What is the difference between A-Spec and a-spec advance package?

In brief, A-Spec is the sport-focused styling and handling package, while the Advance Package enhances luxury and tech features. On some models, there is also an “A-Spec Advance” bundle that combines both sets of features. Availability and exact contents vary by model year and market.

This article explains how the two options typically differ, why buyers choose one over the other, and when a bundled A-Spec Advance option might be offered. It provides a general guide, but for your exact vehicle, always check the official brochure or a dealer quote for your year and model.

What A-Spec Typically Includes

Standardizing the list helps buyers understand what to expect from a sport-oriented package. The features shown below are commonly associated with A-Spec on many models, but can vary by year and model.

• Sport-oriented exterior styling: unique grille, badging, and often aerodynamic enhancements or dark-trim accents.


• Rim and tire package: larger wheels and sport tires designed to sharpen handling and stance.


• Sport interior details: performance-inspired seating, contrast stitching, and distinctive A-Spec branding.


• Chassis/handling tweaks: stiffer suspension tuning or sport-tuned dampers on some models, improving response and road feel.


• Exhaust and drive modes: a more aggressive exhaust note or selectable sport drive modes on certain trims.

These features emphasize a more dynamic, visually sportier experience without necessarily upgrading luxury amenities across the cabin. Exact inclusions depend on the model year and the specific vehicle lineup.

What the Advance Package Adds

Advance is typically the higher, luxury-focused tier that centers on comfort, tech, and convenience. The list below reflects common elements seen with the Advance Package, though details can vary by model and year.

• Premium interior materials: upgraded leather or leather-trim, refined cabin accents, and enhanced seating comfort.


• Advanced electronics: navigation, premium audio systems, larger or additional display screens, and enhanced infotainment features.


• Comfort features: heated and often ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable, memory-enabled seating.


• Driver-assistance and safety tech: advanced or optional systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and surround-view cameras.


• Convenience and ambience: premium lighting, better ambient cues, and often wireless charging or additional connectivity options.


• Wheel and cosmetic upgrades: larger or more premium wheels and subtle exterior refinements that distinguish the package.

As with A-Spec, the exact content of the Advance Package varies by model year and market. Buyers should verify the precise feature list for their specific vehicle.

A-Spec Advance: Bundling the Sport and Luxury Features

In some models and years, automakers offer an “A-Spec Advance” or “A-Spec with Advance Package” that merges sport styling and handling with luxury and tech upgrades. When available, this bundle aims to provide a one-stop option for buyers who want both sets of benefits. The exact contents and price differ by model and year, so it’s essential to consult the official brochure or dealership for the precise package build.

Summary

Key takeaway: choose A-Spec for a sportier appearance and driving feel, with selective performance touches; choose the Advance Package for enhanced luxury, technology, and comfort features. If you want both, look for an A-Spec Advance bundle where offered, but confirm the exact feature set and price for your vehicle year and model. Responsible buyers check the latest manufacturer specifications to avoid surprises at the showroom.

Bottom line for shoppers

Understanding the distinction helps you align your purchase with your priorities—dynamic styling and handling versus luxury amenities and tech. Always verify what’s included on your exact model year and region, as packages evolve with each redesign and lifecycle refresh.

What is the difference between Type S and Type S Advance?

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The Type S Advance trim level offers the same engine with a slightly higher output, producing 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.

What is the difference between Acura MDX A-spec and Advance Package 2025?

The 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec Package focuses on sportier styling, while the Advance Package emphasizes luxury and comfort features. The key difference is that the A-Spec Advance Package combines elements of both, offering sport-focused features with added luxury items like massaging seats and a surround-view camera. The A-Spec features include sport seats with Ultrasuede, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a blacked-out exterior, while the Advance adds luxury touches like quilted leather, wood trim, and extra ambient lighting. 
Acura MDX A-Spec Package

• Exterior: Sporty aesthetic with 20-inch Shark Gray wheels, LED fog lights, and gloss black exterior trim. 
• Interior: Sport seats with perforated Milano leather and Ultrasuede, a flat-bottom sport steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, and an ebony headliner. 
• Performance: Standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) on most models, though the non-A-Spec Advance gets it standard too. 

Acura MDX Advance Package

• Exterior: Similar to the A-Spec, but with a different set of 20-inch alloy wheels and standard roof rails. 
• Interior: Focuses on luxury with massaging front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and quilted leather upholstery. 
• Comfort: Includes the luxury features of the Technology Package plus additional amenities like open-pore wood trim and enhanced ambient lighting. 

Acura MDX A-Spec Advance Package 

• Combines the sporty A-Spec look with the premium features of the Advance Package. 
• Includes luxury features like massaging front seats, a surround-view camera, and heated rear seats. 
• Offers the best of both worlds by blending sporty design with high-end comfort and convenience features. 

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.

What is the difference between a-spec and a-spec advanced?

An A-Spec package adds sport-oriented styling to an Acura, while an A-Spec Advance combines the sport styling of the A-Spec with the premium comfort and convenience features of the Advance trim, such as advanced driver assists and higher-end materials. In short, the A-Spec is about looks, while the A-Spec Advance is about luxury and sportiness. 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the features between A-Spec and A-Spec Advance trims: 59sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Mar 30, 2025
A-Spec

• Focus: Primarily sport-themed exterior and interior styling. 
• Features:
  • Sport seats 
  • Sport steering wheel 
  • Sportier exterior accents (gloss black, specific wheels, etc.) 
  • Unique badging 

A-Spec Advance

• Focus: Adds a layer of luxury, comfort, and technology on top of the sportiness. 
• Features:
  • All A-Spec features, plus: 
  • Advanced comfort: Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel 
  • Advanced technology: Surround-view camera system, head-up display (HUD), premium sound system, built-in navigation, and other driver assists 
  • Premium materials: Authentic wood trim, additional sound insulation, and an acoustic glass windshield 

How to choose

• Choose A-Spec if: You want the sportier look and feel without the extra cost of the luxury and advanced technology features.
• Choose A-Spec Advance if: You want the best of both worlds—sporty styling combined with top-tier comfort, advanced driver aids, and premium amenities. It's for those who want a well-equipped and luxurious vehicle with a sportier edge.