2026 Acura MDX Redesign, Price, Specs – Continuing Acura’s tradition of producing premium three-row SUVs with precise handling, the 2026 MDX is an improved and upgraded take on the fourth-generation model. Improved performance, aesthetics, and technology integration are just a few areas that receive a comprehensive upgrade for the upcoming model year from Acura. The MDX keeps the same basic chassis design as its predecessor, but gets major structural and aesthetic updates to make it more efficient, comfortable, and agile. Thanks to improved proportions and aerodynamic optimization, the MDX now boasts a more athletic stance and better real-world fuel efficiency and stability, thanks to Acura’s design team. 2026 Acura MDX Redesign
2026 Acura MDX Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
A combination of daring luxury and performance-oriented elegance characterizes the 2026 Acura MDX’s appearance. A more streamlined profile is the result of new aerodynamic components, including as active grille shutters and a redesigned rear spoiler. The SUV now has a more distinct look thanks to the revised front fascia; A-Spec and Type S models can have black chrome highlights for a sportier look. To further personalize their lineup, Acura has introduced three new exterior paint finishes: Midnight Shadow Pearl, Canyon Bronze Metallic, and Urban Blue.
The tall hood and tapered roofline of the SUV are emphasized by the sculptured character lines that continue to dominate the profile. The MDX looks more refined thanks to its flush door handles and cleaner lower body panel. Corner illumination and consecutive turn signals are only two examples of the adaptive features that have been fine-tuned into the LED lighting components. The offered panoramic roof is now standard on more trim levels, adding to the visual experience and creating a sense of spaciousness inside the cabin. With its refined detailing, the MDX still manages to project a robust SUV image.
As you enter, you’ll find a high-end sanctuary with enhanced soft-touch surfaces and, depending on your trim level, real wood, aluminum, or open-pore ash trim. The ride is much quieter now that Acura has adjusted the cabin insulation, installed thicker acoustic glass, and improved the firewall damping. Both the 12.3-inch digital cluster and the central display have been upgraded with faster refresh rates and higher-resolution visuals. The optional ELS Studio 3D sound system features 25 speakers and turns the cabin into an immersive listening environment. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Qi wireless charging, and Alexa Built-In.
The MDX’s front fascia features an updated version of Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille, complemented with more angular Jewel Eye LED headlights and more compact DRLs. To decrease lift at faster speeds, the hood has sculpted air channels and deeper character lines. To improve the integration of driver assist sensors based on radar, Acura also reworked the front bumper. The back has a broader stance and a cleaner, more aggressive appearance thanks to new taillights, a redesigned tailgate, and an altered exhaust arrangement. New wheel designs, available on all MDX levels and measuring 19–21 inches in diameter, contribute to the vehicle’s refined good looks.
Updated materials, better acoustics, and fresh trim finishes adorn the inside of the 2026 model. The cabin design is same as before, but Acura has made the second and third rows more configurable. The reworked seats are more supportive and made of better leather, and there is ambient lighting that changes colors and spreads across the dashboard and door panels. With a redesigned infotainment system and a more sensitive touchpad, Acura has also upgraded the MDX’s user interface. The 2026 MDX is all about taking what has worked before and making it even better, both in terms of functionality and design.
2026 Acura MDX Specs
Engine & Performance
For the most part, the 2026 Acura MDX retains the same tried-and-true 3.5-liter V6 engine that powers the current model year with 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine and gearbox combination provides assured, seamless acceleration. With less lag and improved logic for shifting gears, the Acura transmission now responds more intuitively with light and heavy throttle. The base model continues to come standard with front-wheel drive, while the configuration determines whether Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) technology is offered or not.
This year’s MDX Type S is even more potent, with 360 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque thanks to an upgraded 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. The engine’s responsiveness in city driving and overtaking ability on highways have been improved thanks to engineers’ efforts to broaden the low-end torque. Improved ride comfort in Comfort mode and enhanced damping control during dynamic cornering in Sport+ are two benefits of the Type S variant’s retuned adaptive air suspension system. Additional dampening of cabin vibration and enhancement of steering feel are provided by newly reinforced bushings and chassis mounts.
