The 2020 Acura MDX lasts around 250,000 miles, with some relatively minor battery and transmission software issues reported. At $35,399 to $54,625, it’s a great value for a midsize luxury SUV with a very practical cabin.
Is the 2020 Acura MDX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Acura MDX since it combines a nice interior and decent practicality. Owner reviews praise the low ownership costs, smooth suspension, along with the luxurious seats.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice for an SUV in its price range, the seats are supportive on long trips, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2020 MDX. Avoid models from 2009–2011, while 2015–2022 have better long-term reliability ratings as they age.
- Performance 7/10 – The standard V6 engine is reasonably powerful, yet it’s not as strong as some competitors.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2020 MDX is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking along with adaptive cruise control. Optional upgrades include a head-up display and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, offering 448 miles of range from the 19.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $28 higher than average at $283 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2020 Acura MDX is cheaper than some other midsize SUVs on the market while offering average depreciation rates, making it a good value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Acura MDX?
- Consumer Reports says the 2020 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and very functional midsize SUV, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Acura MDX at 4.4/5, enjoying the smooth acceleration from the V6 engine, but doesn’t like the two-screen infotainment system.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the MDX a 4/5, praising the excellent all-wheel drive handling, but owners don’t like the low 5,000 pound towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Acura MDX Have?
Common problems reported on the 2020 Acura MDX include dead batteries, the transmission shifting into neutral while idling, along with a frozen stereo system. Overall, these problems are relatively minor compared to other midsize luxury SUVs on the market, leading to lower repair costs as the MDX ages.
Dead batteries are the most widespread complaint from 2020 MDX owners, showing up within the first 5,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in the MDX, and some of them may stay on while the engine is off when there are problems, and drain the battery. Diagnosing the source of the parasitic draw costs around $50, while fixing it can range from $10 to $150.
The transmission shifting into neutral while idling is another problem found on some MDX models, usually within the first 1,000 miles. There are transmission control module updates which improve the reliability of the transmission. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others charge around $50.
A frozen stereo system has also been reported by some 2020 MDX owners at around 2,500 miles. Updating the software usually improves the reliability of the stereo. Dealerships will usually install the updates for free during normal servicing, while others charge around $50.
There are two recalls on the 2020 Acura MDX, which is better than some other midsize SUVs on the market. The most serious recall covers the fuel pump, which may cause the engine to stall. Acura will replace the fuel pump on affected models for free. The other recall covers a loose fastener on the brake booster, which Acura will also change out for free.
How Long Will the 2020 Acura MDX Last?
A well-maintained 2020 Acura MDX can last around 250,000 miles, which is slightly shorter than the long-lasting Lexus RX. Regular annual maintenance costs are reasonable for a luxury SUV at $531 per year, according to data provided by Repair Pal.
As a used 2020 MDX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the heater hose for $350, motor mounts costing around $550, along with the air bag occupant sensor, which costs around $435.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is great, including a dual-screen infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system, along with larger screen choices.
Standard safety technology features are excellent, and include:
- Forward collision warning
- Rearview camera
- Road departure mitigation
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Optional driver assistance features are available, such as:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Head-up display
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Is the 2020 Acura MDX a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 Acura MDX is a good value since it’s cheaper than some other midsize luxury SUVs while still offering good practicality and reliability ratings. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $35,399 to $54,625, making it less than a BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE. When new, the price range was $44,500 to $60,250. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Acura MDX?
There are four main models of the 2020 Acura MDX offered from the entry-level Base through to the more well-equipped Advance. The MDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade. There’s also a sport hybrid model with electric motors covered in another review.
