The 2022 Acura Mdx Type S marks a significant milestone, becoming the first-ever Acura SUV to proudly wear the coveted Type S badge. This high-performance variant of Acura’s flagship SUV doesn’t just signify an upgrade; it represents a complete reimagining of the MDX, injecting exhilarating performance and unprecedented levels of luxury into the three-row SUV segment. Engineered from the ground up, the MDX Type S is built upon the robust foundation of the fourth-generation MDX platform, specifically designed to accommodate the elevated demands of Type S performance. This ensures that the Acura MDX Type S isn’t just a standard SUV with added power; it’s a meticulously crafted performance machine that retains the practicality and family-friendly nature of the MDX.
The 2022 MDX Type S distinguishes itself with a suite of exclusive performance enhancements and opulent features. At its heart lies Acura’s all-new 355-horsepower Type S Turbo V6 engine, a powerhouse that delivers a thrilling driving experience. Complementing this potent engine is Acura’s first-ever air suspension system, allowing for adjustable ride height and a dynamic range between luxurious comfort and спортивное handling. Further amplifying its performance credentials are specially tuned adaptive dampers, powerful Brembo® front brakes for superior stopping power, and a Sport+ drive mode that unlocks the vehicle’s most aggressive settings. Distinctive 21-inch wheels, paired with innovative self-sealing tires, not only enhance the MDX Type S‘s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its overall performance and refinement.
Standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) with true torque vectoring is a cornerstone of the MDX Type S‘s dynamic capabilities, optimizing handling and control across diverse driving conditions. Visually, the Acura MDX Type S asserts its unique identity with exclusive design cues, including an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille that maximizes airflow, assertive quad exhaust finishers, and meticulously crafted Milano leather seats adorned with Ultrasuede® trim and Type S-embossed headrests.
Stepping inside the MDX Type S reveals the most premium cabin ever offered in an Acura SUV. The available Advance Package elevates the luxury experience further, introducing Acura’s first-ever massaging front seats, ensuring ultimate comfort on long journeys. Audiophiles will be captivated by the available new 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3DÒ Signature Edition premium audio system, delivering an immersive and unparalleled sound experience.
The Acura MDX Type S isn’t merely a performance SUV; it’s the pinnacle of Acura’s SUV lineage, seamlessly blending exhilarating dynamics with the premium features and family-oriented practicality that have defined the MDX for years. It stands as a testament to Acura’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering vehicles that excite and indulge in equal measure.
2022 MDX Type S: Unleashing the Power of the Type S Turbo V6
Key Powertrain Highlights of the MDX Type S:
- 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 engine, specifically engineered for Type S performance.
- Robust 355 horsepower output (SAE net @ 5,500 rpm) for exhilarating acceleration.
- Substantial 354 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 1,400 to 5,000 rpm) available at low RPMs for responsive power delivery.
- Single twin-scroll turbocharger for minimized turbo lag and enhanced responsiveness.
- Forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods ensuring engine durability under high stress.
- 6-bolt crankshaft main bearing caps providing increased rigidity and long-term durability.
- Close-coupled catalytic converter for efficient emission control.
- Compact cylinder heads and valvetrain contributing to the engine’s overall compact design.
- Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) technology enhancing fuel efficiency without compromising power.
- Active Exhaust system amplifying the sporty driving experience with enhanced engine sound.
- Enhanced cooling system featuring dual sub-radiators for optimal temperature management.
- Performance-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission with reinforced internals, quicker shift times, and rev-matched downshifts.
- Fourth Generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) for superior traction and handling.
The heart and soul of the 2022 Acura MDX Type S is the all-new Type S Turbo V6 engine. This 3.0-liter, 24-valve, DOHC V6 engine, featuring direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger, is a masterpiece of engineering, generating an impressive 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. Exclusively developed for Type S models like the MDX Type S and TLX Type S, this engine is the brainchild of Acura’s most seasoned powertrain engineers, including veterans from the teams behind the NSX’s hybrid powertrain and the Civic Type R engine.
While sharing its bore spacing and 60-degree V6 architecture with the standard MDX’s 3.5-liter V6, the Type S Turbo V6 is fundamentally different. It boasts unique features like 6-bolt sintered main bearing caps for enhanced crankshaft rigidity and durability, and a square 86 mm bore and stroke configuration.
