Does Acura have a hybrid SUV?
Yes. Acura currently offers a hybrid SUV in the United States: the MDX Sport Hybrid, a three-row crossover that combines a 3.0-liter V6 with electric motors to improve efficiency.
To understand what this means for buyers, here is a closer look at Acura's hybrid SUV options, how the system works, and what to consider when shopping.
Acura's current hybrid SUV offering
Note that Acura's hybrid SUV lineup in the U.S. centers on the MDX Sport Hybrid. The brand has not widely released a RDX hybrid for the U.S. market as of 2025, though electrified variants may appear in other regions. The MDX hybrid’s powertrain blends efficiency with Acura’s SH-AWD system for improved traction and performance.
- MDX Sport Hybrid with SH-AWD – a three-row SUV that pairs a 3.0-liter V6 engine with electric motors to deliver responsive acceleration and better real-world fuel economy than the gasoline-only MDX. The system drives all four wheels through the SH-AWD setup.
In short, the MDX Sport Hybrid is Acura's current primary hybrid SUV option in the U.S., offering a practical blend of space, capability, and efficiency. For buyers elsewhere or those seeking plug-in options, Acura’s electrification plans may bring additional variants in the future.
How the hybrid system works
Understanding the technology helps buyers weigh the benefits. The MDX Sport Hybrid uses a gasoline engine paired with electric motors to optimize power delivery, with regenerative braking charging the battery and electric motors assisting the engine during acceleration and low-speed driving. All-wheel drive is managed via SH-AWD for improved traction in diverse conditions.
Performance and efficiency highlights
Key numbers and features of the MDX Sport Hybrid include a combined power setup with the gasoline engine and electric motors, all-wheel-drive distribution through SH-AWD, and a focus on delivering stronger real-world efficiency than the non-hybrid variant.
- Combined output is in the 300+ horsepower range, with electric motors contributing to torque and smooth acceleration.
- Regenerative braking helps recharge the hybrid battery during deceleration and braking.
- Electric assistance reduces load on the gas engine in urban driving and during light-to-moderate acceleration.
These highlights illustrate how Acura integrates hybrid tech to balance performance and efficiency in a family-friendly SUV.
What to consider when shopping
Before buying, consider your expectations for fuel economy, the need for three rows, interior cargo space, and how the hybrid powertrain affects maintenance costs and warranty coverage relative to the non-hybrid model. Also, verify current availability in your region, as model-year changes can affect options.
Summary
Acura does offer a hybrid SUV in its lineup, chiefly the MDX Sport Hybrid. While the RDX line in the United States remains gasoline-powered for now, Acura’s broader electrification strategy points to more electrified options in the future. Prospective buyers should confirm current offerings with a local dealer, as availability can vary by model year and region. The MDX Sport Hybrid remains the most established path to a hybrid SUV from Acura today.
Does the Acura MDX come in a hybrid model?
Yes, the Acura MDX has come in a hybrid version, the MDX Sport Hybrid. Acura has also confirmed that hybrid models are returning to its lineup in the coming years, which may include the MDX. The past MDX Sport Hybrid model combined a 3.0L V6 engine with three electric motors to produce 321 horsepower and offered improved fuel efficiency compared to the standard model.
- Previous Hybrid Model: The MDX Sport Hybrid was available in previous model years, offering a blend of performance and efficiency.
- Powertrain: It featured a 3.0L V6 engine and three electric motors, producing a combined 321 horsepower.
- Technology: This model also came with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) and an Active Damper System.
- Future Hybrid Plans: Acura has confirmed that it is bringing back hybrid models in the future, with potential for the MDX to receive a hybrid option again, as shown in this Reddit post and this Edmunds article.
Does Acura make a SUV hybrid?
Yes, Acura makes a hybrid SUV, specifically the MDX Sport Hybrid. It combines a 3.0L V6 engine with an electric powertrain to deliver both power and fuel efficiency. Acura is also transitioning its lineup to include more hybrid and electric models, including an upcoming hybrid version of the RDX SUV for the 2026 model year.
- Current hybrid SUV: The MDX Sport Hybrid is a three-row luxury midsize SUV that uses a 3.0L V6 engine and three electric motors to produce 321 horsepower.
- Future hybrid SUV: Acura has confirmed that the 2026 RDX will offer a hybrid model, which is expected to have a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electric power plant with an estimated 320 horsepower.
- Other hybrid models: Acura also has hybrid versions of its sedans, like the RLX, and sports cars, like the NSX, that use the same Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system.
Did Acura stop making hybrids?
Despite the renewed focus on hybrids, Acura is not slowing down its electric vehicle development. The brand unveiled the RSX EV prototype (pictured above) in Monterey, a high-performance electric SUV that will be the brand's first bespoke EV built on a new in-house platform.
Does the Acura RDX come in a hybrid model?
Yes, Acura has confirmed that the 2026 RDX will be available as a hybrid. While past information suggested a shift to all-electric vehicles, Acura is now bringing back hybrids, with the RDX and Integra expected to gain hybrid powertrains for the 2026 model year.
You can watch this video to learn more about the new 2026 Acura RDX Hybrid: 1mQ CARSYouTube · Jun 8, 2025
- 2026 Acura RDX hybrid: The upcoming 2026 RDX will feature a hybrid powertrain, combining a turbocharged engine with electric power.
- Performance and efficiency: The hybrid version is expected to offer improved fuel efficiency, especially in urban areas, while also providing stronger acceleration and retaining the brand's signature performance.
- Hybrid strategy shift: This move marks a shift in Acura's electrification plans, which previously indicated a move directly to all-electric vehicles.
- Future availability: The hybrid RDX is part of Acura's new strategy to add hybrid engines to existing models and introduce new hybrid offerings.
