The 2022 Acura Mdx Type S marks a significant milestone, heralding the arrival of the prestigious Type S badge to the Acura SUV lineup. This high-performance variant of Acura’s flagship SUV elevates driving dynamics and luxury to unprecedented levels, establishing itself as the most powerful, best-handling, and opulently appointed Acura SUV to date. Built upon the robust foundation of the fourth-generation MDX platform, the Type S is meticulously engineered to deliver exhilarating performance without compromising the refined comfort and family-friendly practicality that define the MDX lineage.
At its core, the Acura MDX Type S is designed to thrill. It boasts Acura’s all-new 355-horsepower Type S Turbo V6 engine, paired with the confidence-inspiring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. Performance enhancements extend to powerful Brembo® front brakes and a recalibrated 10-speed automatic transmission, optimized to manage the robust 354 lb.-ft. of torque generated by the Type S Turbo V6 engine. Acura has also equipped the MDX Type S with its first-ever air suspension system, harmoniously working with the retuned Acura Adaptive Damper System to provide both exceptional handling agility and a composed, comfortable ride.
Distinctive design cues set the MDX Type S apart. The front fascia features a striking open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, enhancing engine bay airflow, and a more assertive front spoiler. Functional side air inlets and quad exhaust finishers further emphasize its performance intent. Exclusive Type S badging, blackout trim, and 21-inch wheels with innovative self-sealing tires complete the exterior transformation. For those seeking even greater visual distinction, the MDX Type S is available in the captivating Tiger Eye Pearl paint, a color exclusive to the Type S family. The Advance Package further elevates the exterior with gloss black wheel arch and lower body trim, adding a layer of sophisticated aggression.
Inside, the Acura MDX Type S cabin is a sanctuary of sporty luxury. A flat-bottom steering wheel and Milano leather seats with Ultrasuede® inserts, available in Red, Ebony, or Orchid, create a driver-focused environment. The standard 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit™ all-digital instrument display and the expansive 12.3-inch ultra-wide HD center display, controlled by Acura’s True Touchpad Interface™, seamlessly blend technology and elegance.
The MDX Type S with Advance Package reaches new heights of Acura luxury. It introduces Acura’s first-ever massaging front seats and premium Milano leather with a unique curvilinear quilting pattern. An available Azurite Blue interior color option adds another layer of exclusivity. Audio enthusiasts will be captivated by the available 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D® Signature Edition premium audio system, delivering an immersive auditory experience.
Safety remains paramount, with both Type S grades equipped with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist, along with Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for enhanced collision protection. The pioneering Acura front passenger airbag technology, designed to mitigate injury in a wider range of frontal collisions, is also standard.
The Acura MDX Type S represents a harmonious blend of exhilarating performance and premium features, all while maintaining the practicality and family-friendly nature that have made the MDX a leader in the luxury three-row SUV segment. It’s a testament to Acura’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering vehicles that excite both the senses and the soul.
Potent Powertrain: The Heart of the Acura MDX Type S
The driving force behind the 2022 Acura MDX Type S is its all-new 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 engine. This powerplant, a 24-valve, DOHC masterpiece with direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger, generates a robust 355 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, available from a remarkably low 1,400 rpm up to 5,000 rpm. This engine is exclusive to the TLX Type S and MDX Type S models, meticulously crafted by Acura’s most experienced powertrain engineers – including members who contributed to the development of the NSX’s hybrid twin-turbo V6 and the Civic Type R engine.
While sharing bore spacing and a 60-degree architecture with the MDX’s 3.5-liter V6, the 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 is fundamentally different. It features 6-bolt sintered main bearing caps for enhanced crankshaft rigidity and durability, and a square 86 mm bore and stroke. Engineers prioritized compactness and a low profile, positioning the turbocharger above the transmission and utilizing low-profile cylinder heads. Despite its power output, the engine is remarkably compact, even shorter than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6.
The twin-scroll turbocharger, developing up to 15.1 psi of boost, optimizes turbo response by employing independent internal paths for the front and rear cylinder banks to direct exhaust pressure to the turbine. This innovative design ensures peak torque arrives quickly, enhancing responsiveness and driving pleasure.
