Acura MDX (2022)

Nov 04, 2023

The 2022 Acura MDX, the fourth-generation of America's best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all-time, undergoes its most radical transformation since the launch of the first generation model 20 years ago. A quantum leap forward with a bold exterior design and sophisticated and elegant new interior, MDX achieves its highest level of performance, technological and premium appeal to assume its new role as the flagship of the Acura lineup.

Designed from the outset for the performance demands of the upcoming MDX Type S, all 2022 MDX grades benefit from the all-new, performance-focused and ultra-rigid light-truck platform. Every fourth-generation Acura MDX features a chassis that includes the first double wishbone front suspension on MDX, an all-new multi-link rear suspension, and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). As a result, MDX offers a new level of sporting performance and handling agility, fulfilling its Precision Crafted Performance mission.

Communicating performance through design, the bold exterior styling inspired by the Acura Precision Concept and enabled by the new platform features a wider and more aggressive stance, and powerful proportions highlighted by a longer hood and upright front fascia. MDX features all-LED lighting for the first time, including JewelEye® LED headlights with Chicane™ LED daytime running lights and Chicane™ LED taillights.

Inside, the new Acura MDX raises the bar for Acura interior design, craftsmanship, sophistication and technology. The new platform enables a roomier cabin, with all three rows bathed in natural light thanks to the standard ultra-wide panoramic moonroof. The 2022 MDX showcases a new, all-digital Acura Precision Cockpit™, which replaces physical gauges with a customizable 12.3-inch HD display with a smooth 60-Hz refresh rate. It also gains the latest generation of Acura's intuitive and driver-focused True Touchpad Interface™ with an ultra-wide, 12.3-inch center display, and an updated Integrated Dynamics System that tunes chassis reflexes and activates the available IconicDrive™ interior lighting system with the simple twist of the Dynamic Mode Dial.

Under the hood, the standard 3.5-liter i-VTEC® 24-valve V6 engine is mated for the first time with a new-to-MDX Sequential SportShift 10-speed automatic transmission with racing-inspired shift paddles. The MDX is available with front wheel drive or with the latest generation of torque-vectoring Acura Super Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) with faster response and greater torque capacity.

Safety advancements include eight airbags, including a new advanced passenger front airbag designed to reduce brain injuries in angled front crashes. Additionally, Acura MDX features multiple new safety and driver assistive technologies such as Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), a Driver Attention Monitor, Pedestrian sensing and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Pedestrian AEB), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). The new MDX is targeted to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2022 Acura MDX launches with four distinct grades: MDX, MDX with Technology Package, MDX A-Spec and MDX with Advance Package. Along with the standard Lunar Silver Metallic and Fathom Blue Pearl are six premium colors: Phantom Violet Pearl (new), Liquid Carbon Metallic (new), Platinum White Pearl, Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Apex Blue Pearl exclusively for A-Spec®. Interior color schemes, depending on grade and exterior color, include Ebony, Expresso, Graystone, Parchment and, for A-Spec, Ebony or Red with Black Ultrasuede® inserts.

Design and Packaging

As the most emotionally styled MDX ever, the fourth-generation's new platform provides the foundation for a striking dimensional change in the dash-to-axle ratio, which has been extended by more than 4 inches, lengthening the hood line significantly and giving MDX a premium "cab rearward" proportion. The bold, sculpted grille and hood, with a wide, aggressive stance, is based on the Acura Precision Concept that redefined Acura design when it was first unveiled in 2016. Dimensionally, the new MDX sits on a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, with a track that's 1.4 inches wider in the front and rear. The bold and sporting new look is accentuated by new four-element JewelEye® LED headlights with embedded Chicane™ LED daytime running lights.

MDX's wide stance and long wheelbase pushes the wheels to the edges of the bodywork. The three-dimensional surface details can be seen in the pronounced shoulder line that defines the upper portion of the vehicle, and the sculpting along the lower portion of the doors. In the rear, the wide-set LED taillights have their Chicane™ design set in an eye-catching light-blade, and serve to define and enhance the width and stability of the pronounced rear fenders.

For the first time, the 2022 MDX applies an Active Shutter Grille. In certain conditions, shutters in the lower grille close to divert air around the vehicle, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag. When the demand for cooling air increases, the shutters reopen.

Exclusive New Body and Chassis

The MDX's all-new light truck platform underpinnings target the driving dynamics of a sports sedan. Designed for the pursuit of aggressive performance, MDX features double-wishbone front suspension for the first time, delivering a larger tire contact patch through corners to increase grip, while improving ride quality with greater vertical freedom of movement. The new multi-link rear suspension also improves stability and response, and together they give MDX a world-class combination of agility and ride comfort. Quick, precise variable-ratio electric power steering (EPS) and more powerful brakes with a new electric brake booster (EBB) excel in driving scenarios from daily commutes, to road trips, to twisting canyon roads.

The new platform is the most rigid SUV platform ever produced by Acura, and this rigidity pays dividends in handling and ride comfort. In front, the dampers connect to new cast-aluminum housings that are 45-percent stiffer overall than the previous generation, and along with the additional 7-percent increase in lateral torsion from a new rigid-mounted subframe, contributes to significantly better handling. Replacing the previous floating-type subframe, the new front subframe translates steering inputs to the tires with greater fidelity. The rear body uses a new dual-balanced load path for the rear damper mounting points, contributing to a 41-percent improvement in stiffness for an 80-percent torsion improvement that benefits handling and improves noise isolation.

Advanced Powertrain and Torque Vectoring SH-AWD®

The fourth-generation Acura MDX debuts with an advanced and improved 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC®™ V6 engine rated at 290 peak horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (both SAE net), teamed for the first time with a 10-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sport Shift and shift paddles on the steering wheel. The 10-speed automatic features faster and smoother shifts than the previous 9-speed automatic, with rapid four-gear downshifts for quick passing power when drivers need it.

The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system for MDX uses Acura's industry-leading torque-vectoring all-wheel drive technology. Now in its fourth generation, SH-AWD® has 40-percent more rear torque capacity and 30-percent quicker front-to-rear torque transfer than the third-generation system in the previous MDX. The Acura SH-AWD® system can transfer up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear axle during normal driving conditions, while continuously apportioning up to 100 percent of that rear-axle torque between either the left or right rear wheels. Continuously overdriven by 2.9 percent, the rear axle amplifies the yaw moment effect of left-to-right torque transfer for even sharper and more accurate turn-in, and improved cornering traceability. SH-AWD® is available on MDX and MDX with Technology Package, and standard on MDX A-Spec® and MDX with Advance Package.

Versatile, Luxurious Cabin

The new fourth-generation 2022 Acura MDX sets a new high-water mark as the most premium and sophisticated cabin Acura has ever created. The low and wide instrument panel features a clean, horizontal design theme that creates a strong structural feel, and the seven-passenger interior is enriched with high-grade authentic materials including available open-pore wood, brushed aluminum and soft-touch Milano leather. Next-generation Acura sport seats set the stage for performance driving and all-day comfort in a control layout designed around the needs of the driver.

Even with the addition of a standard ultra-wide panoramic moonroof, the all-new platform's innovative roll-hemmed roof construction, wider body and longer wheelbase offers more headroom for the first and third-row occupants, in addition to more legroom, shoulder room and total passenger volume in all three rows. In the second row, MDX features a first-in-class multifunction second row with removable middle seat, which, when removed, enables easy passenger access to the third row, even when child seats are installed in the outboard second row seats.

Cargo carrying versatility is enhanced in the new MDX as well, with more available cargo volume behind each row of seating, a new under-floor cargo area behind the third row that's nearly twice as big as before, and smart new features such as a power tailgate with available Hands-Free Access and Walk Away Close that make loading/unloading and locking easier than ever.

Technology

The new MDX debuts the all-digital Acura Precision Cockpit™, replacing physical gauges with a customizable HD digital display. Measuring 12.3-inches and with a 60-Hz refresh rate for a smooth experience, the large HD screen offers two driver-selectable gauge layouts that are linked to the user's key fob. The new MDX also features the latest generation of Acura's intuitive and driver-focused True Touchpad Interface™, featuring an ultra-wide, 12.3-inch, full-HD center display, Acura's largest yet.

New to MDX is an expanded range of cutting-edge technologies and premium features that includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, standard wireless charging, available full-color Head-Up Display, and the latest generation of AcuraLink® cloud-based services and Amazon Alexa Built-In. Also new for MDX is the CabinTalk® in-vehicle public address system and a new smartphone-based available CabinControl® app that lets passengers control select interior features and share audio playlists.

Three different audio experiences are available including the award winning ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system with four ceiling-mounted Highline speakers and a total output of 710 watts. Both ELS STUDIO® and STUDIO 3D® systems were tuned and perfected by eight-time Grammy® award-winning music producer and sound engineer, Elliot Scheiner, for whom the ELS system was named.

Integrated Dynamics System

With its new Integrated Dynamics System, the 2022 Acura MDX offers a more engaging and personalized driving experience. The NSX-inspired Dynamic Mode Dial on the center of the dash allows drivers to easily switch between Normal, Sport, Comfort, Snow and Individual settings. Each mode offers unique settings for engine and transmission performance including Idle Stop, transmission and throttle response and steering settings, as well as SH-AWD® responsiveness when so equipped. The new Individual mode enables drivers to tailor their driving experience by customizing settings according to their personal preferences.

With the available Technology Package, the Integrated Dynamics System also includes Acura's IconicDrive™ interior lighting system. Three are automatically linked to the Normal, Sport, Comfort and Snow driving modes. Drivers can further customize the interior lighting using the Vehicle Settings menu with an additional 24 illuminations themed for iconic roads and race circuits around the world, such as Pacific Coast and Suzuka.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistive Technologies

All 2022 MDX models come with an expanded suite of AcuraWatch™ advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including updated Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) plus new technologies like Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), a Driver Attention Monitor, Pedestrian sensing and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Pedestrian AEB), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). The MDX also offers a new front and rear automatic braking system, Low Speed Braking Control, that uses sonar-based parking sensors to sense solid objects at low speeds and warn the driver or apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision.

First introduced in the all-new 2021 TLX, the new 2022 MDX incorporates Acura's award-winning next-generation passenger front airbag technology. With three inflatable chambers and an uninflated "sail panel" stretched between the two side chambers, the new airbag is designed to initially catch and decelerate the occupant's head with less force prior to contacting the lower chamber, cradling helping protect the front seat passenger's head to mitigate potential injury, especially in angled frontal collisions.

The 2022 MDX also features the latest generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with enhanced occupant and pedestrian frontal collision protection capabilities. Side impact performance, assessed using the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's side impact protocol, is further improved with a 34-percent reduction in cabin intrusion thanks to a redesigned ultra-high-strength side door ring and center roof pillar.

The 2022 MDX targets a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and incorporates anticipated future testing requirements, including oblique frontal collisions, pedestrian safety, and forward warning and automatic emergency braking tests. In addition, the new MDX targets a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including the highest available rating of GOOD in all collision tests and SUPERIOR for frontal crash prevention, with new headlights designed to achieve a GOOD rating in the rigorous IIHS headlight standard.

Design, Development and Manufacturing

The 2022 Acura MDX joins its three predecessors in being designed, engineered and developed in America. Styling was led by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, Calif., while full platform and vehicle development was led by engineers in the company's development center in Raymond, Ohio. The all-new MDX will continue to be built exclusively at the company's auto plant in East Liberty, Ohio, using domestic and globally sourced parts, while the 3.5-liter V6 is produced at the company's Anna, Ohio, engine plant. Acura's 10-speed automatic transmission is built exclusively at the company's Tallapoosa, Ga., transmission plant.

History

Debuting in 2000 as the North American Truck of the Year and Motor Trend SUV of the Year, the original 2001 Acura MDX was the industry's first three-row crossover SUV, defining an entirely new category of vehicles that now dominates the segment. Over the past 20 years, across three generations of development, MDX has established itself as perennial best seller with more than 1 million units sold, earning its place as America's all-time best-selling three-row luxury SUV. MDX also recently surpassed the TL as the best-selling Acura model of all-time.

2022 MDX: Powertrain

The fourth-generation Acura MDX debuts with an updated 3.5-liter i-VTEC® 24-valve V6 engine rated at 290 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. torque (both SAE net), teamed for the first time in MDX with Acura's Sequential SportShift 10-speed automatic transmission.

With direct injection, a range of advanced friction-reducing technologies and carefully refined engineering, this performance-focused V6 offers an exceptional blend of power and fuel efficiency. In MDX, Acura's i-VTEC® (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) for the intake valves is combined with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®). VCM® varies the working displacement of the engine to match the driving requirements for greater efficiency.

New for MDX, the in-house developed 10-speed automatic transmission brings the V6 engine to life with responsive, smooth shifts befitting a performance-focused driver's SUV. The transmission can be operated via an electronic shift-by-wire push-button gear selector, and drivers can manually select gears using Acura's Sequential SportShift paddles located on the steering wheel. The 2022 MDX is available with front-wheel drive or with the fourth-generation of Acura's torque-vectoring Super Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) with faster response and greater torque capacity.

Engine Block and Crankshaft

With its 60-degree V-angle, the 3.5-liter V6 engine in MDX is inherently smooth and has compact overall dimensions that allow efficient packaging within the vehicle. For the fourth-generation MDX, there are minor changes to the block casting and oil pan. The V6 has a die-cast lightweight aluminum alloy block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Made with a centrifugal spin-casting process, the thin-wall liners are high in strength and low in porosity. The block incorporates a deep-skirt design with four bolts per bearing cap for rigid crankshaft support and minimized noise and vibration, and a high-strength steel crankshaft is used for minimum weight.

