2026 Vs. 2025 Acura MDX: Model Year Comparison
Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 at a Glance
- The 2026 Acura MDX introduces gorgeous new exterior colors like Double Apex Blue and Solar Silver Metallic.
- After being refreshed in 2025 with several interior and tech updates, the 2026 model carries them over.
- The 2026 Acura MDX uses the same powertrain as the 2025 model with identical power and torque ratings.
- The 2026 model carries over the same safety equipment as the 2025 Acura MDX, which includes the Acura 360 suite of driver-assist features.
- The 2026 Acura MDX has the same trim level lineup as the previous model.
Following a big redesign for 2025, the Acura MDX returns for 2026 with only a few updates, prompting an Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 comparison for buyers weighing their options. Both model years are excellent three-row SUV choices, but some buyers may prefer the styling updates on the 2026 model. Read on for more details, and then test-drive both MDX models at Muller's Woodfield Acura in Hoffman Estates, IL.
Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 Specs
While the 2026 model introduces new exterior paint colors, the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 specs are largely the same.
Both MDX years are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 with 290 horsepower or a 3.0-liter turbo Type S V-6 with 355 horsepower. Five of the six trims deliver an EPA-estimated 19/26 MPG (City/Highway)1,2 in each model year, while the MDX Type S Advance drops that figure to an EPA-estimated 17/21 MPG (City/Highway)1,2 with the more powerful engine.
For Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 towing capacities, both years can tow 3,500 pounds with FWD3 or 5,000 pounds with SH-AWD.3 Now, let's move on to the biggest differences.
The 2026 Acura MDX is powered by the same powertrain as the 2025 model, with identical tow ratings in front- and all-wheel-drive form.
How Do the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 Features Compare?
Comparing the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 core features, we see many similarities, including the updated center console and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
While the 2025 Acura MDX introduced several meaningful updates, the 2026 model largely carries those enhancements over. For 2025, Acura added a redesigned center console with added storage and USB ports, a standard sound system with two more speakers, available curvilinear leather quilting, and newly available Bang & Olufsen® sound systems.
One of the most significant upgrades came to the infotainment system. The 2024 model came with a 12.3-inch center infotainment display controlled by the True Touchpad Interface, but the 2025 MDX replaced this system with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display featuring Google built-in services. The 2026 model continues with this updated system, offering a more intuitive and familiar user experience.
Aside from these changes, most interior features are the same in our Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 comparison.
While the 2025 Acura MDX received several interior updates, the 2026 model carries them over, providing buyers with the same tech-savvy features.
Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026: Have the Safety Features Changed?
Like the Acura MDX towing capacity, strength defines the safety features of both SUVs. When comparing the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 safety features, shoppers will find that the AcuraWatch 360 package introduced for 2025 carries over unchanged for 2026. This comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies includes:
- Active Lane Change Assist
- Lane Change Collision Mitigation
- Front Cross Traffic Warning
- Cornering Speed Assist with Braking
Acura also improved the AcuraWatch package with new sensors and enhanced detection for 2025, and this upgrade returns in 2026. Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 standard safety features, like a Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System, are also the same.
The 2025 Acura MDX was rated an IIHS Top Safety Pick,4 and the 2026 MDX maintains that excellent rating.4
The 2026 Acura MDX is equipped with the same safety features as the 2025 model, which includes the new AcuraWatch 360 suite of driver-assist technologies.
Are There Any Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 Trim Level Updates?
Rounding things off with an Acura MDX trim comparison, there are no trim level changes for 2026, as the Acura MDX trim level lineup returns unchanged from 2025, including the thrilling Type S Advance and A-Spec Advance configurations.
If you would like to explore additional options beyond the Acura MDX, read our Acura MDX vs. Honda Pilot comparison to see how it stacks up with its corporate cousin.
Check the chart below to recap the main differences between the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 model years, and then explore the Acura MDX special offers at Muller's Woodfield Acura.
