2025 Acura MDX Type S Photos, engines & full specs

Acura introduced the MDX nameplate in its inventory in 2000 when it replaced the body-on-frame SUV SLX that shared its platform with the Isuzu Trooper, and the new model became a hit in the carmaker’s lineup.

When Acura introduced the MDX in the early 2000s with its unibody platform, it marketed it as a sporty SUV. The reliability and comfort provided by the vehicle, combined with luxurious amenities, made it a desirable car for families. Its only drawback was the lack of a variety of engines since the automaker provided it with just one powerplant, a 3.5-liter V6. But, unlike other competitors, it was available with a sat-nav system starting in 2002 for the 2003 model year. Fast forward to 2022, when the crossover reached its fourth generation, and the car was already fitted with a choice of two engines and a plethora of amenities. It was fit for a legit premium vehicle. On the other hand, the Japanese brand didn’t forget that it had to provide some sporty sensations to its customers, so in 2024, it introduced the refreshed version of the MDX, including the Type S.

The automaker understood that the car’s front fascia had to be redesigned so customers would notice the refreshed version. As a result, the diamond-shaped grille up front featured a more aggressive pattern with rhomboidal shapes, and a specific badge on the lower right corner adorned the Type S version. Lower on the bumper, the car manufacturer reshaped the splitter and the massive side scoops that housed the lower LED fog lamps. The Type S version had piano-black accents.

But Acura didn’t stop there and also improved the MDX’s profile. It added a new set of 20-inch light alloy wheels. At the same time, the Type S had 21-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile tires and allowed bystanders to admire the SUV’s red brake calipers in all corners. Type S badges adorned the front fenders above the wheel arches and black door mirror caps. A set of additional moldings decorated the side sills and the wheel doors. The automaker also added a panoramic glass roof as standard across the range, which was an unusual but welcomed decision. Out back, the car manufacturer made a clear distinction between the MDX’s grades. For instance, the Advance package included two oval-shaped pipes, while the Type S had a quad-exhaust system with round pipes at the back.

Inside, the automaker dramatically improved the cabin. All versions featured 12.3-inch touchscreens and built-in Google Assistant, allowing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections. Customers were greeted by new seats featuring high-bolstered areas for improved side support during high-speed cornering. Acura also provided the MDX with genuine wood trims on the door cards, which helped the powerful Bang & Olufsen audio system sound better. The automaker provided it in a few versions, ranging from one with 11 speakers to an impressive 31-speaker version.

Under the hood, the 2025 Acura MDX had no changes. The automaker offered it with a choice of two engines: a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter or a turbocharged 3.0-liter powerplant, both V6. These were paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission that sent power to the front or all corners, depending on the version.