Today Acura has released many details about the upcoming 2022 MDX, due to go on sale on February 2, 2021.

Here are a few of our thoughts.

From the videos and photos, we think this is a really sharp looking SUV. Like the new TLX, it is a nice progression and evolution from its handsome predecessor, adopting the same type of exaggerated "dash to axle" proportion that the TLX also used. Also like the new TLX, the MDX has grown and is larger in every dimension. It is also heavier than the outgoing MDX (roughly 250 lbs heavier), while running the exact same 3.5L V6 as the outgoing version. The MDX powertrain is updated with Honda's own 10-speed automatic transmission, which is a nice upgrade from the ZF-sourced 9-speed unit that was found in the 2020 MDX. For what it's worth, it appears that the gearing and final drive for the 2022 MDX's 10AT is exactly the same as what Acura engineers specified for the current RDX's 10AT.

Despite the increase in curb weight, fuel economy has only been impacted by roughly 1 mpg across the board, with the numbers coming in at 19/26/22 (city/hwy/combined) for the FWD models and 19/25/21 for SH-AWD models. Likewise, acceleration numbers for the 4th generation will likely lag the 3rd gen MDX's by a tenth or two in some sprints. Acura has positioned the MDX as the flagship of the brand, and as such the interior looks like a nice upgrade from the current model, and like the RDX, all trim levels will feature a panoramic roof. A completely new architecture was developed, allowing Acura to fit double wishbones up front for the first time in the MDX's history.

This new architecture was also necessary to accommodate a Type S version of the MDX, which will feature Acura's all-new upcoming 355hp Turbo V6 engine, Brembo brakes, and 21" wheels. It will also offer a 1000w stereo featuring 25 speakers and 22 discrete audio channels. The MDX Type S is set to arrive in the summer of '21.

With the larger dimensions and expanded feature set of the new MDX comes some added weight. Below is a summary of the curb weights for the 2022 MDX trims, with the difference to the 2020 version shown in parentheses. Note in this list that Acura has eliminated the Entertainment package altogether for the 2022 model year.

• MDX FWD: 4271 lb (+239 lb)
• MDX SH-AWD: 4503 lb (+264)
• MDX with Technology Package: 4297 lb (+243 lb)
• MDX with Technology Package SH-AWD: 4529 lb (+ 265 lb)
• MDX A-Spec: 4534 lb (+ 259 lb)
• MDX with Advance Package: 4565 lb (+261 lb)

With the added weight, the weight distribution has shifted slightly forward. The 2020 Model had 59%/41% (F/R) balance for FWD models, while the 2022 is now 60%/40%. Similarly, SH-AWD models have shifted from 57%/43% to 58%/42%. Considering the fact that the 2022 MDX Advance already weighs 4565lb, one has to wonder how much more the Type S will weigh.

With all of these upgrades, the MDX is obviously more expensive. Below is a summary of the prices (including destination charges), showing the price difference compared to the 2020 MDX.

• MDX FWD: $47,925 (+$2400)
• MDX SH-AWD: $49,925 (+$2400)
• MDX with Technology Package: $52,625 (+$2100)
• MDX with Technology Package SH-AWD: $54,625 (+$2100)
• MDX A-Spec: $58,125 (+$2100)
• MDX with Advance Package: $61,675 (+$2400)

So the price increases range from $2100-2400 when comparing like-for-like models, though in addition to the improved chassis and added interior volume, the 2022 models do include a number of feature upgrades, including standard wireless (Qi) charger, support for wireless Carplay and Android Auto, improved 3rd row seating accommodations, a 4-way 2nd row seating arrangement with removable center seat, CabinControl, CabinTalk and more.

Overall the 2022 MDX looks like a great upgrade and we can't wait to drive it to experience the new chassis and other upgrades.