A cooling control spacer positioned in the water jacket surrounding the cylinders helps control warm-up and cylinder liner operating temperatures to reduce friction. Plateau honing of the cylinder lining further reduces friction between the piston skirts and the cylinder walls by creating an ultra-smooth surface. The 2-stage machining uses two grinding processes instead of the more conventional single-stage honing process. Plateau honing also enhances the long-term wear characteristics of the engine.

Pistons and Connecting Rods

The engine has pistons with cavity-shaped crowns that help maintain stable combustion and contribute to efficiency. The lightweight pistons have a carefully optimized skirt design to minimize reciprocating weight, which reduces vibration and increases operating efficiency. Ion-plated piston rings help reduce friction for greater operating efficiency. Lightweight, high-strength steel connecting rods are heat-forged in one piece and then "cold cracked" to create a lighter and stronger rod with an optimally fitted bearing cap.

Cylinder Heads and Valvetrain

The MDX engine's 4-valve cylinder heads are a single-overhead-camshaft design, with the cams driven by the crankshaft via an automatically tensioned toothed belt. Made of low-pressure cast, low-porosity aluminum, each cylinder head incorporates a "tumble port" design that improves combustion efficiency by creating a more homogeneous fuel-air mixture. An integrated exhaust manifold cast into each cylinder head reduces parts count, saves weight, improves flow and optimizes the location of the close-coupled catalysts.

i-VTEC® with 2-Stage Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®)

The Acura MDX SOHC V6 combines Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®), which changes the lift profile, duration and timing of the intake valves. A switching mechanism allows each cylinder to operate with low-rpm valve lift and duration or high-rpm lift and duration. The rear cylinder bank's valve gear closes all intake and exhaust valves to minimize pumping losses while operating in three-cylinder mode.

The "intelligent" portion of the system is its ability to vary valve operation based on the driving situation and engine rpm. At low rpm, the i-VTEC® intake valves use a low lift and short duration profile optimized for increased torque, allowing a wide range of three-cylinder operation when VCM® is activated (see VCM® Operation below). As engine speeds build past 5,350 rpm, the i-VTEC® system transitions to a high-lift, long-duration intake cam profile for superior high-rpm engine power.

To help improve fuel efficiency, Acura's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM®) is used. The i-VTEC® system combines with Active Control Engine Mounts (ACM) to allow the VCM® system to operate with three cylinders in a wide range of situations to maximize fuel efficiency and lower emissions. When greater power is needed, the system switches seamlessly to six-cylinder operation. VCM® deactivates specific cylinders by using the i-VTEC® system to close the intake and exhaust valves while the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) simultaneously cuts fuel to those cylinders. The spark plugs continue to fire in inactive cylinders to minimize plug temperature loss and prevent fouling induced from incomplete combustion during cylinder re-activation.

Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle

The MDX's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle uses smart electronics that "connect" the accelerator pedal to a throttle valve inside the throttle body. Acura's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle evaluates and responds to varying driving conditions by monitoring throttle pedal position, throttle valve position, engine rpm and road speed.

Based on the Integrated Dynamics System setting, one of three different drive-by-wire maps is used. Normal and Comfort use a map suited for all-around driving, while Sport mode uses an aggressive map for performance driving. The new Snow mode features a gradual map to aid driving in slippery conditions.

New to Acura: Engine-Mounted Air Intake System

The fourth-generation MDX has a new engine-mounted air intake system that is designed to simplify engine compartment packaging and improve NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) performance. Fresh air is ducted from the front of the vehicle to the engine mounted air intake system, which is insulated to mitigate heating from the engine and radiator, providing cool air to the engine for maximum performance.

Direct Injection

MDX's engine features a direct-injection system that enables increased torque across the full operating range, along with high fuel efficiency. The system features a compact, high-pressure, direct-injection pump that allows both high fuel flow and pulsation suppression, while variable pressure control optimizes injector operation. Multi-hole injectors deliver fuel directly into each cylinder, allowing for more efficient combustion and help MDX achieve CARB LEV III ULEV-70 and EPA Tier 3/BIN 70 emissions standards.

Direct Ignition and Detonation/Knock Control

MDX's Electronic Control Unit (ECU) monitors engine functions to determine the best ignition spark timing. Two engine block-mounted acoustic detonation/knock sensors "listen" to the engine, and based on this input, the ECU can retard the ignition timing to prevent potentially damaging detonation. The 3.5-liter V6 has an ignition coil unit for each cylinder that is positioned above each spark plug's access bore.

Engine Idle-Stop

To help improve fuel efficiency, Acura MDX is equipped with Idle-Stop capability that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop. The engine is automatically restarted when the driver releases the brake pedal after a stop or pushes the accelerator pedal if the Automatic Brake Hold is active. The system is engineered to operate as to be virtually unnoticeable to the driver and passengers. When stopped, a special cold storage evaporator in the air conditioning system helps maintain a comfortable cabin temperature even in warm weather. The MDX's active engine mounts help smooth the restart. Idle-Stop operation is fully integrated into MDX 's Brake Hold system and its Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system.

The 2022 MDX uses new control logic for more intuitive Idle-Stop operation. Previously, when the driver brought the vehicle to a stop, the MDX engine would automatically stop; however, when the driver selected "P" (Park), the engine would sometimes restart. Now, in this situation, the engine remains off.

Close-Coupled Catalysts

The exhaust manifolds of the 3.5-liter V6 are cast directly into the aluminum cylinder heads to reduce weight, decrease parts count and create more under-hood space. The result of this casting design is that the two primary catalytic converters are positioned much closer to the combustion chambers, enabling extremely rapid converter "light-off" after engine start. A significant weight savings is realized by eliminating traditional exhaust manifolds. Downstream of the close-coupled catalytic converters, a hydroformed 2-into-1 collector pipe carries exhaust gases to a secondary, underfloor catalytic converter.

Noise & Vibration Control

With its 60-degree V-angle and compact, rigid and lightweight die-cast aluminum cylinder block assembly, the 3.5-liter V6 powerplant is exceptionally smooth during operation. Other factors that help reduce engine noise and vibration are a rigid forged-steel crankshaft, die-cast accessory mounts and a stiff cast-aluminum oil pan that reduces cylinder block flex.

Additionally, the new engine-mounted air intake system design has been specifically tuned to reduce noise. The exceptionally stiff design is constructed of glass- and mica-reinforced polypropylene, which reduces variation in noise suppression performance as under-hood temperatures change.

Active Control Engine Mounts and Active Noise Cancellation

A 34-volt Active Control Engine Mount system (ACM) is used to minimize the effects of engine vibration as the VCM® system switches between three- and six-cylinder operation. The ACM system is a key factor in the broad range of operation of the VCM® system. Sensors alert the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to direct ACM actuators positioned at the front and rear of the engine to cancel engine vibration using a reverse-phase motion. In the cabin of the MDX an Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system further mitigates low frequencies that can occur during three-cylinder operation.

10-Speed Automatic Transmission

For the first time, the 2022 MDX is equipped with Acura's in-house developed 10-speed automatic transmission (10AT) that yields notable improvements in engine performance and efficiency and shift performance.

Engineered for high efficiency with low internal inertia and an exceptionally wide ratio range, the 10AT maximizes performance and fuel efficiency. Compared with the previous 9-speed automatic (9AT), the 10AT has a 3.3-percent wider overall ratio range with an 8.9-percent lower (numerically higher) first gear.

The 10AT is designed to be lightweight and compact. It features four planetary gear sets that work together to provide an exceptionally wide ratio spread of 10.139:1 compared with 9.82:1 on the previous generation MDX's 9AT.

The 10-speed also has substantially faster shift performance than the 9AT transmission in the previous generation MDX. For greater responsiveness, the 10AT can make four-gear direct downshifts, such as from 10 to 6, or from 7 to 3, enabling quick acceleration for merging or passing.

Shift-By-Wire Gear Selector

The 2022 Acura MDX uses a fully electronic, shift-by-wire gear selector. Park, Neutral and Drive are selected with the push of a button. Reverse is selected by pulling back a dedicated switch. Indicator lights on or next to the buttons show the selected mode. Also, if the vehicle is brought to a stop in Drive or Reverse, the system will automatically select Park if the driver's seatbelt is unbuckled and the driver's door is opened. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters let the driver take manual control of transmission gear selection.

Automatic Modes

The 10-speed automatic transmission can be operated in two fully automatic modes: The D (or "Drive") mode is ideal for most driving situations and combines fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed. The S (or "Sequential" mode) is meant for more spirited or demanding driving in first through eight gears and features more aggressive shift mapping to keep engine speeds higher for greater acceleration and pulling power.

Based on the Integrated Dynamics System setting, one of three different transmission maps is used. The default Normal and user-selectable Comfort modes have shift programming aimed at all-around driving, while Sport mode has a more aggressive shift map that targets performance driving. Snow mode, new to MDX, features a gradual response map suited for slippery road conditions.

In D mode, the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control System, Shift Hold Control and Cornering G Shift Control - all of which reduce unwanted shifting and gear hunting. The result is smart transmission operation that optimizes fuel efficiency and keeps the transmission in the appropriate gear for driving conditions, offering excellent performance and smooth operation.

Grade Logic Control

While ascending or descending hills, Grade Logic Control alters the transmission's shift schedule to reduce shift frequency and improve speed control, helping to minimize driver workload. The transmission ECU continually measures throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration to determine when the vehicle is on a hill. The shift schedule is then adjusted to hold the transmission in lower gears both during ascents to boost climbing power, and during descents to provide greater engine braking.

Shift Hold Control

Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) gear ratio during aggressive driving, as in the case of decelerating at a corner entry. Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by eliminating excess shifting and ensures that power will be more immediately available (without a downshift) at the corner exit.

Cornering G Shift Control

Cornering G Shift Control monitors the speed of each rear wheel independently to determine when the MDX is turning. When the system detects a sufficient speed differential between the rear wheels, it will suppress any unwanted upshifts. This prevents both the transmission from upshifting during a corner which could upset the chassis balance and then require downshifting again at the corner exit when the throttle is applied.

Paddle Shifters

The MDX features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Particularly useful during spirited driving or in mountainous terrain, the paddles give the driver greater control and a sportier option over standard automatic transmission operation. On long downgrades, the driver can command downshifts with the paddles that allow increased engine braking to reduce the load on the brakes and help control MDX's downhill speed. MDX with A-Spec® features paddle shifters with a metal finish.

Paddle Shifter Operation in Drive Mode

While in Drive mode, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. When the driver operates the paddle shifters, the transmission responds to the driver's shift command and then returns to its normal fully automatic mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a few seconds, depending upon driving conditions. This special logic makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the convenience of Drive mode. This temporary manual mode can be cancelled at the driver's will by holding the right-side paddle for two seconds, and the transmission will resume "Drive."

Paddle Shifter Operation in Sequential Mode (Sequential SportShift)

By selecting the "S" position, Sequential mode is engaged. This mode offers automatic operation with more aggressive shift mapping and locks out operation of ninth and tenth gears. A pull on either of the paddle shifters places the transmission in fully manual mode with access to all 10 gears until another mode of operation is selected. A digital display on the lower left of the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen indicates which gear the transmission is in. The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.

Transmission Operational Backstops

To prevent harm to the powertrain when the transmission is paddle shifted by the driver, the system will inhibit potentially damaging shifts. As an added safety measure, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) also can cut off fuel to the engine to prevent over-revving. If fuel cutoff is insufficient to prevent engine over-revving, as might be possible when the vehicle is on a steep downhill, the transmission will automatically upshift to prevent damage. On downshifts, the transmission will not execute a driver command that will over-rev the engine.

For improved stop-and-go performance and to help prevent "lugging" the engine, the transmission will automatically downshift even though the transmission has been left in a higher gear as the vehicle comes to a stop.

Cooperative Control

Both shift performance and smoothness are improved by cooperative control between the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and the electronically controlled transmission. The engine is throttled by the engine management system during upshifts and downshifts so the function of the engine and transmission can be closely choreographed for faster, smoother shifting. As a result, peak g-forces (or "shift shock") are reduced significantly during upshifts and downshifts.

Front-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive is standard on both MDX and MDX with Technology Package. With its efficient design and reduced weight, Acura MDX with front-wheel drive receives EPA fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined.

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System™ (SH-AWD®)

Acura's fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) is available on both MDX and MDX with Technology Package, and standard on A-Spec and Advance Packages. The acclaimed SH-AWD® system, also available on RDX and TLX, progressively distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels for more precise and exhilarating handling response across a wide variety of road conditions, while still receiving EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, 21 mpg combined.

The new fourth-generation SH-AWD® rear differential has enhancements to upgrade its torque capacity and response. Compared to the previous-generation MDX, maximum rear axle torque capacity has been increased by 40 percent. In normal conditions, up to 70 percent of torque can be sent to the rear axle, and 100 percent of that torque can be distributed to either the left or right rear wheels. The rear wheels also receive torque 30-percent faster than the previous-generation MDX.

When cornering, SH-AWD® distributes more torque to the outside rear wheel, creating a yaw moment to help turn the vehicle through corners - making for more accurate turns, reducing understeer and improving controllability. With cornering forces more evenly distributed between front and rear tires, the ability to utilize more torque is increased - on wet or dry roads. The system also overdrives the rear axle by 2.9 percent, which amplifies the yaw effect of lateral rear-wheel torque distribution when cornering.

