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  • Restoring Cheers & Gears

    Cheers & Gears was founded in 2001 and has been covering the automotive world ever since. Over 25 years, we've built an archive of more than 7,000 articles and 2,000 image galleries. In internet years, we qualify for classic plates. 

    But the internet doesn't sit still. Articles written for how search engines worked in 2006 don't perform the same way in 2026. Numerous server moves and software upgrades have broken article formatting and image links. The site is still here, but it's rusty and needs a frame-off restoration.  Luckily, the powertrain is good. We're on a solid and powerful server and the software itself is running well.

    Because who's ever done a frame-off restoration of a website before? We're doing something a little different. We're documenting the restoration of Cheers & Gears in real time, the SEO modernization, the content infrastructure, the technology upgrades, all of it. Think of it like a garage build, except the project car is a 25-year-old website.

    We're using AI tooling to help us work through a massive archive, building hub pages to organize coverage that spans two decades, upgrading our platform, and relaunching a newsletter. Our goal is to have Cheers & Gears in the best shape it's ever been by our 25th anniversary in August 2026.

    Follow along below for updates, a roadmap of where we're headed, or head over to the Cheers & Gears Restoration discussion forum to ask questions and share your thoughts.

  • Blog

    A Minor Refresh Makes a Big Difference for the 2025 Acura MDX

    As one of Acura's most popular models, Acura doesn't need to change much with the formula of the MDX to keep it great. Still, for 2025, Acura included some minor revisions that might be a big deal to some. Mechanically, all of the dirty bits you don't see carry over, so if you liked the ride and drive before, you will again. The engines available remain a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6, making 290 horsepower, or the stouter 335 horsepower 3.0-liter turbo V6 that comes in the Type-S. Either one is mated to a 10-speed automatic.
    Exterior and Trim Lineup Changes
    Externally, you'll need to put the 2024 model next to the 2025 model to notice the changes. The front bumper has a new shape, the grille is wider, and there is a new mesh design. Acura has rejigged the entire trim lineup, adding a new A-Spec Advance that offers a taste of features previously only available on the Type-S. The Type-S itself has been dropped and is now only available in the top-of-the-line Type-S Advance trim. Both A-Spec Advance and Type-S Advance come with quilted leather front seats with massage, a heated second row, sound isolation, and a heads-up display. The Type-S Advance also gets a heated steering wheel and a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen entertainment system, up from the previous year's 25-speaker ELS unit.
    Goodbye Touchpad, Hello 12.3-Inch Touchscreen
    The most welcome change is the removal of the console-mounted touchpad in place of a new 12.3-inch touchscreen. Removing the touchpad also makes more room for additional storage and a closer reach for the wireless phone charging pad. The infotainment system is powered by Google Built-In and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. If you didn't opt for the Type-S Advance trim, you'll have to make due with an 11-speaker system in the lower trims or a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen system in the higher trims.
    Updated AcuraWatch Safety Suite
    On the safety front, the 2025 Acura MDX gets an upgraded AcuraWatch safety suite with a new front camera and grille-mounted radar that improves detection range. The field of view is wider to spot pedestrians and lane markings. Range for the blind-spot monitoring system is also improved.
    Check out the 2025 Acura MDX photo gallery for a closer look at the A-Spec, Type S, and Advance trims.
    The upgrades will arrive as soon as next month when the 2025 Acura MDX goes on sale. No pricing has been announced.

    2024 Acura TLX Refresh Pairs-Down Trim Levels

    A vehicle refresh can include updates to technology, slight design changes, and updates to interiors. For 2024, the Acura TLX is back with a few exterior design changes. The most prominent is the front-end with new grille. TLX still uses slim headlights but incorporates a better designed grille. At the side, both the regular TLX and A-Spec TLX come with new 19-inch five-spoke wheels in dark gray. Step-up to the Type S models come with 20-inch black wheels; Type S models can be had with high-performance tires and copper 20-inch wheels. 
    At the rear, A-Spec models get a new diffuser along with rounded exhaust tips. Since the Type S already aggressive styling, the rear remains mostly the same. An optional carbon-fiber spoiler is available for the Type S. Acura has included two new paint colors for the 2024 TLX. The first one is a dark Liquid Carbon Metallic paint for TLX's with the Technology Package. A-Spec and Type S vehicles can be had with Urban Gray paint. Engines remain the same for all models. A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four comes with the TLX and A-Spec, while the Type S continues with its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. All get a 10-speed automatic transmission.
    Interior changes include both a 12.3-inch digital display and infotainment system. TLX now offers Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a standard wireless phone charger and rear-seat charging ports. A-Spec TLXs come with thicker carpets, better sound-deadening, and acoustic glass. The TLX still comes with a push-button transmission selector and mousepad for the infotainment system. Interior leather includes black and red, although the Type S has a unique Pearly Orchid color.
    Although changes may look minimal, Acura has raised prices for the 2024 TLX. It now starts at $46,195 for a front-wheel-drive TLX with Technology Package. Last year's TLX without the Technology Package cost $5,000 less but lowers to $950 more with it. A-Spec and Type S models also see a price increase of between $1,000 and $1,250. A-Spec Models cost $51,195 and the Type S costs $58,195. The 2024 Acura TLX will arrive at dealerships at the end of November.
     
