How fast is the Acura MDX?
In short, speed depends on the model you choose. The base MDX accelerates in roughly the mid-to-high six seconds to 60 mph, while the high-performance Type S can surge there in about 4.5 seconds. The Sport Hybrid sits in the middle, blending quicker acceleration with efficiency.
Performance by MDX trim
The MDX lineup offers several powertrains, which translate into different 0-60 times. The following summarizes them by trim.
- MDX (base) — 3.5-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic. With all-wheel drive, 0-60 mph is typically around 6.5–7.0 seconds depending on year and configuration.
- MDX Sport Hybrid (SH-AWD) — 3.0-liter V6 plus electric motors for a combined about 321 horsepower. 0-60 mph is generally in the mid-5-second to low-6-second range.
- MDX Type S — 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with about 355 horsepower. 0-60 mph is about 4.4–4.5 seconds, making it the fastest MDX in the lineup.
In summary, the base MDX delivers comfortable everyday speed, the Sport Hybrid adds a brisk, more lively response, and the Type S delivers near-sports-car acceleration.
What affects the MDX’s acceleration
Several factors influence how fast an MDX feels in practice. The following elements commonly affect 0-60 times and overall quickness.
- Engine and powertrain configuration — naturally aspirated V6 vs. turbocharged V6 plus hybrid systems change power delivery and throttle response.
- Drivetrain setup — front-wheel drive vs. Acura’s SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) can impact traction and launch feel.
- Vehicle weight — hybrids and performance variants carry different weight profiles, influencing acceleration.
- Transmission behavior — a 10-speed automatic versus any hybrid drivetrain’s oiled components can affect shift timing and responsiveness.
- Drive mode selection — Sport or Individual modes typically sharpen throttle response and shifting for quicker launches.
Understanding these factors helps explain why the same model year can feel faster or slower depending on the trim and settings.
Model-year context and recent updates
In recent years, Acura expanded the MDX lineup with the Sport Hybrid variant and the high-performance Type S, broadening the range from practical family mobility to focused performance. While the base MDX emphasizes smoothness and efficiency, the Type S targets sporty acceleration, and the Hybrid balances brisk acceleration with improved efficiency. For most customers, the choice comes down to whether they want everyday speed, a blend of power and efficiency, or the strongest performance available in the MDX family.
Summary
The MDX line offers a broad spectrum of speed. If you want top straight-line speed, the Type S is the quickest option, clocking roughly 4.4–4.5 seconds to 60 mph. For everyday usability with strong, reliable acceleration, the base MDX sits in the mid-to-high six-second range. If you’re after a balance of power and efficiency, the Sport Hybrid provides a middle ground with mid-5-second to low-6-second performance. As always, actual times depend on year, drivetrain, and specific configuration.
What is the 0 60 time for the Acura MDX?
The 0-60 mph time for an Acura MDX depends on the model year and trim. The standard MDX is around 7.5 seconds, while the sportier MDX Type S is much quicker, achieving about 5.5 seconds. For example, a 2022 MDX SH-AWD was clocked at 5.7 seconds, while the 2022 MDX Type S was recorded at 5.5 seconds.
You can watch this video to see the Acura MDX Type S in action and how quickly it accelerates: 44sTexas Truck ChannelYouTube · Oct 28, 2022
- Standard MDX: Approximately 7.5 seconds
- MDX Type S: Approximately 5.5 seconds
This video explains the different engine options for the 2026 Acura MDX and their respective 0-60 times: 58sGold PonyYouTube · Sep 10, 2025
Is the Acura MDX fast?
Powered by a turbocharged V6 engine producing 355 horsepower, the MDX Type S reaches a top speed of 155 mph. Plus, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds.
What is the top speed of an Acura MDX?
How about the 2025 Acura MDX speed, or more specifically, the top speed of this versatile SUV? Whether you select the MDX or the MDX Type S Advance, this dynamic vehicle features an electronically limited top speed of 112 mph per Car and Driver.
Which Acura SUV is the fastest?
The fastest Acura SUV is the 2025 ZDX Type S, with a top speed of 131 mph. It is the most powerful and fastest model in Acura's SUV lineup.
You can watch this video to learn more about the MDX Type S's performance: 54sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Apr 10, 2025
- Fastest model: ZDX Type S
- Top speed: 131 mph
- Performance: The ZDX Type S has up to 500 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds.
- Powertrain: It is powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive electric powertrain.
