What are the driving modes for the 2016 Acura MDX?
The 2016 Acura MDX features three drive modes: ECON (Economy), Normal, and Sport. These modes adjust throttle response, shift behavior, and certain comfort features to balance efficiency and performance.
In this article, we break down what each mode does, how it changes the driving experience, and when you might choose one over another. This applies to the MDX models equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 and the available nine-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD.
Drive modes at a glance
Here is a quick look at how each drive mode changes the vehicle’s behavior. The table-style summary below helps you compare what you’ll notice behind the wheel.
- ECON (Economy) mode – softens throttle response and optimizes transmission shifts for higher fuel efficiency; may reduce HVAC aggressiveness and other nonessential systems to save fuel.
- Normal mode – the default setting offering a balanced mix of comfort, response, and efficiency for everyday driving.
- Sport mode – sharpens throttle response, holds gears longer, and provides a more immediate and engaging driving feel for confident acceleration and handling.
In everyday use, ECON is best for long highway trips when fuel economy is a priority, Normal is ideal for typical city/highway driving, and Sport is preferred when you want a more responsive and dynamic driving experience.
Details of each mode
ECON (Economy) mode
ECON mode prioritizes efficiency. Throttle mapping is softened, the transmission tends to upshift earlier, and climate control operation may be adjusted to reduce load on the engine. The goal is to maximize miles per gallon, at the cost of brisk acceleration and some HVAC performance.
Normal mode
Normal mode offers a balanced, everyday driving experience. Throttle response and shift timing are tuned for comfort and efficiency, providing predictable responses suitable for most conditions without feeling either overly sluggish or aggressively spirited.
Sport mode
Sport mode enhances performance-oriented characteristics. Throttle response is more immediate, shifts occur later to keep the engine in its power band, and steering can feel more direct. This mode is designed for a more engaging drive, such as on winding roads or when merging onto a highway with confidence.
Practical takeaways for drivers
For typical daily use, most MDX drivers stay in Normal mode. Switch to ECON when you’re aiming to squeeze out extra fuel economy on longer trips, and move to Sport when you want a more responsive feel for highway merging or spirited driving.
Summary
The 2016 Acura MDX provides three drive modes—ECON, Normal, and Sport—that tune throttle response and transmission behavior to balance efficiency and performance. ECON prioritizes fuel economy, Normal offers a well-rounded default, and Sport delivers a more dynamic driving experience.
