The current third-generation Acura MDX is a familiar face on Canadian roads after first arriving back in 2013, but the Japanese automaker is now preparing to bid it farewell as it welcomes the fourth-generation of the premium mid-size crossover to its showrooms.
The 2022 Acura MDX, which will go on sale in early 2021, is described as “the most emotionally styled MDX ever,” thanks to its large diamond-shaped grille, sharply creased hood, wide-set stance and intricate LED headlights and daytime running lights. The new platform, which incorporates double-wishbone front suspension and sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, also allowed designers to push the wheels closer to the four corners of the vehicle to accentuate the sporty character they were going for.
A 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque will come standard in the 2022 Acura MDX, which will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Customers will also be able to add Acura’s rear-biased torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system to the crossover for a price premium. The settings for the powertrain and all-wheel-drive system can be adjusted via the Integrated Dynamics System, which includes specific Snow, Comfort, Normal and Sport drive modes, along with a configurable Individual mode.
A sporty MDX Type S model will launch in late summer 2021, as well, which will feature a new 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing an estimated 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, along with standard torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. This model will also come standard with wider 21-inch alloy wheels and Brembo brakes.
A 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come standard in all MDX models and is controlled with Acura’s now-familiar touchpad centre console controller. A customizable 12.3-inch driver’s display is also standard, while a 10.5-inch head-up display can be added to the vehicle via the MDX Advance Package. Other standard technologies include a 350-watt nine-speaker stereo, 4G LTE wi-fi connectivity, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Audiophiles can also choose from two available upgraded stereos: a 12-speaker 550-watt ELS Studio system or a 16-speaker 710-watt ELS Studio 3D system.
A wide variety of standard active safety technologies promise to keep occupants of the 2022 Acura MDX safe. These include road departure mitigation, pedestrian detection, a driver attention monitor and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow and traffic jam assist, among more. Acura says it is targeting a five-star overall safety rating from the American National Highway Traffic Safety Administration with this crossover, as well.
Look for the 2022 Acura MDX to begin arriving at dealerships in early 2021. Canadian-specific pricing details and fuel economy figures will become available as its arrival nears.
