2025 Acura MDX Leans Into Sportier Styling with Google Tech

The facelifted MDX has many updates including an all-new infotainment system with Google built-in.

Touch screen displays are ubiquitous as they can be found on tablets, smartphones and laptops. They can also be found in many cars, although a small number of car manufacturers make a lot of money and logic.

Acura was one of them, as the brand embraced the True Touchpad Interface, which wasn’t intuitive or easy to use. Although drivers would eventually get the hang of it, the system felt like a relic of a bygone era. The company is now putting the system at the rear with the all-new 2025 MDX, which has an all-new infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Google built-in.

Besides being more intuitive, it provides access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play store. Buyers will also get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

More: 2024 Acura TLX Gets Nose Job, Digital Cluster and Extra Kit

Speaking of technology, the crossover comes with the latest generation of AcuraLink. Buyers will also get Wi-Fi hotspot, over-the-air updates, and connected features like remote lock/unlock as well as remote start.

The removal of the True Touchpad interface has allowed Acura to add an improved center console. It has a compact design, increased storage, and the most accessible wireless smartphone charger. Buyers will also get upgraded sound systems. The entry-level unit has two additional speakers, while the 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system has up to seven more speakers than its predecessor.

Smart Exterior Modifications

The updates continue outside with a revised grille and sporter front bumper featuring air intakes. This model also features black headlights and taillights, along with a revised color palette that now includes Canyon River Blue Metallic and Urban Gray Pearl.

High-end variants have additional changes as models with the Technology Package ride on new 20-inch wheels. The package also includes “numerous refinement updates to the quiet cabin.” Among the changes are additional insulation and laminated glass back door.

To keep drivers safe, there are new cameras and a millimeter wave radar system, allowing for improved detection and a wider field of view. The model also has better blind spot information sensors that now enable the new Lane Change Alert function. Rounding out the highlights is a new rear seat belt reminder system and Adaptive Cruise Control with Cornering Speed ​​Assist.

Coming back to the equipment, the 2025 MDX offers a new A-Spec variant with the Advance Package. It combines a sporty exterior with a luxurious interior that features leather-trimmed front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display – among other features.

The S-Type MDX changes are similar, but the high-performance variant is distinguished by a frameless Diamond Pentagon grille and a more aggressive front bumper with gloss black accents. They are joined by new 21-inch wheels that have a two-tone look.

Stepping inside, the luxury mid-size SUV has redesigned front seats with Ultrasuede upholstery and Type S logos on the headrests. The model also comes with a new 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with the previously optional Advance Package.

The Type S builds on the safety improvements in the standard model by having a long-range millimeter wave radar, an improved front camera, and new millimeter wave radar sensors in all four corners. Thanks to these changes, the crossover now has Active Lane Change Assist, Lane Change Collision Mitigation, and Front Cross Traffic Warning. Acura also says drivers can expect smoother cruise control response as well as improved detection capabilities.

Under the hood, there is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 355 hp (265 kW / 360 PS) and 354 lb-ft (479 Nm) of torque. It is mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission and the brand’s Super Handling all-wheel drive system.

The standard model has a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and 267 lb-ft (362 Nm) of torque. It also has a ten-speed automatic transmission, but all-wheel drive is optional.

The 2025 MDX and MDX Type S will arrive at US dealers next month and pricing will be announced closer to launch.