The 2019 Acura MDX lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor engine sensor and cruise control issues reported. At $37,500 to $47,250, it’s a great value for a midsize luxury SUV with plenty of passenger room.
Is the 2019 Acura MDX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a great year for the Acura MDX since it offers practicality and passenger room paired with a nice interior. Owner reviews praise the responsive steering, technology features, along with the decent power from the V6 engine.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are reasonably good for an SUV in its price range, the seats are excellent on long drives, cargo space is also great for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2019 MDX. Transmission problems are common on models from 2009–2011, while 2015–2022 all have excellent long-term reliability ratings.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is average from the standard V6 engine, although it’s not as strong as some of the competitors on the market.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2019 MDX is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, along with adaptive cruise control. Optional upgrades include a surround-view parking camera.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, giving 448 miles of range out of the 19.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $26 higher than average at $248 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2019 Acura MDX is cheaper than a lot of other luxury SUVs on the market with reasonable 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 2019 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and functional luxury SUV, with great customer satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the 2019 MDX at 4.3/5, enjoying the excellent SH-AWD system in the snow, but doesn’t like the complex two-screen stereo system.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the MDX a 4/5, praising the premium interior for the price, but owners don’t like the relatively low towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Acura MDX Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Acura MDX include the engine stalling, issues with the cruise control radar, along with some difficulty closing the rear hatch. Overall, these problems are relatively minor compared to other midsize luxury SUVs on the market, leading to lower repair costs.
The engine stalling is the most widespread complaint from 2019 MDX owners, showing up at around 40,000 miles. Usually, the problem shows up after using the engine start/stop feature. The problem is caused by a failed sensor, which most dealerships will replace under warranty for free when it has under 50,000 miles. Outside warranty, it’s about $450 to swap out.
Issues with the cruise control radar have also been reported on some Acura MDX models within the first 5,000 miles. The first thing to check is that the radar sensor is clean and clear of debris, which could cause it to be overly sensitive. If the sensor is clean, then there may be an issue with the part itself. Most dealerships will replace it under warranty, but out of warranty they are around $1,200.
Difficulty closing the rear hatch is another problem mentioned by several 2019 MDX owners within the first 1,000 miles. Hatch alignment issues are the most common source of the problem. Re-aligning the hatch costs around $100, but usually it is covered under warranty for free by a dealership when the SUV is so new.
There are four recalls on the 2019 Acura MDX, which is similar to other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall is for the fuel pump which may fail. Acura will replace the fuel pump on affected models for free. Other recalls cover timing belt teeth, tailgate lid lights, and brake caliper pistons. Acura will replace parts on affected models for those issues for free as well.
How Long Will the 2019 Acura MDX Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Acura MDX can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Lexus RX. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than most other luxury SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $517 per year.
As a used 2019 MDX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the MAP sensor for $125, liftgate support struts costing $400, along with the camshaft position sensor which costs $575.
The Acura is a brand new car so no problems have incurred. However in a few years there may be some problems that arise.
It is super reliable. I have not had any problems with this car so far. It gets me to and from work with no issues.
Yes, I will have the transmission evaluated soon because it isn't driving right and sounds loud especially when driving up and down hills which I have to do daily. I can feel great hesitation when it is switching gears.
No problems whatsoever. It is very reliable. There were a few recalls on the 2019, but the dealership handled them easily
Yes very reliable. No problems yet. The apple play is sort of inconsistent though. We bought the car knowing the reliability of the brand and the safety
How Is the Technology?
Standard entertainment technology is great with a 7-inch touchscreen as part of the dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system along with a 9 or 16.2-inch rear seat entertainment screen.
Safety technology is better than many competitors, and standard safety features include:
- Rearview camera
- Lane keep assist
- Forward collision warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Road departure mitigation
- Automatic emergency braking
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Blind spot monitoring
- Head-up warning for emergency braking
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Rear cross traffic alert
Is the 2019 Acura MDX a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Acura MDX is a good value since it’s an affordable option for a luxury midsize SUV with some advanced technology features. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $37,500 to $47,250, making it less than a Volvo XC90 or BMW X5. When new, the price range was $44,300 to $60,050. Depreciation is similar to other luxury SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Acura MDX?
There are four models of the 2019 Acura MDX offered, from the entry-level Standard all the way through to the Advance. The MDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
Standard is the entry-level model with:
- 18-inch wheels.
- Automatic LED headlights.
- Power liftgate.
- 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.
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
- Dual-screen infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen.
- Bluetooth and five USB ports.
- Eight-speaker sound system and AcuraWatch safety suite.
Technology is a step up, adding:
- 20-inch wheels.
- Automatic wipers.
- Remote engine start.
- Power-folding side mirrors.
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
- Navigation system.