Acura engineers prioritized compactness and a low profile in the engine’s design. This is evidenced by the strategic placement of the turbocharger above the transmission, adjacent to the engine, and the utilization of low-profile cylinder heads. Remarkably, the fully assembled Type S Turbo V6 is actually 8 mm shorter than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, while maintaining the same width.
The twin-scroll turbocharger, generating up to 15.1 psi of boost, is a key contributor to the engine’s responsiveness. It incorporates independent internal paths for the front and rear cylinder banks, optimizing exhaust flow to the turbine and minimizing turbo lag. This innovative design enables the engine to deliver its peak torque of 354 lb.-ft. from an exceptionally low 1,400 rpm, providing instant power on demand.
Emissions efficiency was also a crucial consideration in the engine’s development. Optimized heat management within the turbo system ensures rapid activation of the catalytic converter. Features like a double-wall exhaust pipe with external bellows and a V-band connection for the catalytic converter minimize heat mass and contribute to efficient emissions control.
To manage engine temperatures effectively, the MDX Type S employs two auxiliary sub-radiators, fed by dedicated air intakes flanking the front grille. Furthermore, the open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille increases airflow to the engine compartment by approximately 14 percent, further enhancing cooling performance.
The Type S Turbo V6 features a robust rotating assembly, incorporating a high-strength forged steel crankshaft, similar to the NSX’s twin-turbo V6, and forged steel connecting rods derived from 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 Comparison |
|—|—|—|
| Feature | 2022 MDX SH-AWD® | 2022 MDX Type S |
|—|—|—|
| Engine Type | Aluminum-alloy V6 | Turbo Aluminum-alloy V6 |
| Turbo Type | — | Twin-Scroll |
| Displacement (liters) | 3.5 | 3.0 |
| Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net) | 290 @ 6,200 | 355 @ 5,500 |
| Torque, lb.-ft. @ rpm (SAE net) | 267 @ 4,700 | 354 @ 1,400-5,000 |
| Valvetrain | 24-Valve, SOHC i-VTEC® | 24-Valve, DOHC |
| Variable Cylinder Management™ | • | • |
| Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Injection | Direct | Direct |
| Throttle Control | Drive-by-Wire | Drive-by-Wire |
| Idle Stop | • | • |
| CARB Emissions Rating | ULEV70 | ULEV70 |
| Tune-Up Interval | 100k +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups | 100k +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups |
| EPA Fuel Economy Ratings (City/Highway/Combined)¹ | 19 / 25 / 21 | 17 / 21 / 19 |
¹ Based on 2022 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary.
Innovative Cylinder Head and Valvetrain Design
The Type S Turbo V6 employs low-profile double overhead cam cylinder heads, achieved by integrating the cam bearing caps directly into the valve cover, reducing engine height and component count.
Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) for Enhanced Efficiency
Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) improves fuel economy and reduces emissions by operating the engine on three cylinders under light loads, seamlessly transitioning to six-cylinder mode when more power is demanded. A newly developed VCM™ mechanism, tailored for the Type S Turbo V6’s compact design, utilizes a more compact rocker arm and hydraulic lash adjuster design compared to the SOHC 3.5-liter engine’s VTEC® system. Active Vibration Control and Active Noise Cancellation™ ensure smooth operation and minimize noise during VCM™ operation.
Active Exhaust and Sound Control
The MDX Type S features an Active Exhaust system, inspired by the NSX, which opens a valve in the exhaust system to amplify the V6 engine’s natural sound, particularly in Sport+ mode. Active Sound Control (ASC) further enhances the engine, intake, and exhaust sounds within the cabin, creating a more engaging auditory experience. Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC) minimizes unwanted noise, especially during VCM™ operation.
Performance-Enhanced 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
Exclusively paired with the Type S Turbo V6 is a performance-enhanced 10-speed automatic transmission. Upgrades include a new torque converter, stronger gears, and improved clutches, designed to handle the engine’s increased torque output. Type S-exclusive programming delivers 40-percent quicker downshifts when using paddle shifters, and Sport+ mode achieves 30-percent faster upshifts through fuel cut during gear changes.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) for Unrivaled Control
Standard on the MDX Type S is the fourth generation of Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. This advanced system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles and, uniquely, between the left and right rear wheels, providing exceptional handling and control in diverse conditions.
