Acura recently updated its flagship sedan, the TLX, and now it’s the three-row MDX’s turn. In 2025, Acura will give the MDX a facelift, which includes an updated interior, enhanced assisted-driving features, and even a huge 31-speaker sound system.
Let’s start with the exterior, though, as that’s what you’ll notice first. You’d be forgiven for wondering where the changes are, as they’re pretty subtle. The grille has a similar look to the previous one, with the exception of a simple diamond pattern insert. Also, the headlights now have a darker tint. The lower fascia is the biggest update to the front, with much larger air intakes for a sportier look. In the rear, the taillights now have a slight tint. That’s about it.
Inside, the differences are felt more than they’re seen. The touchscreen is still 12.3-inches, but it’s gained a new user interface, since Acura ditched the laptop-style touchpad on the center console. Some might be happy to see it go, as it was quite controversial, but now they’re stuck solely with touchscreen controls. Acura could have fitted a wireless phone charger that was more accessible, additional USB-C ports and extra storage into the center console if it had the touchpad.
The sound system is perhaps the most exciting change in the interior. Acura previously used ELS audio for its premium option. They were great. Now Acura is switching to Bang & Olufsen for the Technology Package and higher trims, and it comes with a whopping 31 speakers. After about 18, I’m not sure where Acura is putting the damn things. Are they at the top of the page? Actually, yes! There are twelve speakers on the main stage.
The biggest changes are in the technology under the surface. AcuraWatch 360’s advanced driver assistance system receives a hardware upgrade. This includes a front millimeter-wave radar, a front camera on the top of windshield, millimeter-wave radars in all four corners and a steering wheel touch sensor. All of the additions improve Acura’s existence driver assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and its Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). However, the new gear also adds new functions, like Active Lane Change Assist, Lane Change Collision Mitigation, and Front Cross Traffic Warning.
The MDX Type S now comes with the Advanced Package as standard, so it gets all of the aforementioned ADAS tech, the 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, along with unique 21-inch wheels, a frameless grille, and a new Urban Gray paint color. That’ll likely mean a price jump, but it’s too early to say how significant, as Acura hasn’t released details on that front yet. As a reference, the least expensive 2024 MDX is priced at $51,500. Type S without Advance starts at $69,800.
The 2024 Acura MDX has already been a big hit with many. The Drive The crew praised the car for its spaciousness, comfort, and driving pleasure. For 2025, it looks like Acura has kept the winning parts of the recipe while improving what didn’t work so well, and even adding a few extra goodies. The Type S and the MDX will be available in May.
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The Drive published the article Revamped Acura MDX puts your home theater to shame.