Electronic Controls and Parameters

The SH-AWD® system works in cooperation with MDX's Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) system and Agile Handling Assist to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction utilization. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) provides information on engine rpm, airflow and transmission gear-ratio selection, while the VSA® ECU provides wheel-speed data. The SH-AWD® ECU also monitors steering angle, lateral g-forces, vehicle yaw rate and electrohydraulic clutch engagement for the right and left rear axle shafts. Drive torque is calculated by the ECU, and then the acceleration, wheel spin, lateral g-force and steering angle are used to determine the front-to-rear torque distribution and the torque split between right and left rear wheels.

Based on the Integrated Dynamics System setting, one of three different SH-AWD® maps is used. Normal and Comfort modes have SH-AWD® programming aimed at all-around driving, while Sport mode has a more aggressive SH-AWD® programming that targets performance driving. Snow mode features a response map that targets confident and secure performance in low-traction situations.

SH-AWD® System Layout

The MDX SH-AWD® system is a full-time all-wheel-drive system that requires no driver interaction or monitoring, thanks to a torque-transfer unit bolted directly to the front-mounted transaxle. The torque-transfer unit receives torque through a spline connection that is part of the front differential housing. A set of helical gear shafts and a hypoid gear set within the torque-transfer unit sends power to the propeller shaft, which in turn transfers power to the rear differential.

To optimize the unique packaging needs of the fourth-generation MDX, a new "low mount" torque-transfer unit from the front transaxle is used. This layout reduces the driveshaft angle to the rear wheels, allowing a flatter passenger compartment floor, a lower passenger hip point and in turn, the lowest possible roofline.

The MDX's lightweight SH-AWD® rear differential uses an electric motor that powers a pair of hydraulic pumps, one for each clutch pack. A pair of linear solenoids controlled by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) selectively sends pressure to the clutch packs, which in turn control the amount of power sent to each rear wheel.

The hydraulically operated clutches can be controlled as a pair to alter the front/rear torque split, or they can be controlled independently to allow up to 100 percent of rear-wheel torque to either rear wheel, giving the system the ability to create a yaw moment that increases cornering grip and line traceability.

The fourth-generation SH-AWD® system offers 30-percent quicker front-to-rear torque transfer compared to the third-generation SH-AWD® system, achieved by the adoption of a shorter hydraulic circuit and a higher-torque electric motor that drives the rear differential's twin hydraulic pumps. The hydraulic circuit was also optimized for more consistent response time at the left and right rear wheels.

100,000-Mile Tune-Up Intervals

The 3.5-liter V6 requires no scheduled maintenance for 100,000 miles or more, other than periodic inspections and normal fluid and filter replacements. The first tune-up includes water pump inspection, valve adjustment, replacement of the camshaft timing belt, and the installation of new spark plugs.

Maintenance Minder™

To eliminate unnecessary service stops while ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained, Acura MDX has a Maintenance Minder™ system that continually monitors the vehicle's operating condition. When maintenance is required, the driver is alerted via a message on the right side of the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen.

Available Trailer Hitch and Trailer Hitch ATF Cooler Kit

A dealer-installed receiver-style trailer hitch accommodates a variety of trailer coupler designs, and includes a draw bar, retaining pin, clip and wiring harness with a 7-pin round-style connector. Trailer hitch balls of 1 7/8-inch or 2-inch are available separately. When so equipped, front-wheel drive MDX models have a 3,500 lb. tow rating; MDX SH-AWD® models have a 5,000 lb. tow rating when equipped with the optional Trailer Hitch ATF Cooler Kit.

Remote Engine Start with Vehicle Feedback

The MDX with Advance Package provides the ability to start the vehicle's engine remotely using just the key fob. Drivers can start their MDX and activate the climate control system before they get to the vehicle on hot or cold days. The remote function is designed to have a range of operation of at least 300 meters, with the key fob providing feedback through red, yellow, and green LEDs. To start the engine remotely, the owner presses the LOCK button and then holds the ENGINE button for a few seconds. When the engine is started remotely, the wipers, lighting and audio systems remain off, and the security system remains set. The engine will run for up to 10 minutes after remote starting, and then shut off automatically if the owner doesn't reach the vehicle within that time; the sequence can be reset twice before shutting off entirely. When the owner does reach the vehicle within 10 minutes, the engine will keep running while the owner unlocks their MDX and enters the vehicle.

2022 MDX: Body & Exterior

The new MDX represents the first application of an all-new light truck platform, a "clean sheet" design from the ground up, that delivers premium proportions, more athletic handling performance, refined ride comfort, exceptional cabin quietness and improved collision performance throughout all MDX trims. Built on the foundation of this new platform, the fourth-generation MDX offers the most technologically advanced design and construction in Acura SUV history.

Overall, the new body is stiffer in every key measurements, with 32-percent greater torsional stiffness. This makes it the most rigid SUV in Acura's history, allowing fine-tuning of the new suspension systems to make the fourth generation the best-handling Acura MDX ever. The MDX body is comprised of 60.9 percent high-strength and press-hardened steel, and 8.8 percent aluminum - the most ever for the model - which helps minimize curb weight, optimize front-to-rear weight bias and fuel efficiency, and improve handling agility and ride quality.

The new platform also allowed a fresh approach to the fundamentals of stance and proportion, resulting in an MDX with aggressive proportions that are longer, lower and wider than the previous generation, befitting its flagship status. The upright and bold fascia, longer dash-to-axle ratio, and sharply sculpted hood highlight the powerful and premium look of MDX. The pronounced beltline emphasizes the strong stance of the 19-inch wheels (and available 20-inch wheels) and wider tires pushed to the corners thanks to the longer wheelbase and wider track.

New all-LED lighting plays an important part in the more emotional look, with wide-set next-generation JewelEye® LED headlights and Chicane™ LED daytime running lights, echoed by LED brake and taillights with a Chicane™ design. Decisive applications of chrome trim and garnishes (gloss black on A-Spec®) tie together the new body forms, with two new paint colors joining the eight-color palette: Phantom Violet Pearl which debuted on the 2021 TLX, and all-new Liquid Carbon Metallic, making its debut on the 2022 MDX.

The new light-truck platform also benefits frontal crash safety performance in the form of the newest generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. The extensive use of high-strength steel includes safety enhancements such as an ultra-high-strength steel front door stiffener ring on the driver and passenger side and a new front end designed to help reduce pedestrian injuries.

All-New Light-Truck Platform

The all-new light truck platform underpinning the 2022 MDX benefits nearly every aspect of the new SUV's performance, styling, packaging and safety performance. Such an undertaking gave the engineering and design teams the freedom of a fresh approach to every characteristic of the vehicle.

The new platform is incredibly rigid, with improvements in every measure of bending and torsional rigidity. The resulting stiffness allowed the suspension engineers to create new double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspensions that provide Type S-levels of handling performance to the entire MDX lineup, while simultaneously improving on the ride quality that is an MDX hallmark.

Longer and wider than its predecessor, the new light-truck platform pays benefits in both exterior styling and interior room. With the most dramatic and boldest Acura MDX design to date, the 2.8-inch longer wheelbase and 1.4-inch wider track afforded by the new light-truck platform are put to good use in the bold and dramatic exterior styling. The platform was designed from the outset to incorporate the design influences of the Acura Precision Concept in SUV form, such as a long dash-to-axle ratio.

The new platform pays dividends to the interior of the new MDX as well, with the expanded width and extended wheelbase improving legroom and shoulder room in all rows and also increasing overall passenger volume and cargo space significantly. The new platform also allowed for advancements such as the new removable center section in the second row of seats, and the newly expanded under-floor cargo area behind the third row of seats. Additionally, despite the addition of a new standard panoramic sunroof, headroom was improved in the first and third rows thanks to a roll-hemmed roof structure, which also contributes to increased rigidity.

The new rigid platform also incorporates the next generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure with enhanced occupant and pedestrian frontal collision protection. With improved overlap protection with smaller and lower-riding vehicles, the new MDX features better frontal collision compatibility, along with improved absorption and distribution of crash loads around the passenger cabin. The new structure also improves side impact performance thanks to a redesigned ultra-high-strength side door ring and B-pillar. Additionally, the front area has been designed with an eye toward pedestrian safety performance, with deformable hood, hood hinges and upper fenders combining with new lower and upper leg protection in the front fascia.

Rigid Body Structure

The 2022 MDX's body is by far the strongest and most advanced in the model's history, with 32-percent greater global torsional (twisting) stiffness and 5-percent greater rear bending rigidity. Dynamically, this new structure was foundational to supporting the new suspension systems and enabling MDX's finely tuned ride and handling qualities. Another benefit of the rigid body structure is a quiet and more comfortable cabin environment, with less noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) over a wide range of driving conditions, including rough roads and certain off-highway excursions. The new body also was designed to be more tightly sealed acoustically, further banishing noise from the cabin environment.

Additionally, the new body structure features Acura's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™). This exclusive new structure is a key component to achieving top NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings. Additionally, the new MDX incorporates new front pedestrian safety engineering, a new rear dual load-path structure, the most high-strength steel ever in an MDX, expanded use of structural adhesives and more.

Key Acura MDX body engineering advancements include:

Advanced High Strength Steel

To aid safety performance and long-term durability, the 2022 MDX uses three different grades of press-hardened and high-strength steel (HSS) in 60.9 percent of its body structure by weight, up from 54 percent in the outgoing MDX. This high-grade, high-tensile strength steel is applied to improve both dynamic and collision safety performance while mitigating weight. Altogether, 69.7 percent of the MDX body is composed of press-hardened steel, high-strength steel or aluminum - more than in any previous generation of MDX.

Aluminum Components

Aluminum stampings, extrusions and castings are used in key locations to help minimize MDX's curb weight and provide benefits in handling, fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. Altogether, aluminum body components comprise 8.8 percent of MDX's body weight.

Premium, Emotional Design

Styled at the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, Calif., the fourth-generation MDX follows Acura's Precision Crafted Performance® brand DNA to become the boldest and most dramatic MDX yet. Incorporating key design cues from the Acura Precision Concept from 2016, the new light-truck platform's inherent advantages to styling include a 2.8-inches longer wheelbase and 1.4-inches wider track. The final sculpted exterior design inspired by the wind-shaped rocks in Arizona's Antelope Canyon. The resulting Acura MDX is radically evolved from its predecessors to be more powerful, dynamic and personal, with the most dramatic styling evolution a more than 4-inches longer dash-to-axle dimension that, combined with the vehicle's 2.2-inches greater body length, creates a side profile that looks powerful, fast, sleek, and thoroughly modern.

Up front, MDX is instantly defined by Acura's signature multi-faceted Diamond Pentagon grille surrounded by chrome trim (gloss black on A-Spec®), framing a large Acura badge, and flanked by brighter new four-element JewelEye® LED headlights and wing-shaped Chicane™ daytime running lights (DRL). On the lower corners of the dynamically sculpted fascia are available three-element LED fog lights. Slender, stylish and bright, these lights make up the forward elements of MDX's all-LED exterior lighting package. Broad chromed trim defines the corners of this multidimensional front end.

With its long and sculpted hood, rakish greenhouse surrounded by chrome trim (gloss black on A-Spec®), and muscular, crisply edged wheel houses, the MDX communicates athleticism in both FWD and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) versions. A defining shoulder center line streams rearward from the front LED positioning lights to the LED Chicane™ 3D taillight array, simultaneously defining and visually linking the aerodynamic greenhouse and the strong, bold bodysides. The broad doors are defined by black B- and C-pillars, body-color handles (LED illuminated on Advance Package), chrome trim (gloss black on the MDX with A-Spec®), and a pronounced lower contour extending from front to rear.

The rear of the vehicle expands on signature Acura design cues first introduced on the Acura Precision Concept, and features arresting new all-LED Chicane™ taillights with 3D light-blades, a broad power tailgate, a stylish lower character line defined by chrome trim (gloss black on A-Spec®), dual polygonal exhausts with bright finishers, and a spoiler.

Refined Aerodynamics

Aerodynamic development was driven by the NSX's total airflow management program, and then proven both with computational fluid dynamics and 25-percent, 40-percent and full-scale wind-tunnel testing. The broad grille and a hidden cold-air intake finely apportion airflow to the radiator and engine, respectively. For the first time, MDX uses an Active Shutter Grille system to reduce airflow through the radiator at highway speeds, optimizing aero efficiency. Behind the air dam, a broad panel directs airflow smoothly toward the rear of the vehicle. New 2-piece front strakes bend airflow around the front tires and induce drag-cutting vortexes along the bodysides.

A summary of MDX aerodynamic details include:

Active Shutter Grille System

In a first for MDX, the Active Shutter Grille system located in the lower grille opening reduces aerodynamic drag - especially at cruising speeds - which directly helps to improve fuel efficiency. The system uses an electric actuator controlled by a processor that monitors ambient air temperature, the climate control setting, and the temperature of the engine coolant and automatic transmission fluid. Depending on these factors, the system either opens or closes the four shutters simultaneously to control the amount of air flowing through the engine's radiator and the air conditioner's condenser. The system is designed to keep the shutters closed as much as possible, even in city driving, and they remain closed until the vehicle's regular operating temperature is reached. This also benefits fuel economy as it keeps the engine and associated systems within their most efficient temperature range.

Front Strakes

Fitted ahead of the front tires, specially designed two-piece strakes help sweep air around the tires and create vortexes down the vehicle sides to reduce pressure, improving aerodynamic efficiency. Measuring approximately 12.3 inches wide by 3.3 inches high, the molded strakes are mounted beneath the outside corners of the fascia. The polyurethane material is flexible to help avoid breakage if it contacts curbing or other obstacles. The strakes do not interfere with towing or flatbed trucking the MDX if ever required.