One notable aspect of the 2026 MDX is its driving dynamics. The higher vertical compliance and crisper handling are the result of the upgraded multi-link rear suspension and the reworked front double-wishbone configuration. Electric power steering has also been fine-tuned by Acura for improved feedback and pinpoint accuracy. Type S models come with two extra customization options in addition to the four standard modes (Snow, Comfort, Normal, and Sport) that allow drivers to alter the suspension, throttle responsiveness, and shift behavior. The MDX is now among the most enjoyable SUVs to drive thanks to these upgrades. 2026 Acura MDX Redesign
2026 Acura MDX Fuel Economy
Across the board, the 2026 Acura MDX lineup experiences slight efficiency upgrades. Based on EPA estimates, front-wheel drive models of the base 3.5-liter V6 get 20/27 mpg in the city while SH-AWD models get 19/25 mpg on the interstate. The better results are the result of aerodynamic tweaking, updated engine calibration, and active grille shutters. The MDX Type S’s more performance-oriented turbocharged engine allows it to get 17 city mpg and 23 highway mpg. By providing visual coaching on the digital cluster, a new Eco Assist technology that provides real-time driving feedback assists drivers in improving efficiency.
2026 Acura MDX Safety Features
The 2026 Acura MDX has the latest AcuraWatch technology, further enhancing the vehicle’s extensive safety package. Radar and camera systems have been upgraded to enable broader viewing angles and greater detection ranges, among other improvements. Returning with improved performance in real-world driving circumstances are the following features: Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). In congested areas, a new feature called Traffic Jam Assist combines low-speed steering with adaptive cruise control to make driving more manageable.
All trim levels come equipped with a blind spot information system, rear cross traffic monitor, and front and rear parking sensors. The surround-view camera system now has a 3D rendering option for better clarity. An upgraded Driver Attention Monitor, which detects symptoms of preoccupation or weariness through face recognition and steering input patterns, is available on the MDX as well. It issues alerts as needed. New safety features that increase awareness and prevent unattended passengers include ultrasonic rear occupant identification and rear seatbelt reminders.
The MDX’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, which is reinforced with additional high-strength steel in crucial impact zones, continues to offer excellent crash protection structurally. Including front knee airbags and side impact protection for the second row, all trims are equipped with 10 airbags as standard equipment. The 2026 Acura is anticipated to maintain its high-quality passive safety characteristics, earning top ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. No matter the travel, the MDX is prepared to provide peace of mind with its comprehensive safety features, including proactive preventive and post-impact protection.
2026 Acura MDX Release Date & Price
The base Technology Package with FWD costs around $52,500 for the 2026 MDX. With an Advance Package including SH-AWD, you can expect to pay close to $62,000, while the A-Spec starts at about $57,000. The top-of-the-line MDX Type S, equipped with every performance and luxury equipment imaginable, starts at approximately $68,500. Leasing from Acura is a great way to save money in the long run because of the affordable options available and the free maintenance for the first two years. The general cost-effectiveness of the MDX in the luxury SUV sector is enhanced, as expected, by Acura’s outstanding resale prices.
Delivery to showrooms in key U.S. markets will commence in late January, coinciding with the 2026 Acura MDX’s official release date in early Q1. You’ll be able to personalize your Acura with paint, interior themes, and wheel packages using the on-site vehicle configurators that Acura stores will have available beginning in December 2025 for pre-orders. Spring 2026 will see the launch of other overseas markets, including Canada. Another hybrid version is in the works for an upcoming model year, which shows that Acura is serious about electrifying all of its SUVs. 2026 Acura MDX Redesign
Conclusion
As with previous years, the 2026 Acura MDX is firmly established as a top-tier luxury SUV. It continues to be a top pick for families and car aficionados thanks to its innovative combination of modern design with cutting-edge technology, potent performance, and an upscale cabin. We consider it an affordable SUV that maintains the high-end vibe that is characteristic of the Acura name.
Note: This article post’s information is based on pre-release content that was available at the time it was published. You should contact your local dealership or consult official sources for the most recent information.
