The Type S badge, which denotes the sportiest model of the vehicle it is applied to, has a long history in Acura's performance history. One of my earliest childhood memories is of my father driving a 2008 Acura TL Type-S down the highway, letting the V6 scream and rev to the moon until it reached the limiter. The badge has also been spotted on the RSX and NSX models from the first and second generations.
But these days, automakers slap their glitzy badges on anything with four wheels without giving the claimed performance any real thought or engineering support. Despite not being in any way performance-oriented, every new BMW and AMG on the road seem to have a M badge—both fake and real. It would therefore be simple to write off the most recent Acura MDX Type S as yet another victim of badge engineering. a sizable three-row SUV with NSX-like characteristics? Right. Who wouldn't be intrigued by the spec sheet, which boasts a more potent engine, Brembo brakes, and an adaptive air suspension for the first time on an MDX?
The Type S differs from the MDX A-Spec visually without being overtly noticeable thanks to its distinctive 21-inch wheels, bolder front bumper, exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint, and enormous quad exhaust tips out back. The interior is the same, but now includes extra luxuries like a 1000-watt ELS speaker system and front seats with 9 massage settings.
Instead of the 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6, a more powerful 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with all-wheel drive and 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque has replaced it. Its peach-like engine loves to rev and accelerates more satisfyingly than the Infiniti QX60 and Genesis GV80. The MDX does not feel constrained by its size, despite not being as quick as the TLX Type S or its V8 competitors like the Dodge Durango SRT, BMW X5 M50i, or Audi SQ7. It boils down to two factors. The maximum torque is available at 1,400 rpm, which is much earlier in the rev range than it is for the regular MDX at just under 5,000 rpm. Second, there is hardly any turbo lag in the engine. You can achieve speed by combining a skillful AWD system that knows how to distribute it.
By turning the center knob that was taken from the NSX, the Type S has a brand-new Sport+ mode that can be engaged. Even though we only found it useful in a few overtaking situations, it was still a cool feature to have because it sets all the drive settings to their highest setting. To make it easier to use, we would prefer if the dial were mounted on the dashboard or built into the steering wheel. Additionally, the exhaust has a pleasing howl that is reminiscent of a naturally aspirated V6. It doesn't sound as exciting as it did in the TLX, but that is probably because the MDX has more cabin insulation and is farther away from the exhaust.
The steering is quick, precise, and equally muted, just like the TLX Type S. We feel like we are connected to a Playstation controller rather than actual tires because it is overboosted. The MDX lacks any sense of road feel in any of the three adjustable steering modes, which is a shame because we like using less muscle power to turn the wheel and we also like having some semblance of road feel seeping through to our fingertips. The 10-speed automatic is a pain and the weakest link in the powertrain, just like the TLX. Even in manual mode, it enjoys shifting on its own, and there is a clear disconnect when rowing the gears with the paddle shifters.
With a grace that the standard MDX lacks, the adaptive air suspension transforms the ride quality into one that is exceptional. It offers a steady and grounded ride over lengthy stretches of highway and hardly ever feels choppy even when battered by strong winds or riding in a lorry's aerodynamic wake. At highway speeds, the air suspension will also lower the car for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and raise it for a little more ground clearance.
The MDX Type S has the capability to be both a canyon carver and a road trip warrior. Even though it doesn't particularly excel in either area, it's still one of the most entertaining Acuras we've recently driven. Nevertheless, we thought it was more of a humorous take on a sports SUV than one that forgoes utility to improve performance on the Nürburgring. Just a little more hardcore would have been nice. Make it more NSX-inspired, more imposing from a visual standpoint, more daring to give potential owners something to aspire to, and lighter in weight. After all, the purpose of a halo car is to inspire.
Specifications:
- Model: 2022 Acura MDX Type S Ultra
- Paint Type: Performance Red Pearl
- Base Price: $84,900
- Price as Tested: $85,400
- Wheelbase(mm): 2,890
- Length/Width/Height (mm): 5,039 / 1,999 / 1,724
- Curb weight (kg): 2,148
- Engine: 3.0-litre turbocharged V6
- Horsepower: 355 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 354 lb-ft @ 1,400 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Engine & Drive Configuration: Front engine, AWD
- Fuel Consumption ( City / Highway / Combined ) L/100km: 13.8 / 11.2 / 12.4
- Observed Fuel Consumption (L/100km): 12.8 (mostly highway driving)
- Tires: Continental ContiWinterContact
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