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The 2020 Acura MDX continues to be a great option in the mid-size crossover segment. It may not be the prettiest vehicle around or the easiest to configure, but it has loads of technology and driver-assist features. It’s also one of the more affordable crossovers in its class. Despite Acura’s claims of the MDX being a performance vehicle, it lacks the grunt other luxury crossovers from BMW and Mercedes-Benz boast.
Choosing Your Acura MDX
The Acura MDX is offered in five trims: Base, Technology, Entertainment, A-Spec, and Advance. Pricing starts at $45,395 including destination for the base model and climbs to $57,145 for the Advance. A hybrid version of the MDX is available that carries a starting price of $53,895 (the $5,000 Technology Package is mandatory).
To clarify, there are no true trims on the MDX, but Acura does offer those four major packages on top of the base model that act like trims.
Engine Choices
There are two different powertrains for the MDX, one of which is a hybrid setup. The non-hybrid MDX uses a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid version utilizes a seven-speed dual-clutch.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
3.5L V6 | 290 hp | 267 lb-ft | 23 mpg |
3.0L V6 Hybrid | 321 hp | 289 lb-ft | 27 mpg |
With more power, better fuel economy, and standard all-wheel drive, the hybrid MDX makes a strong case for the $3,500 premium that it commands over a base model.
With all-wheel drive only bringing combined fuel economy down by one mpg, it’s also a smart buy for drivers in snowy climates. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System is an extra $2,000.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
The majority of MDX models are capable of seating up to seven, but opting for the Advance Package or the Entertainment Package with the Technology Package lowers seating capacity down to six.
Cargo capacity in the MDX is competitive for the segment. The crossover offers 15 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 38.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and a total of 68.4 cubic feet. These figures are the same for hybrid models.
Safety Features
Even at the base level, the MDX comes with a long list of safety features. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, road departure warning, and a multi-view rear camera.
The Technology Package add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors. Choosing the Advance Package brings a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.
Connectivity
Every MDX comes with an 8-inch touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, three USB ports, and AcuraLink as standard. The Technology Package includes navigation and AcuraLink connected services, while the Advance Package adds two third-row USB ports.
Base - From $45,395
The entry-level MDX is well equipped with things like a moonroof, LED headlights, heated exterior mirrors, and 18-inch wheels. On the inside, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, tri-zone climate control, and heated front seats are standard.
Technology - From $50,395
The Technology Package costs $5,000, but brings a well-rounded list of extra features. Wood accents and perforated leather seats are added on the inside. Exterior features include 20-inch wheels, power-folding exterior mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Remote engine start and a multi-information display are also included.
The Technology Package is mandatory if you want any of the other three packages.
Entertainment - From $54,395
Consumers must get the Technology Package and all-wheel drive to be able to tick the box for the Entertainment Package. Heated second-row captain's chairs, a 9-inch rear screen, wireless headphones, and an 11-speaker audio system are added to the list of standard equipment.
A-Spec - From $55,895
The A-Spec Package also requires the Technology Package and all-wheel drive. This is an appearance package that gives the MDX a sportier look, adding a comprehensive body kit on the outside that includes a rear spoiler, 20-inch wheels, unique front and rear bumpers, and dark chrome finishes. Interior extras include heated and ventilated front sport seats, an A-Spec leather-wrapped steering wheel, red instrument panel illumination, and paddle shifters.
Advance - From $57,145
The Advance Package, which only requires the Technology Package, brings more tech and luxury features. Perforated Milano leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and second-row heated captain’s chairs are included. Exterior additions include LED fog lights, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, and roof rails. A more comfortable ride comes courtesy of active suspension.
Compare MDX Trims Side-By-Side
In spite of being a mandatory option to get any of the other available packages on the 2020 Acura MDX, the Technology Package is the most value-packed option and is reasonably priced. The hybrid MDX may seem like a large jump in pricing for a base model, but it brings more features, better performance, and better fuel efficiency. On paper, it's worth the extra cost.