Being good enough isn’t an option in the midsize luxury SUV segment. You need to have the latest tech, multiple robust powertrain options, distinctive styling inside and out, and of course a high level of luxury. Does the mildly updated 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec check all the boxes to stay relevant in an extremely competitive segment?

What’s new for 2025?

Acura redesigned and released this current, fourth-generation MDX for the 2022 model year. The previous-generation model held onto the much-ridiculed “beak” front grille design that surely cost the brand a few customers over the years. Thankfully, they rectified that with a much more toned-down front fascia that tied-in better with the rest of the MDX’s overall look. It’s disctinctly Japanese and there’s no mistaking the MDX for anything else, but I still wouldn’t call it as striking and head-turning as a Genesis GV80. Still, the MDX is handsome and receives a very subtle exterior refresh for 2025, including a new mesh design for the front grille and some new wheel options. As Acura’s top seller in North America, the 2025 MDX proudly shows the face of the brand.

Inside, the most significant change to the 2025 MDX is the elimination of that horrid touchpad controller for the infotainment. Now, the 12.3-inch display front-and-centre of the dash is a touchscreen. It’s not the largest or most striking arrangement in the segment compared to the sweeping displays you’d find in competitors like the GV80 and Lincoln Nautilus, but it’s a big step in the right direction for the brand. The software behind it is also smooth and snappy, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. An outstanding 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system replaces the fantastic ELS setup from before.

Interior comfort, tech, and practicality

Aside from the new infotainment, the rest of the 2025 Acura MDX remains unchanged inside. It’s intuitive and reasonably attractive, and material quality is good but not class-leading; alternatives like the BMW X5 and GV80 feel like much more of an occasion and pack more tech prowess. By comparison, the MDX is more old school, which we still like. Everything is still easy to use, ergonomics are mostly good, and the interior bits you regularly interact with look and feel nice. I wish Acura too the opportunity to redo the shifter. The push-buttons are easy enough to figure out, but I’m old school. Give me a proper P-R-N-D lever, or even a stalk like Mercedes-Benz does. Swapping the touchpad for a touchscreen opens up space on the centre console for a bigger cubby, but I still think it could use more storage.

In the first two rows, the 2025 Acura MDX is actually quite comfortable. Adults won’t feel pinched for legroom, headroom, and shoulder room regardless of where they sit. The third row is fine for smaller adults in a pinch or for quick trips, but it’s best reserved for kids on road trips. Cargo space comes in at 513 litres behind the third row; drop it and that grows to 1,368—plenty for jaunts to Costco. With everything stowed, the MDX can accomodate up to 2,690 L.

How does the 2025 MDX drive?

Our MDX A-Spec tester has Acura’s  tried-and-true naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6. With 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, it isn’t as powerful as many of its competitors, but this engine is smooth and has proven to be reliable in the long run. For those looking for more horsepower, you can upgrade to the MDX Type S and its 355-horsepower 3.0L turbo V6 under the hood. Both engines are paired to a smooth-shifting and well-behaved 10-speed automatic transmission. With this base engine, the MDX is rated at 12.6 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.2 combined, though I averaged a rather high 12.8 L/100 km given the chilly weather. Regardless of the engine you pick, premium fuel is recommended.

The 2025 Acura MDX embraces its sporty nature more than something like a Nautilus or Lexus RX. It’s comfortable and compliant; it won’t beat you up over rough roads and potholes, and both wind and road noise are well-managed. But the MDX also feels surprisingly agile for how big it is; the steering is quick and well-weighted, and for all its comfort-oriented compliance, the suspension manages body roll surprisingly well should you need to make a last-second evasive manoeuvre.

Is the refreshed MDX worth it?

Pricing for the 2025 MDX ranges from $66,800 to start for the base Tech trim, ranging all the way up to $87,930 for the range-topping Type S. Our A-Spec tester lands towards the lower end of that spectrum, working out to $70,780 as-tested and before any fees or taxes. Based on the value standpoint alone, the MDX is a fantastic option for families shopping luxury three-row SUVs. It does everything you could possibly need—the MDX feels potent and smooth even with the base engine, it’s surprisingly enjoyable to drive, it looks great inside and out, and the tech is much more usable than before. Sprinkle in that reputation for reliability, and the 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec emerges as a fantastic option in a very competitive segment.