The 2024 Acura MDX Advance Package combines mid-range luxury features with practical three-row seating
The 2024 Acura MDX Advance is the second trim level in the MDX lineup, positioned between the base Standard and the higher Advance SH-AWD and Type S models. It adds meaningful comfort and technology upgrades over the Standard trim while keeping the price more accessible than the top configurations. The Advance comes standard with front-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower.
This trim targets buyers who want genuine luxury features—leather seating, power adjustments, and an upgraded infotainment system—without paying for the performance enhancements or all-wheel-drive systems found in pricier versions. The Advance seats seven across three rows and includes most of the safety technology Acura bundles as standard across the MDX line.
Key Takeaways
- The Advance adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power liftgate compared to the Standard trim.
- The infotainment system includes a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 12-speaker audio system.
- Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, and collision mitigation braking as part of Acura's standard suite.
- The Advance uses front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is available as an option or standard on higher trims.
- Seating is leather with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and eight-way for the front passenger.
Interior comfort and seating configuration
The Advance wraps the driver and front passenger seats in leather with 10-way power adjustment on the driver's side and eight-way on the passenger side. Both front seats are heated, and the driver's seat includes lumbar support adjustment. The second row offers a 60/40 split-folding bench seat with heating for the outboard positions, and the third row seats two adults comfortably for shorter trips.
The cabin uses a mix of leather and soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set different temperatures. The power liftgate opens and closes at the push of a button, which is particularly useful when loading cargo with the third row folded.
Technology and infotainment system
The Advance includes Acura's True Touchpad Interface, a 10.2-inch center touchscreen that responds to both touch and stylus input. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can connect your phone without a cable. A 12-speaker premium audio system with subwoofer delivers sound throughout the cabin, and the system includes SiriusXM satellite radio with a three-month trial subscription.
Navigation is built into the infotainment system and uses real-time traffic data. Voice recognition allows hands-free control of many functions, and the system learns your preferences over time. A wireless charging pad sits in the center console for compatible phones, and USB-C ports are available throughout the cabin for charging devices.
Safety technology and driver information features
Acura's AcuraWatch safety suite comes standard on the Advance and includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane keeping information, road departure mitigation, and collision mitigation braking. The system uses cameras and radar to monitor the road and surrounding traffic, and it can explore the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent.
Additional safety features include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. The Advance also includes eight airbags positioned throughout the cabin. All windows and mirrors are power-operated, and the side mirrors include power folding and auto-dimming on the driver's side.
Engine, transmission, and fuel economy
The 2024 MDX Advance is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. This configuration delivers smooth acceleration and is tuned for everyday driving rather than performance.
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 19 miles per gallon in the city, 27 on the highway, and 22 combined for front-wheel-drive models. The MDX uses regular unleaded gasoline and has a 18.5-gallon fuel tank. If you choose the available all-wheel-drive system, fuel economy drops slightly to 18 city, 26 highway, and 21 combined.
Exterior styling and dimensions
The 2024 MDX Advance carries Acura's current design language with a prominent grille, LED headlights, and a sculpted body side. The Advance comes with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, and 20-inch wheels are available. LED taillights and daytime running lights are standard, and the power liftgate includes a hands-free open feature that responds to a foot gesture under the rear bumper.
The MDX measures 193.6 inches long, 76.6 inches wide, and 68.6 inches tall, making it a three-row midsize crossover that fits in most standard parking spaces. Cargo space behind the third row is 10.9 cubic feet, which expands to 38.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 76.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat.
How the Advance compares to other MDX trims
The Standard trim, positioned below the Advance, omits leather seating, heated seats, and the power liftgate. It includes the same engine and infotainment system but with a smaller 8-inch touchscreen. The Advance SH-AWD adds all-wheel drive and a slightly more powerful version of the V6, while the Type S is a performance-focused variant with a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension.
Compared to the Advance, the Advance SH-AWD costs more but offers better traction in snow and wet conditions. The Type S is significantly more expensive and targets buyers prioritizing handling and acceleration over practicality. For most buyers, the Advance strikes a balance between features and cost, offering genuine luxury touches without the premium price of higher trims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2024 MDX Advance come with all-wheel drive?
No, the Advance comes standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option on the Advance and is standard on the Advance SH-AWD and Type S trims. Adding all-wheel drive increases the price and reduces fuel economy slightly but improves traction in snow and rain.
Can I fit a third-row passenger comfortably for long trips?
The third row is designed for children or shorter trips for adults. Legroom is limited compared to the first and second rows. If you regularly need comfortable seating for five or more adults, you may want to test-drive the MDX to confirm the third row works for your needs.
What warranty coverage does the 2024 MDX Advance include?
Acura includes a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty on all new MDX models, including the Advance. Roadside information is included for three years with no mileage limit.
Is the infotainment system straightforward to use while driving?
The True Touchpad Interface responds to both touch and stylus input, and voice commands handle most common functions like navigation, phone calls, and audio control. Many drivers find the stylus helpful for precision while parked, though some prefer traditional buttons for quick adjustments while driving.
How much cargo space does the Advance have with all seats in use?
With all three rows occupied, the MDX Advance offers 10.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. This is enough for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment but not for large items. Folding the third row expands cargo space to 38.4 cubic feet.