The 2023 Acura MDX Type S marks a major shift for the brand, bringing its performance-focused badge to a three-row crossover for the first time. Replacing the standard 3.5-liter V6 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine, this luxury model pushes out 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. It pairs this extra output with an air suspension system, Brembo brakes, and rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. It bridges the gap between everyday family transport and sports-oriented handling, though it carries distinct compromises in fuel economy and infotainment ergonomics.
Behind the wheel, the crossover handles its 4,700-plus pound curb weight through adaptive dampers and double-wishbone front suspension. While it isn't an outright track weapon, it delivers stable high-speed cruising and confident cornering on winding backroads.
Engine Performance and Powertrain Specs
Under the hood lies a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 built specifically for the Type S trim. Unlike the standard MDX engine, this powerplant features a reinforced steel block with six-bolt main caps and sodium-filled exhaust valves for thermal management.
- Horsepower: 355 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 354 lb-ft from 1,400 to 5,000 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with steering-wheel paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) with torque vectoring
The low-end torque band ensures the vehicle responds quickly when you step on the gas from a standstill or push through a passing maneuver on the highway. Power delivery stays smooth through the 10-speed automatic gearbox, avoiding the jerky shifts that plague some dual-clutch performance transmissions.
Ride Quality and Suspension Dynamics
Acura equipped this model with an adaptive air suspension system paired with automatic self-leveling. This setup replaces traditional steel springs and allows the vehicle to raise or lower its ride height based on the selected drive mode.
When you choose Lift mode via the Integrated Dynamics System, the crossover gains extra ground clearance for rough terrain or deep snow. Switching to Sport+ mode firms up the dampers, reduces body roll, and weights up the variable-ratio steering.
However, ride comfort can feel stiff over sharp highway expansion joints when the dampers are in their firmest setting. Drivers seeking a plush, floating ride over broken pavement will find comfort mode more forgiving, though it introduces noticeable lean during aggressive cornering.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
The cabin features open-pore wood trim, metal speaker grilles, and perforated Milano leather seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions on upper trims.
- Seating Capacity: 7 passengers across three rows
- Cargo Space Behind Third Row: 16.3 cubic feet
- Max Cargo Volume (Seats Folded): 95.0 cubic feet
The first two rows offer generous head and legroom, but the third row remains tight for adults. It works best for small children or for stowing gear on longer trips. Folding the rear seats flat reveals a wide, usable load floor, augmented by a hidden under-floor storage compartment with a reversible lid.
Technology and Infotainment Quirks
The dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a matching central infotainment display. Acura diverges from industry norms by making the main screen non-touch, requiring drivers to interact with it via a center console touchpad interface (TTI).
While the touchpad uses absolute positioning—meaning the top-left corner of the pad corresponds to the top-left corner of the screen—it still demands a learning curve. Drivers frequently glance down at the console to orient their fingers, taking their eyes off the road. On the bright side, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard, alongside an exceptional 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system on the Advance package.
You can read more about vehicle safety ratings and crash testing specifics through the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Fuel Economy Realities
Performance comes with a penalty at the fuel pump. The EPA rates the Type S at 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. In real-world driving, aggressive use of the turbocharger often pushes fuel consumption closer to the mid-teens, resulting in a relatively short cruising range per tank. Premium unleaded fuel is required.
Common Owner Complaints
- Brake Pedal Feel: The electronic brake-by-wire system can feel grabby at low speeds until you adjust to the pedal calibration.
- Infotainment Steep Learning Curve: The center console touchpad is distracting to use while navigating complex menus on the move.
- Tire Noise: The wide 21-inch Continental self-sealing tires generate noticeable road hum on coarse asphalt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the 0-60 mph time for the MDX Type S?
The crossover accelerates from zero to 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, which is quick for a three-row family hauler of this size.
Does the Type S have a third row?
Yes, it retains the standard model's three-row layout, accommodating up to seven passengers.
What is the maximum towing capacity?
When properly equipped with the SH-AWD system, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, matching the capacity of the base V6 model.
Is premium fuel required?
Yes, Acura mandates premium unleaded gasoline to achieve rated performance outputs and protect the twin-scroll turbocharger.
For more details on vehicle specifications and historical maintenance guidelines, check resources provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