Emissions efficiency is also a key focus. Optimized heat management within the turbo system facilitates rapid catalytic converter activation. A double-wall pipe from the exhaust manifolds to the turbo, featuring external bellows for heat dissipation, and a V-band connection at the catalytic converter inlet minimize heat mass entering the catalyst. To manage engine temperatures effectively, two sub-radiators are incorporated, fed by dedicated openings in the front fascia. The open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille further contributes to cooling by increasing airflow to the engine compartment by approximately 14 percent.
Durability and performance are further enhanced by the engine’s robust rotating assembly. Mirroring the NSX’s twin-turbo V6, it utilizes a high-strength forged steel crankshaft. The connecting rods also benefit from forged steel construction, similar to those in Acura’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Unique piston design, featuring a high-density Ni-resist cast iron top piston ring carrier, improves wear characteristics and sealing, contributing to reduced emissions.
| 2022 MDX and MDX Type S Engines |
|---|
| Engine Type |
| Turbo Type |
| Displacement (liters) |
| Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net) |
| Torque, lb.-ft. @ rpm (SAE net) |
| Valvetrain |
| Variable Cylinder Management™ |
| Compression Ratio |
| Fuel Injection |
| Throttle Control |
| Idle Stop |
| CARB Emissions Rating |
| Tune-Up Interval |
| EPA Fuel Economy Ratings: (City/Highway/Combined)1 |
1 Based on 2022 EPA mileage ratings; Use for comparison purposes only; Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
Innovative Cylinder Head and Valvetrain Design
Contributing to the engine’s compact dimensions, the cylinder heads feature an innovative design. Cam bearing caps are integrated directly into the valve cover, reducing engine height and minimizing parts count.
Variable Cylinder Management™ for Enhanced Efficiency
Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. The Type S Turbo V6 utilizes an all-new VCM™ mechanism, operating the engine on three cylinders in various driving situations to maximize fuel economy. It seamlessly transitions to six-cylinder mode when increased power is demanded. During three-cylinder operation, valves on inactive cylinders are closed to minimize pumping losses. Unlike the SOHC 3.5-liter engine’s VTEC® system, the DOHC Type S Turbo V6 employs a more compact rocker arm and hydraulic lash adjuster design for VCM™ implementation.
Active Vibration Control and Exhaust for Refined Performance
Active Vibration Control, unique to the Type S Turbo V6, ensures smooth operation during VCM™ engagement. This system detects and mitigates engine vibration, making cylinder deactivation nearly imperceptible. The Active Exhaust system, adapted from the NSX, enhances the driving experience by opening a valve to allow more of the V6 engine’s natural sound to permeate the cabin, particularly in Sport and Sport+ modes. Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC) further refines the cabin environment by reducing unwanted noise, especially during VCM™ operation. Active Sound Control (ASC) complements ANC by enhancing the engine, intake, and exhaust sounds within the cabin through the vehicle’s speakers.
Performance-Tuned 10-Speed Automatic Transmission and SH-AWD®
The Acura MDX Type S exclusively pairs its potent engine with an enhanced 10-speed automatic transmission. Upgraded internal components, including a new torque converter, stronger gears, and improved clutches, are designed to handle the increased torque output. The transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Type S-exclusive programming delivers 40-percent quicker downshifts in paddle mode, and Sport+ mode provides 30-percent faster upshifts.
Standard on the MDX Type S is the fourth generation of Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). This advanced system actively distributes torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels, optimizing handling and control in diverse conditions.
Specifically enhanced for the Type S Turbo V6, the fourth-generation SH-AWD® system features a 40 percent increase in maximum rear axle torque capacity and delivers torque to the rear wheels 30 percent faster in normal conditions compared to the previous generation. Up to 70 percent of torque can be directed to the rear axle, and 100 percent of that rear torque can be allocated to either rear wheel. Improved responsiveness is achieved through a shorter hydraulic circuit and a higher-torque electric motor driving the rear differential’s hydraulic pumps. The system dynamically adjusts torque distribution during cornering, sending more torque to the outside rear wheel to enhance turn-in and reduce understeer. It also overdrives the rear axle by 2.9 percent, further amplifying the yaw effect of lateral rear-wheel torque distribution.
