2019 Acura MDX Receives A-Spec Package, Updated Nine-Speed

The 2019 Acura MDX returns to the lineup after a 2017 refresh and some tech upgrades for 2018. The model boasts an A-Spec appearance package, an enhanced nine-speed automatic, and new interior and exterior color options among other features. Prices start at $45,295, up $100 from last year.

A-Spec models start at $55,795 and receive gloss black and dark chrome trim on the exterior. They also get a new front fascia, body-color lower side sills, larger-diameter exhaust finishers, and special 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped with 265/45-series tires. Inside, you’ll find sport seats with red or black leather and black Alcantara inserts, contrast stitching, and A-Spec badging all around.

Across the lineup, there are new exterior color options, including Gunmetal Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Canyon Bronze Metallic, and Apex Blue Pearl, the last of which is exclusive to A-Spec models. Desert Olive Ash wood trim and high-contrast interior stitching are added to the lineup, and there are now standard four-way power lumbar adjustments on the driver and front passenger seats.

The MDX offers the Technology, Advance, and Entertainment packages. Buyers can opt for the Technology and Advance packages separately, or with an Entertainment package. The Technology and Entertainment packages receive a new second-row seat configuration that makes it easier for passengers to get in and out of the third row. Meanwhile, the Advance package now gets matching wood center console trim and body-color lower garnishes, as well as newly designed 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a machine finish and Shark Grey accents. The new wheels are a half-inch wider and come shod in wider 265/45-size tires. Advance models start at $57,045, while Technology models start at $50,295.

Under the hood is a familiar 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive starts at $47,295. A-Spec models are available only with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy tops out at 20/27/23 mpg city/highway/combined with front-wheel drive or 19/26/22 mpg with all-wheel drive. A-Spec models come in slightly lower at 19/25/21 mpg.

Like on the recently updated Honda Pilot, Acura updated the MDX’s nine-speed automatic transmission for a smoother feel. The engine stop/start feature is now standard across the lineup and promises smoother operation, according to Acura. An Active Damper System is also now available.

The 2019 Acura MDX heads to dealerships today. Next month, Acura will bring out the more powerful MDX Sport Hybrid.

Source: Acura

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