Is the Acura Advance package worth it?
The Acura Advance package is a premium upgrade option for select Acura models, offering a range of advanced features and technologies. Whether the Advance package is worth the additional cost depends on your specific needs and preferences as a driver. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Advance package and help you determine if it's a worthwhile investment.
What's Included in the Acura Advance Package?
The Acura Advance package typically includes the following features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep your vehicle centered in the lane by providing gentle steering corrections.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: Detects potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact.
- Surround-View Camera System: Provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats: Enhances comfort by providing heating and cooling options for the driver and front passenger.
- Premium Audio System: Upgrades the standard audio system with higher-quality speakers and amplifiers for a more immersive listening experience.
The specific features included in the Advance package may vary slightly depending on the Acura model and model year.
Is the Acura Advance Package Worth the Cost?
Whether the Acura Advance package is worth the additional cost depends on your driving needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Safety Features: If you value advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation, the Advance package may be a worthwhile investment. These features can help you avoid accidents and provide added peace of mind on the road.
- Comfort and Convenience: The heated and ventilated seats, as well as the premium audio system, can enhance your overall driving experience and make longer trips more comfortable.
- Budget: The Advance package typically adds several thousand dollars to the base price of an Acura model. Carefully consider your budget and whether the additional features are worth the cost for your needs.
Ultimately, the decision to opt for the Acura Advance package comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If the included features align with your driving needs and you're willing to invest the additional cost, the Advance package may be a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you don't see yourself utilizing the advanced features regularly, the standard Acura model may be the more cost-effective choice.
What does the Acura Advance package include?
The Acura Advance package is the top trim level that adds luxury, comfort, and convenience features to a standard Acura model, typically building upon the Technology package. Key features include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats (often captain's chairs), a heated steering wheel, and a premium sound system. It also adds exterior and convenience upgrades such as LED fog lights, roof rails, a surround-view camera, and parking sensors.
You can watch this video to see a walkthrough of the 2026 Acura MDX A-spec Advance Package's features: 1mVagabond BuildsYouTube · Sep 1, 2025
Comfort and convenience
- Heated and ventilated front seats with 16-way adjustments
- Heated second-row seats (often captain's chairs)
- Heated steering wheel
- Premium leather seating
- Second-row window sunshades
- Second-row storage console
- Natural wood accents
- Rear entertainment system (on some models)
- Head-up display (on some models)
Technology and safety
- Surround-view camera system
- Front and rear parking sensors
- LED fog lights
- Automatic dimming side mirrors
- Built-in roof rails
- Premium audio system, such as the ELS Studio® system
- Massage function for front seats (on some models)
- Wireless charging pad (on some models)
What the Advance package adds
- Builds on Technology: The Advance package includes all the features of the Technology package and adds more high-end amenities.
- Focus on luxury: The focus is on increasing passenger comfort and adding premium interior and exterior details.
- Adds convenience features: It provides added convenience with features like parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and roof rails.
Which Acura MDX to stay away from?
You should generally avoid the 2001, 2003, 2010, 2014, and 2017 Acura MDX model years, as they have a higher likelihood of issues with transmissions, electrical systems, and other engine and technology problems. Specific model years have recurring complaints about transmission failure, acceleration problems, and various electrical issues, with the 2010 and 2014 models often cited as problematic.
Acura MDX model years to avoid
- 2001, 2003: These early models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues.
- 2010: This model year is often noted as having more expensive issues, particularly with transmission and engine problems.
- 2014: This model is mentioned as having recurring problems with the transmission and electrical systems.
- 2017: This model year is on some lists for potential issues, particularly with engine and technology components.
Common problems to be aware of
- Transmission failure: A recurring and costly issue, especially in the 2001, 2003, and 2004 model years.
- Electrical system issues: Problems with various electrical components have been reported in several model years, including 2014.
- Engine problems: Specific model years have been linked to engine-related issues, with the 2017 model being one example.
- Acceleration issues: Some models, including the 2016-2020 range, have been associated with acceleration defects.
Do wealthy people drive Acura?
The top 10 cars for $250,000-plus households include the Mercedes E-class, the Lexus RX 350 and the BMW 5 series and 3 series. Following those top four were three Hondas, a Toyota, an Acura and a Volkswagen.
Which Acura package is best?
HIGHLY recommend going used 2020 advanced SH-AWD. It is the best combo of luxury upgrades and quality car. For eg, just had 2024 advanced package as a loaner and it doesn't have 360 camera or front camera, or ac front seats or rear heated seats, or foot-triggered automated rear liftgate.
