The 2022 Acura MDX Type S: A Leap Forward for Performance SUVs
Traditionally renowned for its high-performing sedans, Acura is pushing the boundaries of the luxury SUV world with the release of the 2022 Acura MDX Type S. This is the first time that an SUV from Acura carries the much-coveted Type S badge. Coming with several improvements, both aesthetically and mechanically, it's a vehicle that seems set to redefine the standards of performance in its class.
Under the Hood: Type S Turbo V6
Central to the 2022 MDX Type S's performance is the all-new Type S Turbo V6 engine, delivering a mighty 355 horsepower. This 3.0-liter powerhouse is accompanied by a faster-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, engineered specifically to handle the high levels of torque (354 lb.-ft.) produced by the turbocharged V6. This engine and transmission combination is integral to the Type S’s aspiration of setting new standards for SUV performance, complementing the aggressive and refined design that Acura has become known for.
Dynamic Handling and Control
Acura hasn't stopped at just powerful acceleration for the Type S. The inclusion of an air suspension system, a first for an Acura vehicle, and specially tuned adaptive dampers aims to ensure precise handling and control, even at the high speeds that the Turbo V6 engine enables. Also featured is Acura's standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive with true torque vectoring, further enhancing the vehicle's overall stability and responsiveness on a variety of road conditions.
Distinctive Design Language
From a design perspective, the MDX Type S has plenty to differentiate it from its competitors and even from its less sporty siblings in the Acura lineup. Notable exterior features include an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, 21-inch wheels with self-sealing tires, and quad exhaust finishers, all of which contribute to a unique, high-performance aesthetic. Within its cabin, the MDX Type S boasts Milano leather seats with Ultrasuede trim and Type S-embossed headrests, coupled with Acura’s largest-ever 12.3-inch ultra-wide HD center display.
The Most Premium SUV in Acura's History
Aside from its performance prowess, the MDX Type S has its sights set on offering a luxury experience as well. This vision manifests itself in the inclusion of several premium features such as Acura's first ever massaging front seats and an optional 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D Signature Edition premium audio system. These elements, among others, underscore Acura's ambition to provide a top-tier luxury experience without compromising on performance.
Unmatched Safety Standards
Acura has not overlooked safety in its pursuit of performance and luxury. All versions of the 2022 MDX Type S come with the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, which include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist. Furthermore, Acura’s proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure contributes to higher levels of collision protection.
Adaptive Damper System
The Adaptive Damper System used in the MDX Type S significantly contributes to its superior handling characteristics. It employs electronically controlled dampers that continuously adjust their level of firmness according to the driving conditions and the Integrated Dynamics System setting. The system has three different Type S-specific damping curves, which are used to provide the best compromise between driving comfort and handling performance depending on the situation. This contributes to the SUV's responsive steering, body control and ride smoothness.
Air Suspension System
Another first for Acura is the air suspension system employed in the MDX Type S. This cutting-edge technology allows drivers to adjust the vehicle's ride height, thereby optimizing aerodynamics and center of gravity for better performance. When the vehicle is parked, the ride height can also be lowered for easier access and exit. The integration of the air suspension system further enhances the MDX Type S's balance of comfort, convenience, and dynamic driving capability.
Electro-Servo Braking System and Brembo Front Brakes
The MDX Type S features an electro-servo braking system, derived from the NSX supercar, that provides outstanding stopping performance and precise pedal feel. The system utilizes an electric actuator to provide brake pressure, which enhances braking performance and efficiency. Complementing the electro-servo braking system are Brembo front brakes with 14.3-inch rotors and four-piston fixed calipers, delivering outstanding stopping power, thermal stability, and durability. These advanced braking solutions contribute to the MDX Type S's confident and responsive stopping performance.
21-Inch Wheels and Self-Sealing High-Performance All-Season Tires
To match its enhanced driving dynamics, the MDX Type S is fitted with 21-inch wheels which not only contribute to its athletic stance but also provide a large contact patch for improved grip and handling. Moreover, for the first time in Acura history, the MDX Type S comes equipped with self-sealing high-performance all-season tires. These tires contain an inner lining that can seal punctures up to 3/16 of an inch in the tread, which can potentially save drivers from having to immediately pull over and change a tire.
Integrated Dynamics System with Type S-Exclusive Modes
The Integrated Dynamics System in the MDX Type S offers several selectable modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, and a Type S-exclusive Sport+ mode. These modes adjust various vehicle parameters such as throttle response, transmission shift points, steering feel, and suspension settings to cater to the driver's preferred driving style or current driving conditions. The Sport+ mode provides the most aggressive settings for maximum performance, while the Lift mode, another Type S exclusive, raises the vehicle for better clearance when needed. This wide range of settings ensures that the MDX Type S can offer an exhilarating driving experience while also being perfectly capable in everyday situations.
Rear-Mounted Battery for Improved Handling
The engineers of the MDX Type S have also moved the battery from the engine compartment to the cargo area. This rearward shift of weight results in a more balanced weight distribution across the vehicle, which improves handling characteristics by reducing understeer and increasing the vehicle's balance in corners. The overall result is a sporty, yet comfortable ride that is indicative of a high-performance SUV.
Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters
Complementing the enhanced 10-speed automatic transmission are Sequential SportShift paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. These shifters offer drivers the thrill of manual gear selection. The system has been tuned to provide 40% quicker downshifts, offering instant response to driver inputs. In Sport+ mode, upshifts are made 30% faster through a brief fuel cut during the gear change, making for a truly engaging and sporty driving experience.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System (SH-AWD) – Strengthened for the Type S
The MDX Type S comes with the fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system as standard, offering increased performance over previous versions. To handle the extra power from the Type S Turbo V6, the system has been strengthened and includes a more responsive hydraulic circuit and a high-torque electric motor. Combined with the Vehicle Stability Assist and Agile Handling Assist systems, SH-AWD ensures superior handling, traction, and control over a wide range of driving conditions. It also offers three different maps based on the Integrated Dynamics System mode selected, allowing for optimized performance for daily driving or more spirited activities.
Air Suspension: Balancing Comfort and Capability
The MDX Type S and Type S Advance both employ Acura's first-ever air suspension system, designed to bolster both comfort and dynamic capability, thereby augmenting the premium driving experience that the MDX is renowned for. With spring rates up to 40% lower than the standard MDX, the Type S guarantees an isolated ride, perfect for navigating broken pavements, speed bumps, and undulating road surfaces. The system further features automatic load leveling, compensating for passengers and cargo loads to maintain a level ride height. This adaptive system not only contributes to a better driving experience but also eases passenger ingress and egress as well as cargo loading and unloading. The air suspension, combined with a new Lift mode in the SUV's Integrated Dynamics System, allows the driver to raise the vehicle's ride height by almost 2 inches (50 mm), thereby enhancing ground clearance on demand for more challenging conditions.
Adaptive Damper System: Responsive and Customizable
Acura's Adaptive Damper System featured in the MDX Type S continuously adjusts damping force based on sensor inputs. This system affords active and customizable control of damper response using information from various sensors linked to the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system. As a result, damping response can be adjusted every 0.002 seconds to adapt to both varying road conditions and driver inputs. The adaptive dampers in the MDX Type S are significantly more compliant than the amplitude reactive dampers in the standard MDX, contributing to enhanced ride comfort or providing up to six times as much damping force in dynamic handling scenarios.
Belt-driven Electric Power Steering (EPS) System
The MDX Type S has a belt-driven Electric Power Steering (EPS) system that has been retuned to provide a more aggressive, performance-oriented feel. This, along with the responsive Adaptive Damper System, lends the MDX Type S a heightened sense of agility.
Electro-Servo Braking System: Excellence in Braking
Inspired by the Acura NSX supercar, and also featured in the TLX sport sedan, the MDX Type S boasts a new electro-servo brake system. This system is designed to provide outstanding feedback to the driver via the brake pedal, enhancing both safety and confidence during driving.
Brembo Front Brakes: Increased Stopping Power
The braking performance of the MDX Type S is further bolstered by larger, more powerful Brembo front brakes. These brakes significantly increase the heat capacity of the system, thereby improving resistance to fade during repeated hard use.
Type S Integrated Dynamics System
Thanks to its standard Integrated Dynamics System, the MDX Type S offers drivers expanded ability to customize their driving experience. Alongside the regular modes, Type S adds exclusive Sport+ and Lift modes. These new modes, coupled with the Adaptive Damper System and new air suspension, allow for a marked difference between dynamic modes. With the air suspension system, Sport and Sport+ modes deliver a sharper performance feel by reducing ride height 15 mm, thereby lowering the center of gravity for improved handling.
Type S Wheels & Tires
The MDX Type S comes standard with 21-inch wheels and tires, featuring a Shark Gray finish. Furthermore, it is the first to use self-sealing tires, a specially developed high-performance all-season tire that automatically seals punctures up to 5 mm in diameter.
2022 MDX Type S: Exterior & Interior
Distinctive Exterior & Luxurious Interior
The MDX Type S is further set apart from its peers by its distinctive exterior and luxurious interior. The exterior features a new front fascia with an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille and aggressive rear fascia, and Type S badges across the vehicle. The Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint is the finishing touch to this aggressive yet stylish look. Inside, the MDX Type S boasts numerous high-end features like heated and cooled seats with Milano leather and unique curvilinear quilting, Acura-first massaging seats with nine different modes, and a 25-speaker premium audio system.
Concluding Thoughts: An Exciting Addition to the Luxury SUV Segment
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S and Type S Advance set the benchmark for luxury SUVs. With their pioneering air suspension system, adaptive damper system, and enhanced braking mechanisms, they deliver an unmatched driving experience. Furthermore, their stylish and distinctive exteriors, combined with luxurious and comfortable interiors, make them a true spectacle. These vehicles are not just designed for travel; they are crafted to provide an extraordinary journey, highlighting Acura's commitment to exceptional design and technological innovation.
-Ed
2022 Acura MDX Type S
