For over two decades, the Acura MDX has defined the premium three-row SUV segment with its blend of sophistication, performance, and family-friendly utility. With the 2025 refresh, the MDX Type S takes center stage, offering a compelling mix of turbocharged power, refined tech, and Acura’s signature sporty DNA. Let’s explore how this refreshed flagship stacks up against rivals like the Lexus TX and BMW X5.
Table of contents
- Exterior Design – Subtle Aggression Meets Modernity
- Powertrain & Performance: Turbocharged Thrills in the 2025 MDX Type S
- Premium Comfort Meets Modern Tech in the 2025 MDX Type S
- 2025 MDX Type S Driving Dynamics
- 2025 MDX Type S Competitor Comparison
- 2025 MDX Type S Pricing & Trim Breakdown
- The Verdict: Who Should Buy The 2025 MDX Type S?
- The 2025 Acura MDX Type S – A Niche of Performance and Refinement
Exterior Design – Subtle Aggression Meets Modernity
The 2025 MDX Type S retains its athletic stance but refines its details for a sharper look. Key updates include:
- Frameless Diamond Pentagon Grille: Functional honeycomb mesh feeds the turbocharged V6 while gloss-black accents emphasize its sporty pedigree.
- Chicane LED Lighting: Signature four-element LED headlights and taillights with dynamic turn signals.
- 21-Inch Wheels: Five-spoke alloys with Brembo brakes (14.3-inch front rotors) and adaptive air suspension for adjustable ride height (6.7–9.4 inches).
- Quad Exhaust Tips: A bold statement for the Type S’ performance intent.
While the design remains evolutionary, the Type S distinguishes itself with exclusive badging, a lowered profile, and Urban Gray Pearl paint ($600). Competitors like the Lexus TX lean into bolder aesthetics, but the MDX’s understated elegance appeals to buyers seeking sophistication over flash.
Powertrain & Performance: Turbocharged Thrills in the 2025 MDX Type S
Under the hood lies Acura’s 3.0L turbocharged V6, shared with the TLX Type S. Key specs:
- 355 HP / 354 lb-ft torque: Outmuscles the Lexus TX 350 (275 HP) but trails electrified rivals like the TX 500h (406 HP).
- 10-Speed Automatic: Quick shifts and seamless power delivery.
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD): Torque vectoring sends up to 70% power rearward and 100% to individual wheels.
Performance Metrics:
- 0–60 MPH: 5.3 seconds (tested) — quicker than the Lexus TX 500h (5.7 seconds).
- Top Speed: 130 mph (governor-limited).
- Towing: 5,000 lbs (class-average).
Despite its heft (4,700 lbs), the MDX Type S feels agile, thanks to adaptive dampers and precise steering. However, the brake-by-wire system lacks feedback, and the synthetic engine note lacks the growl of BMW’s M models.
Premium Comfort Meets Modern Tech in the 2025 MDX Type S
Acura’s cabin upgrades focus on tech and luxury:
- 12.3-Inch Touchscreen: Replaces the outdated touchpad, featuring Google Built-In for navigation, voice commands, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- 16-Way Massaging Seats: Standard on Type S, with Orchid Milano leather and ultrasuede inserts.
- Bang & Olufsen Audio: 31-speaker system with dynamic lighting.
- Panoramic Sunroof & Ambient Lighting: Enhances the upscale ambiance.
Practicality Notes:
- Seating: 7-passenger layout (bench second row). Captains chairs require aftermarket modification.
- Cargo: 16.3 cu-ft (third row up), 71.5 cu-ft (max). Less than Lexus TX (21.8 / 97.1 cu-ft).
- Third Row: Tight legroom (29 inches) and no air vents — a miss for families.
2025 MDX Type S Driving Dynamics
The MDX Type S shines with adaptive air suspension, offering:
- Comfort Mode: Plush ride quality, ideal for highways.
- Sport+ Mode: Firmer dampers, quicker throttle response, and heightened steering effort.
SH-AWD provides tenacious grip in corners, but the steering lacks feedback compared to BMW’s X5. Fuel economy remains a weak point:
- EPA: 17 city / 21 highway (premium fuel required).
- Real-World: 18 MPG mixed, 300-mile range.
2025 MDX Type S Competitor Comparison
| Feature | 2025 Acura MDX Type S | Lexus TX 500h | BMW X5 xDrive40i |
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo V6 (355 HP) | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid (406 HP) | 3.0L Turbo I6 (375 HP) |
| 0–60 MPH | 5.3 sec | 5.7 sec | 5.2 sec |
| MPG (Combined) | 19 | 25 | 23 |
| Base Price | $75,200 | $68,000 | $67,500 |
| Third-Row Legroom | 29 inches | 34.1 inches | Not Available |
2025 MDX Type S Pricing & Trim Breakdown
- Base MDX: $51,200 (290 HP V6, FWD).
