The 2020 Acura MDX remains unchanged over the 2019 model. It is available for sale at $44,500 and is offered in a single trim but different packages such as Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and Entertainment. The MDX also comes in PMC Edition with an MSRP of $61,170. The MDX Sport Hybrid, as the same suggests, is the hybrid version of the MDX that is priced at $53,000. The MDX is powered by a 290-hp V6 engine and is available in both FWD and AWD configurations.
2020 Acura MDX three-quarter view
Its punchy V6 engine can complete the 0-60 MPH test in just 6.3 seconds and has its towing capacity rated at 5,000 lbs. Moving to the interior, the MDX's cabin is handsome but it doesn't feel luxurious as its rivals. At 90.9 cubic feet, the MDX is one of the largest cargo haulers in its segment. It also offers a long list of safety features as standard and has low ownership costs. The MDX goes head-to-head against the Lexus RX 350L, the Volvo XC90, and the Infiniti QX60.
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Unlike many of its rivals, the Acura MDX is well-equipped in its base form and has a sufficiently powerful V6 engine- Edmunds
The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury crossover of all time in America and even with more competition than ever before, it continues to reign supreme. Still, it ranks lower than its rivals as it lacks in some areas. Its cabin is not that elegant and the ride quality isn't serene. It's been six years since Acura last redesigned the MDX, so an all-new one is due soon.
Being a Japanese marque, the MDX owners will have an added advantage of low ownership costs. It costs around $5,170 every year for its maintenance, fuel, repair, depreciation, etc. Also, its average cost per mile is calculated to be $0.69, which is again less than its rivals. When it comes to reliability, the MDX ranks below the QX60 and the RX 350L but has good resale values.
2020 Acura MDX SUV front view
2020 Acura MDX SUV rear view
Buying Advice
Features
7.5/10
Every 2020 MDX is well-equipped, but infotainment is beginning to show its age- The Car Connection
Acura is known for offering cars with a single trim but allows the buyers to upgrade their vehicles as per their liking with a wide array of available optional packages. These packages or trims include Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and Entertainment. Pricing starts from $44,500 and it ranges up to $61,750, excluding a destination fee of $995. A special PMC Editon is also available this year for $61,750.
2020 Acura MDX three-quarter view
This model stands out with Valencia Red Pearl paint with gloss black wheels and exterior accents. Both RWD and AWD configurations are available, depending on the trims. There are some other optional packages available for MDX. The Dark Chrome Wheel package adds a logo pattern projector, black wheel locks, MDX dark chrome emblem, 20-inch dark chrome alloys, black wheel lug nuts, and advance running boards.
Trims
Base
Technology Package
Technology & Entertainment Package
A-Spec Package
Advance Package
Advance & Entertainment Package
PMC Edition
MSRP (FWD)
$44,500
$49,500
N.A
N/A
$56,250
N/A
N/A
MSRP (AWD)
$46,500
$51,500
$53,500
$55,000
$58,250
$60,250
$61,750
Key Features
Dual-screen infotainment system
Adds/Upgrades to Base trim
Adds/ Upgrades to Technology trim
Adds/Upgrades to Technology trim
Adds/Upgrades to Technology trim
Adds/Upgrades to Advance trim
Adds/Upgrades to Advance trim
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Navigation system
9-inch rear-seat screen
Ventilated front seats
Heated second-row captain chairs
16.2-inch rear-seat screen
Valencia Red Pearl paint finish
8-speaker stereo
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Heated second-row captain chairs
Distinctive interior & exterior styling
Ventilated front seats
Heated second-row bench seat
Gloss black exterior accents
12-way power front leather seats
10-speaker ELS sound system
LED gog lights
Upgraded leather upholstery
20-inch gloss black wheels
Heated front seats
GPS-linked climate control
Two third-row USB ports
Milano black leather seats with Alcantara inserts and red stitching
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Perforated leather seats
Head-up display
Proximity keyless entry
Remote engine start
Surround-view camera
Moonroof
Rear parking sensors
Heated steering wheel
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
We Recommend
The stock MDX comes well equipped as it is, but we would recommend the Technology package that adds to the driver aids like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and front and rear parking sensors. It also adds a navigation system, 10-speaker ELS sound system, perforated leather seats, and GPS-linked climate control.
