The Acura MDX has been around since 2014, which makes it a relatively long-running vehicle by today’s standards. The 2020 Acura MDX remains a top contender with updated features and technology to stay ahead of its competition. The 2020 model sports a large cabin, three rows of seats, and a comfortable interior, all at a great price point.
Performance
The Acura MDX have a few options when it comes to powertrains. You can choose either the gasoline-powered version or the hybrid gas-electric model. The hybrid engine is a 3.0-liter V6 that is coupled with three electric motors to produce 321 horsepower. The gasoline-powered MDX has a 3.5-liter engine with 6 cylinders that produces a noticeably higher output of 290 horsepower, and this powertrain is combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
There are six trim levels for both the hybrid and the gasoline-powered SUVs. Some performance upgrades include 20-inch wheels that come with the Technology trim package.
With the 3.5-liter V6, the MDX goes from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds, which is significantly better than some of its main rivals in its class. With light braking, you can smoothly stop the car, and it stops from 60 mph in a little over 100 feet, which is an average score for its class. The MDX achieves gas mileage ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Technology Features
The standard models of the MDX come packed with a rich assortment of features including automatic LED lights, keyless ignition and entry, heated power seats with memory settings, and a power-adjusted steering wheel. Other features include three-zone temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an eight-speaker sound system.
The infotainment system of the Acura MDX in the Standard trim has a touchscreen interface with Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports for charging and smartphone integration. Apps for Apple and Android smartphones allow passengers to interface their devices with the infotainment system.
Safety technology of the Acura MDX Standard trim package includes Acura’s proprietary safety suite that provides collision warning and emergency braking. The system also warns of dangerous lane and road departures. The MDX also comes standard with adaptive cruise control.
With the Technology trim package, customers get upgrades that include 20-inch wheels, remote start of the engine, automatic wiper control, side mirrors that fold via power control, and a navigation system. Other upgrades at this trim level include a rear traffic alert system, a color driver display, and an upgraded audio system with 10 speakers and HD radio.
The A-Spec trim package adds some aesthetic tweaks with black exterior trim and a more robust, thicker steering wheel. The seats in the A-Spec have ventilation, and the cabin has some stylish cosmetic enhancements. The Advance trim package adds LED fog lights.
Other upgrades at higher trims include additional USB ports, a heated steering wheel, and a surround-view camera for exterior viewing. The optional upgraded infotainment system for the Advance trim includes a 16.2-inch screen.
Interior Comfort
The Acura MDX is a spacious SUV with three rows of seats that are designed to comfortably seat six to seven people. The ride comfort offers little that can be criticized, and the interior remains relatively quiet in many driving conditions. The shape of the seats allows passengers to enjoy sustained comfort on long rides. The cushioning of the seats is plush enough to mitigate normal bumps in the road, and the suede interior of the A-Spec trim package keeps passengers cool in hot weather.
The base model of the 2020 Acura MDX is available starting at the MSRP price of $44,400. For this price, the MDX provides a generous array of luxury features and driver aids when compared to other SUVs in the price range. When choosing the Advance trim level with the all-wheel-drive upgrade, the MDX really shines as a luxury SUV. The smooth ride, comfortable seating, and generous acceleration make the 2020 Acura MDX a standout choice among the competition.