MDX A-Spec®

The exterior of the Acura MDX A-Spec® is distinguished from all angles from the standard MDX by unique appearance cues. The A-Spec® front end is defined by a black grille surround, black headlight and taillight trim and LED fog lights. The side profile includes dramatic 20-inch Shark Gray wheels with a machined finish, A-Spec® badges on the front quarter panels, black side window moldings, black door mirror housings, and gloss-black lower garnishes. A third A-Spec® badge adorns the left side of the tailgate.

Apex Blue Pearl paint is exclusive to A-Spec®, while Liquid Carbon Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, and Lunar Silver Metallic are also available. A-Spec® also includes exclusive interior features.

Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure

The new MDX's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is designed to enhance occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions with a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle and reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE™ also helps reduce the potential for override in collisions between two vehicles of differing heights, and by offering additional strength and protection in small overlap frontal collisions, which are among the most severe.

Crash Stroke

The MDX's ACE™ body structure features crash stroke technology. In a severe frontal collision, the lower section of the front vehicle frame is designed to deform in a manner that helps direct the engine downward to minimize cabin intrusion.

Under Floor Load Path -To further enhance occupant protection, the 2022 MDX has two underfloor longitudinal members made of high-strength steel that connect to the side frames. This ultra-rigid structure channels crash loads into and through the longitudinal members, away from the passenger cabin.

Ultra-High Strength Door Ring

The 2022 MDX features a redesigned 1-piece 1500 MPa press hardened steel side door ring on the driver and passenger side produced from a 4-section tailor laser-welded blank that is significantly stronger than conventional steel, and it is designed to help better protect occupants in a frontal or side impact.

High-Performance Structural Adhesive

The 2022 MDX makes widespread use of structural adhesives - 35 meters in total - throughout the unibody, supplementing structural welds and significantly increasing rigidity and aiding collision performance. Applied before certain overlapping body panels are welded together, the high-performance adhesive material is used in the front suspension towers, front side frames, rear side sills, B-, C- and D-pillars, roof panel, central roof arch, rear wheelhouses, rear floor pan, and lower rear unibody corners.

Rear Ring Structure

To improve ride quality, handling and interior quietness, a dual balanced load path structure feeds rear suspension loads into both C- and D-pillars, instead of solely into the D-pillars as previously. Incorporated into this new structural engineering is a steel rear stiffening ring that connects the left and right C-pillars with the roof and floor, forming an immensely strong continuous "ring" that provides enhanced body rigidity in a critical area of the vehicle. The new rear ring structure contributes to the MDX's 32-percent increase in global torsional (twisting) stiffness.

Cast Aluminum Front Damper Mounts

Compared to typical steel mounts, the 2022 MDX's lightweight cast aluminum front damper houses (shock tower mounts) provide a 45-percent more rigid upper mounting point for the suspension, which improves the operating efficiency of the damper, allowing engineers to optimally tune suspension performance for sharper handling and improved ride compliance. Combined, the new aluminum mounts weigh 20.5 pounds less than typical steel mounts, and they also aid in the reduction of vibrations transmitted into the cabin and help optimize the new Acura MDX's front-to-rear weight bias. The mounts attach to the steel unibody using structural adhesive and self-piercing rivets.

New to MDX: Panoramic Moonroof with Tilt and Slide Function

Standard on all 2022 MDX model is an ultra-wide panoramic tilt and slide moonroof offers. Its top-slide, bottom-load design also minimizes intrusion on interior headroom. Comprising two panes of 4.0 mm tempered glass, the panoramic moonroof opening measures about 3.1 feet wide and 4.4 feet long. The tilting and sliding front panel is 37 inches wide and 27 inches long, and the fixed rear panel is 36 in. wide and 26 in. long.

Particularly for second- and third-row passengers, the panoramic roof provides an enhanced feeling of spaciousness. A power sunshade can be extended or retracted across both panoramic roof sections to provide either an unobstructed sky view, full shade, or anywhere in between. The panoramic moonroof also can be controlled by passengers seated in the second and third rows using the CabinControl® app on a connected smartphone.

The application of a panoramic moonroof required new roof design and engineering in order to retain the necessary stiffness and safety performance, without increasing vehicle height and frontal area. A key part of this new design is a roll-hemmed roof structure. A first for MDX, with its optimized steel and narrow tailor-welded flanges, the roof structure significantly stiffens the exterior roof panel, enabling the large panoramic moonroof to be added without sacrificing roof strength or overall unibody stiffness. An Acura first, the roof structure also features a six-piece tailor-welded steel roof stiffener, further optimizing weight and rigidity.

New: Soft Close Windows

An Acura first, a new power window control unit regulates window closing speed and slows the windows before closing to achieve a nice, soft close. The control unit also balances the window closing speeds across all four doors; this allows all four windows to close simultaneously (if selected by the driver) as well as softly, adding to the overall luxury feeling of the 2022 MDX.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) Design Features

Extensive noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) features include strategically placed body sealants, structural adhesives and other measures to reduce vibration and the transmission of noise. These measures include:

Exterior Colors

The 2022 Acura MDX is available in eight different exterior colors: two standard (no cost) paint options are Lunar Silver Metallic and Fathom Blue Pearl while Platinum White Pearl, Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Apex Blue Pearl (A-Spec® only), Phantom Violet Pearl and Liquid Carbon Metallic (new for Acura) are available at an additional cost.

The MDX manufacturing plant in Ohio made major investments in new painting technology in recent years to deliver new premium paint finishes, including the integration of new, premium colors using nano pigments, which Acura began using with the NSX supercar at the Performance Manufacturing Center. The multi-layer process used to apply the new Phantom Violet Pearl and Liquid Carbon Metallic paints requires exceptionally consistent layering of primer, top coat and sealer to achieve the desired luster, color intensity, and richness. To achieve this, new valves and pumps were installed, and the result of this careful process can be seen in the multicolor effect in the Phantom Violet Pearl, which shifts from different viewing angles.

Premium paints on the MDX feature:

New: Next-Generation Acura LED Lighting

The 2022 MDX incorporates light-emitting diode (LED) exterior lighting throughout, including:

JewelEye® LED Headlights with Auto On/Off

The 2022 Acura MDX's next-generation LED JewelEye® headlights provide a significant advancement in performance compared to the previous generation MDX, while offering dramatically better nighttime illumination and visibility than either high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights or traditional halogen headlights.

Incorporating four paired lighting cells per side, with each cell including a low- and high-beam LED, the new low-beam headlights provide 3-percent longer reach and 35-percent greater width in illumination than the previous generation MDX. Meanwhile the high beams have 8-percent longer reach and 25-percent greater width in illumination. Whenever the headlights are turned on, regardless of whether low- or high-beams are activated, all four lighting cells illuminate, providing a consistent appearance at the front of the vehicle.

Besides improving driver confidence and active safety, the LED headlights use 11-percent less energy than previously, helping to enhance fuel efficiency by reducing engine loads. In addition, the LED headlights last up to three times longer than HID headlights and up to six times longer than halogen headlights - contributing to less frequent replacement. An auto on/off function is included, and the low-beams illuminate momentarily when the doors are unlocked at night.

Chicane™ LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)

The MDX's new Chicane™ LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are positioned below and outside the JewelEye® LED headlights. In addition to enhancing safety, the dramatic winged Chicane™ shape of the new DRLs help identify the MDX at a glance from the front.

LED Fog Lights

Available on the Acura MDX A-Spec® and Advance Package, the new LED fog light array is comprised of three LEDs per side, and is positioned at the lower, outer area of the front fascia. Slender and chiseled in appearance, the fog lights contribute to the advanced, premium appearance of these models.

Fog lights are also available as a dealer-installed accessory on MDX and MDX with Technology Package.

Chicane™ LED Taillights and Brake lights

The MDX's new Chicane™ taillights are also shaped to enhance the premium stance of the new MDX. Their 3-dimensional design is defined by an eye-catching light-blade. Visually offering both depth and, shape and brilliance, the lights complement MDX's pronounced rear fender forms, while strongly defining and enhancing the rear appearance of the vehicle.

New: LED Door Handle Lights

Available on the MDX with Advance Package, the door handles illuminate when unlocking the doors using the key fob, opening the doors or rear tailgate, approaching the vehicle with the key fob, or unlocking the doors using the interior door switch.

Accessory Lighting

Multiple additional lighting options are available as dealer-installed accessories, including welcome lights, lights that project the Acura emblem onto the ground on the driver and passenger side, and lighted sill plates for the front and rear doors, plus the hatch sill.

New: Smart Wiper System

The new Smart Wiper System improves the 2022 MDX windshield wipers with more consistent speed for the blades, and reduced operating noise. To enhance aesthetics, the wiper blades and arms now "park" (or stow) in a lower position beneath the hood edge, out of sight of the driver and front passenger. Accordingly, a new "service position" for the wipers moves the arms to a vertical position, simplifying blade replacement.

New: Power Tailgate with Available Hands-Free Access and Walk Away Close

All 2022 MDX models include a power tailgate with programmable opening height. The Acura MDX with Advance Package further expands on that convenience with Hands-Free Access and Walk Away Close.

The power tailgate can be operated via the remote key fob, a button on the driver's door panel, a button above the rear license plate (for opening), a button located inside the tailgate (for closing) or-in MDX with Advance Package-the Walk Away Close button located in the rear cargo area on the driver's side of the vehicle (for closing).

Other power tailgate features include a stop and hold feature that allows the tailgate to be stopped at any desired position, which is useful when MDX is parked in tight areas such as in a crowded parking lot, in a garage or near a wall. Owners can also set the maximum height of the tailgate by simply pressing and holding the tailgate switch for three seconds when it reaches the desired height.

Standard on Advance Package, and available as a dealer-installed accessory on all MDX grades, is a Hands-Free Access system. When the key fob is within range, the tailgate is activated by simply kicking a foot underneath the rear bumper. The new Walk Away Close feature, exclusive to MDX Advance, allows users to just "grab and go" - i.e., retrieve needed items from the cargo area and simply walk away - letting Walk Away Close lower, latch and lock the tailgate. To activate the feature:

Low-Profile Roof Rails

Included with the Advance Package, aerodynamically shaped roof rails add versatility without detracting from MDX's streamlined package. Constructed using extruded aluminum and painted silver for a premium appearance, the rails accept available genuine Acura cross bars that can hold a variety of accessories including a storage case or racks for bikes, boards or skis.

The roof rails are also available as a dealer-installed accessory for all MDX grades.

2022 MDX: Interior & Technology

As the new flagship of the Acura lineup, the fourth-generation 2022 Acura MDX features a quantum leap forward for Acura interior design with the most premium and sophisticated cabin Acura has ever created. The seven-occupant interior raises the bar for craftsmanship, sophistication and functionality with its elegant new look, rich and authentic materials, and full array of top-tier features and technologies. The clean, horizontal design theme that creates a strong structural feel is softened with high-grade authentic materials including open-pore wood, brushed aluminum and soft-touch Milano leather. Controls are arranged around the needs of the driver, while the next-generation Acura sport seats set the stage for performance from the moment the driver sits behind the thick, sport steering wheel. The standard Integrated Dynamics System lets the driver instantly tune the vehicle's reflexes to road or whim, while the available Acura IconicDrive™ interior lighting system illuminates the cabin in 27 different selectable LED ambient lighting schemes.

Versatile, Spacious and Premium Cabin

Thanks to the all-new light-truck platform, the seven-occupant 2022 MDX cabin is roomier and more adaptable than ever before in all three rows. The front seats offer expanded leg, head, shoulder and hip room, imparting a feeling of spaciousness. In the multi-function second row, there is additional leg, shoulder and hip room, plus the versatility of the segment's first removable middle seat that allows easy access to the third row when removed, even if child booster seats are in the outboard second-row positions. The third row offers expanded head, leg and shoulder room, and easy access when all three second-row seats are in use thanks to the clever One-Touch Walk-In feature. When it comes to cargo carrying utility, MDX seating can be quickly reconfigured to accommodate a blend of passengers and cargo. With the second and third row seating folded flat, MDX offers up to 95.0 cubic feet of cargo space, more than ever before.

Fit and finish have received close attention throughout, with high-quality, soft-touch materials and available perforated Milano leather. The hand-wrapped instrument panel with available top-stitching provides a premium touch beyond anything offered in an Acura SUV to date. Genuine aluminum accents give MDX's cabin an advanced, technical appearance, while the interior of the Advance Package is highlighted with genuine open-pore wood trim.

Driver-Focused Interior

From the thicker, smaller diameter new steering wheel, to the clever and instinctive placement of all controls, the all-new MDX interior is more driver focused than ever before, with intuitive functionality and premium detailing. Roomier than ever before, the front seating area offers 0.4 inch more headroom, 0.2 inch more legroom, 0.8 inch more shoulder room and 1.8 inch more hip room for a spacious feeling for driver and front passenger. Dramatic styling elements sweep through the cabin, with Acura's award-winning True Touchpad Interface™ positioned within easy reach on the center console and the Integrated Dynamics System selector dial prominently positioned in the center section of the instrument panel. All controls have been designed with an eye toward ease of use, including the new Precision Cockpit™ that lets drivers customize how they want information to be displayed on the screen (see Driver-Focused Technology below).

New to MDX: Acura Sport Seats

The front bucket seats are based on the next-generation Acura sports seats that debuted in the 2019 RDX. Designed to provide luxurious comfort, combined with secure lateral support for performance driving, they use an ultra-high-strength steel frame for low weight and high rigidity. The seats provide comfortable support for a wide range of body types and driving styles, along with greater adjustability than ever before.

