The Cadillac XT6 has an all-new rival in the way of the 2022 Acura MDX, which represents the next-generation of the popular and long-running mid-size luxury crossover.
The 2022 Acura MDX was previewed by the pre-production prototype that debuted back in October. Power for the mid-size crossover comes from a 3.5L V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, which will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel-drive. Customers will also be able to add Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system to the vehicle for a price premium.
The 2022 Acura MDX rides on a new platform that is 2.8 inches longer and 1.4 inches wider than the outgoing third-generation model’s chassis. The new platform features double-wishbone front suspension, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and a variable electronic steering rack, which work together to achieve a responsive, precise handling and steering feel that Acura describes as sedan-like.
The Japanese automaker also overhauled the MDX’s interior significantly with this new model. A 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display come standard and can also be paired with an optional, full color 10.5-inch head-up display, as well. The central infotainment display, which comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is controlled via Acura’s center console touchpad controller. Other tech highlights include a standard smartphone charging pad, standard AcuraLink 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity and a built-in Amazon Alexa-powered AI assistant.
A sporty 2022 Acura MDX Type-S model will go on sale later on in 2021, which will come standard with a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. These models will also feature a 10-speed automatic transmission, SH-AWD, Brembo brakes and 21-inch alloy wheels with 275 mm section tires. More details on this performance-focused Type S model, which is described as the best-performing Acura crossover model ever, will be released closer to its debut next summer.
The standard 2022 Acura MDX V6 with the naturally aspirated V6 engine will arrive at Acura dealers in the U.S. in February. Prices start at $46,900 for the entry-level trim with front-wheel-drive and top out at $60,650 for the MDX Advance Package trim with SH-AWD. This price actually undercuts the Cadillac XT6, which starts at $47,995 for the entry-level Luxury trim level with a turbocharged 2.0L LSY four-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive.
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Comments
Nice, GM should take over the Acura brand and change the name to Pontiac.
This new MDX is looking really good. Reliability and driving dynamics are icing on the cake.
A solid choice in the market. The coming Type-S should be interesting.
Nice.
Acura seems to be finding its way again. The last few years have been, well, odd IMO. The design language I think has had a strong improvement and this is proof of it. The earlier “beak” design was not attractive.
The Cadillac simply doesn’t compete.
With Acura’s fwd flagship vehicles?. I nod the MDX as sportier than the XT6, let’s not get carried away..
Don’t knock that SH-AWD
In sport mode it’s a 30/70 f/r torque split and it most certainly will kick the rear out lol
The bean counters over at GM simply do not understand automotive heritage nor do they desire to.
It looks like a spruced up Mazda.
Asian car design leaves much to be desired. All it needs is a fart can and Godzilla movie to star in.
Will be mistaken for other Asian brands as usual. There is only so much you can do to these tired cookie cutter CUV’s.
I typically don’t go for Honda / Acura and the last MDX was a dud but this with 350+ HP and the hot red leather interior…. sort of interesting!
Sure beats an Acadia……or the XT6…..