     

    Acura Offers Limited-Production of the TLX Type S PMC Edition

    Acura is closing out the 2023 TLX with a special edition.

    The 2023 Gotham Gray TLX Type S PMC Edition Details:
    Hand-assembled at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) Painted in Gotham Gray with matte metallic finish Gloss carbon fiber decklid lip spoiler & rear diffuser Lightweight Berlina Black Y-spoke wheels with black lug nuts High-performance Pirelli P-Zero summer tire (255/35) Berlina Black door handles Side sill garnish Black-chrome quad exhaust finishers Gloss black TLX, Type S and SH-AWD exterior badging Red Milano leather interior with black contrast stitching and Ultrasuede® inserts Flat-bottom heated steering wheel Carbon fiber interior trim panels Illuminated Type S side sills Premium floor mats with Type S badges and red accent binding Unique PMC Edition numbered serial plaque The Gotham Gray TLX Type S PMC Edition will have an SH-AWD drivetrain, MSRP of $65,000 with delivery and handling $66,995 and a EPA MPG rating of 19 / 24 / 21 City / Highway / Combined.

    The 2023 Gotham Gray TLX Type S PMC Edition follows previous PMC Editions as well as the NSX supercar, all hand-crafted by master technicians at the Performance Manufacturing Center. Following the hand-assembly process, each PMC Edition receives the same quality control process applied to NSX, including a dyno check, paint inspection and rough-road simulation. To protect the paint during shipping, PMC Editions are wrapped in a specially designed car cover and transported to Acura dealers via enclosed, single-car carriers.
    So how many of these limited production models are going to be produced you ask? 50 for the North American Market.
    TLX (acuranews.com)
     

    Acura 2024 Integra Type S Goes on Sale June 2023

    Acura kicked off April with making a public debut of the Integra Type S at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This is Acura new interpretation of ultimate street performance for a new generation of enthusiast drivers.
    Acura stated the following point about the Integra Type S.
    Integra Type S elevates Acura Precision Crafted Performance to new levels with class-leading power and dynamic capabilities paired with premium features and refinement Most powerful, best performing Integra ever boasts a 3201 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, six-speed manual transmission, and 4-piston Brembo® front brakes Instantly recognizable as a Type S, the high-performance Integra features a substantially wider stance with 2.8-inch blistered fenders housing high performance summer tires Premium technologies include 9-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Head Up Display and 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D® audio According to Emile Korkor, Assistant Vice President, Acura National Sales:
    "The new Acura Integra Type S puts turbocharged Type S performance and design at the gateway to our brand. The new Integra just won the 2023 North American Car of the Year™ award and Integra Type S builds upon its incredible performance with significant enhancements to all elements of the driving experience without compromising interior refinement or daily drivability."
    For those looking to take the Integra Type S even further, the high-performance sedan is available with an extensive list of Genuine Acura Accessories, including a carbon fiber rear lip spoiler, carbon fiber mirror caps, black illuminated front Acura badge, copper metallic finished 19-inch wheels and an Integra Type R-inspired titanium shift knob.
    This is Acura response to those that do not want a truck or SUV but a car and a performance car at that. 
    The new Integra Type S is substantially wider (2.8-inches) than the standard Integra, with boldly flared wide body fenders and larger 19-inch wheels and 265/30 R19 tires for a more muscular stance and planted road presence. Distinct from every angle, Integra Type S is also the only vehicle in the premium performance compact segment to offer a flexible 5-door liftback design.

    Acura had the following to say about their Integra Type S powertrain:
    At the heart of the Integra Type S is a high-revving DOHC turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine with direct injection, unique throttle tuning for quick throttle response and 33% greater displacement than the Integra's standard 1.5-liter engine. With 320 horsepower (SAE net @ 6,500 rpm) and 310 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 2,600 to 4,000 rpm) – an increase of 120 hp and 118 lb.-ft. over the standard Integra – the Type S model has both class-leading power and a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of just 10.1 pounds per horsepower.
    A new high-flow exhaust system, exclusive to the Integra Type S, unleashes the full potential of the award-winning 2.0-liter turbocharged (K20C) engine. In combination with software tuning, it gives the 4-cylinder engine its highest-ever horsepower rating in North America, and a class-leading specific output of 160 hp/liter.
    The less restrictive straight-through exhaust design also enhances the driving experience with a stirring Type S-exclusive exhaust note. Thanks to an active exhaust valve, Integra Type S delivers a distinct auditory experience in each driving mode, and when it's time to crank it up, Sport+ mode turns it up to 11 with show stopping "pops and bangs" for the most engaging experience possible.
    Acura is known for making great shifting manual transmissions, and the Integra Type S features the only manual transmission in its class, a precise, short-throw 6-speed with an automatic rev-matching system for an intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A standard helical-type limited-slip differential (LSD) puts the engine's substantial power to the pavement effectively.

