The third-generation Acura MDX arrived for the 2014 model year. Other than new A-Spec and PMC variants that came in 2019 and 2020, respectively, the third-generation MDX has remained mostly the same since its debut. Recently, Acura unveiled a bold, new MDX prototype, signifying a fully redesigned 2022 Acura MDX is coming. Here’s what we expect from the 2022 MDX.

On the outside, the 2022 Acura MDX Prototype boasts a muscular design. On the front end, this new look includes a wider and more upright Diamond Pentagon grille, an elongated hood, a sharp bumper with aggressive vertical air vents, and thin JewelEye LED headlights. Heading down the sides, the MDX Prototype boasts a 6-inch-longer glasshouse and a 3-inch-longer wheelbase than the current model. This all leads to a backside with a distinct body line connecting wide-set Chicane LED taillights and a sharp bumper with integrated oval-shaped exhaust outlets. This design appears production-ready, so we expect the 2022 MDX to carry a similar look.

There will also be an MDX Type S that’ll sharpen up the outward design with sportier goodies, but Acura didn’t reveal any specifics.

Inside, the 2022 MDX Prototype boasts a sharp two-tone dash scheme with striking blue accents dividing the upper and lower dash. The two-tone treatment continues onto the steering wheel. The prototype also boasts a more upright instrument panel and more upscale materials, including available open-pore wood win infused metal flakes, polished aluminum, and Milano leather. Acura also boosts leg room in all three rows of the MDX Prototype, added a panoramic moonroof, included 16-way power sport seats, and illuminated the cabin with an LED system boasting 27 lighting configurations. Like the body, this cabin is production-ready, and we expect few changes when this translates to the production 2022 MDX.

As for standard features, the 2022 MDX Prototype includes 12.3-inch customizable instrument gauges, a new-generation True Touchpad Interface, a 12.3-inch full-HD infotainment system with improved CPU performance, and an ELS 25-speaker, 1,000-watt audio system. These are all the high-end goodies and will likely be options on the production 2022 MDX.

The 2022 MDX will come with two powertrain flavors. Most models will include a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine, but Acura didn’t reveal its output. Buyers will also have the option to move into the 2022 MDX Type S, which will feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Both engines will mate with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5-liter engine will be available with front- or all-wheel drive, while the Type S will come standard with AWD.

The Type S will further boost its performance credentials with a sport-tuned double-wishbone front suspension and four-piston Brembo front brake calipers.

The 2022 MDX Prototype includes all the latest safety tech, like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, road-departure mitigation, traffic-jam assist, and more. We expect the production model to come loaded with the most advanced standard safety tech.

This three-row luxury crossover will compete with the Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Cadillac XT6.

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Pictured: Acura MDX Prototype