Spy shots are unveiling first changes on the 2020 Acura MDX. This is the best-selling crossover SUV with Acura badge. After its smaller sibling RDX hit the new generation in 2019 season, now it is time for updates on a bigger sibling MDX. Fans can expect a few things that current model missed to do. First of all, that is a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, as an upgrade of the current hybrid model. The new Acura MDX A-Spec will bring more features. Turbo model is also about to be part of the lineup. Type S is not so likely, but the company still keep tabs on this model.
The 2020 Acura MDX will take a position in the mid-size SUV segment. It is a bigger vehicle, and it can take up to seven passengers. A three-row interior layout offers plenty of options and equipment. Foldable second and third row can convert this SUV into a hauling machine. Besides the current engine lineup (petrol and hybrid), the new MDX will bring a turbo engine. We still don’t know which of these existing units will get a turbocharger. Anyway, the output will rise to at least 350 hp. Few new colors and interior equipment update will complete the refresh of Acura MDX 2020.
2020 Acura MDX Spy Shots and Redesign Rumors
It seems like the 2020 Acura MDX is not starting a new generation. Instead, a big redesign will bring many changes to make this premium SUV appealing and aggressive. Well, we can’t conclude too much from spy shots. But, when we combine all the info we have, it is obvious the MDX needs a big overhaul. First of all, the current series was launched in 2014. The only facelift happened in 2017. Now, since there won’t be a new generation and the RDX entered the new generation. Finally, the PHEV model will also need a new look. So, everything points we will see an all-new MDX mid-size SUV.
Only a few spy photos of 2020 Acura MDX are available. On these, we can’t even claim we are watching at our favorite SUV. But, exterior lines say it is possible. But, heavy covers are hiding even if there is a plug-in hybrid plug. So, until the new images appear, we won’t be too excited.
Interior of the 2020 Acura MDX
Without spy shots with the at least good resolution, we can’t claim what to expect from the 2020 Acura MDX. On the other hand, we can peek at the interior of the RDX and tell what its bigger sibling could bring.
Well, we expect nothing but the high-end interior. Leather seats, adjustable front buckets, heating/cooling options for seats and steering wheel, and much more comfort-boosting equipment. Infotainment system already supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The all-new 2020 Acura MDX will also get a huge touchscreen display at the center stash. A panoramic sunroof and keyless ignition are standard.
A mid-size SUV will bring the new audio system, probably with 10 or more speakers. USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity are not in doubts. Satellite HD radio is available on RDX. Why would a company drop it from a bigger model?
2020 Acura MDX Specs
The 2020 Acura MDX will continue to use a 3.5-liter V6 as the main source of power. This is the most reliable unit in the Honda family. Other vehicles, such as Pilot SUV are also using it. A V6 powertrain can deliver 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of twist. A nine-speed transmission sends power to front wheels by default. Buyers can also opt for an AWD model. The SH-AWD is a super feature available for Acura MDX. It is a full-time automatic all-wheel drive traction and handling system that will maximize stability and handling.
Besides the standard petrol engine, we will see the 2020 Acura MDX as a hybrid. Here, engineers are combining a 3.0-liter engine with an electric motor to get 320 hp, 290 lb-ft of torque, and better fuel economy. A gasoline MDX in 2020 will return up to 23 mpg combined and 27 mpg on highways. The new hybrid can do it in the city, raising the gas mileage for the highway to 29 mpg.
Plug-In Hybrid Ready for 2020 Acura MDX?
We can’t see it on spy shots, but it is very likely to see the 2020 Acura MDX PHEV version. The company unveiled earlier that they are working on this system. However, they gave any other detail or debut schedule. With the hybrid model already available, we can already expect the PHEV to appear next season. Also, MDX’s sibling from non-premium class, Honda Pilot should also get the same engine. We can’t bid with outputs, but the plug-in variant should top the numbers we get from a regular hybrid.
Turbo Engine Skyrockets 2020 Acura MDX to 400 hp
While we can’t guess what kind of petrol/electric variant to expect from PHEV model, we can find some turbocharged Acura/Honda engines. NSX is turbocharging a 3.5-liter V6 unit to get 400 hp. Well, for the 2020 Acura MDX Turbo some other upgrades are needed, so the SUV could get even more power and torque. Transmission remains a nine-speed semi-automatic.
What is 2020 Acura MDX Type S?
The 2020 Acura MDX Type S could be even more powerful premium SUV. The twin-turbo system could boost the output to 600 hp. That will make the MDX a competitor to Dodge Durango SRT and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Also, the Type S package is similar to Type R models by Honda. Numerous special details inside and outside the vehicle will make it unique. And, of course, way too expensive.
2020 Acura MDX A-Spec Special Upgrades
The company made a right choice when decided to launch a sportier A-Spec version of the MDX SUV. Now, this is becoming the favorite model, and for next season it will get more upgrades. The 2020 Acura MDX A-Spec brings larger wheels (20-inches), special finishes for front and rear fascia, and other details that make the vehicle more aggressive. Spoilers and unique colors are next things we will see on the A-Spec version of Acura MDX 2020.
Release Date and Price
In 2019, Acura will step up with first official info about the MDX. We doubt everything will be unveiled before the debut. But, fans could get the first official mentions for PHEV or Turbo model. The 2020 Acura MDX Type S is still not so likely to happen, but we won’t exclude it as the part of the redesign.
The price of the base model will be the same, no matter the number of changes on the 2020 Acura MDX. However, all other trim levels will get more upgrades which will make their price higher. Top, high-luxurious and performance-oriented models could reach $70,000 price tag.