The fourth-generation SH-AWD® system in the MDX Type S features enhancements specifically for the Type S Turbo V6, including a 40-percent increase in maximum rear axle torque capacity and 30-percent faster torque delivery to the rear wheels under normal conditions. Up to 70 percent of torque can be directed to the rear axle, with 100 percent of that rear torque capable of being sent to either rear wheel. The system’s quicker response is achieved through a shorter hydraulic circuit and a higher-torque electric motor.
SH-AWD® works in concert with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Agile Handling Assist® to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction. Three distinct SH-AWD® maps are linked to the Integrated Dynamics System modes, with Sport and Sport+ modes employing more aggressive programming for performance driving.
The SH-AWD® system is a full-time all-wheel-drive system with a torque-transfer unit directly mounted to the front transaxle. The lightweight rear differential utilizes an electric motor to power hydraulic pumps, controlling clutch packs and torque distribution to each rear wheel.
| 2022 MDX and MDX Type S Transmission and SH-AWD® Comparison |
|—|—|—|
| Feature | MDX | MDX Type S |
|—|—|—|
| Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) | Available | • |
| 10-Speed Automatic Transmission | • | 30% faster upshifts in Sport+ |
| Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters with Rev-Matching Downshifts | • | 40% faster downshifts |
2022 MDX Type S: Chassis and Handling Dynamics Redefined
Key Chassis and Handling Features of the MDX Type S:
- Performance-tuned double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension optimized for Type S driving dynamics.
- Acura-first air suspension system with adjustable ride height and load leveling.
- Adaptive Damper System with three Type S-specific damping curves for tailored ride and handling.
- Rear-mounted battery enhancing weight balance and contributing to improved handling agility.
- Retuned Electric Power Steering (EPS) system providing a sportier and more direct steering feel.
- NSX-inspired electro-servo braking system for enhanced brake feel and responsiveness.
- Brembo® front brakes with 14.3-inch rotors and four-piston fixed calipers for superior stopping power.
- Updated Integrated Dynamics System with exclusive Sport+ and Lift modes expanding driver customization.
- 21-inch wheels and self-sealing high-performance all-season tires, a first for Acura, balancing performance and practicality.
The MDX Type S chassis is meticulously engineered to deliver a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. The foundation is a performance-tuned suspension system, featuring a double-wishbone front suspension – a more sophisticated design than the commonly used MacPherson strut – and a multi-link rear suspension. This combination provides superior control over wheel geometry, maximizing tire contact for exceptional handling and cornering grip.
To further enhance handling prowess, the MDX Type S incorporates optimized roll resistance with a stiffer front stabilizer bar and a new hollow rear stabilizer bar. Relocating the battery to the cargo area improves weight distribution, contributing to the most dynamic handling performance ever experienced in an Acura SUV.
A groundbreaking addition to the MDX Type S is Acura’s first-ever air suspension system. This system elevates both ride comfort and dynamic capability, offering spring rates up to 40-percent lower than the standard MDX for a more isolated and comfortable ride, especially on uneven road surfaces. Automatic load leveling maintains a consistent ride height regardless of passenger and cargo load. The air suspension also automatically lowers the vehicle when parked for easier entry and exit.
The Integrated Dynamics System now includes a Lift mode, enabled by the air suspension, which increases ride height by nearly 2 inches (50 mm), improving ground clearance for challenging conditions like deep snow or road hazards.
Complementing the air suspension is the Adaptive Damper System, continuously adjusting damping force based on sensor inputs. These adaptive dampers offer a significantly wider range of damping force compared to the standard MDX’s amplitude reactive dampers, providing both enhanced ride comfort and superior body control during dynamic driving. Three distinct damping curves are linked to the Integrated Dynamics System modes, ranging from soft settings in Comfort and Snow modes to more aggressive settings in Sport and Sport+.
