2020 Acura MDX

2020 Acura MDX Highlights

The 2020 Acura MDX offers various packages and trims: base trim, sporty A-Spec trim, and the top-range PMC (Performance Manufacturing Center) trim. Options include a powerful Sport Hybrid system and advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, as well as the Technology, Entertainment, and Advance Packages.

Key Details

• Midsize luxury crossover SUV
• Three-row seating for up to seven passengers
• Two powertrain options: 3.5-liter V6 and Sport Hybrid system
• Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
• Standard AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies
• Available sporty A-Spec package

Benefits

• Powerful V6 engine with optional Sport Hybrid system for improved efficiency
• Advanced AWD system for enhanced handling and traction
• A comprehensive suite of standard safety features
• Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity
• Luxurious and well-appointed interior
• Smooth and comfortable ride

Related: Which Used Year Model of the Acura MDX Is The Best Value?

2020 Acura MDX Overview

Performance

The 2020 Acura MDX offers two powertrain options:

3.5-liter V6 engine (Standard, Technology, A-Spec, Advance):

• 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque
• Nine-speed automatic transmission
• Available in front-wheel drive or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

Sport Hybrid system:

• 3.0-liter V6 engine combined with three electric motors
• Total system output of 321 horsepower
• Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Standard SH-AWD

The standard V6 engine gives the MDX plenty of get-up-and-go with nearly 300 hp. The nine-speed automatic transmission contributes to improved fuel efficiency and responsiveness.

For drivers wanting serious excitement, the Sport Hybrid system increases total power output for impressive acceleration (it’s more efficient, too). Its three-motor setup (two for the rear wheels and one integrated with the transmission) allows for precise torque vectoring.

Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is standard on the Sport Hybrid and the standard V6. This system distributes torque between the front and rear axles and the left and right rear wheels.

The MDX's towing capacity is respectable, with properly equipped V6 models capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the MDX a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, which includes:
  • Forward collision warning
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane keep assist
  • Road departure mitigation
• Multiple airbags, including driver and front passenger knee airbags
• Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control and Motion Adaptive Steering
• Rearview camera

Driving

The 2020 Acura MDX is a surprisingly performance-oriented midsize luxury crossover that can act like a serene luxury vehicle in one moment and provide a genuinely compelling and dynamic driving experience.

Steering is precise, and the MDX confidently handles corners, exhibiting minimal body roll. The SH-AWD system further enhances the MDX's handling, improving traction and stability.

The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) allows drivers to select between Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes, adjusting throttle response, steering effort, and transmission mapping to suit different driving preferences or conditions.

Interior

The 2020 Acura MDX interior offers a well-designed and luxurious environment accommodating up to seven passengers. The cabin design is modern and functional, focusing on high-quality materials and ergonomics.

Key interior features include:

• Leather-trimmed interior (standard on all trims)
• 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
• Heated front seats (ventilated seats available on higher trims)
• 60/40 split-folding second-row seats
• 50/50 split-folding third-row seats
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Power Moonroof

The MDX's interior space is generous, with good head and legroom in the first and second rows. The third row is tighter and suitable for children or adults on shorter trips. The second-row seats feature a smart slide function for easy access to the third row.

Cargo space is generous:

• 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row
• 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded
• 90.9 cubic feet with both rear rows folded

Higher trims like the Advance Package offer luxury features such as premium Milano leather seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and a heated steering wheel.

Technology

The 2020 Acura MDX has various technology features centered around the dual-screen infotainment system. Standard and available equipment includes:

• 8-inch upper display and 7-inch lower touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Available Acura/ELS Studio premium audio system
• Available rear entertainment system with 16.2-inch screen
• Available surround-view camera system

Buyers could also select the 2020 Acura MDX Technology Package, Entertainment, and Advance Package.

Technology Package:

• Rain-sensing wipers
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Special 10-speaker ELS audio
• Rear parking sensors
• Navigation system

Entertainment Package:

• 9-inch rear-seat screen
• A 110-volt outlet
• Additional speakers

Advance Package

• 16.2-inch rear-seat view screen upgrade
• Heated steering wheel
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated second-row captain’s chairs
• Active dampers
• Surround-view camera system

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Acura MDX’s fuel economy ratings vary by powertrain. EPA estimates are as follows:

3.5-liter V6 with nine-speed automatic:

• FWD (mpg): 20 city / 27 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined

Sport Hybrid:

• AWD (mpg): 26 city / 27 highway / 27 combined

2020 Acura MDX Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2020 Acura MDX an average rating of 4.0 out of 5. Reliability, quality, performance, and value are similarly scored.

Reasons to Buy It

• Both engine options have plenty of power
• The ride is comfortable, and space is plentiful
• Impressive safety features and technology
• Strong reliability ratings and resale value
• Versatile cargo space

Problems

• A dual-screen infotainment system may be less intuitive than some competitors
• Third-row seating is tight for adults
• Some advanced features are only available on higher trims
• Nine-speed transmission can occasionally hesitate at low speeds
• Fuel economy for non-hybrid models is good but not class-leading

Explore: Acura MDX Resale Value: Do They Hold Their Value? What To Know

CoPilot's Take

The 2020 Acura MDX is the Swiss Army Knife of midsize luxury SUVs with compelling performance, comfort, and technology. The MDX's strengths lie in its powerful engine options, comfortable ride, and comprehensive suite of standard safety features.

The Sport Hybrid offers the best of both worlds: improved performance and fuel efficiency. The AWD system, whether in the standard V6 or hybrid models, provides excellent handling and all-weather capability.

However, while functional, the dual-screen infotainment system may require a learning curve and feel less modern compared to some competitors. The third-row seating, while helpful, is best suited for children or occasional adult use on short trips.

2020 Acura MDX FAQs

Is the 2020 Acura MDX a reliable car?

The 2020 Acura MDX has mixed reliability ratings. Consumer Reports gives this family-friendly crossover a mediocre 49 out of 100, while J.D. Power calls it “average” for quality and reliability (79 out of 100).

Are there any recalls on the 2020 Acura MDX?

Five recalls have been issued for the 2020 Acura MDX. These include recalls for:

• Potential fuel pump failure
• Possible engine damage from connecting rod bearing wear
• Potential issue with the brake booster

The recall status of any vehicle can be checked on NHTSA’s website.

How long will a 2020 Acura MDX last?

With proper care, a 2020 Acura MDX can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Maintenance history, driving habits, and environmental factors significantly contribute to longevity.

What is the warranty on a 2020 Acura MDX?

The warranty includes:

• New Vehicle Limited Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first
• Powertrain Limited Warranty: Six years or 70,000 miles, whichever comes first
• Hybrid Powertrain Warranty (for Sport Hybrid models): Eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first
• Outer Body Rust-Through Warranty: Five years with unlimited miles
• Acura Genuine Accessories Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first (if installed at the time of new vehicle purchase)

Depending on current mileage and when a 2020 MDX was first put in service, the new vehicle (bumper-to-bumper) warranty may still be valid.

Check Out: How Long Do Acura MDXs Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan - CoPilot