The 2023 Acura MDX Advance Package includes a mid-range set of comfort and technology features positioned between the base and higher trims

The Advance package sits in the middle of the 2023 MDX lineup, adding features that the base model doesn't have while costing less than the Technology or Type S packages. It comes standard with leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. If you're deciding between trims, the Advance is where Acura adds the features most people actually use daily — climate control zones, seat heating, and smartphone integration — without jumping to the premium price of the top packages.

The 2023 model year was the second generation of the MDX redesign, so the Advance package reflects Acura's mid-cycle refinements. Pricing for the Advance package started around $48,000 to $50,000 before destination charges, though the exact price depends on your location and dealer. All MDX models, including the Advance, use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower.

Key Takeaways

  • The Advance package adds leather seats, a power liftgate, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen over the base model, making it the first trim with genuine comfort upgrades.
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats come standard on the Advance, features the base model does not include.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, but the Advance does not have the upgraded audio system or surround-view camera that come on higher trims.
  • The Advance package uses the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as all other 2023 MDX models, so engine performance does not change between trims.
  • If you want the Advance features plus a panoramic sunroof or upgraded Acura sound system, you would need to step up to the Technology package.

Interior comfort and seating in the Advance package

The Advance package wraps the front and second-row seats in leather, a step up from the cloth seats in the base model. The leather is perforated, meaning it has small holes to allow air circulation, which helps in hot weather. The driver's seat has 10-way power adjustment, and both front seats include heating — a feature the base model does not have.

The second row has a 60/40 split-fold design, and the third row is a standard bench seat that folds flat into the floor. Acura does not offer a power-folding third row on the Advance; that feature appears only on the Technology and Type S packages. The Advance does include dual-zone automatic climate control, meaning the driver and front passenger can set different temperatures independently.

Technology and infotainment features

The Advance package comes with Acura's 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is larger than the base model's 8-inch screen. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to mirror your phone's navigation, messaging, and music apps. Voice control is included, though it responds to basic commands rather than natural conversation.

The Advance does not include the upgraded Acura ELS audio system that comes on the Technology package — instead, it has a standard 8-speaker setup. Wireless phone charging is not included on the Advance; you get a USB charging port in the center console. If you want the premium audio system or wireless charging, you would need to move up to the Technology package.

Safety and driver information technology

The Advance package includes Acura's AcuraWatch suite of driver information features as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These systems use cameras and radar to monitor the road and alert you to potential hazards.

The Advance does not include the surround-view camera system that comes on the Technology package. Instead, it has a standard backup camera. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are included on the Advance. All 2023 MDX models come with a standard backup camera, but the surround-view system — which shows a 360-degree view of the vehicle — requires stepping up to a higher trim.

Exterior features and convenience

The Advance package adds a power liftgate, which opens and closes at the push of a button — either on the key fob or a button inside the vehicle. The base model has a manual liftgate. The Advance also includes roof rails for mounting cargo carriers, and the exterior comes with LED headlights and taillights, which are standard across all 2023 MDX trims.

The Advance does not include a panoramic sunroof; that is a Technology package feature. You do get a standard power moonroof on the Advance, which is a single-panel sunroof that opens and closes. Keyless entry and push-button start are included on the Advance, as they are on all 2023 MDX models.

Engine performance and fuel economy

The 2023 Acura MDX Advance uses the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as every other MDX trim, producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option on the Advance package.

EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2023 MDX Advance with front-wheel drive are approximately 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway. With all-wheel drive, those figures drop slightly to around 21 city and 27 highway. These estimates are the same across all MDX trims because the engine and transmission do not change. Actual mileage varies based on driving habits and conditions.

How the Advance package compares to other 2023 MDX trims

The 2023 MDX lineup includes the base model, Advance, Technology, and Type S. The base model is the entry point and includes the essentials: cloth seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and standard safety features. The Advance adds leather, a larger screen, and comfort features like heated seats and dual-zone climate control.

The Technology package builds on the Advance by adding a panoramic sunroof, the upgraded ELS audio system, wireless phone charging, a surround-view camera, and power-folding third-row seats. The Type S is the performance-focused trim with a more aggressive exterior design, sport-tuned suspension, and unique interior styling. If you want the Advance's comfort features but also need the panoramic sunroof or premium audio, the Technology package is the next step up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2023 MDX Advance come with all-wheel drive?

No, the Advance package comes standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option on the Advance and all other 2023 MDX trims. Adding all-wheel drive increases the price by approximately $2,000 to $2,500, depending on your location and dealer.

Can I add a panoramic sunroof to the Advance package?

The panoramic sunroof is not available on the Advance package — it comes only on the Technology and Type S trims. If you want a sunroof with the Advance's price point, you would need to choose the standard power moonroof that comes included, or step up to the Technology package.

What is the difference between the Advance and Technology packages?

The Technology package adds a panoramic sunroof, the upgraded Acura ELS audio system, wireless phone charging, a surround-view camera system, and power-folding third-row seats. Both packages have leather seats, heated front seats, and the same engine. The Technology package costs several thousand dollars more than the Advance.

Does the Advance package include Apple CarPlay?

Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included on the Advance package. They connect through the 10.2-inch touchscreen, allowing you to use your phone's navigation, messaging, and music apps through the vehicle's system.

Is the backup camera on the Advance a surround-view system?

No, the Advance package includes a standard backup camera only. The surround-view camera system, which shows a 360-degree view of the vehicle, is available only on the Technology and Type S packages. The backup camera on the Advance displays the rear view when you shift into reverse.