What Acura is V6?
In short, Acura currently uses V6 engines in a handful of its models, most notably the MDX and its high-performance variants, the TLX Type S, and the NSX. Other popular models rely on turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and Acura’s flagship RLX is no longer in production but historically used a V6.
Overview of V6 power in Acura’s lineup
The following snapshot highlights which current or recently offered Acura models use a V6 engine, including the configuration and purpose of each powerplant.
- MDX — 3.5-liter V6 in the standard model; MDX Type S uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6
- TLX Type S — 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6
- NSX — 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 combined with a hybrid electric-motor system
- RLX — 3.5-liter V6 (historical flagship; not currently sold new in the U.S.)
Across the broader current lineup, most non-Type S sedans and crossovers use turbocharged four-cylinder engines, reflecting a shift toward downsized powertrains while preserving V6 options for performance and flagship models.
Details by model
MDX
The MDX serves as Acura’s three-row SUV, and its standard powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 that prioritizes smooth, steady power for family driving and towing. The MDX Type S, introduced to bring higher performance to the lineup, swaps in a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with sport-oriented dynamics and all-wheel drive.
TLX Type S
The TLX Type S is the performance variant of Acura’s sedan lineup, powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. This engine provides strong acceleration and a more aggressive drive character compared with the four-cylinder TLX models.
NSX
The NSX is Acura’s high-performance halo car, featuring a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 mounted behind the cockpit as part of a hybrid system with multiple electric motors. The combined powertrain delivers extensive horsepower and a distinctive mid-engine balance.
RLX
The RLX was Acura’s former flagship sedan, available with a 3.5-liter V6 during its production years. It is no longer sold new in the U.S. (though used examples remain in the market), and Acura shifted focus toward the TLX as its primary luxury sedan offering.
What about the rest of Acura’s lineup?
Most of Acura’s current mainstream vehicles—such as the RDX and non-Type S TLX—employ turbocharged four-cylinder engines for efficiency and performance targets. The brand reserves V6 power for its larger, performance-oriented, and flagship models, where the engine’s character better aligns with the vehicle’s intended role.
Summary
In summary, Acura’s V6 options today are concentrated in the MDX (3.5-liter V6 for the standard model, plus a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 for the MDX Type S), the TLX Type S (3.0-liter twin-turbo V6), and the NSX (3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in a hybrid setup). The RLX, once a V6 flagship, is no longer sold new, while the rest of the current lineup leans on turbocharged four-cylinder engines. For buyers seeking traditional V6 performance within Acura’s modern range, these are the primary choices, with the NSX representing the pinnacle of Acura’s V6-driven performance.