The front seats in Acura MDX offer standard 12-way power adjustability, including 4-way power lumbar adjustability and new 4-way adjustable headrests. Compared to the previous MDX, the front seats feature an additional 20 mm of rearward slide to better accommodate taller front-seat passengers. In MDX with Advance Package, the front seats deliver 16-way power adjustability, adding 2-way power-adjustable side bolsters and thigh support. In addition to the conventional seat control switches located on the outboard side of each front seat base cushion, MDX with Advance Package adds an on-screen seat control interface for added convenience.

Heated front seats with three temperature settings are standard in all MDX models, while MDX A-Spec® and MDX with Advance Package add 3-mode ventilated front seats with an auto climate function.

New: Multi-Function Second Row with Removable Middle Seat

The 2022 Acura MDX features a first-in-class 40/20/40 multi-function second row with removable middle seat. This unprecedented flexibility in seating provides owners three discrete seating options: a traditional bench for three-across seating and seven-passenger total capacity (middle seat up), a captain's-chair style wide center armrest with additional drink holders (middle seat down), or wide pass-through for access to the third row (middle seat removed), particularly useful when child seats are installed in the outboard second-row seats.

The second-row seats also feature significantly expanded shoulder room (+1.2 inches), and offers 5.9 inches of fore-aft seat slide adjustment travel, offering passengers great flexibility in selecting the optimal balance of second-row and third-row legroom. Comfort is boosted with 12 degrees of seatback recline adjustability, double the amount of the previous generation MDX. In MDX with Advance Package, second-row outboard seat heaters are standard.

Third-Row Seats with One-Touch Walk-In Access

A hallmark of MDX since its introduction in 2001, the third row is further improved on the 2022 MDX with an additional 0.6 inches of headroom, 2.4 inches of legroom and a seating position that's 1.7 inches higher from the floor compared to the outgoing model. With the new standard panoramic moonroof on all MDX trims, the third row has an airy and spacious feeling. In the MDX Advance trim, third-row occupants have their own USB charging ports on the left and right side of the cabin.

The One-Touch Walk-In Access makes entry to the third row as simple as pressing a button. This class leading Acura MDX signature feature carried over from the previous generation features simple and intuitive operation, with an illuminated button located on the base of the outboard second-row seats that's easy for adults and children to reach, and a second illuminated button on the upper portion of the second-row seatback. With a single push of the electronically actuated button, the second-row seatback (left or right) folds forward and the seat automatically slides forward. To help reduce the risk of unintentional operation, the buttons will not operate unless the brake pedal is pressed, or the gear selector is in Park.

Versatile Cargo Capability

The new, larger platform used for the fourth-generation MDX offers a new standard of spacious cargo capability and usefulness, with added cargo space behind each row of seating. A low lift-over height makes loading onto the carpeted cargo area easy. With the third-row seat in the upright position, the newly enlarged storage area is designed to accommodate bulky items, including a golf bag, a large convertible-type stroller such as from UPPA Baby, suitcases or a large cooler. Lifting the adjustable cargo floor panel reveals an additional hidden storage area with a cargo volume of 1.8 cubic feet, 80-percent more than the outgoing model. A handy storage bin is positioned at the left side of the cargo area behind the rear seat, with a 12-volt power outlet nearby. Additionally, a cargo cover is available as a dealer-installed accessory.

The third-row seats are split 50/50, and each side can be quickly folded flat with one pull of a handle. The head restraints fold forward first, and then the seatback is unlocked so it can be folded forward easily. The second row of seating is a new 40/20/40 split folding design, making it easier than ever to mix passengers and cargo. With both second-row and third-row seats folded, the cargo floor is flat and continuous - ideal for loading larger cargo.

New to MDX: Two-Tier, Reversible Cargo Floor

Positioned behind the third row of seating, the adjustable cargo floor offers newfound utility and versatility. The easily removable floor panel can be positioned flush with the cargo floor or positioned lower to open up additional space. In the upper position, the floor tops 1.8 cubic feet of storage space, perfect for occasionally used items or other belongings to be kept out of view. In the lower position, the adjustable floor provides added room for taller cargo items. The floor panel is reversible: a carpeted side has a finished, upscale look, and an easy-to-clean hard side that is ideal for wet or dirty items.

Interior Colors and Materials

The luxury interior palette is sophisticated and coordinated, and is offered in Ebony, Graystone, Parchment and Espresso color schemes, with Red available exclusively in A-Spec®. Seating material in MDX is in keeping with its performance/premium mission. Synthetic leather is standard in MDX, with premium Milano leather used in Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages.

Genuine Wood Interior Accents

In keeping with its high level of finish and premium detailing, MDX with Advance Package offers genuine wood interior accents. The sustainably sourced open-pore wood has a low-gloss finish to better display the wood's character. The accents sweep from the front doors, appearing to flow across the instrument panel.

Wood accents are also available for other Acura MDX grades as a dealer-installed option.

MDX A-Spec®

MDX A-Spec® can be equipped with either Red or Ebony Milano-leather wrapped seats, both accented with premium Black Ultrasuede® inserts, providing comfort and breathability during performance driving. In addition to style, the Ultrasuede® material used in MDX contributes to sustainability, with 30 percent of the polyester used in its creation coming from molasses, a waste product of sugar refining. This sustainable, plant-based raw material is processed to create polymers indistinguishable from those made using petrochemicals. The environmental benefits are substantial, with about 2.2 lb. (1 kg) of greenhouse gas emissions saved for every 2.2 lb. (1 kg) of Ultrasuede® produced, or a savings of about 1 pint (0.47 liter) of crude oil (the raw material for petroleum-based polymers) for every square meter of material produced.

Additional A-Spec® interior accents include:

New: Acura Precision Cockpit™ Digital Instrument Cluster

An Acura first, the 2022 MDX comes standard with the all new Acura Precision Cockpit™ all-digital instrument cluster that provides a customizable interface and an expanded range of useful information for the driver. Measuring 12.3-inches (diagonally) and with a fast refresh rate of 60Hz, the large HD screen offers clear graphics and vibrant colors. Two driver-selectable gauge layouts (Advanced or Crafted) are offered and linked to the user's key fob, along with a distinctive appearance based on the Integrated Dynamics System drive mode that is selected. Animated transitions mark each mode change when the Integrated Dynamics System is changed to a different mode. Unique to Sport mode is a Power Monitor display on the left that is derived from throttle position, acceleration rate, speed and gear selection.

In the center of the display is a vehicle external monitor with an animated representation of the MDX. The vehicle monitor provides an intuitive representation of a range of driver assistive information (parking sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System and more). The external monitor also shows the current status of the exterior lighting (e.g., headlights, taillights, brake lights, directional signals).

New to MDX: Head-Up Display

For the first time, MDX with Advance Package features a large 10.5-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD), which projects a broad range of customizable information on the lower portion of the windshield in the driver's line of sight. The driver can adjust the location (up and down) and the brightness of the projection via switches on the instrument panel.

Display modes can be selected using steering wheel-mounted controls. Display modes include:

New to MDX: Dynamic Mode Dial

Positioned just below the climate controls, the large Dynamic Mode Dial takes direct inspiration from the NSX supercar and makes it easy to quickly select one of four pre-set Integrated Dynamics System driving modes: Normal, Sport, Comfort and a new Snow mode. The modes can be changed easily by rotating the dial left or right to select the desired driving mode. An on-screen animation and interior ambient lighting (Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages) confirms each mode selection. In addition, Acura MDX offers a fifth Individual Mode - allowing the driver to tailor a personalized set of dynamic characteristics.

New to MDX: IconicDrive™ Selectable LED Ambient Lighting

The 2022 MDX with Technology Package and above offers expressive IconicDrive™ selectable LED ambient lighting - with a total of 27 different lighting schemes. Selectable through the True Touchpad Interface™, LED accent "light pipes" trace character lines throughout the interior. MDX with Advance Package features additional indirect illumination on the instrument panel, center console, and door pockets.

The standard Normal, Sport, Comfort and Snow driving modes have default color themes, with Normal and Snow featuring a white theme, Sport with a red theme, and Comfort with blue. Individual mode allows the user to choose any of those three colors as an Individual favorite. Through the Vehicle Settings menu in the True Touchpad Interface™, an additional 24 color theme combinations divided into Precision, Crafted and Performance themes that are inspired by some of the world's great destinations and racetracks can be selected. These color schemes override the white, red and blue defaults for the different Drive Modes.

Driver Information Interface

Positioned on the right side of the Precision Cockpit™ Digital Instrument Cluster, the Driver Information Interface gives the driver access to a range of useful information. Controls positioned on the right side of the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the Driver Information Interface through multiple screens of information from sources including the Trip Computer, Navigation, Tire Pressure, and more. The Maintenance Minder™ system alerts the MDX driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the Driver Information Interface, and should a fault occur with the vehicle, specific warning information appears. For the first time ever in MDX, the Driver Information Interface provides a real-time G-Meter display for performance driving, as well as a Driver Attention Monitor.

New to MDX: One-Touch Ultra-Wide Panoramic Moonroof

MDX features a standard power tilting and sliding ultra-wide panoramic moonroof with a power sunshade. To tilt or slide the movable forward panel of the moonroof, the driver or front passenger needs only to fully press the ceiling-mounted switch once (instead of pressing and holding it for several seconds). The moonroof opens or closes automatically. However, if the operator wishes to only partially open or close the moonroof, a lighter touch yields full manual control. A power-operated sunshade can partially or completely block the moonroof as desired. A first for Acura, the panoramic moonroof sunshade can also be controlled via the CabinControl® smartphone application.

Unique Driver Preferences

All MDX models come with two keyless remotes with unique identifiers. Each remote can be set with unique profiles to accommodate the individual preferences of two different drivers. The available preferences include driver seat and mirror positions, along with select HVAC functions and turning entry lights on or off. In the event both owners use the vehicle at the same time, Acura MDX will recognize the keyless remote that approaches the driver's door first.

Multi-View Rearview Camera and Surround View Camera System

A multi-view rearview camera is standard on MDX. Its enlarged wide-view format significantly expands the driver's rearward visibility when the camera is in use, increasing convenience and peace of mind. A rearview camera washer feature is standard and activated using the rear window washer switch on the wiper stalk. In MDX with Advance Package, four exterior cameras provide a 360-view of the space immediately around the vehicle through the central display. A camera button conveniently located on the end of the windshield wiper stalk changes camera views. Camera views can also be changed using the True Touchpad Interface™.

Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control - GPS-Linked with Technology Package

All MDX models feature a tri-zone automatic climate control system that lets the driver, front passenger and rear passengers set temperatures to their individual liking. To simplify operating the HVAC system, easy-to-read buttons and controls are positioned within close reach.

For greater convenience, rear zone controls are placed on the rear of the front center console within reach of the second-row passengers. MDX now includes an activated charcoal cabin filter standard to reduce outside gaseous pollutants and some odors from entering the cabin through the climate control system. The Acura CabinControl® app is available at no cost, and can be configured for use on a compatible smartphone to control a range of MDX features, including select climate control functions (see Audio & Connectivity below).

With its position-sensing ability, the GPS navigation system in MDX with Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages contributes to overall passenger comfort with a 3D solar sensing feature.

New to MDX: Acura True Touchpad Interface™

The 2022 Acura MDX features the latest generation of Acura's intuitive and driver-focused True Touchpad Interface™ (TTI), featuring Acura's largest-ever center display. At an ultra-wide 12.3-inches and fast refresh rate of 60Hz, the full-HD display works seamlessly with the Acura-exclusive touchpad with "absolute positioning," a new, more powerful CPU, updated handwriting recognition and more accurate swipe zones on the touchpad, and new AI-driven Smart Shortcuts for quick and predictive access to common tasks. Behind the TTI touchpad is a broad and ergonomically optimized palm rest, and to its immediate right are intuitive physical Power, Volume and Seek controls.

The True Touchpad Interface™ combines the intuitive and direct control of a traditional touchscreen with the convenience of a remote interface. Every spot on the True Touchpad Interface™ is mapped precisely (i.e., "one-to-one") with the corresponding position on the large center display; for example, a tap on the upper left corner of the touchpad corresponds with the action on the top left of the center display. This is in stark contrast to other remote interfaces that operate like a computer trackpad, and can greatly reduce or even eliminate visual confirmation of the desired command, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road.

The new onboard natural language voice recognition system dramatically improves the ease and intuitiveness of voice commands in the vehicle that includes Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant compatibility with a connected smartphone, plus the advanced handwriting recognition ability in the True Touchpad Interface™ offers an alternate input method. Additionally, the available interactive Head-Up Display (HUD) complements the system and provides drivers with a new level of situational awareness.

New: Smart Shortcuts

New to the True Touchpad Interface™ in MDX is the AI-driven Smart Shortcuts feature, which adapts to driver preferences and habits to present on-screen suggestions within the Smart Shortcuts App. For example, Smart Shortcuts might suggest returning a missed phone call, or note a likely destination or relevant POI along a route. The system creates shortcuts in radio, phone and navigation (if equipped) categories, and can create a unique profile to generate shortcuts customized to each driver's behavior, linked to each of the two fobs provided with the vehicle.

New to MDX: CabinTalk®

New to MDX, and included on the MDX A-Spec® and Advance Package, CabinTalk® uses the HandsFreeLink® microphone in the front row to broadcast audio through an in-vehicle public address system to the second and third rows. CabinTalk® is activated using the True Touchpad Interface™, which allows the driver and front passenger to communicate to the rear seating areas through the audio system speakers. When the CabinTalk® app is in use, audio is muted, then automatically resumes when the app is closed.

