What is the highest level of Acura MDX?
The highest level is the Acura MDX Type S. If you’re considering non‑Type S trims, the top non‑performance model is the Elite.
Understanding the MDX trim ladder
Below is a concise look at the standard MDX lineup commonly offered in recent model years. This helps frame where the Type S fits in the overall hierarchy.
- MDX Standard
- MDX Technology
- MDX A-Spec
- MDX Advance
- MDX Elite
These trims cover the regular MDX lineup. The Acura MDX Type S sits above them as the top performance variant in the model family.
MDX Type S: The top-tier performance variant
The Type S represents the pinnacle of the MDX lineup, focusing on enhanced power, handling, and distinctive styling. It’s designed for buyers who want performance credentials without moving to a separate model.
- 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine
- Approximately 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- SH-AWD all-wheel drive with sport-oriented tuning
- Sport-inspired exterior and interior details
In short, the Type S delivers a more energetic driving experience while preserving the MDX’s practicality and luxury. It sits at the top of the MDX line in terms of performance and pricing, ahead of the Elite the moment you opt for this variant.
How Type S differs from Elite
Compared with the Elite, the Type S adds power, refined handling, and exclusive styling cues. Some features may be similar across trims, but the Type S packages performance hardware and branding that set it apart from the non‑performance Elite model.
- Higher horsepower and torque from the turbo V6
- Sport-oriented chassis and braking enhancements
- Unique interior and exterior design touches
For shoppers prioritizing ultimate performance within the MDX family, the Type S is the definitive top tier; for those emphasizing luxury and tech with balanced capability, the Elite remains the top non‑Type S choice.
Choosing between trims: what to consider
Before making a decision, consider how much you value performance versus daily practicality, as well as budget and ownership costs. The following points can help guide a decision.
- Budget: Type S prices are higher than Elite and other standard trims.
- Performance needs: If you want the strongest engine and sport handling, Type S is the clear choice.
- Luxury and tech: Elite offers premium content, but the Type S adds performance-focused upgrades that affect overall cost.
Ultimately, the best trim depends on how you balance power, features, and price within the MDX family.
Summary
In the current Acura MDX lineup, the highest trim level is the MDX Type S, a performance-oriented flagship that sits above the Elite and other standard trims. For buyers who don’t prioritize performance but want premium features, the Elite remains the top non‑Type S option. The choice comes down to whether you value raw performance more than a balanced luxury package.
How much is a fully loaded Acura MDX?
The 2026 Acura MDX has a starting sticker price of $53,150, with the range-topping MDX Type S w/Advance Pkg kicking off at $77,200.
What is the highest trim level of Acura?
The highest trim for Acura models depends on the specific vehicle, but it is typically the "Type S Advance" for the MDX and the "A-Spec Advance Package" for the RDX and TLX. These top trims combine high performance with the most premium features, such as more powerful engines, sport-tuned suspensions, enhanced interior materials, and advanced technology.
- Acura MDX: The highest trim is the MDX Type S Advance. It features a 355-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine, an adaptive air suspension, Brembo brakes, and a host of luxury features including a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and massage seats.
- Acura RDX: The highest trim is the RDX A-Spec Advance Package. This combines the sportiness of the A-Spec with the luxury of the Advance Package, including features like perforated Milano leather and Ultrasuede upholstery.
- Acura TLX: The highest trim is the TLX Type S, which is focused on performance with a turbocharged V6 engine and motorsport-inspired engineering. It includes the A-Spec sport appearance features and other high-end upgrades.
- Acura Integra: The highest trim is the Integra Type S, which is designed for driving enthusiasts. It features a 320-horsepower engine and comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission.
What is the top of the line Acura MDX?
The top-of-the-line Acura MDX is the Type S Advance Package, which combines a high-performance engine with luxury features and sport-focused styling. It includes a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine with 355 horsepower, an adaptive air suspension, Brembo front brakes, and premium features like 16-way massaging front seats, a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and exclusive leather and Ultrasuede sport seats.
Performance and handling
- Engine: 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine with 355 horsepower
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with rev-matching downshifts
- Suspension: Adaptive air suspension with auto-leveling
- Brakes: Brembo front 4-piston braking system
- Exhaust: Active exhaust valve
Luxury and technology
- Seating: Curvilinear quilted and perforated Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede sport seats with 16-way power adjustments, ventilation, and 9 massage modes for the front seats
- Audio: 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen Ultra Sound System
- Displays: 10.5-inch head-up display
- Convenience: PowerLift tailgate with hands-free access, heated second-row seats
- Interior Trim: Authentic open-pore wood trim and exclusive exterior and interior sport appearance packages
What are the trim levels on an Acura MDX?
The Acura MDX has five main trim levels: MDX (Base), Technology, A-Spec®, Advance, and Type S. Some packages can be combined, like the A-Spec Advance, which adds sporty styling to the luxury features of the Advance trim. The high-performance Type S is a separate trim, and the Type S Advance combines both performance and luxury.
You can watch this video to see a walkthrough of the top trim levels: 50sDhruv DrivesYouTube · Jan 10, 2025
Base trims
- MDX (Base): The entry-level trim, equipped with a 290-horsepower V6 engine, 19-inch wheels, a panoramic moonroof, leatherette sport seats, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
- Technology: Adds features like 20-inch wheels, a 19-speaker ELS Studio 3D® premium audio system, and GPS-linked climate control.
- A-Spec®: Focuses on a sporty look and feel with a flat-bottom sport steering wheel, Ultrasuede®-trimmed sport seats, LED fog lights, and A-Spec styling.
Advanced trims
- Advance: Emphasizes luxury with features such as massaging and ventilated front seats, a surround-view camera system, and open-pore wood trim.
- A-Spec Advance: Combines the sporty design of the A-Spec with the luxury features of the Advance package.
- Type S: This is the high-performance trim, featuring a 355-horsepower 3.0L turbo V6 engine, Brembo® front brakes, and an adaptive air suspension.
- Type S Advance: The top-tier trim, offering the performance of the Type S with all the luxury features from the Advance package, including massaging front seats and a 31-speaker premium sound system.