Powerful and agile, the 2018 Acura MDX is one of the more athletic 3-row SUVs out there- Kelly Blue Book
2020 Acura MDX Engine and Transmission
Under the hood of the Acura MDX, you will see a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 290 hp and 267 lb-ft. of torque. This engine is painted exclusively to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Across all the trim levels, you get the choice between FWD or Acura's Super Handling AWD system for an extra cost of $2,000.
2020 Acura MDX engine
With the SH-AWD system, up to 7- percent of the power flows to the rear wheels and once it's at the back, it can either to the left or right rear wheel depending go on driving conditions. This engine delivers instantaneous power and feels very strong off the line. The transmission behaves itself no matter which integrated driving mode you choose.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
MSRP
$44,500
$46,150
$47,300
$48,350
Engine
3.5L V6
3.5L V6
3.5L V6
2.0L Turbo Inline-4
Drivetrain
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
Transmission
9-Speed Automatic
CVT
8-Speed Automatic
8-Speed Automatic
Power
290 hp @ 6,200 RPM
295 hp @ 6,400 RPM
295 hp @ 6,300 RPM
250 hp @ 5,500 RPM
Torque
267 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM
270 lb-ft. @ 4,800 RPM
263 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM
258 lb-ft. @ 1,500 RPM
The Lexus RX 350L and the Infiniti QX60 are powered by the same engine but the latter uses a CVT transmission for better fuel economy. On the flip side, the Volvo XC90 is the least powerful engine but it's 258 lb-ft. of torque is available at just 1,500 RPM, which is really impressive. The MDX is the most affordable luxury SUV in this competition.
2020 Acura MDX Acceleration
When it comes to acceleration, the Acura MDX displays excellent agility. It can sprint from 0-60 MPH in just 6.3 seconds and completes the quarter-mile test in 14.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 MPH. Compared to other rivals in its class, the MDX's performance stats are really great.
2020 Acura MDX takes 6.3 sec to reach 60 MPH
The V6 engine remains a thrill supplying smooth and seamless power. Therefore, passing other cars or merging on a freeway is effortless in the MDX. The 9-speed automatic gives it decent low-end torque and some jump off the line. Under heavy acceleration, the transmission can be sort of jerky when it shifts but for the most part, it is smooth.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
0-60 MPH
6.3 sec
7.7 sec
7.7 sec
7.5 sec
Quarter Mile
14.8 sec
15.9 sec
15.4 sec
15.3 sec
Engine
3.5L
3.5L
3.5L
2.0L
Top Speed
155 MPH
130 MPH
130 MPH
130 MPH
As mentioned before, the MDX is one of the quickest cars in its class and hence, takes the top place on the table. Surprisingly, the least powerful Volvo XC90 overtakes its rivals displaying decent acceleration. The powerful Infiniti QX60 and the Lexus RX 350L are the slowest contenders in this competition due to their heavy curb weights.
2020 Acura MDX Ride and Handling
The Acura MDX is a pleasant SUV to drive. The suspension is a bit stiff but you do get adaptive dampers on the Advance model. So that smoothens out things on the road to deliver a comfortable ride. The steering is lightweight and pretty responsive. It doesn't feel sloppy and directs the vehicle precisely. Around the corners, there is not a lot of body lean. Super handling refers to the system's ability to overdrive the outside rear tire for improved agility cornering.
2020 Acura MDX rear driving view
The SH-AWD models come with thicker front and rear stabilization bars, and weight distribution is improved to 57 percent over the front wheels and 43 percent over the rear wheels. The A-Spec SH-AWD models add slightly more aggressive tires measuring 265/45R20 while the other trims get 245/45R20. The end result is the A-Spec is much more enjoyable to drive than the FWD versions. Overall, the MDX is pretty fun to drive thanks to its poised handling.
2020 Acura MDX Braking
The wheels of the Acura MDX are fitted with 12.6-inch ventilated discs in the front and 13-inch ventilated discs at the rear wheels. Thanks to its light curb weight and strong stopping power, the MDX takes 116 feet to come to a smooth stop from 60-0 MPH. This is one of the shortest stopping distances in its class.
