Remember the not-so-sporty 2024 MDX Type S? Yeah, us too. Thankfully, Acura went back to the drawing board and the 2025 model is a vast improvement. Here’s why this spicy SUV is finally living up to the Type S badge:
Bye-Bye Touchpad, Hello Touchscreen!
The most frustrating part of the 2024 model is finally gone! The dreaded touchpad is replaced with a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen powered by Google. Acura clearly listened to customer feedback and delivered a system that’s intuitive and easy to use.
A New A-Spec and the Debut of the 2025 MDX Type S with AcuraWatch 360
The MDX lineup gets a new A-Spec with the Advance package, offering more options for those seeking a sportier look without the full Type S treatment. Speaking of Type S, the 2025 version arrives with AcuraWatch 360, a suite of advanced safety features exclusive to this performance-oriented trim.
Is it Faster? You Bet!
Despite no major mechanical changes, the 2025 MDX Type S sheds some weight and finds some extra zip. We clocked a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds, a solid 0.3 seconds improvement over the 2024 model. This puts it firmly ahead of competitors like the Lexus TX350 AWD, which trails behind at 8.0 seconds.
Launch Control and a More Engaging Drive
A new launch control feature in Sport+ mode lets you unleash the full power of the MDX Type S with ease. The 10-speed automatic feels more responsive in the sportier drive modes, delivering snappy shifts for a more engaging driving experience. While power delivery remains smooth in other modes, it lacks the immediacy of the Sport+ setting.
The Verdict: A True Type S at Last
The 2025 Acura MDX Type S finally delivers on the promise of the red badge. It boasts a user-friendly infotainment system, improved performance, and a more engaging driving experience. While some may crave a more aggressive power delivery outside of Sport+ mode, the overall package is a significant step up from the previous year. This is the Type S we’ve been waiting for!