Acura updated the trim level lineup for the 2025 model year, and the same six trims are carried over for 2026.
| 2025 Acura MDX | 2026 Acura MDX | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 (standard) 3.0L Turbo Type S V-6 (available) |
3.5L V-6 (standard) 3.0L Turbo Type S V-6 (available) |
| Horsepower | 290 (standard) 355 (Type S) |
290 (standard) 355 (Type S) |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft (standard) 354 lb-ft (Type S) |
267 lb-ft (standard) 354 lb-ft (Type S) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or SH-AWD | FWD or SH-AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs3 (FWD) 5,000 lbs3 (SH-AWD) |
3,500 lbs3 (FWD) 5,000 lbs3 (SH-AWD) |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 26 / 221 (FWD) 19 / 25 / 211 (SH-AWD) 17 / 21 / 191 (Type S) |
19 / 26 / 222 (FWD) 19 / 25 / 212 (SH-AWD) 17 / 21 / 192 (Type S) |
| Trim Levels | MDX Technology Package A-Spec Package Advance Package A-Spec Advance Type S Advance |
MDX Technology Package A-Spec Package Advance Package A-Spec Advance Type S Advance |
| Infotianment Display | 12.3-in touchscreen w/ Google built-in services | 12.3-in touchscreen w/ Google built-in services |
| Standard Front Seat Features | 12-way power adjustability Power lumbar Leatherette upholstery Heating 3-position driver's seat memory |
12-way power adjustability Power lumbar Leatherette upholstery Heating 3-position driver's seat memory |
| Highest-Tier Available Front Seats | 16-way power adjustability Power lumbar, thigh extensions, and side bolsters Curvilinear quilted and perforated Milano premium leather Ultrasuede accents Contrast stitching and piping Heating and ventilation 9-way massage 3-position driver's and front passenger's seat memory |
16-way power adjustability Power lumbar, thigh extensions, and side bolsters Curvilinear quilted and perforated Milano premium leather Ultrasuede accents Contrast stitching and piping Heating and ventilation 9-way massage 3-position driver's and front passenger's seat memory |
| Standard Sound System | 11-speaker Acura Premium Audio System | 11-speaker Acura Premium Audio System |
| Highest-Tier Available Sound System | 31-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D Signature Edition Premium Audio System | 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen® Ultra Sound System |
| Active Lane Change Assist | Available | Available |
| Lane Change Collision Mitigation | Available | Available |
| Front Cross Traffic Warning | Available | Available |
| Evasive Steering Warning | Available | Available |
| Cornering Speed Assist | Available | Available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Acura MDX be redesigned in 2026?
No, since the Acura MDX was mildly redesigned for 2025, boasting new bumpers, grille designs, and wheels for the new trim, most of its specs are unchanged for 2026. New features include exterior paint colors like Solar Silver Metallic and Double Apex Blue Pearl, which are offered as a premium upgrade on the A-Spec trim levels. Visit Muller's Woodfield Acura today for a full look at the 2026 MDX.
Do both the 2025 and 2026 Acura MDX models have a touchscreen?
Yes. The 2025 Acura MDX was updated with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and that system carries over unchanged for the 2026 model year. The touchscreen system features Google built-in services for seamless navigation, voice commands, and app integration, along with a standard audio system with two additional speakers. Acura also redesigned the center console after removing the previous touchpad interface.
How much horsepower does the Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 have?
Acura MDX 2025 vs. 2026 horsepower is the same, as both MDX model years boast 290 horsepower as standard or 355 horsepower with their available Type S engines. Other similarities between the 2025 and 2026 Acura MDX include a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds3 and up to an EPA-estimated 19/26 MPG (City/Highway).1,2
Continue Your Acura Research
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1Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
2Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
3Towing requires the addition of the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. Please see your Acura dealer for details. Added cargo weight in the vehicle may reduce max towing capacity, see Owners Guide for details.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/acura/mdx-4-door-suv/2025
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/acura/mdx-4-door-suv/2026