2020 Acura MDX brakes
The pedal feel is good and responsive. However, on repeated use, the brakes fade. The brakes show an immediate response once the pedal is pressed, which inspires confidence in the driver. Teh MDX also comes with automatic emergency braking as a standard feature that improves braking performance during sudden braking situations.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
Brakes Front
12.6 in
12.6 in
12.9 in
13.2 in
Brakes Rear
13.0 in
12.1 in
13.3 in
12.1 in
Curb Weight
4,032 lbs
4,416 lbs
4,222 lbs
4,394 lbs
60-0 MPH
116 ft.
122 ft.
123 ft.
118 ft.
Once again, the MDX claims the top place on the table thanks in part to its strong brakes. The Volvo XC90's brakes also do a wonderful job and record a braking distance of 118 feet. The Infiniti QX60 and the Lexus RX 350L display the worst braking performance and take a longer braking distance due to their heavy curb weights.
2018 Acura MDX Towing Capacity
When fully equipped, the Acura MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is pretty good for its size. There's nothing special about this as most of the rivals in its class share the same towing capacity. The MDX can easily tow a utility trailer, a camper, or a jet ski without much effort.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
Towing Capacity
5,000 lbs
5,000 lbs
3,500 lbs
5,000 lbs
The Infiniti QX60 and the Volvo XC90 also share the same towing capacity as the MDX. However, the Lexus RX 350L has the lowest towing capacity in its class. Therefore, those who prefer buying the RX 350L instead of the MDX, note that you won't be able to tow heavier loads.
The MDX has EPA fuel-economy ratings that are very similar to those of the competition- CarAndDriver
The fuel economy of the Acura MDX is on par with its class rivals. According to the EPA, the MDX returns 20 MPG in the city, 27 MPG on a highway, and 23 MPG combined. Opting for the AWD system falls down the gas mileage by 1 MPG. Last year, the auto start/stop feature became standard across all the trim levels.
2020 Acura MDX side angle view
This feature really helps to maintain its place among its rivals in terms of fuel economy. A combined driving range of 458 miles is delivered by the FWD models while the AWD versions reduce the range to 439 miles. The range offered by the MDX is quite decent for a family trip across the country or a weekend getaway.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350
2020 Volvo XC90
MPG (City)
20
20
19
21
MPG (Highway)
27
27
26
30
MPG (Combined)
23
22
22
25
Fuel Tank Capacity
19.5
19.5
19.2
18.8
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)
390/527/458
390/527/458
365/499/432
395/564/479
The Volvo XC90 has the best fuel efficiency and driving range in this competition. It returns 25 MPG combined despite housing an 18.8-gallon fuel tank. Tthe fuel estimates of the Infiniti QX60 are similar to the MDX but the Lexus RX 350L's fuel ratings are slightly lower than its rivals. If you want better fuel economy than this, go for the MDX Hybrid.
Acura put a great deal of effort into making the MDX's cabin a comfortable and user-friendly space- Left Lane News
2020 Acura MDX Seat and Comfort
The Acura MDX'cabinhas a modern layout and features high-quality materials but it isn't as upscale as its rivals. The MDX offers a 7-passenger setup but opting for the optional second-row captain chairs reduces the seating capacity to six. Leather seats with power adjustability and heated functions are standard while the higher versions add ventilated front seats. The A-Spec models have unique leather and Alcantara suede seats. This model also adds a meteor steering wheel, a black headliner, mesh pattern trim with metal accents, and other visual cues to denote sportiness.
2020 Acura MDX dashboard
The steering wheel is also power-adjustable on lower trims whereas the higher models add a heated steering wheel. The front seats provide good levels of comfort and support. Even the second-row seat is spacious and supportive. They slide on track to make some room for the third-row passengers. On that note, the third row is unkind for adults and is best used for kids. Also, there's neither grace nor dignity associated with getting in and out of the vehicle. The MDX's tri-zone automatic climate control makes sure everyone is happy with the temperature.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
Passenger Capacity
7
7
7
7
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
38.1/61.1/41.4
40.7/60.3/42.2
38.5/58.3/41.4
38.9/57.7/40.9
Second Row
(Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
38.3/59.1/36.6
38.2/60.4/41.7
38.5/57.8/30.9
38.5/56.5/37.0
Third Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
35.6/54.7/28.1
36.5/57.1/30.8
34.8/45.7/23.5
36.3/46.9/31.9
The Infiniti QX60 is spacious in all three rows and can accommodate average-sized adults in the third row. The Lexus RX 350L offers less legroom in the second and third rows but its luxury levels are higher than the MDX. Adequate passenger space is offered in the Volvo XC90 in all three rows for adults.