- Type S: Starts at $75,200 (includes adaptive air suspension, massaging seats, and premium audio).
- As-Tested: $76,900 (Urban Gray Pearl, Orchid interior).
While pricier than the Lexus TX 500h, the MDX undercuts German rivals like the Audi Q7 and BMW X5.
The Verdict: Who Should Buy The 2025 MDX Type S?
The 2025 MDX Type S excels for:
- Driving Enthusiasts: Agile handling and SH-AWD outperform Lexus.
- Tech-Savvy Families: Google Built-In and massaging seats add daily comfort.
- Value Seekers: More features per dollar than German rivals.
Consider Alternatives If:
- You prioritize fuel efficiency (Lexus TX 500h).
- You need spacious third-row seating (Lexus TX).
- You crave raw power (BMW X5 M60i).
Acura’s refusal to electrify the MDX leaves it trailing in efficiency, but for drivers craving a visceral V6 experience, the Type S remains a compelling choice.
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S – A Niche of Performance and Refinement
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S carves a distinctive niche in the competitive three-row luxury SUV market, blending turbocharged vigor with everyday practicality. Its 3.0L V6 engine, paired with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, delivers spirited acceleration (0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds) and tenacious cornering, outshining rivals like the Lexus TX 500h in driving engagement. The redesigned interior impresses with a Google Built-In touchscreen, 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio, and standard massaging seats, offering a tech-forward yet luxurious cabin. Subtle exterior updates, including a frameless grille and quad exhausts, reinforce its sporty ethos without sacrificing sophistication.
However, the MDX Type S isn’t without compromises. Its third row remains cramped for adults, fuel economy lags behind hybrid competitors (18 MPG mixed), and the absence of electrification feels like a missed opportunity in an eco-conscious era. Priced from $75,200, it undercuts German rivals like the BMW X5 but demands a premium over the Lexus TX.
FAQs About the 2025 Acura MDX Type S
1. What engine powers the 2025 Acura MDX Type S?
The MDX Type S features a 3.0L turbocharged V6 producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).
2. How quick is the MDX Type S?
It accelerates from 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds (tested), outperforming rivals like the Lexus TX 500h (5.7 seconds).
3. What is the fuel economy?
EPA estimates are 17 MPG city / 21 MPG highway, requiring premium fuel. Real-world testing averages 18 MPG mixed.
4. Does it have third-row seating?
Yes, it seats seven passengers, but the third row offers only 29 inches of legroom—best suited for children or short trips.
5. What are the standout interior features?
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In (navigation, voice commands).
- 16-way massaging front seats (standard on Type S).
- 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio with dynamic lighting.
6. How does it compare to the Lexus TX 500h?
The MDX Type S is quicker and sportier, but the TX 500h offers better fuel efficiency (25 MPG combined) and larger third-row/cargo space.
7. Is there a hybrid version?
No. Acura’s only electrified SUV is the ZDX Type S, a collaboration with GM offering 500 HP.
8. What’s the starting price?
The MDX Type S starts at $75,200, including adaptive air suspension and premium features. Fully loaded models reach $76,900+.
9. Does it support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, it includes wireless connectivity for both, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot.
10. What’s new for 2025?
- Redesigned touchscreen (replaces touchpad).
- Standard massaging seats on Type S trims.
- Exterior updates: Frameless grille, quad exhaust tips, and 21-inch wheels.
11. How does it handle compared to German rivals?
The SH-AWD system provides agile cornering, but steering lacks feedback vs. BMW’s X5. It undercuts German rivals in pricing while offering a third row.
12. What are the cargo specs for the 2025 Acura MDX Type S?
- 16.3 cu-ft behind the third row.
- 71.5 cu-ft with all seats folded (smaller than Lexus TX’s 97.1 cu-ft).
13. Is the ride comfortable in the 2025 Acura MDX Type S?
Yes, the adaptive air suspension adjusts from plush (Comfort mode) to firm (Sport+), balancing refinement and agility.
14. Does it have advanced driver aids?
Yes, AcuraWatch 360+ includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
15. Why choose the MDX Type S over the ZDX Type S?
The MDX Type S offers V6 power, three rows, and a lower starting price ($75K vs. the ZDX’s $70K–$90K range). The ZDX is all-electric with GM Ultium tech.