New to MDX: CabinControl® App

New to the MDX and standard on all grades the CabinControl® app. The downloadable iOS and Android app allows passengers to use their smartphones to control a range of MDX features with the driver's permission. Each phone must have the Acura CabinControl® app installed and open, and then each phone is connected with Acura MDX. Up to seven devices can be connected at once, but a given feature can't be operated by more than one phone simultaneously. Phones can control all the basic functions of the audio system, with the exception of volume, and the rear climate control system and panoramic moonroof sunshade. Any connected phone can also look up an address or point of interest, and then send it to the navigation system (if equipped) where the driver can accept it or reject it.

The Social Playlist feature is unique in that all seven connected phones can use it simultaneously. Social Playlist lets passengers share songs (must be DRM free) on their device to a playlist that appears on the center display where the driver can view and control it.

Three Available Audio Systems

MDX offers three distinct levels of audio performance, depending on trim.

All three available MDX audio systems offer a variety of source options including AM, FM, HD Radio™, SiriusXM®, Bluetooth® audio and a USB connected device. Additionally, in an Acura first, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration is standard on all MDX grades.

Acura 9-Speaker Audio System (Standard)

The 2022 MDX comes standard with a 350-watt Acura premium audio system with 9 speakers strategically located throughout the MDX cabin. Positioned on each side of the cabin, 1.1-inch tweeters are positioned near the A-pillars. Each front door has a 3.5-inch full-range speaker and a larger 6.7-inch driver. An additional 6.7-inch driver is positioned in each rear door. A 7.9-inch-inch subwoofer is mounted in a tuned enclosure in the right rear sidewall of the third row of seating.

New to MDX: ELS STUDIO® 12-Speaker Premium Audio System (Technology Package)

MDX with Technology Package features a 12-speaker, 550-watt ELS STUDIO® Premium Audio System that is engineered to offer impressive sound quality from a wide range of media formats. Building on the 9-speaker layout, two additional 1.1-inch by 4-inch Highline™ ultra-slim overhead speakers are added in the front portion of the headliner and a 3.5-inch center-channel full-range speaker is placed atop the instrument panel. An external amplifier with patented Acoustic Motion Control™ provides 12 channels of amplification.

Engineered specifically for Acura MDX, the system delivers highly detailed, well-balanced sound to all seating positions. The system gets its name from multi-Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner's recording industry-recognized moniker: "ELS."

New to MDX: ELS STUDIO 3D® 16-Speaker Premium Audio System (A-Spec®, Advance Package)

MDX with A-Spec® or Advance Packages feature a state-of-the-art 710-watt 16 speaker, 16-channel ELS STUDIO 3D® Premium Audio System. Building on the 12-speaker version, the 3D system features four Highline™ ultra-slim overhead speakers in the vehicle's headliner. An additional 3.1-inch surround driver is positioned in each rear corner of the cabin. An upgraded external amplifier with patented Acoustic Motion Control™ provides 710 watts of system power, delivered through 16 discrete channels.

With 3-way front cabin sound architecture and user selectable Multi-Zone Audio, the sound image can be personalized to meet the desires of individual tastes. Even the rear seat, passengers are treated to an expansive soundstage with the extensive use of speakers in the rear area of the vehicle.

The ELS 3D system is designed to create an immersive experience that seems to be suspended in mid-air thanks to the full array of Highline™ ultra-slim overhead speakers. The result is a powerful listening experience that brings studio-quality sound to the MDX.

This sophisticated speaker array offers multi-zone audio, with selectable speaker level optimization. The system allows optimized privacy sound zones for the driver, the front, or rear seats. In addition, the 3D system is fully integrated with the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone system to use the overhead speakers for a new level of hands-free phone clarity.

New to MDX: Wireless Smartphone Charging and Connectivity

All 2022 MDX grades come standard with a Qi-compatible 15-watt wireless charger located adjacent to the TTI palm rest on top of the center console. Additionally, all MDX grades also come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. After a simple one-time pairing, the combination of wireless charging and wireless smartphone integration eliminates the extra step of physically connecting the phone, making Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ ready to go and freeing up an additional USB port for charging a separate phone.

New to MDX: Acura Navigation System with Natural Language Voice Recognition

The 2022 MDX with Technology Package features an all-new integrated Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System with natural language voice recognition using GPS technology to provide drivers with turn-by-turn guidance to their chosen destination (available in all 50 United States as well as Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico).

The navigation system, developed in cooperation with HERE, offers many improvements, including enhanced graphics, 3D buildings, turn-by-turn directions displayed in the instrument cluster and more.

The subscription-free HD Digital Traffic feature alerts the driver to current traffic conditions and can display alternate routes around heavy traffic. It features expanded coverage including many surface streets within the U.S., allowing the driver to choose faster, less congested routes.

The navigation system can be controlled by voice or the True Touchpad Interface™. The new, enhanced natural-speech voice-recognition system can respond to more casual command phrases that require less user familiarization, in addition to the previous capability of being able to understand spoken city and street names.

New to MDX: Amazon Alexa Built-In

Acura MDX is the first Acura model to feature the cloud-based speech recognition assistant, Alexa, integrated with the vehicle. With a simple voice command, drivers can ask Alexa to find and navigate to a specific address or point of interest, play music, call contacts saved to the Alexa account, listen to audiobooks, check the news and weather, control smart home devices and more - all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. MDX customers can access tens of thousands of Alexa Skills inside the vehicle, providing a seamless Alexa experience whether they're on the road or at home. Alexa functionality requires either an AT&T mobile hotspot subscription or connection to a mobile hotspot through the user's smartphone.

AcuraLink® Cloud-Based Services

MDX offers an all-new generation of AcuraLink®, Acura's cloud-based connected car system with expanded capabilities including emergency roadside assistance, remote locking/unlocking and engine start, stolen vehicle tracking, remote diagnostics, geo-fencing, speed tracking and more. AcuraLink® is designed to keep MDX owners informed and connected while on the go. Additionally, MDX owners can also use the AcuraLink® Skill for Alexa inside the home for remote voice control of vehicle functions such as remote start, locking and unlocking the doors, and more.

The connectivity required for the various AcuraLink® features is distributed between the embedded system and the owner's compatible smartphone and data package.

AcuraLink® Service Levels

AcuraLink® has four available levels of services, a complimentary Basic Package and three subscription-based levels:

New to MDX: AT&T Mobile Hotspot

All MDX models have a standard AT&T Mobile Hotspot (data rates apply). With download speeds of up to 11.6 Mbps, the system is capable of streaming HD video to three devices simultaneously. (Requires AT&T data plan. Coverage & service not available everywhere. Fees, terms & restrictions apply.)

USB Ports and Power Outlets

Just to the right of the transmission controls, a convenient pop-up features a USB-C and USB-A port. A USB data port is located inside the console. A pair of USB-A ports are positioned on the rear of the center console, for use by the second-row passengers. Advance Package models add two more USB-A charging ports in the third row of seating.

All MDX models have four 12-volt power outlets: one in the center console storage bin, one on the right-hand side of the center console near the passenger footwell, another serving the second row of seating, and a fourth in the cargo area. A 110-volt AC outlet is provided in the second row on Advance Package.

Center Console Connectivity and Storage

The new center console is a key design element of the interior, both stylistically and functionally. It integrates the bold stylistic themes that run through the doors and instrument panel and is finished in high-quality, soft-touch materials. The console maximizes driver and passenger comfort with a padded armrest, and there is also a padded hand rest built into the console, designed to help support the driver's hand when using the True Touchpad Interface™.

Substantial design effort went into incorporating smart storage features into the console to make daily use simpler. Two large cupholders are positioned on top of the console for easy access, alongside a rubberized tray for a phone that includes standard wireless charging for compatible devices. A separate phone pocket is positioned just in front of the cupholders, close to the pop-up USB-C and USB-A ports.

Under the padded, hinged lid, the console has a small item storage tray and a larger illuminated main compartment.

2022 MDX: Chassis

The all-new performance-tuned architecture of the 2022 Acura MDX was engineered for Type S levels of performance, paying benefits to every MDX. With the most rigid body structure ever for an Acura SUV, the new platform provides the best balance of precise and agile handling, confident and secure driving feel, ride quality and comfort, and stronger braking performance for every MDX in the lineup. MDX features a double-wishbone front suspension for the first time ever, contributing to the more agile and precise handling, improved steering response and feel, higher cornering capability, and better controlled body motions.

At the rear, the 2022 MDX features a new multi-link suspension system. Performing in concert with the new front double-wishbone front suspension, the new multi-link rear suspension system further contributes to significant handling performance gains and ride quality. In addition, there is a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, 1.4-inch greater front and rear track widths, and increased wheel and tire sizes.

Key to the MDX's increased steering quickness is a new belt-driven, variable-ratio, rack-and-pinion electric power steering (EPS) system. This new steering setup-combined with MDX's wider wheels and tires-contributes to an overall increase in steering quickness of 20 percent, requiring far less hand-over-hand steering wheel motion compared to the previous MDX and providing steering feel and a sense of agility more akin to a sport sedan than a three-row SUV. A new electric brake booster (EBB) and more powerful brakes provide excellent feedback and more consistent performance under all driving conditions, while the EBB also allows faster reaction from AcuraWatch™ technologies such as the Collision Mitigation Braking System™. Available fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) provides true torque vectoring for improved handling capabilities in all weather and road conditions.

Acura engineers meticulously designed and tuned these MDX chassis technologies to yield a driver-machine connection never before experienced in MDX. The result is a sense that Acura MDX performs exactly as the driver intends, requiring minimal input while delivering confidence-inspiring feedback, bringing class-above driving dynamics to every MDX customer.

New to MDX: Front Double Wishbone Suspension

The 2022 MDX's front double wishbone suspension, the first ever for MDX, is engineered to provide inspired handling performance and an engaged and connected feel. Contributing directly to this, lateral stiffness is up 22 percent compared to the MacPherson strut design in the previous MDX.

Specially calibrated geometry includes 173-percent more camber gain during suspension stroke, optimizing the contact patch and giving the new MDX improved steering response, feel, precision and grip. The front suspension also includes 8-percent more anti-dive effect, reducing forward body pitch during hard braking, and 100-percent greater mechanical compliance for smoother operation.

The front suspension has been optimized with compact and high-strength components, including the use of lightweight forged aluminum lower wishbones, steering knuckles and damper forks, which reduce unsprung weight for better response. The upper wishbones are stamped steel, and the stabilizer bar is 31.8 mm diameter tubular steel, with 5 mm wall thickness, compared to the previous generation MDX's solid 24.0 mm for FWD and 25.0 mm for AWD. For the first time on MDX, the damper's upper mount is an ultra-rigid cast aluminum housing that is riveted and bonded to the body, providing an exceptionally stiff mounting point that benefits ride quality, steering and handling.

The suspension geometry is specially tuned to yield communicative on-center steering feel, and excellent response and stability, while the new, quicker, variable-ratio electric power steering (EPS) system ensures a comfortable and relaxed driving experience (see Belt-Driven Variable-Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering below). The system also minimizes steering disturbances, such as torque steer and road kickback through the steering wheel, making the MDX feel truly "planted" even on twisting or rough roads.

Hydraulic Suspension Compliance Bushings

The forged-aluminum lower suspension arms are connected to the body via specially tuned hydraulic compliance bushings in stamped steel carriers. This design provides the ideal combination of ride quality, handling responsiveness and precision, and maximum isolation from road noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) inside the vehicle.

Rigid-Mount Steel Front Subframe

The Acura MDX employs a rigid-mount steel front subframe to increase lateral stiffness, thus improving steering and handling response. The subframe supports the engine, transmission, front suspension and steering system, and directly contributes to the improved handling and, importantly, crash-safety performance of the 2022 MDX.

New: Multi-Link Rear Suspension

The new multi-link rear suspension system in the 2022 MDX offers both handling performance and ride compliance significantly above the previous generation. Designed to perform ideally in both FWD and SH-AWD® configurations, the new multi-link system uses one forged aluminum and three steel control arms and an aluminum hub carrier to minimize unsprung weight and optimize component stiffness.

Helping the new suspension system excel at enhancing stability, ride compliance and impact harshness is a body construction that features a dual load path. Further, a 48-percent increase in lateral stiffness and a 70-percent increase in lateral force toe-in were achieved by repositioning the primary lateral link, both of which sharpen the new MDX's handling over the previous generation. The 2022 MDX separates the rear suspension springs from the dampers. This helps improve packaging and allows more third-row passenger and foot room, and a lower cargo floor that contributes to an 8.6-percent improvement in cargo capacity behind the third-row seats.

Amplitude Reactive Dampers

Amplitude Reactive Dampers are used on all MDX trims, contributing to crisp, precise handling together with outstanding ride comfort. The dampers operate in two distinct performance parameters: the Ride Zone and the Handling Zone. Each zone has a unique set of compression and rebound damping forces tailored to provide the desired ride and handling attributes. In essence, the Amplitude Reactive Dampers operate like two separate damper systems in one. The dampers function reactively or "passively," and are entirely mechanical/hydraulic in operation with no electronics required.

New to MDX: Belt-Driven Variable-Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS)

The new belt-driven electric power steering (EPS) for Acura MDX uses a high-output electric motor to increase the torque available for steering assist. This high capacity allows even faster steering response - and less input from the driver - than in the previous-generation MDX. The new EPS system's variable gear ratio system is designed and tuned to provide the most essential steering characteristics in a luxury vehicle, including:

The system's variable steering ratio is enabled by a steering rack with progressively narrower gear-tooth spacing, so the steering ratio is quickest directly off center for optimal handling agility, and slower as the steering wheel is turned further off center.

Compared to the previous model, the 2022 MDX steering system delivers a 15-percent faster initial response at center and a 7-percent quicker response as the steering wheel is turned farther from center. The electric steering system's ECU is calibrated with the Integrated Dynamics System to increase steering weight in Sport mode, and deliver lighter steering feel in Comfort mode.