Base is the entry-level model with:
- 18-inch wheels
- LED headlights
- Heated mirrors
- Power liftgate
- Sunroof
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Power-adjustable front seats with heating
- Driver-seat memory settings
- Power-adjustable steering wheel
- Leather upholstery
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Dual-screen infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen
- Eight-speaker sound system with five USB ports
- Satellite radio
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Safety features: forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane and road departure warning and mitigation, adaptive cruise control
Technology is a step up, adding:
- 20-inch wheels
- Automatic wipers
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Power-folding side mirrors
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Upgraded interior trim
- Navigation system
- Color driver information display
- 10-speaker premium audio system with HD radio
A-Spec adds more features such as:
- Blacked-out exterior trim
- Wider wheels and tires
- Thicker-rimmed steering wheel
- Faux suede seat inserts
- Front-seat ventilation
- Unique cabin cosmetics
Advance is the flagship model with:
- Requires the Technology package
- Adaptive suspension dampers
- Wider wheels and tires
- Roof rails
- Auto-dimming mirrors
- 360-degree parking camera
- Heated steering wheel
- Premium leather
- Front-seat ventilation
- Sport seats
- Heated second-row captain’s chairs
- Second-row sunshades
- Two additional USB ports for the third row
Entertainment Package (For Technology or Advance with AWD):
- Rear entertainment system
- Household-style 110-volt outlet
- Technology package: 9-inch screen, 11 audio speakers, second-row sunshades, replaces standard second-row bench with heated captain’s chairs
- Advance package: 16.2-inch screen (with HDMI input), 12 audio speakers
What Engines Come In the Acura MDX?
3.5L V6 Engine: This engine generates a respectable 290 hp and 267 lb.-ft of torque. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. In terms of efficiency, it achieves a combined fuel economy of around 23 MPG for the FWD variant and 22 MPG for the AWD model. This engine propels the MDX from 0-60 MPH in roughly 6.6 seconds.
What Colors Does the Acura MDX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Acura MDX?
The 2020 Acura MDX is renowned for delivering a high level of comfort, making it a preferred choice for families and daily commuters alike. The interior of the MDX is adorned with premium materials, luxury features, soft-touch surfaces, and meticulous craftsmanship. Passengers can indulge in the plush leather seating, which can be further enhanced with optional heating and ventilation functions. The front seats are power-adjustable, making sure drivers and front passengers can find their optimal seating position for longer journeys.
The tri-zone automatic climate control makes sure that each section of the cabin remains at the desired temperature. Moreover, the MDX’s spacious cabin comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers across its three rows, with ample legroom and headroom even in the third row, a rarity in many SUVs. On the road, the MDX’s suspension is tuned to absorb most road imperfections, providing a smooth and serene ride. Noise insulation is top-notch, providing minimal intrusion from wind or road noise. All these features, coupled with the advanced infotainment system and sound system, create an environment that’s both relaxing and engaging for all occupants.
How Much Storage Space Does the Acura MDX Have?
The 2020 Acura MDX offers impressive storage capabilities tailored for families and individuals on the go. The SUV boasts a total cargo space that varies depending on the configuration of its three rows of seats. With all seats in place, the MDX provides 15.8 cubic feet of space, enough to accommodate typical grocery shopping trips or a family’s weekend luggage. When the third row is folded down, this space expands to a generous 43.4 cubic feet, making room for larger items like bicycles or home improvement supplies.
Maximizing the cargo area by folding both the second and third rows down unlocks a vast 90.9 cubic feet of space, which can easily house larger furniture pieces such as a loveseat or multiple larger suitcases for extended trips. Beyond the main cargo area, the 2020 MDX also contains numerous small storage pockets, compartments, and cup holders sprinkled throughout the cabin to hold personal items, beverages, or gadgets, providing that everything has its place.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Acura MDX was introduced for the 2014 model year.
2015: No changes or updates after the full redesign in 2014.
2016: A nine-speed automatic transmission is now standard, improvements to the all-wheel drive system, and a frameless rearview mirror added.
2017: Minor exterior styling changes, including a new front bumper and headlights, more technology features added.
2018: New dual-screen touchscreen stereo system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2019: Transmission software has been updated, A-Spec model introduced, Advance Package comes with a variable suspension.
2020: No major changes from earlier years.
2022: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation after not being produced in 2021, it has new styling, a stronger Type S model, and better technology.
How Does the Acura MDX Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 Acura MDX is a very good midsize luxury SUV since it offers a lot of technology features and a practical cabin, even if it’s not as upscale as some competitors.
The Lexus RX is another luxury midsize SUV, which can be found for about $2,500 more. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Lexus RX, while the Acura MDX has more passenger and cargo space. We recommend the Lexus RX since it lasts a bit longer, although both are excellent choices worth testing out to see which you prefer.
The Infiniti QX60 is a popular competitor, which can be found for $3,500 less. Steering is a bit more responsive in the Infiniti QX60, while the Acura MDX offers better long-term reliability ratings. We recommend the Acura MDX since it will last longer and be more affordable to own.
