The Acura MDX Type S

In the realm of SUVs, the Acura MDX Type S emerges as a beacon of driving pleasure, blending adept chassis dynamics and a sophisticated drivetrain to offer a tantalizing driving experience. However, amidst its brilliance lies a significant flaw: an exasperating infotainment system that mars an otherwise exceptional vehicle.

Stepping into the 2024 Acura MDX Type S, one is greeted by an interior that exudes comfort and practicality. While lacking the ostentatious flair of its rivals like the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS, the MDX compensates with a user-friendly layout adorned with tactile buttons for essential functions such as climate control and volume adjustment. Opting for the Advance package further enhances the experience with a plethora of technological amenities, including a head-up display, a premium 25-speaker sound system, and indulgent 16-way adjustable massaging front sport seats.

Delving deeper into the Type S variant reveals a treasure trove of additional features, including front seat ventilation, navigation, wireless phone charging, remote start, and an array of active safety systems. Yet, it is beneath the surface where the Type S truly distinguishes itself, boasting an array of chassis and drivetrain enhancements that imbue it with an unexpected nimbleness.

Equipped with standard air suspension, the MDX Type S achieves a delicate balance between plush ride comfort and agile handling, eschewing the typical ‘never settles’ characteristic often associated with air-ride setups. Central to its performance prowess is a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine, generating an impressive 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, seamlessly paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system.

On winding roads, the SH-AWD system demonstrates its prowess, intelligently distributing power to optimize cornering performance. Engaging the Sport drive mode further refines the driving experience, enhancing suspension stiffness, steering response, and throttle sensitivity. Despite its substantial size, the MDX Type S feels remarkably agile, aided by its quick-shifting transmission and formidable Brembo brakes.

Beyond its dynamic capabilities, the MDX Type S excels as a versatile family SUV, effortlessly transitioning between spirited drives and mundane daily commutes. While slightly firmer than traditional full-size SUVs, its suspension adeptly absorbs road imperfections, ensuring a comfortable ride for occupants. Though the third-row seating may feel snug for adults, the MDX accommodates passengers with aplomb, offering a balance of practicality and performance seldom found in its class.

However, the MDX’s otherwise stellar package is marred by its archaic touchpad-based infotainment system. In an era dominated by intuitive touchscreen interfaces, Acura’s decision to persist with a touchpad setup proves perplexing and frustrating. Navigating through menus becomes a cumbersome endeavor, detracting from the overall driving experience.

Despite its commendable attributes, the MDX Type S’s potential remains unrealized due to the inherent flaws of its infotainment system. As Acura commits to phasing out the touchpad interface in future iterations, prospective buyers are urged to exercise patience, awaiting a more refined and compelling offering. Until then, the MDX Type S stands as a testament to what could have been—a near-perfect SUV marred by a single, avoidable flaw.