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) system in the MDX Type S is retuned for a more performance-focused feel, with reduced assist compared to the standard MDX. This, combined with the Adaptive Damper System, contributes to the MDX Type S‘s agile and responsive handling.
Inspired by the Acura NSX supercar, the MDX Type S features an electro-servo braking system. This system provides exceptional brake feel and feedback through the pedal, utilizing an electronic actuator to precisely control hydraulic pressure to the Brembo® front brakes. The Brembo® front brakes feature larger 14.3-inch rotors and four-piston calipers, providing a 5.3-percent increase in heat capacity for improved fade resistance. Ferritic Nitrocarburizing (FNC) coating on both front and rear rotors enhances corrosion resistance.
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. Sport+ mode sharpens transmission upshifts, enhances engine sound, and provides more aggressive damper settings and steering feel. Lift mode utilizes the air suspension to increase ride height for improved ground clearance in challenging conditions, automatically disabling above 37 mph.
The MDX Type S rides on standard 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. Integrated wheel resonators reduce road noise for a quieter cabin. The MDX Type S also debuts Acura’s first application of self-sealing tires. The 275/40R21 Continental CrossContact RX ContiSeal tires automatically seal punctures up to 5 mm in diameter, providing added peace of mind.
2022 MDX Type S: Exterior and Interior Design – A Fusion of Sport and Luxury
Key Exterior and Interior Design Elements of the MDX Type S:
- Exclusive open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille and aggressively styled front fascia enhancing cooling and visual appeal.
- Type S-exclusive front and rear fascias and quad exhaust outlets projecting a sporty and powerful stance.
- Distinctive Type S badging on the grille, tailgate, fenders, key fob, steering wheel, and sill plates.
- Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint color, a signature hue for Type S models.
- Available 16-way power heated and cooled front seats with Milano leather and unique curvilinear quilting (Type S with Advance Package).
- New Azurite Blue leather interior option, exclusive to the Type S with Advance Package, offering a unique and sophisticated cabin ambiance.
- Acura-first massaging front seats with nine modes for unparalleled comfort (Type S with Advance Package).
- Black metallic wood trim and ultra-premium headliner creating an elevated sense of luxury (Type S with Advance Package).
- 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3DÒ Signature Edition premium audio system with illuminated front door speakers for an immersive auditory experience (Type S with Advance Package).
The MDX Type S exterior design confidently communicates its performance intentions while maintaining Acura’s sophisticated aesthetic. The front fascia is dominated by an exclusive open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, finished in body color surround, increasing airflow to the engine by approximately 14 percent. Additional air inlets flank the grille, directing cooling air to the sub-radiators. Blackout trim on the grille, window surrounds, and mirrors, along with dark-finish headlights, further enhance the sporty appearance.
The rear of the MDX Type S features a more aggressive fascia, dark-finish taillights, and prominent quad-exhaust finishers. Type S badges are strategically placed on the grille, front fenders, and tailgate. The 21-inch wheels showcase the eye-catching red Brembo® brake calipers. The MDX Type S with Advance Package distinguishes itself further with gloss black lower body trim and wheel arch trim. Both Type S grades are offered in the striking Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint.
Inside the MDX Type S, the cabin is a blend of sporty accents and premium materials. Red, Ebony, or new Light Orchid Milano leather seats with Black Ultrasuede® inserts offer 12-way adjustability for front occupants. A flat-bottom steering wheel with the Type S badge, contrast stitching, metal sport pedals, and a metal-plated glove box handle amplify the sporty ambiance.
The MDX Type S with Advance Package elevates the interior to unprecedented levels of luxury. Full Milano leather with a unique curvilinear quilted pattern adorns the front and middle row seats, with contrast stitching and piping throughout all three rows. Available massaging front seats with nine modes offer exceptional comfort. Ebony, Light Orchid, Red, and an exclusive new Azurite Blue leather interior color are offered. Unique black metallic wood trim, created with a hand-wiped liquid metallic flake, and an ultra-premium headliner further enhance the cabin’s upscale feel. Acoustic laminate windshield and front door windows are standard, with laminate rear door windows added to the Advance Package.
