What Acura's Build and Price tool does
Acura's Build and Price tool is an online configurator on Acura's website that lets you select a model, add options and packages, and see the price update in real time. You start by choosing a vehicle — say, an MDX or TLX — then walk through trim levels, colors, interior materials, technology packages, and add-ons like all-wheel drive or premium audio. The tool shows you the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for each choice you make, so you can see exactly what each feature costs before you reach a dealership.
The tool does not reserve a vehicle, lock in a price, or connect you to a dealer automatically. It is a shopping and comparison resource. Once you have built a configuration you like, you can print it, email it to yourself, or use it as a reference when you visit a dealer or call for a quote. Some dealers will honor the MSRP shown in the tool, though final price depends on dealer markup, incentives, and your local market.
Key Takeaways
- Acura's Build and Price tool shows MSRP for each option you add, so you can see the cost breakdown before talking to a dealer.
- You can compare different trim levels and packages side by side to understand which features justify the price difference.
- The price shown is the manufacturer's suggested retail price, not the actual price you will pay — dealers may charge more or less depending on incentives and local market conditions.
- You can save or email your configuration to use as a reference when contacting dealers or visiting a showroom.
- The tool does not reserve a vehicle or commit you to anything; it is purely informational.
How to access and navigate the tool
Go to Acura's official website and look for a link labeled "Build and Price," "Build Your Acura," or "Shop" — the exact label varies by year and site redesign. Click it and you will land on a page asking you to select a model year and vehicle type. Choose the model you are interested in — MDX, RDX, TLX, ILX, or NSX, depending on what Acura currently offers.
Once you select a model, the tool shows you available trim levels, usually arranged from base to premium. Each trim has a starting MSRP displayed. Click on a trim to enter the configuration screen. From there, you will see sections for exterior color, interior color and material, drivetrain (front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, if available), and packages or add-ons. The price updates automatically as you make selections.
Most tools let you view a summary of your choices and the total MSRP at any time. Some allow you to compare two configurations side by side, which is useful if you are torn between a lower trim with premium options and a higher trim with fewer add-ons.
Understanding MSRP versus actual dealer price
The price the Build and Price tool shows you is the manufacturer's suggested retail price, or MSRP. This is what Acura recommends dealers charge, but it is not a binding price. Dealers can and do charge more — this is called a markup or dealer markup — or less, depending on demand, inventory, and current incentives.
In a hot market where a particular model is hard to find, dealers often charge above MSRP. In a slower market or when a model is being cleared out, dealers may discount below MSRP. Incentives — rebates, cash-back offers, or financing deals — can also lower your actual cost. These incentives change monthly and are not shown in the Build and Price tool.
Use the MSRP as a baseline for comparison, not as a may provide of what you will pay. When you contact dealers, ask them for their out-the-door price, which includes destination charges, dealer fees, and any applicable incentives.
Comparing trims and packages to find the right value
The Build and Price tool is most useful when you use it to compare. Start by looking at the base trim of a model, then step up to the next trim level and note the price difference. That difference tells you what Acura bundles into the higher trim — usually a mix of safety features, comfort upgrades, and technology. Then look at what you can add to the base trim as individual options or packages to reach a similar feature set.
For example, if the base TLX costs $38,000 and the next trim costs $42,000, that $4,000 gap might include a premium audio system, leather seats, and a sunroof. If you only want the audio system and leather, you might be able to add those as options to the base trim for less than $4,000, or you might find that the package bundle is the better deal. The tool lets you see these trade-offs clearly.
Pay attention to packages versus individual options. Acura often groups popular features into packages — like a "Technology Package" or "Luxury Package" — that cost less than buying each feature separately. If you want most of the features in a package, the package is usually the better value.
What information you can save and share
Once you have built a configuration you like, most versions of the tool let you save it, print it, or email it to yourself. Some tools generate a unique link you can share with a spouse, friend, or dealer. This is useful if you want to show a dealer exactly what you are looking for, or if you want to compare notes with someone else before making a decision.
When you save or print your configuration, it typically includes the model year, trim level, color, options, packages, and the MSRP total. It may also include a window sticker preview, which shows what the Monroney label — the official price sticker — might look like. This is a helpful reference to bring to a dealership or to use when calling for quotes.
Limitations and what the tool does not show
The Build and Price tool shows MSRP and available options, but it does not show dealer inventory, actual availability, or how long it might take to order a vehicle with your exact configuration. If you want a specific color or package combination that is rare, you may have to order it and wait weeks or months for delivery.
The tool also does not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or registration costs — all of which add to your final bill. It does not show current incentives, rebates, or financing rates, which change frequently and vary by region and credit profile. And it does not account for dealer markup, which can be significant in high-demand markets.
Finally, the tool is not a reservation system. Building a configuration does not hold a vehicle for you or lock in a price. You will need to contact a dealer separately to discuss inventory, pricing, and next steps.
How to use your Build and Price configuration at a dealership
Bring your saved or printed configuration to a dealership, or email it to a dealer's sales team before you visit. This gives them a clear picture of what you want and lets them tell you whether they have it in stock, how long an order would take, and what the actual price would be after dealer fees, incentives, and taxes.
Be prepared for the dealer to suggest alternatives. They may have a similar vehicle in stock with slightly different options, or they may offer a better price on a different trim level. Use your Build and Price configuration as a starting point for negotiation, not as a rigid requirement. Dealers often have more flexibility on price and incentives than the MSRP suggests.
If you are shopping multiple dealers, send the same configuration to each one and ask for their best out-the-door price. This makes it easier to compare offers fairly, since everyone is quoting the same vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the price in Build and Price include destination charges?
No. The MSRP shown is the base price before destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, and registration. Destination charges for Acura vehicles typically range from $1,000 to $1,200, but vary by model and delivery location. Ask the dealer for the full out-the-door price.
Can I reserve a vehicle through Build and Price?
No. The tool is for shopping and comparison only. To reserve or order a vehicle, you must contact a dealer directly by phone, email, or in person. The dealer will take your order and discuss timing and final pricing.
Will a dealer honor the MSRP shown in Build and Price?
Most dealers will honor MSRP as a starting point, but they may add dealer markup, especially if the vehicle is in high demand. Some dealers offer discounts below MSRP in slower markets. Always ask the dealer for their best price and compare offers from multiple dealers.
Can I see current incentives and rebates in Build and Price?
No. The tool shows MSRP only. Current incentives, rebates, and financing offers are listed separately on Acura's website or through dealers, and they change monthly. Check Acura's incentives page or call a dealer to learn what offers are available for your region and credit profile.
What if the exact configuration I built is not in stock?
You can order it from the dealer, though it may take several weeks or months to arrive, depending on the model and current production schedules. Alternatively, the dealer may have a similar vehicle in stock with slightly different options or colors that they can show you or offer at a different price.