Alright, I admit it: There are premium luxury SUVs worth considering, especially if you need three-row seating and prefer to stay away from the “crossover coupe” variety. Furthermore, selecting a premium SUV from a reputable brand can enhance your driving experience. Let’s take a closer look at the 2020 Acura MDX A-Spec, which marks the last model year of the third generation of this well-regarded three-row SUV.
A Brief MDX History
Reflecting on the history of the Acura MDX, it was my first choice in an awards-comparison for the sister publication, Motor Trend’s 2001 SUV of the Year. Back then, the MDX stood out among its competitors, such as the original BMW X5, which sacrificed ride quality for a sportier feel.
At that time, the largest tires available were 235/65 17-inchers, whereas the 2001 Acura MDX had a wheelbase of 106.3 inches.
Performance Specifications
The 2020 Acura MDX A-Spec rides on 265/45 20-inch all-season tires, with a wheelbase lengthening by 4.7 inches compared to its predecessor. This enhanced wheelbase contributes to better handling and comfort. Interestingly, while the old model had a wheelbase-to-tire-size ratio of 6.25:1, the 2020 MDX A-Spec has an improved ratio of 5.55:1, indicating a more balanced performance.
Advanced All-Wheel Drive
One notable feature is Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which actively distributes torque. This system allows the MDX A-Spec to handle like a smaller vehicle, providing stability even on rough roads. The SH-AWD significantly enhances the driving dynamics, making the MDX deliver precise steering and minimal understeering during sharp turns.
Moreover, the MDX’s relatively light weight (about equal to that of a midsize rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan) further aids in quick acceleration, delivering a smooth and sophisticated driving experience.
Premium Interior
The interior features bolstered red leather seats with Alcantara black inserts, providing comfort and support for the driver and passengers. Complementing the attractive Apex Blue exterior paint, the MDX’s cabin echoes the stylish interiors found in many performance models from European brands.
In terms of tech, while the nine-speed automatic transmission’s pushbutton controls are user-friendly, the infotainment system’s touchscreen still requires some adjustment for seamless operation. Overall, the 2020 Acura MDX A-Spec is priced competitively, making it a reasonable choice among its European rivals.
Pros and Cons of the 2020 Acura MDX A-Spec
Pros:
- Excellent ride-and-handling balance
- Tight SH-AWD handling makes it feel smaller than it is
- Decent space for six passengers and luggage
Cons:
- Touchscreen controls can be fussy
- Basic design has remained largely unchanged since 2013
- Limited nitpicking for those needing larger SUV space
