Have you ever taken a car for a test drive and immediately said, “I’ve got to have it?” That was me after test-driving the Acura MDX Type S Advance. While I loved my Acura RDX, test-driving the MDX made me realize what I was missing – room, as it’s three rows and seats six or seven, more technology – offering peace of mind during drives with my family; worth the cost of the upgrade (MSRP of $64,100). Being who I am – a Virgo woman who is a go-getter – a few months after test-driving the type S, I said goodbye to my 2021 RDX with Technology package and picked up the MDX with Advance Package with Liquid Carbon Metallic exterior and Premium Milano Leather Interior in Espresso. This is the first time I’ve ever been brand loyal; that says a lot.
From a Compact to a Three-Row SUV
Before getting the RDX, I struggled with whether or not a larger, three-row SUV like the MDX would be practical. At the time, we were only a family of three; however, there were times when I’d pick up my niece and nephew or my kids’ grandparents for a trip somewhere, which would make space in the car tight. As a result, my husband and I would sometimes have to drive separate cars. While my husband and I were trying for another baby, it hadn’t happened in six years, so I didn’t feel there was a need. Then things changed. We had our second daughter, after 9 years of trying due to secondary infertility. My 2021 RDX served its purpose in the beginning, especially since I got my RDX at the start of the pandemic, which meant no road trips with my extended family; it was just the four of us. The car seat meant only space for two in the second row or a small child in the middle seat.
As my youngest got older and her personality sprouted, sibling squabbles became a tradition on the road. Somehow, while seated rear-facing in her car seat, her little feet could extend to touch my oldest daughter. The constant sibling squabbles during drives made car rides less enjoyable and stressful. I dreaded getting in the car with my kids. Add to that the stress of traffic and idiot drivers. I knew it was time to upgrade to something that would help mitigate this. Was it a minivan or was it a larger SUV? I’ve test-driven a minivan before, but while practical, it just didn’t suit my style. While I’m a mom, driving cars that don’t look fun isn’t for me. Test-driving the MDX Type S Advance is what convinced me.
I Test Drove the MDX Type S Advance – Spoiler Alert: It’s Not the One I Ended Up With!
The MDX is larger but drives like a sedan. It has more horsepower (272 vs. 290 in the MDX 2024 model) and more technology and convenience features than my 2021 RDX. While the Type S Advance has even more horsepower (355 horsepower) than the lower trims, massaging seats, and adaptive air suspension, the $73,000 price tag wasn’t worth it for me.
While I did want the Phantom Violet Pearl, it wasn’t available. The closest one was 200 miles away. While I’m willing to drive for a good deal, this was just too far. The broker with whom I was working with agreed. I settled on the MDX Advance package in Liquid Carbon Metallic Premium paint. All of my cars have been this color. As a mom who works full-time and has side ventures, I rarely have time to go to a car wash. Yes, I can do a mobile car wash, but those get expensive if done regularly. The Liquid Carbon Metallic is the most forgiving color when the exterior is dirty. The interior is in the beautiful Espresso; it’s different from what I usually get – black or dark gray. The color combination looks luxurious.
Enhanced Convenience Features
While I loved my RDX with the Technology package – it had heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a backup camera, and leather seats – next to it being on the smaller side for my family, it was missing some convenience features that I swore my next car should have like a heated steering wheel, 360-degree surround-view camera, remote start from the key fob versus the AcuraLink App, and power folding mirrors.
Features in the MDX That I Appreciate:
Nice features the MDX Advance also has that I appreciate include:
- 10.5” Heads-Up Display – can view navigation, speed limit, speedometer, and more,
- ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio System with 16 Speakers – the best audio system around,
- Tri-climate controls – helpful for varying temperature preferences, second-row heated outboard seats,
- Multiple charging ports – many ways to charge a device in all rows, and the 16-Way Power Seats with Power Lumbar, Thigh Extension, and Side Bolsters.
- Ventilated seats will be awesome come summer.
- Three-position front Passenger Seat Memory is a feature my husband loves.
- The Iconic Drive Ambient LED Cabin Lighting with 27 color themes adds a touch of luxury.
- Lower Lift Tailgate with Hands-Free Access and Walk Away Close is a lifesaver when my hands are full.
Ample Storage Space
For a smaller SUV, my RDX had a lot of storage space, and the MDX doesn’t fall short on storage either. Similar to the RDX I owned, it has hidden storage in the cargo area, and I also love the large center console. I have an extra pair of shades, a clean microfiber cloth, and the storage tray, which my kids haven’t yet figured out how to open, which is where I hide my favorite candies. I do miss the floating console that my RDX had; I used it for my wallet when I didn’t bring my purse with me. I still place my purse on the floor in front of the passenger or behind if my husband is in the front.
Optimizing Space and Comfort
The MDX has three rows, but I keep the third row folded down for more cargo space. My oldest hasn’t needed to sit back there because there’s more space between her and her younger sister. Car rides are a lot less hectic, too! The few times she has been back there, she was comfortable. At the height of 5’ 2”, the legroom is ample for her, and she can spread out if she wants. We are just getting back to being out and about close to our usual pace before the pandemic, so I foresee a lot more use in our future as we’ve been planning road trips.
Smart Buying with a Broker
After dealing with them for my first two cars, I don’t have the patience for dealerships. Once I got hip to the ease of using a broker, I went that route. It is a breeze! Plus, you will more than likely get a good deal. I used a broker who could get me 9% off MSRP. I was also able to cash in on my low-mileage RDX. This all resulted in a lovely deal.
I May Have Found My ‘Forever’ Car
With just over 1,000 miles on my new Acura MDX, I can confidently say that I’ve found my “forever” car. The increased monthly payment and slightly lower fuel economy are overshadowed by the peace of mind, premium features, and the joy of driving a sporty SUV that meets my lifestyle needs. The MDX truly embodies the perfect blend of style, functionality, and luxury, making every drive a memorable experience.
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.