The steering rack is directly attached to the rigidly mounted front subframe, increasing lateral stiffness for improved steering precision.

New to MDX: Rigid Steering Column

The 2022 MDX steering column uses a new highly rigid design with a one-piece aluminum mounting bracket, two angular bearings and one radial bearing. The increased stiffness accommodates the MDX steering wheel's 25-percent greater tilt and 50-percent greater telescopic range which suits a wider range of driver sizes. The rigid design and bearing assembly also confer a smooth steering feel, maximum driver feedback, and minimal vibration felt in the wheel. Furthering these refinements are a sporty steering wheel with a diameter that is 10 mm smaller and 5.2-percent thicker rim for a more natural, comfortable feel.

Four-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS

The 2022 MDX comes with four-wheel disc brakes accompanied by a 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist, and a new electric brake booster (EBB). The EBB utilizes a servomotor to assist braking performance while improving brake feel and pedal modulation in virtually all conditions. The brake system also utilizes a large-diameter master cylinder to achieve a short stroke, which is paired to a firm pedal feel. The result is comfortable and refined braking feel at low speeds, predictable and confidence-inspiring operation at high speeds, an engaging feel on winding roads, and reassuring high-performance stopping in emergency situations.

This tuning skillset extends to automatic emergency braking as well. The new MDX's brakes with the EBB have a 230 millisecond quicker (0.23 sec.) response time for the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) than the previous model's vacuum booster brake system. At 30 mph, this can result in a 12-ft. shorter stopping distance.

System Details Include:

The 13.8-inch ventilated front brake rotors are 1.2 inches (30 mm) larger and 0.08 inch (2 mm) wider than previously, which provides a 17.6-percent increase in heat capacity and increased resistance to warping when the braking system becomes hot during vigorous use. The rotors are clamped by new twin-piston iron calipers. In back, 13.0-inch disc brakes incorporate solid rotors paired with new single-piston iron brake calipers. The brake pads are a high-friction type for peak stopping performance even under strenuous conditions.

The brake calipers are designed to reduce brake drag when not in use, reducing rolling resistance and improving fuel efficiency in the process.

Case-Hardened Brake Rotors

During manufacturing, both the front and rear brake rotors are treated with a high-temperature ferritic nitrocarburizing process (commonly known as case hardening) that infuses the rotors' iron material with nitrogen and carbon to create a more durable working surface. This added step yields high resistance to brake-fade, scuffing, fatiguing and corrosion during the brake rotors' service life.

Additionally, the front and rear brake calipers are now zinc-nickel plated for increased corrosion protection, which provides for an improved, more premium appearance over time.

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is an electronic stability control system that works in conjunction with the MDX's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle and its 4-channel ABS systems to enhance control capability while the vehicle is accelerating, braking, cornering or when the driver makes a sudden maneuver.

VSA® also provides a limited-slip differential effect by applying braking force to a slipping wheel, thereby redirecting driving force to the wheel with more traction. While the driver can reduce the traction control effectiveness allowing more wheel slip during stuck conditions by pressing the VSA® button, ABS remains fully operational at all times.

Agile Handling Assist (AHA)

The MDX's handling dynamics are augmented by Agile Handling Assist (AHA), which uses the brakes selectively to improve initial turning response, increase overall cornering ability, and help inspire driver confidence. By using brake vectoring (applying braking force independently at each wheel as necessary) during cornering, the system creates a "yaw moment," thus generating more turning force and reducing understeer.

Integrated Dynamics System

The Integrated Dynamics System on the 2022 Acura MDX automatically and seamlessly fine tunes multiple settings on a continual, real-time basis to maximize vehicle performance and driver enjoyment, regardless of conditions. A new Individual mode lets MDX drivers fine-tune functions to their tastes.

Systems adjusted via Integrated Dynamics System mode selection include:

Using the console-mounted Dynamic Mode Dial, drivers may preset Comfort and Normal as their default mode (enabled upon engine start), while the Snow, Sport and new Individual modes can be selected after engine start-up. The selected mode is then displayed on the left side of the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen. Additionally, the Acura Precision Cockpit™ display changes depending on the mode selected.

Hill Start Assist

The Hill Start Assist function helps to prevent MDX from rolling backwards when the driver switches from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is stopped on a hill. Hill Start Assist automatically activates when the vehicle senses a certain incline and is fully stopped in any forward gear when facing up hill or in reverse gear when facing downhill. The system uses a longitudinal G-sensor along with a wheel speed sensor to control the hydraulic brake modulator. When activated, Hill Start Assist will release the brakes when the driver depresses the throttle or if the driver doesn't press the accelerator after a few seconds.

Electric Parking Brake (EPB)

The standard Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is simpler, more convenient and comfortable to use than a traditional parking brake. Engaging the parking brake requires only a push on a switch on the left side of the dash. To release the parking brake, the driver simply pulls up on the parking brake switch while operating the brake pedal, or presses on the accelerator pedal while the seatbelt is buckled when the transmission is in Drive or Reverse.

Automatic Brake Hold

When activated using the button on the left side of the dash, Automatic Brake Hold retains brake pressure when the vehicle comes to a stop, such as at a traffic light or in heavy traffic, until the driver presses the throttle pedal. This frees the driver from continually pressing the brake pedal to maintain the vehicle in a stopped position.

Weight Distribution

Handling balance is dependent on suspension design and unibody structural stiffness, but it also requires controlling the component weight and packaging to optimize the vehicle's center of gravity.

Contributing to the 2022 MDX's optimized front/rear weight distribution are the use of forged aluminum key components in the front suspension, including the lower A-arms, the steering knuckles, and the damper forks. The new MDX's center of gravity is optimized, in part, by the use of a special hemmed construction of the panoramic moonroof opening, allowing the smallest possible roof mechanism and enabling a reduction in overall height without compromising interior headroom. An aluminum hood, front fenders, radiator surround and front bumper beam further help optimize both weight distribution and center of gravity.

Overall, the new Acura MDX's engineering, packaging and materials result in a front/rear weight distribution of 60/40 percent for the front-wheel-drive MDX and 58/42 percent for SH-AWD® models. This helps MDX dynamically in virtually all driving conditions, especially during spirited cornering and emergency avoidance maneuvers.

Wheels and Tires

The new MDX comes standard with 19 x 8.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels, an inch larger in diameter and a half-inch wider, respectively, than the previous-generation MDX. To enhance cornering performance, the MDX with Technology Package, A-Spec® and Advance Package feature 20 x 9.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels. These are an inch wider than the 20-inch wheels on the previous Technology Package, and a half-inch wider than the 20-inch wheels on the previous A-Spec® and Advance Package. Every MDX model features its own unique wheel design and finish (see chart below for details).

Designed specifically for the new MDX, the 255-mm wide tires are 10-mm wider than on the previous-generation vehicle. The base MDX rides on 255/55R19 Bridgestone Alenza Sport high-performance all-season tires, while the Acura MDX with Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages have lower-profile 255/50R20 Bridgestone Alenza Sport high-performance all-season tires. All tires carry an M+S rating, making them suitable for year-round use in all weather and road conditions, and their bespoke tread pattern minimizes performance drop-off throughout the tires' service life.

With increases in wheel diameter, wheel and tire width, and 25-percent more tire contact patch stiffness, the MDX's 20-inch wheel and tire package results in increased contact patch stability during high lateral (i.e., cornering) loads, which directly improves turn-in response, steering feel and lateral grip. The tire tread compound and construction reduces road noise while providing balanced performance for everyday transportation, touring and sport driving.

Additionally, the MDX's 19-inch tires have 27-percent less rolling resistance than the previous model's 18-inch base tires, and the 20-inch tires on the Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages offer 10-percent less rolling resistance than the previous MDX's available 20-inch tires, helping to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in both instances.

All 2022 MDX models with SH-AWD® feature a T155/85D18 convenience spare mounted on a steel wheel and carried below the cargo area floor outside of the vehicle. A jack and lug wrench are secured under the cargo area floor. MDX FWD models include a tire repair kit.

Noise-Reducing Wheels

The 20-inch wheels on the 2022 MDX Technology, A-Spec® and Advance Packages feature a pair of molded Helmholtz resonators installed within a groove on the inside of each rim that lowers the peak noise level by approximately 7 dB in the 180 to 220 Hertz audible range. The resonance frequency of the air cavity in the tire is drastically reduced, resulting in a quieter ride when driving on a variety of road surfaces - especially when crossing over expansion joints, which in other vehicles can produce a high-pitch ringing sound, not unlike the sound of a basketball bouncing.

Off-Road Capability

Engineers took thorough measures to develop the 2022 MDX with useful off-road capabilities, including testing in snow, mud and sand. The available computer-controlled SH-AWD® system helps the MDX meet typical off-road challenges without the need for low-range gears. The system is designed for "decision free" operation, meaning that the driver does not need to actively choose when to engage all-wheel-drive. The system is always active and ready to distribute torque as needed.

Ground clearance and approach, breakover and departure angles are configured for typical SUV driving conditions including dirt and gravel roads, snow and mud.

Towing

By adding an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness, drawbar and ball, the front-wheel-drive Acura MDX can tow up to 3,500 lbs. Customers needing additional towing capability can opt for SH-AWD® models with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.

The MDX's optional receiver-style trailer hitch accommodates a variety of trailer coupler designs, and includes a draw bar, retaining pin, clip, and wiring harness with 7-pin round-style connector. Hitch balls are available separately in 1-7/8 -inch or 2-inch diameters.

2022 MDX: Safety & Driver Assistive Technology

Fulfilling Acura's commitment to "safety through innovation," the 2022 MDX offers the highest level of standard safety and driver-assistive technologies in the model's history. As a driver's vehicle that also will be carrying the most precious cargo, including families -safety performance was of paramount importance.

The 2022 MDX has the newest generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a new front-end designed to help reduce pedestrian injuries, ultra-high-strength steel driver and passenger-side door stiffener ring, and eight airbags for the first time, including a new next-generation passenger front airbag and new front-passenger knee airbag.

The 2022 MDX also features the latest generation AcuraWatch™ suite of driver-assistive technologies is standard on all MDX models. AcuraWatch™ helps to improve the driver's situational awareness and, in certain circumstances, intervenes to help avoid a collision or mitigate its severity. New features for AcuraWatch™ on the 2022 Acura MDX include Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Driver Attention Monitor, pedestrian sensing and automatic emergency braking (Pedestrian AEB). Also new for MDX, and available on Technology Package, is a new Low Speed Braking Control system.

Additional driver-assistive features include a standard HD Multi-View Rearview Camera System with Dynamic Guidelines and a new rear-camera washer system, Blind Spot Information (BSI) system, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor and available front and rear parking sensors. The MDX with Advance Package also includes a Head-Up Display and Surround View Camera System.

Based on this comprehensive effort, Acura engineers targeted the highest available safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including the TOP SAFETY PICK + (TSP+) rating.

Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure

The MDX utilizes the latest version of Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure to enhance occupant protection in frontal collisions. The new body structure improves overlap with smaller and lower-riding vehicles for improved collision compatibility, and features better absorption and distribution of crash loads around the passenger cabin. In the new MDX, the ACE™ body structure directs crash energy into both upper and lower structural elements, which includes the new front subframe, floor frame rails, underfloor longitudinal members, , side sills and A-pillars. These specifically engineered "pathways" help effectively route frontal impact forces through a greater percentage of the vehicle's total structure, helping to limit cabin deformation and improve occupant protection.

Collision Safety Ratings

The 2022 MDX targets a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and incorporates design elements intended to anticipate future testing requirements, including oblique frontal collisions, pedestrian safety, and forward warning and automatic emergency braking tests. In addition, the new MDX targets a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including the highest available rating of GOOD in all collision tests and SUPERIOR for frontal crash prevention, with new headlights designed to achieve a GOOD rating in the rigorous IIHS headlight standard.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle Crash Energy Management

The enhanced frontal crash energy management of the 2022 MDX can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash. In particular, ACE™ helps minimize the potential for under-ride or over-ride situations that can happen during frontal impacts with a larger or smaller vehicle. Compared to the previous generation ACE™, the 2022 Acura MDX body structure has increased front overlap area providing 38-percent greater efficiency and load capacity for improved vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility with smaller cars.

Structural Safety

Meeting MDX's crash-safety rating targets required advanced structural engineering features in addition to ACE™, including side collision-load pathways, ultra-high-strength-steel door reinforcement beams and a one-piece outer ultra-high-strength driver and passenger-side front door ring made of 1500-MPa press-hardened steel. Overall, the 2022 MDX body uses the most high-strength steel in model history -60.9 percent vs. 54 percent on the previous MDX -optimizing vehicle mass and contributing to 34-percent greater energy absorption in a side impact.

Engineering features that further help to improve occupant protection are:

Airbag System

The new Acura MDX is equipped with eight airbags, the most ever for the model. These include a driver front airbag, advanced next-generation passenger front airbag, front side airbags, side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor, and both driver and front passenger knee airbags.

Driver Front Airbag - Every MDX is equipped with an advanced front driver's airbag. The front airbag is designed to supplement the seat belts to help reduce the likelihood of head and upper body injuries in frontal crashes.

New to MDX: Next-Generation Front Passenger Airbag - The 2022 MDX incorporates innovative passenger front airbag technology designed to better protect occupants in a wide range of frontal collision scenarios. The new airbag is particularly beneficial in angled frontal impacts in which lateral collision forces can cause an occupant's head to rotate severely or slide off the airbag, increasing the chance of serious injury. Significantly, the new airbag is designed to reduce strain on brain tissue by 75 percent compared to the previous generation front passenger airbag by better controlling the front passenger's head in certain types of crashes. The airbag can better manage lateral collision forces that may cause an occupant's head to rotate severely at high velocity, or to slide off a conventional passenger airbag, increasing the chance of serious injury.

