MDX offer space for up to 7 passengers, or 6 people with 2nd-row captain's chairs. Infiniti offers its captain's chairs on the top Autograph trim, which boasts a removable center console. The Acura offers an even more flexible solution with a removable middle seat that doubles as a cupholder. Both SUVs offer easy access to the 3rd row, though Infiniti's 2nd-row seats lean forward a bit more than Acura's.

In terms of cargo space, the QX60 offers 14.5 cubic feet behind the 3rd row, 41.6 cubic feet behind the 2nd row, and 75.4 cubic feet behind the 1st row. The MDX offers comparable figures of 16.3, 39.1, and 71.4 cubic feet. We love the MDX's underfloor storage and reversible trunk with plastic or carpeting, but the QX60 edges it out in overall capacity.

Performance: Close, But Not For Long
In a 3-row family drag race, the QX60 and MDX would likely finish neck and neck. Both vehicles feature naturally aspirated V6 engines displacing 3.5-liters. Acura's engine produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the Infiniti delivers 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque; it's a slight difference and we doubt you can feel it in the real world. Infiniti uses a new nine-speed automatic transmission sourced from ZF, whereas Acura's 10-speed automatic is a home-grown affair. Both SUVs send power to the front wheels or optional all-wheel-drive.

Acura will soon release an MDX Type S with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, upping the output to 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. When the Type S arrives, Acura will have Infiniti beat on performance. As a slight consolation, the QX60 tows up to 6,000 pounds, 1,000 pounds more than the MDX.


Pricing & Verdict
Infiniti hasn't released pricing for the 2022 QX60, but we expect it to go up from the outgoing model's $44,350 starting price. This leaves a little wiggle room for Infiniti to undercut the 2022 MDX, which starts at $46,900. Though the pricing will be broadly similar, we will need to wait for Infiniti to release a full trim level breakdown to tell which of these 2 luxury SUVs is the better value. Infiniti could outmatch Acura on price, but if the MDX includes more standard features, it could be considered the more attractive proposition. The QX60 arrives in late 2021, so we will have a clearer picture before then.

 
Where does the new mdx have wood trim on the advance? Looking at pictures it seems like only the small piece on the 4 doors but dash and console both appear to be piano black

Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk
 
Discussion starter · #96 ·


5 Reasons I Liked the 2022 Acura MDX More Than I Expected
Acura's new MDX sets a high bar for the midsize luxury SUV class.




Image


By Will Sabel Courtney

Jul 27, 2021






acura mdx 2022

Will Sabel Courtney



Full disclosure: when the 2022 Acura MDX rolled up to my door, I'd honestly forgotten that it was an all-new vehicle for the 2022 model year. After all, the automotive world is constantly hurling new and updated crossovers in front of us; I remembered that the 2022 MDX had a carryover powertrain from the 2020 version, so in my mind, I'd taken one quick pass over the press release and assumed Acura was using "all new" in the fast-and-loose way some carmakers do for updates that amount to little more than a mid-life refresh.

After a long day of driving this Acura, however...well, let's just say there was no mistaking it for the previous one. As it turns out, Acura's new MDX is one damn impressive luxury SUV — and very much worthy of paying attention to.



The 2022 MDX is surprisingly fun to drive



acura mdx 2022


Acura



Much like the also-new TLX and other Acuras before, all-wheel-drive versions of the MDX boast Acura's torque-vectoring, wonderfully named Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system, which generally biases power delivery in favor of the rear axle but can shuffle it around as needed to maximize grip – and, more entertainingly, push even this hearty crossover through turns with the sort of vivacity that'll coax a smile from a driver's mouth.

The 290-horsepower V6 beneath the hood isn't quite as entertaining; it's a carryover from the previous model, and 1 of the few naturally aspirated base engines left in this category. (A turbocharged V6 Type S model arrives later this year, making 355 ponies.) Still, the 10-speed automatic does a solid job of keeping the engine in the powerband when you want to push it — more so if you grab the ginormous drive mode selector in the center of the dash and twist it in a more sporting direction.



