Acura gives more details on the 2022 MDX Type S
For the first time since the birth of the MDX, Acura proceeds to a declination Type S, which is scheduled for our market early next year. It is the third vehicle in the lineup, after the TLX and NSX, to revive the performance division of Acura. In this version, the MDX could become the first high-performance luxury SUV marketed by a Japanese brand.
It is not, however, the most powerful in history, rather that honor goes to the Infiniti FX50 with its 390 horsepower V8. the Acura MDX Type S nevertheless offers a nice balance of performance accessories – to the flavor of German manufacturers – without inflating its price too much, at least, that’s what Acura promises us. Honda’s luxury division has not yet confirmed a price for our market, but it would be perfectly acceptable to assume that it would be below $ 80,000.
Not as intense as a BMW X5 M, but …
From a technical point of view, everything seems to be going in the right direction to allow the MDX Type S to perform well. Certainly, it is not a rival to monsters like a BMW X5 M or , again, an Audi RS Q8, but the MDX Type S is likely to be considerably more affordable than a European alternative.
Under the hood, you’d expect the same powertrain as a TLX Type S, a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This engine will be mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and the manufacturer’s SH-AWD all-wheel drive. This allows the rear axle to transfer torque from left to right to create a torque vector when cornering.
Acura will also benefit from integrating into the MDX a self-leveling air suspension with adaptive shocks. This is a first for this model. The brakes were also replaced with signature Brembo components, including 14.3-inch rotors up front. The MDX Type S will also inherit the same electronic brake assist system as the NSX, allowing the brake pedal stroke to remain firm and short at all times.
With the return of the Type S division and the reincarnation of the sporty Integra next year, it’s clear that Acura is taking performance vehicles seriously. It’s nice to see, and RPM will have the chance to put the MDX Type S to the test a few weeks before it goes on sale. So stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage.
