The 2025 Acura MDX comes in four main trim levels, each with different standard features and pricing

The 2025 Acura MDX is offered in Standard, Technology, Advance, and Type S configurations. Each trim builds on the one below it, adding comfort, safety, and performance features. The Standard model is the entry point, while Type S is the highest-performance version with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension.

Your choice depends on what features matter most to you — whether that's fuel efficiency, technology, luxury amenities, or driving performance. All trims share the same basic three-row SUV design and seating for up to seven passengers, but they differ significantly in what comes standard versus what you'll need to add through option packages.

Key Takeaways

  • The Standard trim includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive as standard, with a starting price that varies by model year and region.
  • Technology and Advance trims add features like a larger touchscreen, premium audio systems, and advanced safety technology that come standard rather than as options.
  • Type S is the performance-focused trim with a turbocharged engine, sport suspension, and exclusive styling, designed for drivers prioritizing handling over fuel economy.
  • Option packages let you add specific features to lower trims rather than buying a higher trim if you only want one or two upgrades.
  • All 2025 MDX models include Acura's AcuraWatch safety suite with collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control as standard equipment.

Standard Trim: What comes included and what you can add

The Standard trim is the base configuration and includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). You get a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Safety features on the Standard trim include AcuraWatch, which bundles adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, lane keeping information, and road departure mitigation. Seating is leather-trimmed, and you get power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support. The Standard trim also includes a power liftgate, roof rails, and 18-inch wheels.

From the Standard trim, you can add packages for features like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, or premium leather. This approach works well if you want most of what the Standard offers but need one or two specific upgrades without paying for a full trim step up.

Technology Trim: Enhanced infotainment and convenience features

The Technology trim upgrades the infotainment system to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with an updated interface and faster processing. It adds a 16-speaker ELS Studio audio system, which is a significant jump from the Standard's six speakers. You also get wireless charging for compatible phones, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard equipment.

Navigation is integrated into the touchscreen on the Technology trim, whereas it's an option on the Standard. The Technology trim also includes a hands-free power liftgate and upgraded interior trim materials. Exterior features include LED headlights and taillights, which are more efficient and provide better visibility than the Standard's halogen headlights.

This trim appeals to buyers who spend significant time in their vehicle and want better audio quality, easier navigation, and more convenience features without stepping up to the luxury-focused Advance trim.

Advance Trim: Luxury appointments and premium materials

The Advance trim focuses on luxury and comfort. It adds semi-aniline leather seating with perforated surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats are also heated, and you get a power-adjustable second-row seat with a recline function. The third row has more padding and better support than lower trims.

Technology features on the Advance include a Mark Levinson premium audio system with 16 speakers, a panoramic sunroof, and a surround-view camera system that shows a 360-degree view of the vehicle when parking. The Advance also adds adaptive dampers, which adjust suspension stiffness in real time based on road conditions and driving style.

Interior materials step up to real wood trim and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. The Advance trim is the choice for buyers prioritizing a quiet, comfortable, and well-appointed interior for family trips and daily commuting.

Type S Trim: Performance-focused engine and suspension tuning

The Type S is the only 2025 MDX configuration with a turbocharged engine — a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This is 65 more horsepower than the standard V6 and delivers noticeably quicker acceleration. The Type S uses the same eight-speed automatic transmission but with sport-tuned shift logic.

Suspension on the Type S is sport-tuned with stiffer springs, upgraded dampers, and a lower ride height than other trims. The steering is also recalibrated for a more responsive feel. Brakes are larger and use performance-oriented pads. These changes make the Type S handle more like a performance SUV than a family hauler, though it still seats seven passengers.

The Type S includes all the luxury features from the Advance trim — heated and ventilated leather seats, Mark Levinson audio, panoramic sunroof, and adaptive dampers. Exterior styling is more aggressive, with a unique front grille, body-side accents, and exclusive 20-inch wheels. The Type S trades some fuel economy for performance, making it the choice for drivers who want their SUV to feel athletic on winding roads.

Option packages and add-ons across all trims

Acura offers several option packages that let you customize any trim without buying the next level up. Common packages include the Advance Package (adds luxury features to Technology trim), the Technology Package (adds navigation and premium audio to Standard), and the Panoramic Roof Package (adds a sunroof to any trim).

You can also add individual options like a rear-seat entertainment system with screens for the second and third rows, a premium paint color, or upgraded wheel designs. The surround-view camera system is available on Technology and Advance trims as an option, and the Mark Levinson audio can be added to the Technology trim if you don't want to step up to Advance.

Pricing for packages and individual options varies by region and dealer. It's worth comparing the cost of adding options to a lower trim against the price of stepping up to a higher trim, as sometimes the higher trim offers better value if you want multiple upgrades.

Powertrain and transmission across configurations

All 2025 MDX trims except Type S use the same 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine with 290 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. The engine is designed for reliability and smooth operation rather than peak performance, and it achieves reasonable fuel economy for a three-row SUV.

The Type S turbocharged engine delivers more power and torque, which translates to faster 0-60 times and quicker passing acceleration. However, turbocharged engines typically require premium fuel and may have slightly higher maintenance costs over time. The Type S also has a sport-tuned transmission that holds gears longer before shifting, enhancing the performance feel.

All MDX models come standard with all-wheel drive — there is no front-wheel-drive option. This means better traction in snow and rain, but also slightly higher fuel consumption and a higher purchase price compared to front-wheel-drive competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Standard and Technology trims?

The Technology trim upgrades the touchscreen from 10.2 inches to 12.3 inches, adds integrated navigation, includes a 16-speaker audio system instead of six speakers, and adds heated front seats and a power moonroof. If you spend a lot of time driving and want better audio and navigation, Technology is worth the step up.

Is the Type S worth the extra cost if I'm not a performance driver?

The Type S costs significantly more than Advance, and most of that cost goes toward the turbocharged engine and sport suspension. If you prioritize comfort and fuel economy over handling, the Advance trim offers nearly all the luxury features at a lower price. The Type S makes sense if you genuinely enjoy spirited driving.

Can I get a sunroof on the Standard trim?

Yes, a panoramic sunroof is available as an option on the Standard trim. You don't have to step up to Technology or Advance to get one. Check with your dealer for the current price of the sunroof option, as it varies by location.

Do all trims have the same safety features?

All 2025 MDX trims include AcuraWatch as standard, which covers collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, and road departure mitigation. Higher trims add features like surround-view cameras and blind-spot monitoring, but the core safety suite is the same across all configurations.

What's the difference between the Advance and Type S if they both have luxury features?

Advance prioritizes comfort and quiet operation with luxury materials and heated seats. Type S includes those same luxury features but adds a turbocharged engine, sport suspension, and performance-tuned steering. Choose Advance for a refined family SUV, or Type S if you want that refinement plus athletic handling.