Acura introduced the MDX Prototype in October and now the company has confirmed plans to unveil the production model on December 8th at 11:30 a.m. PT (2:30 p.m. ET). While the teaser image isn’t very revealing, the 2022 MDX should look virtually identical to the prototype. As a result, we can expect a stylish front fascia with sporty air intakes and a diamond pentagon grille that is flanked by slender JewelEye LED headlights.
The model should also have streamlined
styling, a sportier greenhouse and a sharply sculpted beltline which helps to
emphasize the longer wheelbase. Last but not least, we can expect a dual
exhaust system and Chicane LED taillights.
More important changes will occur in the
cabin as the MDX should adopt a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a
12.3-inch infotainment system. We can also expect new switchgear and high
quality materials such as Milano leather and open-pore wood trim infused with metallic
flakes. Other notable highlights should include a panoramic moonroof, a
25-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system, and an ambient lighting system with 27
different schemes. The crossover’s longer wheelbase should result in a more
accommodating cabin as Acura has previously said the MDX Prototype featured
additional cargo room as well as more legroom in all three rows.
Acura is keeping details under wraps, but
the 2022 MDX will ride on a new light-truck platform and feature a double
wishbone front suspension for the first time. The company also confirmed the
model will be launched early next year with a 3.5-liter V6 engine which is
paired to a ten-speed automatic transmission and an available Super Handling
All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The company didn’t mention numbers, but the
current 3.5-liter V6 develops 290 hp and 362 Nm)of torque.
It will be joined by Acura’s first
high-performance crossover, the MDX Type S, in the summer of 2021. The company
has previously said the model will have a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that
produces an estimated 355 hp and 480 Nm of
torque.