Compared to a single inflatable chamber of conventional airbag systems, the new passenger airbag consists of four major components: three inflated compartments (a center chamber and two outward-projecting side chambers that create a wide base across the dash) and an uninflated "sail panel" that stretches between the two side chambers. The "sail panel" is designed to initially catch and decelerate the occupant's head with less force prior to contacting the lower chamber, while directing it inward between the two inflated chambers to cradle and help protect the front seat passenger's head.

Driver and Front Passenger Side Airbags - Driver and front passenger side airbags mounted in the outboard area of each front seatback are designed to help provide pelvis and thorax protection in the event of a severe side impact.

Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor - All outboard seating positions include a side curtain airbag system. In addition to providing a significant level of head protection in side impacts and rollovers, the side curtain airbags in the 2022 MDX offer enhanced protection in frontal impacts. The side curtain airbags feature optimized cell patterns and sizes designed to work harmoniously with the frontal airbags.

Driver and New Passenger Knee Airbags - In addition to the driver knee airbag, the 2022 MDX features a new front passenger knee airbag. These airbags are designed to better control the forward motion of the occupants in the event of a frontal collision, in conjunction with the front airbags and seatbelts. Each knee airbag is contained beneath a panel on the underside of the instrument panel, which is contoured away from the knees.

Seatbelts

Three-point seatbelts are standard for all seating positions. The front and outboard second-row seats are equipped with load-limiting retractors to help mitigate injuries in a collision. For 2022, the outboard second-row seats are now equipped with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners in addition to the front seats.

Head Restraints

The first and second-row seating positions in the MDX feature individually adjustable head restraints. The front head restraints feature the latest generation of neck protection, as well as both vertical and fore/aft adjustment. The third row head restraints feature flip and fold head restraints for easy stowing.

Child Safety Features

The 2022 Acura MDX features easier to access anchors for its three sets of second-row LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat mounting positions.

The LATCH lower anchors now feature removable cover caps for the second row outer seating positions, which provide improved appearance and easier access. In addition, the upper tether anchors in the second row outer seat positions have been positioned for improved visibility and access. The 2022 MDX also features two third row upper tether anchors.

New to MDX: Rear Seat Reminders

All MDX models feature a new Rear Seat Reminder as standard equipment. The Rear Seat Reminder chimes when the car is turned off, with a notification reminding drivers to check the rear seating area when exiting the car for children, pets or other precious cargo.

New to MDX: Pedestrian Injury Mitigation

Based on Acura's commitment to advance safety for everyone sharing the road, the 2022 MDX has an improved impact-absorbing front end design to help reduce a pedestrian's risk of injury and increase their chance of survival in the event of a frontal collision. Improvements include enhanced head protection compared to the previous generation, and the addition of new impact-absorbing features to help provide additional upper and lower leg protection.

Pedestrian injury mitigation features on the 2022 MDX include:

AcuraWatch™ Active Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology

Standard on all MDX grades, the AcuraWatch™ suite of driver-assistance technologies includes:

Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)

Acura's latest version of its Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) alerts the driver when it determines there is potential for a collision, and then automatically applies emergency braking to help avoid or reduce the severity of a collision if drivers don't take corrective action on their own. Now, for the first time CMBS™ on the MDX includes pedestrian sensing and automatic emergency braking (Pedestrian AEB).

When CMBS™ determines there is potential for a collision, visual and audible alerts prompt the driver to take corrective actions. The visual alerts appear on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen and, on the Advance Package, also on the windshield via the Head-Up Display. If the system determines that a collision is imminent, it applies the brakes to help reduce vehicle speed and eventual collision forces.

A millimeter wave radar unit located behind the front grille and a monocular camera mounted at the upper portion of the windshield are used to detect vehicles and pedestrians. This "fusion" of radar and camera allows the system to effectively detect the nature, distance and speed of obstacles to determine whether there's a potential for a collision.

For 2022, the Acura MDX's radar unit has a wider field of view, allowing for improved detection of objects, including pedestrians, which are located further in the vehicle's periphery.

It is important to note that CMBS™ cannot detect all objects ahead, nor is it intended to replace the driver's assessment of traffic conditions and control of the vehicle. The driver must intervene in certain situations and must always be attentive when using the system. Although in many cases CMBS™ will stop the car, it is not intended to apply enough braking force to prevent all collisions. Based on the conditions, the system also may not perform all visual- and audible-alert stages, and may instead automatically engage the brakes if the system deems it necessary.

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) -Integrated with CMBS™

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead and to determine whether a collision is imminent. If the FCW system detects a vehicle or pedestrian in front of the MDX and then determines that a collision may occur (due to a speed differential between the MDX and the object), it will sound an audible alert and trigger a visual warning on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen and the Head-Up Display on Advance Package. If CMBS™ is activated and the driver fails to respond, the vehicle's brakes will be automatically applied if the system determines a collision is imminent.

Drivers may adjust the distance at which FCW alerts occur and may choose between "Long," "Normal," or "Short." Drivers may also disable the FCW system by disabling CMBS™ in the Safety Support screen through the Precision Cockpit.

Please note that FCW cannot detect all objects ahead; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and other factors.

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) uses a monocular camera mounted on the upper portion of the windshield to identify solid or dashed painted lane lines, Botts' dots and cat's eye markers. RDM uses both steering force and braking force to help the vehicle stay in its lane.

The monocular camera recognizes lane features and identifies the lane. If the RDM system detects that the MDX is about to leave the detected lane, it will provide steering assist (primary) and in rare occasions when steering is not sufficient, braking assist, to help the driver stay on the road. Only lane departure is activated if the driver is passing over a dashed line, Botts' dots or cat's eye markings, while deceleration support is disabled. In this case, Acura MDX uses active steering force to return to the lane. RDM is integrated with MDX's new electric brake booster (EBB) system to provide moderate braking, and with the electric power steering (EPS) system to provide steering input.

When the RDM system detects that the MDX is about to leave the detected lane, it displays a visual Lane Departure Warning (LDW) on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ display. If the driver does not respond, the system will produce a warning and take corrective action.

Road Departure Mitigation also has a customizable initial warning of either a steering wheel vibration or an audible alert. The system can be customized in the vehicle settings, with the following choices available:

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) provides a less stressful driving experience by reducing steering correction movements and driving effort on the highway. LKAS uses a camera to read lane markings and uses the electric power steering (EPS) to assist the driver in keeping in the middle of the lane. For the 2022 MDX, refinements to LKAS result in improved lane traceability and precision during cornering.

Designed for the U.S. road structure, the system uses a monocular camera mounted on the upper portion of the windshield to identify solid or dashed painted lines, Botts' dots and cat's-eye markers at speeds between 45 and 90 mph. When LKAS senses that the driver is drifting from the middle of a detected lane, the system generates corrective steering torque to assist the driver in maintaining lane position.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set a desired speed and following interval behind a vehicle detected ahead, allowing the use of cruise control in light highway traffic conditions. This significantly reduces the stress of driving in traffic. The system uses millimeter wave radar and a monocular camera to continually track the distance to the vehicle ahead, and then adjusts the MDX's speed to maintain the driver-selected following interval. A short, medium, long, or extra-long interval can be selected. When required, the Acura MDX automatically brakes to maintain the set interval.

Low Speed Follow, using the same millimeter wave radar, monocular camera, and VSA® modulator, extends the automatic following capability to stop-and-go traffic situations (down to 0 mph). ACC with Low-Speed Follow functions include the following:

The 2022 MDX now includes Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) for the first time. In conjunction with the Lane Keeping Assist system (operational from approximately 45 to 90 mph), TJA operates at speeds below 45 mph to help the driver maintain lane position when traveling at slower speeds, such as might be experienced in congested traffic conditions.

Traffic Jam Assist is activated when both ACC and LKAS are enabled on the steering wheel and will function when a preceding vehicle, and lane markers are detected, and the vehicle speed is under 45 mph. The system can help the driver maintain lane position at speeds below 45 mph, with light steering assist all the way to a complete stop if needed.

The Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen displays a bird's eye view of an MDX with icons representing ACC, Low Speed Follow and TJA functions when they're activated. In addition, MDX with Advance Package shows a simple display in the Head-Up Display when ACC, LKAS, Low-Speed Follow or TJA functions are activated, allowing the driver to keep eyes on the road.

New to MDX: Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)

In a first for Acura MDX, all model grades include a new camera-based Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) feature that supports the driver in recognizing traffic speed limit signs. MDX's monocular camera can automatically recognize speed limit signs and display the information on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen, and on the Head-Up Display in MDX with Advance Package. The information is displayed immediately after MDX passes the sign. Drivers may select between using TSR and the navigation system's speed-limit information.

New to MDX: Driver Attention Monitor

New on the 2022 Acura MDX, the Driver Attention Monitor continually monitors and assesses driver behavior behind the wheel to help determine if the driver is becoming inattentive -if so, warning the driver to take a break. The system uses input from the Electric Power Steering (EPS) to measure both the frequency and severity of the driver's steering inputs to gauge their level of awareness with four gradients.

When the Driver Attention Monitor is activated, the driver is first alerted by a coffee cup icon and a 4-level bar graph that is displayed on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen. The bar graph indicates full attention when four white bar elements are illuminated. As the driver's attention drops, fewer and fewer bars are illuminated. When the number of bars drops to two, a message inviting the driver to take a break is illuminated. If the driver continues driving and the graph drops to the lowest level of one bar, a beeper sounds and the steering wheel vibrates, prompting the driver to pay closer attention or take a rest break.

New to Acura: Low Speed Braking Control

An Acura first, Low Speed Braking Control is included on the 2022 MDX with the Technology Package. When the vehicle is driving forward or reversing between 1 and 6 mph, the system uses information from eight sonar sensors (four each on the front and rear bumpers) to detect objects in front of or behind the vehicle, and assess if there is danger of a collision. Examples of detected objects include vehicles, utility poles, walls and even glass (such as storefront window). If an object is detected, the system provides visual and audible alerts, and applies throttle control and braking.

The system also includes new Collision Mitigation Throttle Control, which suppresses throttle input if the driver mistakenly applies the throttle (past 80 percent) instead of the brake. Collision Mitigation Throttle Control is active between 0 and 6 mph. Low Speed Braking Control can be turned off, but will default to "on" after the vehicle is turned off and restarted.

Multi-View Rearview Camera System with Dynamic Guidelines

A multi-view rearview camera is standard on the MDX. It offers three viewing angles (wide view, normal view and top view), with the wide view now showing a much clearer, higher-definition view than before. Drivers may select the preferred view according to driving conditions. The rearview image is displayed on the 12.3-inch central display and is 60-percent bigger than the previous MDX. On-screen guidelines help the driver better judge distances, and predictive guidelines help make maneuvering in reverse easier.

New: Rearview Camera Washer

Included on all MDX models, a new rearview camera washer helps to provide a clearer view of potential obstacles while reversing. When the rear windshield washer is activated, a stream of cleaning fluid (from the same supply as used for the window washers) sprays over the camera lens at the same time.

Blind Spot Information (BSI)

The Blind Spot Information (BSI) system uses two radar sensors to continually monitor conditions behind the Acura MDX and alert the driver if another vehicle is detected in close proximity -especially in the blind spot of the driver. The BSI system uses the LED indicators mounted on the A-pillar and an audible warning to alert the driver.

There are two warning levels: 1) If a vehicle is detected in the driver's blind spot then the LED indicator on the incoming side illuminates; and 2) If a vehicle is detected and the MDX turn signal is activated, the LED indicator on the incoming side blinks and a buzzer sounds three times. To prevent false alarms while maneuvering at low speed, the BSI system is disabled below approximately 20 mph.

Rear Cross Traffic Monitor

The Rear Cross Traffic Monitor works in conjunction with the BSI radar sensors to enhance driver confidence when backing up. The system is especially useful when reversing in congested parking lots with an obstructed view from the driver's seat.

The system uses a pair of blind-spot radar units located in the rear bumper corners. When Reverse is selected and an approaching vehicle is detected, arrows indicating the approaching vehicle's direction are shown on the 12.3-inch central display's rear camera image. Simultaneously, an audible warning is emitted if cross-traffic is approaching from either side.

Front and Rear Parking Sensors

To assist the driver in maneuvering in tight spaces, such as a parking space, MDX with Technology Package features a set of eight parking sensors. A sensor is located at each corner of the vehicle with an additional two across the center of the front and rear bumpers. When a sensor (or sensors) detects an object close to the vehicle, the system provides an audible warning plus a visual alert on the Acura Precision Cockpit™ screen and, when backing up, also on the 12.3-inch color information display when rearview camera view mode is engaged. With each type of visual alert, the system indicates where the detected object is located.

Surround View Camera System

Exclusively on the MDX with Advance Package, a total of four exterior cameras provide a 360-degree "bird's eye" view of the space immediately around the vehicle through the 12.3-inch display in a split-screen to the right of the rear-view backup camera display. The new system offers a higher-definition view of the surroundings than before, and the surround view section of the display on screen is now 20-percent bigger than the previous-generation MDX. Using the True Touchpad Interface™ (TTI) or the camera button on the end of the wiper stalk, drivers can select different camera views to provide a choice of six different angles. In Reverse, drivers can only select wide and normal rear camera views; front, left and right side, and top view are selectable when the vehicle is not in Reverse. New "seamless view" technology creates a more uniform view for the 2022 MDX.