What type of transmission does the Acura MDX have?
The current Acura MDX uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, available with front-wheel drive or Acura’s SH-AWD all-wheel drive depending on the trim. No manual transmission is offered on modern MDX models.
Across the MDX’s history, transmission technology has evolved from earlier automatics with fewer gears to today’s multi-gear setup. This article explains the current configuration and gives a brief look at how transmissions have changed across generations.
Current generation: 2022–present
Performance and efficiency
The 2022 redesign introduced a 10-speed automatic to replace the prior setup, improving both shift smoothness and highway efficiency. The drivetrain options include front-wheel drive as standard and SH-AWD on most trims, enhancing traction in varied conditions.
Key characteristics of the current MDX transmission
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive standard; SH-AWD all-wheel drive available on most trims
- No manual transmission option
In summary, today’s MDX relies on a 10-speed automatic with flexible drivetrain choices depending on the model and trim.
Historical context
Evolution of MDX transmissions
Over its generations, the MDX has used different automatic transmissions as engineering priorities shifted. Early models relied on traditional automatics with fewer gears, while later versions adopted more advanced setups. For precise details by model year or trim, refer to official Acura specifications.
When evaluating a used MDX, it’s important to confirm the exact transmission type for that specific year and trim, since configurations have varied across generations.
Summary
The Acura MDX’s current model year lineup uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, paired with either front-wheel drive or SH-AWD depending on trim, with no manual option. If you’re looking at a specific year or variant, check the exact specifications in the model’s documentation or with a dealer to confirm the transmission details.