2020 Acura MDX Infotainment System
The Acura MDX gets a dual infotainment AcuraLink infotainment system. It is an 8-inch screen on the top while a 7-inch touchscreen display is placed at the bottom. The bottom touchscreen is mainly used for audio and climate controls. The buttons and knob below this screen are for operating the top display, which is used for the navigation system.
2020 Acura MDX infotainment system
More importantly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features. Acura was nice enough to include an ELS sound system on all but the base model which consists of 10,11, and 12 speakers depending on the trims. The base model comes with an 8-speaker stereo. A rear-seat entertainment system is also standard on certain trims which include dual 9 or 16.2-inch screens.
2020 Acura MDX Interior Features
Some important interior and infotainment features of the MDX are:
Power tilt & telescopic multi-function leather, heated steering wheel
Interior wood accents
12-way power front leather seats
Heated & ventilated front seats
Ambient lighting
Remote engine start
115V power outlet
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Dual infotainment setup with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
10,11 & 12-speaker ELS sound system
Navigation system
2020 Acura MDX Cargo Volume
The Acura MDX is one of the best cargo haulers in its segment. Its trunk space measures 15.8 cubic feet. With the third-row seat folded, the space increases to 43.4 cubic feet. After folding the second-row seats, the maximum space available is 90.9, which is really impressive. All the seats fold flat to give a level cargo floor.
2020 Acura MDX cargo space
The MDX also offers a power liftgate for easy loading but there is no hands-free function on any model. You get a small storage cubby on the left side and a 12V power outlet, which is a nice touch. There is also a storage bin under the cargo floor. It is about 8 to 10 inches deep which comes in handy to store all your important small items.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
Cargo Volume (cu-ft)
15.8
15.8
7.5
15.8
The MDX is really a stunner in this area and the only SUV close to it is the Volvo XC90 with a maximum cargo space of 85.7 cubic feet. The Infiniti QX60's cargo space is average for the class but it's still a decent cargo hauler. On the other hand, the cargo space offered in the Lexus RX 350L is very little for a midsize SUV.
Acura’s MDX for 2020 enjoys a good balance of looking elegant yet tough, luxurious yet practical- Kelly Blue Book
2020 Acura MDX Design and Dimensions
There are no exterior changes on the Acura MDX this year. Acura has updated the MDX almost every prior year so you'll still see all the latest design touches like diamond Pentagon grille and full LED Jewel Eye headlights. The A-Spec does have a more aggressive look than the other trims and only on the top two trims, you will get LED fog lights. Speaking of wheels, they are 18-inch alloys on the base trim but the rest of the lineup trades for 20-inch alloys.
2020 Acura MDX three-quarter view
The MDX has a ground clearance of 7.3 inches which is adequate for an SUV. As far as the side and back, you'll continue to find the body-colored moldings that were added last year to the Advance trim in addition to the chrome accents and exhaust finishers that all the other trims have. The A-Spec trim will black out all the chrome and change the exhaust to larger circular ones. Rounding off to the rear are LED taillights and silver roof rails on the Advance trim only.
Models
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Lexus RX 350L
2020 Volvo XC90
Curb Weight (lbs)
4,032
4,416
4,464
4,394
Length (in)
196.2
200.6
196.9
194.9
Width (in)
77.7
77.2
74.6
79.1
Height (in)
67.4
68.8
67.3
69.9
Ground Clearance (in)
7.3
6.5
8.1
9.4
Wheelbase (in)
111.0
114.2
109.8
117.5
Track Width (in) F/R
66.3/66.3
65.7/65.7
64.4/64.0
65.7/65.8
At 9.4 inches, the Volvo XC90 has the highest ground clearance in this competition. This doesn't imply that it is an off-roader but it comes in handy to escape from those high bumps on the road. The Lexus RX 350L has the shortest wheelbase here and hence, it offers the least legroom in the third row. At 200.6 inches, the Infiniti QX60 is the longest SUV. So, maneuvering at tight spots can be challenging.