This Acura has a killer sound system



acura mdx 2022


Acura



There are plenty of high-end sound systems in luxury cars today, with ever-escalating speaker counts and ever-more-powerful systems becoming yet another weapon in the high-end vehicle arms race. As I mentioned in the review of the TLX, however, Acura's ELS system — especially the top-shelf 16-speaker ELS 3D version of my tester – manages to distinguish itself even from that competitive pack through exquisite tuning and design, creating an audio experience that's all but unrivaled in the industry. Put it this way: it's the sort of system that had me seriously considering adding a lossless audio streaming service to my iPhone.



The interior is every bit worthy of a luxury car



acura mdx 2022


Acura



My tester was a top-of-the-line example with the Advance Package, a setup that adds a brow-elevating $14,250 to the MDX's $48,245 starting price. Still, after having sampled the MDX Advance for a few hundred miles, I think I'd do my damndest to stretch my budget to its $62,495 window sticker if I were shopping for a midsize luxury crossover. In addition to the top-level 16-speaker ELS 3D stereo, the Advance brings with it some of the softest leather I've seen in a car under $100,000, surround view cameras for easier parking, excellent ventilated seats, LED interior lighting, parking sonar and plenty of other features designed to make life a little easier. And while standard black leather may be timeless, I highly recommend opting for the Espresso brown cowhide found on my test car.



The new MDX is a looker



acura mdx 2022


Acura



Granted, so was the one that came before; Acura MDXs have generally always been solidly attractive SUVs with looks that fit their particular eras well. Still, while this new one may not be the most elegant expression of Acura's current design language — as Porsche knows, what looks good on a sedan or sports car's front end doesn't always translate well to an SUV's face — it's a dynamic, muscular presence. with creased, strong haunches and Coke-bottle-esque flanks. When people see those Superman shield grille and Clint Eastwood-squint LED headlights in their rearview, they're liable to move over — and that's what a bold-looking car should be able to do.



It's an Acura, so it should last for years



acura mdx 2022


Acura



Hondas and Acuras have long ranked among the most reliable cars on the road, and that's true of the MDX, as well. (A close friend of mine has a 2003 MDX that his father bought new; it's still going strong today with more than 250,000 miles on the clock.) A sizeable chunk of buyers will likely choose to lease the MDX, of course, but those that opt to buy it and hang onto it should be able to do so knowing it has better-than-average odds of running well for a long, long time to come.

Base Price: $48,245
Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6; 10-speed automatic; front- or all-wheel-drive
Horsepower: 290
Torque: 267 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city, 25/26 mpg highway (FWD / AWD)
Seats: 5 nicely, 7 in a pinch

 
Discussion starter · #97 ·


2022 Acura MDX vs. 2022 Infiniti QX60 Comparison

ByDoug Lloyd 10/07/2021 5:00pm
After a thorough restyling, the 2022 Acura MDX and 2022 Infiniti QX60 both return with new looks inside and out. Here’s how they stack up.

2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX

2022 Acura MDX Starting Price: $47,925 | Price yours or View listings near you
Above Average:
Roomy interior; wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; high-performance Type S variant; resale value.
Below Average: Tire noise; not very fuel efficient; touchpad can be irritating.
Consensus: A complete overhaul for 2022 gives the Acura MDX a slightly roomier and elegant interior and a more robust chassis. Build quality is excellent as expected, and resale value will continue to be a strong point.

2022 Infiniti QX60
2022 Infiniti QX60

2022 Infiniti QX60 Starting Price: $47,875 | Price yours or View listings near you
Above Average:
3 rows of seating; 6,000-pound tow rating; handsome looks.
Below Average: Single engine choice; captain’s chairs only in Autograph trim; no knobs for stereo tuning; automatic sometimes searches for the right gear.

Consensus: A stylish, luxurious SUV, the 2022 Infiniti QX60 is well equipped and has 3 rows of seats for 6 or 7 passengers. The 3rd row is best for children, and the automatic transmission is not as smooth as it could be.

