2022 Acura MDX

Most Acuras are more luxurious and higher-priced versions of vehicles made by Honda, its parent company, similar to Lexus and Toyota or Infiniti and Nissan. In Acura’s case, the formula usually works well. Its sedans and SUVs have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendations for cabin comfort, handling, above-average reliability, and engines with smooth power delivery. Like Honda, Acura’s lineup is mainly SUVs, but includes some sedans. The Integra is an upgraded version of the Honda Civic, and competes with the most affordable vehicles from manufacturers like Audi and BMW. The TLX is similar, but slightly larger and more expensive. Acura’s SUVs range from midsized and three-row down to compact and two-row. Across the lineup, fuel economy is usually average. Despite Honda’s success with the technology, Acura sells no hybrids. For both new and used, reliability can vary between models, but the better options often near the top of our rankings.

Redesigned for 2022, the MDX remains a functional three-row luxury SUV that's priced lower than German competitors. The standard 290-hp V6 engine is slick and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a powertrain that works well. Fuel economy is 20 mpg overall. The ride is comfortable and handling is secure but pretty mundane. The front seats are wide and supportive, and the interior is well made. The rear seat's midsection is removable, which creates an aisle to the third row. The biggest knock against the MDX is the infotainment system's reliance on a finicky touchpad to interact with the screen; we found it very distracting to use, forcing long glances away from the road. 2025 models get an easier-to-use touchscreen that replaces the touchpad system. The MDX comes with a full suite of active safety features, including FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, LKA, LDW, LCA, and ACC.