The SH-AWD® system seamlessly integrates with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Agile Handling Assist® to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction. Three distinct SH-AWD® maps are tailored to the Integrated Dynamics System modes: Normal and Comfort for everyday driving, and Sport and Sport+ for more aggressive performance driving. The lightweight SH-AWD® rear differential utilizes an electric motor powering dual hydraulic pumps for precise torque vectoring.
| 2022 MDX and MDX Type S Transmission and SH-AWD® |
|---|
| Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) |
| 10-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters with Rev-Matching Downshifts |
Further details on the 2022 Acura MDX powertrain are available here.
Chassis Dynamics: Precision Handling and Refined Ride
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S chassis is meticulously engineered to deliver a dynamic and engaging driving experience, while maintaining a comfortable and refined ride. Key enhancements include a performance-tuned suspension, Acura’s first-ever air suspension system, and retuned steering and braking systems.
Key Type S Chassis Features:
- Double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension retuned for Type S performance
- Acura-first air suspension system with adjustable ride height
- Adaptive Damper System with three different Type S-specific damping curves
- Rear-mounted battery improves weight balance and handling
- Electric power steering retuned for sportier driving feel
- NSX-inspired electro-servo braking system
- Brembo® front brakes with 14.3-inch rotors and four-piston fixed calipers
- Updated Integrated Dynamics System with Type S-exclusive Sport+ and Lift modes
- 21-inch wheels and tires with self-sealing high-performance all-season tires (Acura first)
Performance-Tuned Suspension and Acura First Air Suspension
The MDX Type S leverages a double-wishbone front suspension, a superior design compared to the more common MacPherson strut setups found in many SUVs. This configuration provides more precise control over wheel camber, caster, and toe angles, maximizing tire contact with the road for exceptional handling and cornering grip. The multi-link rear suspension further enhances stability, ride compliance, and minimizes harshness.
To optimize handling, the MDX Type S suspension features a stiffer 30.5 mm solid front stabilizer bar and a new 20.0 x 3.5 mm hollow rear stabilizer bar, reducing body roll during cornering. Relocating the battery to the cargo area improves weight balance, contributing to enhanced agility.
A standout feature of the MDX Type S and Type S Advance is Acura’s first-ever air suspension system. This system elevates both ride comfort and dynamic capability, providing an exceptionally premium driving experience. With spring rates up to 40 percent lower than the standard MDX, the air suspension delivers a more isolated ride, ideal for absorbing road imperfections. Automatic load leveling compensates for varying passenger and cargo loads, maintaining a consistent ride height. The air suspension also lowers the vehicle when parked, facilitating easier entry and exit, as well as cargo loading.
The Integrated Dynamics System introduces a new Lift mode, utilizing the air suspension to increase ride height by nearly 2 inches (50 mm). This provides increased ground clearance for challenging conditions like deep snow or road hazards.
Adaptive Damper System and Retuned Electric Power Steering
The MDX Type S incorporates Acura’s Adaptive Damper System, continuously adjusting damping force based on sensor inputs. This system actively controls damper response based on data from wheel speed sensors, yaw/G sensors, steering angle, and wheel stroke sensors, adjusting damping every 0.002 seconds. Compared to the standard MDX’s amplitude reactive dampers, the adaptive dampers in the Type S offer up to 52% more compliance for enhanced comfort and up to six times more damping force for dynamic handling. The Adaptive Damper System is integrated with the Integrated Dynamics System, offering three distinct damping curves tailored to each driving mode.
The belt-driven Electric Power Steering (EPS) system has been retuned for the MDX Type S, providing a more performance-focused feel with reduced assist, enhancing agility and responsiveness.
