3 minute read
Acura MDX Type S
Sleek, powerful sophistication
WORDS BY TOM SEDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
When it comes to Acura’s Type S branding, you know you are going to be driving something special. Acura only bestows the Type S badge to its most powerful and capable vehicles. And so it is for the MDX Type S, where pure precision and raw power come together in Acura’s flagship SUV.
The heart of the MDX Type S is a 3.0L turbocharged V6 putting out 355-horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque that is mated to a super-fast, 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and Acura’s racetrack-bred Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). But it is not just about power and straight-line performance. Endowed with an adaptive air suspension and torque-vectoring technology for enhanced handling and control, and a superb Brembo braking system, the Type S is a true high-performance vehicle.
That being said, the MDX Type S can just as easily become a comfortable cruiser. The Integrated Dynamics System allows the driver to choose between numerous drive modes, including Normal, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Snow, and a fully customizable Individual setting. There’s even a Lift mode if more ground clearance is needed.
The exterior, while familiar with its sleek, sophisticated styling, pronounced beltline, and the signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, gets the Type S treatment too. You immediately notice the black trim accents and the stunning Berlina 21-inch rims, exclusive to the Type S, wrapped in massive 275-sized performance tires. Around back, the rear diffuser and quad exhaust tips complete the look.
Inside, the precision-crafted and technologically advanced cabin is at once sporty and luxurious. The beautiful, quilted leather seats with Ultrasuede inserts to keep the driver and passengers in place during spirited driving are heated, ventilated and have massaging functions and special Type S embossing.
Behind the bespoke Type S flat-bottomed heated steering wheel is a 12.3-inch Precision Cockpit digital dash that allows the driver to display the exact information they desire. Centred in the dash is a large touchscreen that controls the MDX’s functions, including the 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Second and third-row passengers are treated to equally luxurious and comfortable surroundings. Getting into the third row is a snap thanks to the One-Touch Smart Slide access that moves the second row seating out of the way. Overhead is a huge panoramic sunroof providing an expansive view that makes every seat in the vehicle bright and airy.
An SUV needs to provide utility (it’s right in the name), and the MDX delivers with a power liftgate that reveals a substantial cargo space with intelligently designed versatility.
When it comes to keeping everyone inside the vehicle safe, the driver and passengers can count on AcuraWatch, the full suite of Acura’s industry-leading active driver assistance technology including a heads-up display, all manner of collision mitigation systems and a full surround-view camera system.
The MDX Type S combines the best of both the luxurious and the sporting worlds in a perfectly balanced, performance SUV.