MDX vs. QX60: Sport and Style

Acura MDX
In production since 2001, the MDX has been a strong seller for Acura. But the company took 2021 off, and the 2022 Acura MDX is back after a full redesign that gave it a slightly longer and wider body and a sophisticated suspension.

While many of its competitors use turbocharged-4-cylinder engines, the base in the MDX is a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 that provides smooth power, sent to either the front or all 4 wheels. Coming soon is the Type S, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and with Acura’s Super-Handling All-wheel Drive, Brembo brakes, and torque vectoring.

We like the angular exterior look of the 2022 MDX, which is complemented by a flexible interior with an optional removable center seat in the second row. The cabin is full of high-quality materials, with Acura’s impeccable build quality. We like the dash and its impressive infotainment screen, although the touchpad is a bit of a challenge to use while driving.

Standard features are generous and include a 9-speaker audio system, USB charging ports, tri-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, and two 12.3-inch screens. Every 2022 MDX also comes with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitor. Given Acura’s reputation for reliability, resale values are expected to be strong.

Infiniti QX60
A consistent best-seller for Infiniti, the QX60 has been redesigned for 2022, a bit shorter and wider but still offering 3 rows of seats. Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6, and while it was previously connected via a CVT, there is now a 9-speed automatic. The new automatic gives the QX60 a snappier feel and raises its towing capacity to 6,000 pounds, but it can sometimes lag when you hit the accelerator. Drive goes to the front wheels, although all-wheel drive is also available.
The redesign gave the QX60 a flatter hood, higher shoulder line, and a new grille, which makes the SUV feel more planted and aggressive. Inside, there’s good space for passengers in the first two rows, although the 3rd is best for children or shorter adults.

Most trims accommodate seven passengers except the Autograph, whose second-row captain’s chairs reduce capacity to six. There is 14.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 3rd row, which expands to 75.4 cubes with all rows folded.
Standard features include simulated leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Infotainment comes via a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that is controlled either by touch or a rotary knob on the console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as well as Wi-fi and 6 USB ports.

Higher trims add climate-controlled seats, navigation, around-view monitor, and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The Sensory model comes with massaging front seats, open-pore wood trim, and 17-speaker Bose audio system. The top Autograph trim boasts semi-aniline leather, center row captain’s chairs, panoramic roof, and towing package.

Similarities
Starting price; V6 power; fuel economy; fun to drive; optional all-wheel drive.

2022 Acura MDX Advantages
Powerful upgrade engine; more standard equipment; sporty Type S model.
2022 Infiniti QX60 Advantages
Cargo space; sharper looks; higher tow rating.

Which One is Right for Me?
The 2022 Acura MDX proves that a 3-row midsize SUV can still be fun. With a powerful engine and the optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive, the MDX is luxurious for passengers, but still enjoyable to drive even when you’re by yourself.
With a bold new look, the 2022 Infiniti QX60 looks great from every angle, drives well, and offers good interior space for passengers. It costs thousands less than the European competition, but still turns heads with style and luxury, inside and out.


 
This last post by MDX69 of a comparative Review of the New MDX vs. the new QX60 is probably the most comparable of able new Warriors. I got the MDX Advance in August 2021. I test drove the 2021 Telluride, the new 2022 Pathfinder (the QX60 is still not out and available for a Test drive or to purchase just yet), had a X5 for a loaner in late 2019 and of course, the new Acura. Based on my small sampling, the MDX Advance was the Champion !!!. The QX60 , based on Web review Pics has a spectacular Interior.... with a Touchscreen InfoT. sys. But based on my test drives (the Pathfinder is based on the same platform / drivetrain, with slightly less HP / Torque than the QX60), the MDX was superior. I usually reserve the term LOVE for people and not things, so I will state that I REALLY LIKE this Vehicle. At 70 YO, and traded in my 2019 MDX Advance to get this car, I made a GREAT decision. I REALLY LIKE going out everyday to do errands , even if they are short, learning and playing with my new TOY. Taking longer trips to go see Grandkids, 130 miles away, travelling on the Jersey Turnpike is effortless, I hit 75-80 MPH easily, and very smoothly, with road manners that exude Confidence and terrific handling ability.
 
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