Acura’s flagship SUV receives a fully comprehensive redesign for 2022. Skipping the 2021 year altogether, and relaunching with style and swagger similar to the revamped TLX and RDX. Exterior design is sharp and handsome. Angular and sporty, with a commanding front grille, 20” alloy wheels and bold features at every angle. The A-Spec package adds additional flair, with an exclusive styling package. Everything on a monochromatic color scale, from the dark black wheels and trim, to the perfectly matched Lunar Silver paint.
Climb aboard to find three rows of seating. The first and second rows offer plenty of passenger space. The third and furthest to the rear is a tight fit though, and a little tricky to even get into. Prime real estate space for young kids only. Overall, the look and feel is much more premium when compared to the 2020 model. Piano black and metal trim, with open pore wood panels mingle with contrasted stitching to create an atmosphere of luxury and comfort. Smart storage, a perfectly position Qi charger and easy to access USB-A and USB-C ports will keep you charged and connected no matter the length of your journey. Also helpful during those long road trips are comfortable and supportive seats. With 16-way power adjustability and heating/ventilation. They offered great lateral support and remained comfortable, even after many hours of driving.
The digital instrument panel and center display boast sharp, clean graphics, with cool animations that look to have come from a Forza video game. The True Touchpad controller can be a little finicky at times, but is far from the worst out there.
A 290 hp, 3.5L VTEC V6 engine is the exact same powerhouse that came in the outgoing model. This time though, it’s paired to a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission. The combination is good for strong and smooth acceleration, but less than impressive fuel economy, at only 21 mpg. A hybrid powertrain option was available in the 2020 model, so that may be around the corner for the 2022 MDX. We do know that a Type S model, with a 355 hp turbocharged 3.0L is coming soon. If you’re anything like me and extra power ranks higher than good fuel efficiency.
The fully re-designed 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec goes from already very good to great. Sharp styling and a premium interior offer a strong blend of luxury and sport. The chassis is surprisingly nimble and acceleration is brisk. the cabin features all the high-tech elements for the modern-day consumer, and driving aides are plentiful and well-behaved. Though maybe not as posh as some of its European rivals, the Acura MDX has undoubtedly never been better.
Price as tested: $58,125.00