2020 Acura MDX External Features
Some cool exterior highlights of the MDX are given below:
Many advanced driving aids are standard, but their operation can seem half-baked- Edmunds
NHTSA gave the Acura MDX a perfect 5-star overall safety rating for its crashworthiness as it earned five stars in the frontal and side-impact crash test and four stars for the rollover crash test. Even IIHS gave 'Good' ratings in all five crash tests and a 'Superior' rating for the front crash prevention. However, it also received an 'Acceptable' rating for its headlights.
2020 Acura MDX IIHS crash test
The MDX comes with a suite of seven airbags including dual front, front side, side curtain, and driver's knee airbags. It is also one of the few vehicles in the class that gives you all other active safety features as standard across the board. This shows us that Acura is inclined more towards the passenger's safety. All the available driver-assist features in the MDX are listed below:
Rearview camera
Surround-view camera
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning
Lane keep assist
Adaptive cruise control
Road departure mitigation system
Automatic emergency braking
Forward collision warning
Automatic high beams
Front & rear parking sensors
Head-up display
Competition
6.0/10
2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Volvo XC90
Starting at $48,350, the Volvo XC90 is the most expensive SUV in this competition. It makes 40 hp less than the MDX and therefore, it offers slow acceleration but it benefits from great fuel economy. Its ride quality is also better than the MDX. The XC90's cabin is more spacious and luxurious while its cargo space is slightly smaller than the MDX. Like the MDX, even the XC90 offers a long list of standard safety features.
2020 Volvo XC90
2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Infinti QX60
The Infiniti QX60 is similarly powered as the MDX but its CVT transmission trades off its performance for fuel economy but it offers athletic handling. The QX60's cabin is more spacious and than the MDX but it loses some points due to its dated infotainment system and less elegant interior. Also, its cargo room is very less than the MDX. The QX60 is the Top Safety Pick by IIHS but offers fewer standard safety features.
2020 Infiniti QX60
2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Lexus RX 350L
The Lexus RX 350L costs nearly $3,000 more than the MDX. Although both SUVs are similarly powered, the RX 350L isn't as agile as the MDX but rather delivers a silky ride quality. The fuel economy is more or less the same but the main difference can be spotted inside the cabin. The RX 350L's third row is cramped and its overall cargo space is disappointing. In terms of safety, the RX 350L is the only SUV that can match the MDX's standard safety features offering.
2020 Lexus RX 350L
Final Verdict
The 2020 Acura MDX is one of the best-suited midsized luxury SUVs in the class. It offers robust performance and an upmarket interior loaded with a bunch of value-added features. Its reliability is rated as better than most cars. Thus, if you seek a 3-row luxury SUV with an array of safety features, a big list of amenities, good power, and a decent reputation, choose the 2020 Acura MDX.
2020 Acura MDX three-quarter view
Features
Trim: SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology and Entertainment Packages (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology and Entertainment Packages (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD A-Spec 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
4dr SUV w/Advance Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
4dr SUV w/Technology Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology and A-Spec Packages (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance and Entertainment Packages (3.5L 6cyl 9A)
Pros - Handsome looks, confident power along with a generous array of features and good on gas.
Cons - Less cargo space and non intuitive infotainment system.
Well rounded and family friendly luxury midsize SUV. Aside from the perplexing dual-display infotainment system, where the functions are separated and it's tough to remember which screen the function I want to access is on, and the restricted load carrying capacity. My Acura MDX has seating for up to eight people, attractive lines on the inside and exterior, and is tranquil and quiet on the road....
Cons - Barely any side visibility on the last row. High trunk floor. Gear shift console area is a fingerprint magnet.
Third row could feel claustrophobic I drive my MDX to work every day and I clearly enjoy driving the car and the major reason for it isn't just the way the MDX performs but also the way the cabin makes me feel. The fine quality materials used with a wide room just keeps me relaxed and the speakers just do wonders with its sound quality. I love listening to some OST by Hans Zimmers and every minut...
Pros - Good on gas, lots of tech features,quiet cabin and capable handling.
Cons - Cabin looks less luxurious and has limited space and the adaptive cruise control is very less responsive.
Practical midsize SUV with a less luxurious cabin. Last year around mid October I got my Acura and till now have put on 17000 miles on it. It cost me roughly around 46 grand which I guess is a bit overpriced. It offers comfy seats on the inside, as well as a plethora of basic and optional tech options. It features a well-built interior as well, although it isn't as luxurious or attractive. At low...
