The 2022 Acura MDX Type S - Premium Performance
13Buyers in the market for a performance crossover will soon have another option as the 2022 Acura MDX Type S will arrive at dealerships next week with a base price of $66,700.
Costing $19,500 more than the standard MDX, the three-row Type S is a performance-oriented model that features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 355 hp (261 kW / 360 PS) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to a ten-speed automatic transmission and a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
The upgrades extend beyond the engine compartment as the crossover comes equipped with an air suspension and adaptive dampers. Drivers will also find an exclusive Sport+ mode and a Brembo front braking system with four-piston calipers that grab onto 14.3 inch (363 mm) discs.
The changes don’t stop there as the MDX Type S is distinguished by a sportier front fascia and an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, which helps to improve engine cooling. The model also has LED lighting units, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system, and 21-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance all-season tires.
The interior goes in a different direction as it embraces luxury and comfort. As part of this effort, the crossover has been equipped with 12-way power, heated and ventilated front seats featuring Milano leather, and Ultrasuede inserts. Drivers will also find a digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Alexa, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Rounding out the highlights are a flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum trim, and an ambient lighting system. They’re joined by a wireless smartphone charger and a 16 speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system.
Buyers looking for more luxury can upgrade to the $72,050 MDX Type S with the Advance Package. It adds 16-way power Milano leather front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Owners will also find open-pore wood trim, heated rear seats, a head-up display, and a 25 speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system. Other niceties include “ultra-plush” carpeting, a surround-view camera, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Of course, the MDX Type S is a bit of an oddity as it’s not on the same level as the BMW X5 M50i or Mercedes-AMG GLE 53. Instead, its pricing and performance are more comparable to the X5 xDrive40i and GLE 450 4MATIC.
The BMW starts at $61,700 and features a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder that develops 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS) and 331 lb-ft (448 Nm) of torque. Likewise, the Mercedes begins at $63,500 and has a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder pumping out 362 hp (270 kW / 367 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque.
Of course, there’s also the $62,100 Audi Q7 which has a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder with 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. There are also a handful of other quasi competitors, such as the significantly cheaper and more powerful Lincoln Aviator.