NSX-Inspired Electro-Servo Braking and Brembo® Front Brakes
Inspired by the Acura NSX supercar, the MDX Type S features an electro-servo brake system, also utilized in the TLX sport sedan. This system provides exceptional brake feel and feedback. It utilizes an electronic actuator, the same as in the NSX, to precisely control hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers based on driver input. This system allows for fine-tuning of brake pedal feel and pressure, resulting in a shorter pedal stroke and improved pedal feel, boosting driver confidence.
Braking performance is further enhanced by larger Brembo® front brakes. Four-piston Brembo® front calipers grip 14.3-inch diameter rotors, increasing heat capacity by 5.3 percent compared to the standard MDX, improving fade resistance during demanding driving.
The brake calipers are finished in red, and both front and rear rotors feature Ferritic Nitrocarburizing (FNC) coating for enhanced corrosion resistance.
Type S Integrated Dynamics System and Wheels & Tires
The Integrated Dynamics System in the MDX Type S expands driver customization with exclusive Sport+ and Lift modes, in addition to Normal, Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes. The Adaptive Damper System and air suspension work in concert to create noticeable differences between modes, with enhanced ride quality in Comfort mode and sharper performance in Sport and Sport+. Sport+ mode quickens transmission upshifts, enhances engine sound, and adjusts engine idle speed for improved launch performance. It also features a Sport+ Digital Cockpit™ display with a boost gauge and G meter. Lift mode increases ride height for challenging conditions but automatically disables above 37 mph for stability.
The MDX Type S is equipped with 21-inch wheels, the largest ever fitted to an MDX, featuring a Shark Gray finish, or Berlina Black with a machined face on the Type S Advance. These wheels incorporate resonators to reduce road noise. The MDX Type S also debuts self-sealing tires, the 275/40R21 Continental CrossContact RX ContiSeal, designed to automatically seal punctures up to 5 mm in diameter.
Further information on the 2022 Acura MDX chassis is available here.
Striking Exterior and Luxurious Interior: Type S Exclusivity
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S distinguishes itself with a more aggressive exterior design and a more opulent interior, reflecting its elevated performance and premium positioning.
Key Type S Exclusive Exterior & Interior Features
- New front fascia with open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille increases cooling airflow, body-colored grille surround
- Aggressively styled front and rear fascias exclusive to Type S, quad exhaust outlets
- Type S badges on grille, tailgate, fenders, key fob, steering wheel, sill plates
- Type S exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint color
- 16-way heated and cooled seats with Milano leather and unique curvilinear quilting (Type S with Advance Package)
- New Azurite Blue leather interior option (Type S with Advance Package)
- Acura-first massaging seats with nine different modes (Type S with Advance Package)
- Black metallic wood trim and ultra-premium headliner (Type S with Advance Package)
- 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3DÒ Signature Edition premium audio system (Type S with Advance Package) with illuminated front door speakers
Aggressive Exterior Design and Premium Interior Appointments
The exterior of the MDX Type S is marked by a restyled front fascia featuring an exclusive open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, increasing engine airflow by approximately 14 percent. Additional air inlets flank the grille, directing cooling air to sub-radiators. Black finishes on the grille, window surrounds, and mirrors, along with dark-finish headlights, create a sporty aesthetic.
The rear of the MDX Type S features a more aggressive fascia, dark-finish taillights, and quad exhaust finishers. Type S badges are strategically placed on the grille, fenders, and tailgate. The 21-inch wheels showcase red brake calipers. The MDX Type S with Advance Package adds gloss black lower body trim and wheel arch trim. Both Type S grades are available in the exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint.
Inside the MDX Type S, Milano leather seats with Black Ultrasuede® inserts, available in Red, Ebony, or Light Orchid, offer 12-way adjustability for front occupants. A flat-bottom steering wheel with Type S badging, contrast stitching, metal sport pedals, and a metal-plated glove box handle enhance the sporty ambiance.