- Color driver information display.
- 10-speaker premium audio system with HD radio.
A-Spec is a new model which has:
- Blacked-out exterior trim.
- Wider wheels and tires.
- Thicker-rimmed steering wheel.
- Front seat ventilation.
- Unique cabin cosmetics.
Advance is the flagship model with:
- Front and rear parking sensors.
- LED fog lights.
- Automatic engine stop-start.
- Adaptive suspension dampers.
- Wider wheels and tires.
- Top-down surround-view camera system.
- Heated steering wheel.
- Sport seats with premium leather and trim.
- Front-seat ventilation.
- Heated second-row captain’s chairs.
- Second-row sunshades.
- Two additional USB ports for the third row.
Entertainment Package (can be added to either Technology or Advance trims):
- Rear entertainment system.
- For the Technology package: 9-inch screen and 11 audio speakers.
- For the Advance package: 16.2-inch screen with HDMI input and 12 audio speakers.
- Replaces standard second-row bench seating with heated captain’s chairs for the Technology trim.
What Engines Come In the Acura MDX?
The 2019 MDX comes with a 3.5L V6 Engine: The standard 3.5L V6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft of torque at up to 23 MPG. It comes paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. With its spirited performance, the MDX with this engine can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 6.5 seconds. For those with towing needs, it has a respectable capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, when properly equipped.
What Colors Does the Acura MDX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Acura MDX?
The 2019 Acura MDX is widely recognized for its comfort and plush interior. When you slide into the driver’s seat, you’ll notice the soft leather upholstery and spaciousness, which makes you feel like you’re in a high-end living room rather than just an SUV. The front seats are supportive, ensuring you and your passenger don’t feel those long drive hours.
In the backseat, there’s ample legroom, so even taller adults won’t have their knees crunched. The ride itself is smooth, with the MDX handling bumps and potholes like a champ. And for those who love a quiet space, the cabin does a great job keeping road and wind noise out. So, whether you’re on a quick run to the grocery store or on a cross-country road trip, the MDX makes sure you ride in style and comfort.
How Much Storage Space Does the Acura MDX Have?
The 2019 Acura MDX is a luxury SUV that offers a versatile interior to accommodate both passengers and cargo. It provides a total of 90.9 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded flat. With just the third row folded down, there’s 43.4 cubic feet of room available. When all seats are in use, the space behind the third row amounts to 15.8 cubic feet.
To put this in perspective, with all seats up, there’s enough room for a standard set of golf clubs or a couple of suitcases. With the third row down, you can fit larger items like a bicycle, while folding both the second and third rows offers space for bulkier items such as furniture or a good amount of camping gear. The MDX’s storage versatility makes it a good choice for both daily commuting and longer trips that require hauling more cargo.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Acura MDX was launched for the 2014 model year.
2015: No updates or changes from the full redesign in 2014.
2016: Standard nine-speed automatic transmission, upgraded all-wheel drive system, frameless rearview mirror added.
2017: Small exterior styling changes with an updated front bumper and headlights, more safety technology added.
2018: Upgraded dual-screen stereo with new touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard.
2019: Transmission software updated, new A-Spec model launched, and variable suspension on the Advance Package models.
2020: No major changes from earlier years.
2022: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation after being out of production in 2021, offering new styling, a Type S model, and upgraded technology.
How Does the Acura MDX Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Acura MDX is a great luxury SUV, offering a lot of practicality with up to three rows of seating and more standard technology features than many competitors.
The Lexus RX is another SUV which can be found for around $2,500 more. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Lexus RX, while the Acura MDX has more passenger room. We recommend the Lexus RX since it’s slightly more reliable, although it’s worth testing both SUVs to see which you prefer since they are very similar.
The Honda Pilot is a competitor which can be found for around $5,500 less. Both the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX are built on the same platform, although the MDX has more technology and stronger engine choices. We recommend the Acura MDX if you’re looking for more luxury, while the Honda Pilot is a decent choice if you want to save some money.
Do Owners Recommend the Acura MDX?
Yes. The car is affordable and allows you to have a smooth ride. It is an affordable luxury car that can be owned by anyone.
Yes very comfortable and reliable vehicles. Has good safety features as well. I would recommend this car. If you're looking for a great car get this one. You will not be disappointed.
It is just ok. It drives and sounds like a truck. Isn't very smooth so you feel every bump you go over. The entertainment panel UI is in a bad position and not great. It is comfortable for 6 passengers and for loading a lot in the trunk.
Yes, it drives smoothly and does not feel like an SUV or truck. The suspension is smooth, the interior is beautiful and all of the features of this car are great. I have owned several Acuras for many years
It’s is more than good; it’s excellent. We love the awe aspect of the vehicle and the interior room.