| | AVAILABLE INTERIOR COLORS |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| AVAILABLE EXTERIOR COLORS | Ebony | Red | Light Orchid | Azurite Blue (Advance only) |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| New: Tiger Eye Pearl* | • (Type S only) | – | • (Advance Package only) | • |
| Liquid Carbon Metallic* | • | • | – | – |
| Apex Blue Pearl* | • | – | • | – |
| Performance Red Pearl* | • | – | – | – |
| Majestic Black Pearl* | • | • | – | – |
| Platinum White Pearl* | • | • | • (Advance Package only) | – |
| Lunar Silver Metallic | • | – | – | • |
* Premium Paint offered at an additional cost
Acura-First Massaging Front Seats
The MDX Type S with Advance Package introduces Acura’s first-ever massaging front seats. Nine massage modes, each with three intensity levels, utilize air bladders in the seatback and cushion to provide a revitalizing massage experience for front occupants.
| 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 |
Unparalleled Audio with ELS STUDIO 3D® Signature Edition
Premiering in the MDX Type S with Advance Package is the new 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3DÒ Signature Edition premium audio system. Developed in collaboration with Grammy®-winning producer Elliot Scheiner, this system is meticulously engineered to deliver a class-leading audio experience.
The system features a unique Center Parquet™ sound experience, referencing the acoustics of Carnegie Hall’s Parquet section. Two DSP amplifiers deliver 1,000 watts through 22 discrete channels to 25 speakers. Carbon-fiber diaphragms in door and console speakers, and carbon graphite dome tweeters near the A-pillars, ensure exceptional sound reproduction. Acoustic Motion Control™ enhances bass performance. Front seat passengers benefit from a Symmetrical Sound Stage, and Time Aligning technology ensures all occupants experience superior sound quality.
| Major Features Comparison |
|—|—|—|—|
| Feature | 2022 MDX | 2022 MDX Type S | 2022 MDX Type S with Advance Package |
|—|—|—|—|
| 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 | w/ Technology Package | • | • |
| Wireless CarPlay® / Android Auto™ Integration | • | • | • |
| Wireless Charging Pad | • | • | • |
| ELS STUDIO® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 Speakers | A-Spec and Advance Package | • | – |
| ELS STUDIO® 3D Signature Edition Premium Audio with 25 Speakers | – | – | • |
| Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) | 4 Mode: Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual | 6 Mode: Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, Lift, Individual | 6 Mode: Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, Lift, Individual |
| 12-Way Power Front Seats | Base, Technology, and A-Spec | • | – |
| 16-Way Power Front Seats | w/Advance Package | – | • Includes 9-Way Massage Function |
| Heated & Ventilated Front Seats | w/ A-Spec, Advance Package | • | • |
| Heated Rear Outboard Seats | w/ Advance Package | – | • |
| Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel | w/ A-Spec Package | • | • |
| Heated Steering Wheel | w/ Advance Package | – | • |
| Geometric Brushed Aluminum Trim | w/ A-Spec Package | • | – |
| Authentic Open-pore Wood Trim | w/ Advance Package | – | • Includes Black Metallic Finish |
| Black Headliner | w/A-Spec Package | • | • Unique Fabric for Black Metallic Appearance |
| IconicDrive™ Ambient LED Lighting | w/ Technology Package | • | • Includes additional lighting in front door speaker grilles |
| Remote Engine Start | w/ Advance Package | • | • |
| Power Folding Side Mirrors | w/ Technology Package | • | • |
| Low-Profile Roof Rails | w/Advance Package Painted Silver | – | Painted Gloss Black |
| Gloss Black Wheel Arch and Lower Body Trim | – | – | • |
| Gloss Black Mirror Caps | w/A-Spec Package | • | • |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | w/ Technology Package | • | • |
| Surround View Camera System | w/ Advance Package | – | • |
| Head Up Display | w/ Advance Package | – | • |
| AcuraWatch™ | • | • | • |
American Design, Development, and Manufacturing of the 2022 MDX Type S
The 2022 Acura MDX Type S, like all MDX models before it, was primarily designed 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 was conducted in Japan. The MDX Type S is manufactured exclusively in East Liberty, Ohio, with the engine produced in Anna, Ohio, and the 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD® components manufactured in Ohio and Georgia respectively, highlighting Acura’s strong commitment to North American manufacturing.