The MDX Type S with Advance Package elevates interior luxury further with full Milano leather featuring a curvilinear quilted pattern, contrast stitching, and piping. It introduces Acura’s first massaging front seats with nine modes. Ebony, Light Orchid, Red, and the exclusive Azurite Blue leather interior options are available. Unique black metallic wood trim, created with a hand-wiped liquid metallic flake, and an ultra-premium headliner further distinguish the Advance Package interior. Acoustic laminate windshield and front door windows are standard on all MDX grades, with laminate rear door windows added to the Type S with Advance Package.
| AVAILABLE INTERIOR COLORS | |
|---|---|
| AVAILABLE EXTERIOR COLORS | Ebony |
| New: Tiger Eye Pearl* | •(Type S only) |
| Liquid Carbon Metallic* | • |
| Apex Blue Pearl* | • |
| Performance Red Pearl* | • |
| Majestic Black Pearl* | • |
| Platinum White Pearl* | • |
| Lunar Silver Metallic | • |
* Premium Paint offered at an additional cost
Massaging Front Seats and Signature Edition Audio
The MDX Type S with Advance Package debuts Acura’s first massaging front seats, offering nine modes with three intensity levels, providing stress relief and revitalization.
| MASSAGE MODE | FUNCTION |
|---|---|
| Wave | Soothing wave motion on back |
| Shiatsu | Shiatsu-type pressure motion on back |
| Step | Broad stepping motion up and down back |
| Awake | Random stimulation of back massage elements |
| Fusion | Combination massage on back |
| Lower Back | Massage function concentrates on lower back |
| Upper Back | Massage function concentrates on upper back |
| Rejuvenation | Focuses on pelvic massage on seat cushion to reduce fatigue |
| Zen | Seat uses back and bottom cushion for wellness massage |
The available 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D® Signature Edition premium audio system, premiering in the MDX Type S with Advance Package, is designed for audiophiles. Developed with Grammy®-winning producer Elliot Scheiner, it features a Center Parquet™ sound experience, referencing Carnegie Hall’s acoustics.
Two digital signal processing (DSP) amplifiers deliver 1,000 watts of power to 25 speakers across 22 discrete channels. Carbon-fiber diaphragms in door and console speakers, and carbon graphite dome tweeters, minimize distortion and enhance sound reproduction. Acoustic Motion Control™ in the DSP amps enhances bass. The system features Symmetrical Sound Stage for front occupants and Time Aligning for the second row, ensuring a premium audio experience for all passengers.
| Major Features Comparison |
|---|
| Full-LED Exterior Lighting |
| True Touchpad Interface™ with 12.3-inch HD Dual-Content display |
| 12.3-Inch HD Precision Cockpit™ Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Acura Navigation with 3D View |
| Wireless CarPlay® / Android Auto™ Integration |
| Wireless Charging Pad |
| ELS STUDIO® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 Speakers |
| ELS STUDIO® 3D Signature Edition Premium Audio with 25 Speakers |
| Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) |
| 12-Way Power Front Seats |
| 16-Way Power Front Seats |
| Heated & Ventilated Front Seats |
| Heated Rear Outboard Seats |
| Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel |
| Heated Steering Wheel |
| Geometric Brushed Aluminum Trim |
| Authentic Open-pore Wood Trim |
| Black Headliner |
| IconicDrive™ Ambient LED Lighting |
| Remote Engine Start |
| Power Folding Side Mirrors |
| Low-Profile Roof Rails |
| Gloss Black Wheel Arch and Lower Body Trim |
| Gloss Black Mirror Caps |
| Rain Sensing Wipers |
| Surround View Camera System |
| Head Up Display |
| AcuraWatch™ |
Further details on the 2022 Acura MDX exterior, interior and safety features can be found here.
American Design, Development, and Manufacturing
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S, like all MDX models since its inception, was primarily designed, engineered, and developed in America. Styling was led by Acura Design in California, and platform development was spearheaded by engineers in Ohio. Engine development for the new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 took place in Japan.
Manufacturing of the MDX Type S is exclusive to Acura’s East Liberty, Ohio plant, utilizing domestic and globally sourced parts. The 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is exclusively produced at Acura’s Anna, Ohio engine plant, which also manufactures the NSX twin-turbo V6. The 10-speed automatic transmission is manufactured in Tallapoosa, Georgia, and the SH-AWD® system’s components are produced in Russells Point, Ohio.
