When it comes to family SUVs, you’re looking for a perfect blend of style, performance, comfort, and practicality. Acura understands this and has elevated the game with the 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance. This luxury three-row SUV has caught my attention, and I had the opportunity to take it for a spin. I am sharing my firsthand experiences, the standout features that make it the best luxury three-row midsize SUV for families, and why it’s making me seriously consider an upgrade from my current Acura RDX.
First Thoughts: A True Game Changer
My initial encounter with the 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance was a revelation. It exudes beauty, offers an abundance of space, and boasts leather seats that are incredibly plush and comfortable. However, it’s when you get behind the wheel that the true magic happens. This isn’t your average mom’s SUV; it’s built for performance. Even in ‘Normal’ mode, the MDX Type S Advance demonstrates its nimbleness and agility. What sets it apart are the six drive modes it offers: Lift, Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+. While I may wish for a little more horsepower, the MDX excels at its daily driving duties.
Ride Quality and Versatility
As I drove the MDX Type S Advance, I couldn’t help but notice the adaptive damper system at work. It adjusts seamlessly to the terrain, providing a smoother ride. The transition between driving modes, from Comfort to Normal to Sport, does take some getting used to, but it’s a small price to pay for the versatility it offers.
The MDX’s versatility shines through, with seating for 6 to 7 passengers. The second-row seats can accommodate three car seats, and the removable middle seat eases access to the third row. The third row is remarkably accessible, thanks to a convenient push-button feature.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
The interior of the MDX Type S Advance is a testament to luxury. The premium Milano Leather sports seats, with quilted contrast stitching and piping, provide both style and comfort. While my test model featured Orchid seats, I’d recommend darker seating options for families with kids to keep things looking pristine.
The materials used in the cabin exude a premium feel, from the French-stitched leather on the dashboard to the open-pore wood accents. The front seats offer ample adjustability and comfort, with the added bonus of a massaging feature for those long family road trips.Even your taller family members will find ample legroom, thanks to the second-row seats on rails.
The 12.3-inch HD Center Display, divided into two sections, is not only visually impressive but also user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. Plus, there’s a multitude of charging ports to keep everyone connected and powered up on the go.
Cargo space is adequate, with 39.1 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down. There’s even underfloor storage, perfect for hiding those surprise gifts from curious kids.
Safety and Technology
Acura’s reputation for safety and reliability is well-founded. The 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance continues this legacy, earning a 2022 TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. It comes with a host of standard driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Acura goes the extra mile for families by ensuring LATCH car seat installation capability for three car seats and two booster seats or forward-facing car seats in the third row. The rear passenger reminder is a godsend for those hectic mom days. Plus, there are plenty of charging ports throughout the cabin, ensuring that everyone stays connected.
The MDX Type S Advance comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, in-dash navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. If you’re a music enthusiast, the 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D setup will treat your ears to a delightful experience.
What You Should Know About the Acura MDX
While the 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance is impressive in many ways, there are a few points to consider. Fuel economy is one of the downsides, with real-world averages hovering around 14-16 mpg in the city and 18.6 mpg on the highway. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient choice, it’s important to remember that SUVs tend to consume more fuel.
Unfortunately, there’s no hybrid or fully electric MDX model on the horizon. Acura is focusing on its electric future with the 2024 Acura ZDX, leaving a gap for eco-conscious buyers.
Another aspect to note is the absence of a touchscreen. Instead, the MDX relies on a touchpad interface. While it might take some getting used to, it’s not as bad as some critics suggest. I, for one, appreciate the absence of fingerprints on the screen.
Choosing the Right Package for Your Acura
Acura offers a variety of packages to cater to different preferences and budgets. From the base model to the Technology package, A-Spec, Advance, Type S, and Type S Advance, there’s something for everyone. The Technology package strikes a balance between features and cost, making it a sweet spot for many buyers.
My personal journey with Acura has taught me the importance of considering family needs when choosing an SUV. While I love my Acura RDX, my growing family, comfort, and size considerations make the MDX a more appealing option. The MDX starts at $49,550 (FWD) or $51,750 (SH-AWD) and maxes out at $73,200 for the Type S Advance, which I had the pleasure of test-driving. It’s a significant investment, but the features, including a 360-view camera and heated steering, make it worth every penny.
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance Stands Out
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance stands out as the top pick for a luxury three-row family SUV. Its blend of style, performance, comfort, and practicality make it the ideal choice for families looking for a remarkable driving experience. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option, the MDX’s other qualities more than make up for it. If you’re in the market for a family SUV that offers the best of both worlds, the Acura MDX Type S Advance is the ultimate choice. It’s certainly making me seriously consider an upgrade, and I hope this review helps you make an informed decision for your family’s needs.
Learn more about the Acura MDX at Acura.com.
Disclosure: Acura provided the MDX for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Kim is a Black millennial, working full-time in managed healthcare, all while juggling the roles of a wife and a hands-on mom to her two daughters, her rainbow babies. She is the proud owner of Beauty and the Bump NYC, a platform where she shares her perspective on all the things that bring joy to her life: family, travel, cars, food, and more.
Recognizing the need to create a dedicated space for her automotive content, Kim established WhatDrivesKim.com. Here, fellow millennial moms can find authentic and valuable insights into all things car-related. Kim’s goal is to provide the real deal on cars, helping moms make informed decisions about their vehicles.
As a contributor to A Girl’s Guide to Cars, Kim extends her passion for cars by offering helpful tips and car reviews from the unique perspective of a modern working mom. With Kim, you can trust that you’re getting practical and relatable advice about the world of automobiles.