    For ultimate road holding and high-speed stability, Integra Type S features an innovative dual-axis front suspension design and significantly wider front and rear tracks than the standard Integra (+3.5 inches in the front and +1.9 inches in the rear). The dual-axis system also greatly reduces torque steer, primarily through a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset. A thicker (+2 mm) 29.0 mm front stabilizer bar improves response.
    Tuned exclusively for the Integra Type S is a standard Adaptive Damper System (ADS). Controlled through the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), with distinct damping characteristics in Comfort, Sport and Sport+ driving modes. The specially tuned ADS provides precise control of ride and handling with optimized damping curves to suit driving conditions.
    Lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels, with a new 10-spoke, NSX Type S-inspired design, are substantially larger yet 2 lbs. lighter than the 18-inch Integra A-Spec wheels. The new wheels are wrapped in sticky 265/30 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance summer tires.
    For exceptional braking performance, Integra Type S employs massive 13.8-inch two-piece front rotors (+1.5 inches than the standard Integra) and Brembo® 4-piston monobloc aluminum calipers. Larger rear rotors measure 12.0-inches in diameter (+0.9 inches). Functional ducts in the front fascia improve brake cooling performance by routing air to the front rotors.

    For an elevated level of everyday comfort and refinement, the high-performance Integra Type S also features class-leading standard technology, including a 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit™ Driver Information Interface, a 9-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, wireless phone charging and a head-up display. A 16-speaker 530-watt ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system delivers a powerful listening experience with studio-quality sound.
    For its two rear seat passengers, Integra Type S offers class-leading rear seat legroom (37.4 inches), a benefit of its long wheelbase. To support active lifestyles, Integra's class-exclusive five-door body style also gives it a distinct edge in cargo capacity compared to its rivals, with 24.3 cubic-feet of cargo space behind its 60/40 split rear seatbacks, which fold flat to greatly expand the available space to carry larger gear like a mountain bike or surf boards.

    Acura has provided the following chart for a comparison between the Integra A-Spec and Integra Type S.


     

    Acura Unveils Type S Concept

    Acura has unveiled their Type S concept ahead of the Monterey Car Week kicking off in two days. This concept strongly previews the upcoming TLX and a Type S performance version. This time, Acura is promising greater acceleration to go with the Type S and not just better braking and handling.
    The dash to axle ratio tells us that this concept is still front-wheel drive, as to be expected. But, adding to that better handling is almost certainly a version of Acura's SH-AWD. The short rear deck is there as is with most new sedan designs these days. The check-mark like tail lamps are a departure from the current Acura design theme while the headlight array is consistent with the current TLX. 
    While this concept looks pretty close to production, we'll probably see a more production ready version of the TLX in the coming months, perhaps at the LA Auto Show. 





    Acura Bringing Back Type-S With New Concept

    Acura will be debuting a Type-S concept at Monterey Car Week, one of the top gatherings for automotive enthusiasts.  The concept previews the return of the Type-S in the Acura lineup.
    Type S has been the top of the performance line for Acura. The prior Type-S cars were the 2001 - 2003 3.2CL Type S, 2002 - 2003  3.2TL Type S, 2002 - 2006 RSX Type-S, 2007 - 2008 TL Type-S.  Type-S will join Acura's A-Spec trim in the lineup. 
     

    Acura Planing Product Blitz

    Pebble Beach could mark the debut of a nearly production-ready version of the Acura Precision concept. The concept debuted at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show and previewed Acura's Precision Crafted Performance design theme first seen in production on the 2019 Acura RDX.  While there are (hopeful?) rumors that the 4-door coupe will wear the name Legend, there is not enough evidence to support them. What that means for Acura's aging RLX sedan is anyone's guess. 
    Also coming is an updated Acura TLX with a Type-S version, a new Acura MDX, and rumor has it even the ZDX may be making a return.  All of these could debut over the next 12 to 18 months, but Pebble Beach is in August, so we'll just have to sit tight until then.
     

    Acura Turns Its Attention Back To Their Sedans

    Acura's crossover lineup has been a bright spot for the Japanese automaker. For example, the redesigned RDX has been setting monthly sales records for sixth straight months since being launched in June. According to Automotive News, deliveries of the RDX "are outpacing 2017 by 22 percent." A fair number of automakers would take this as a sign to continue building out their crossover lineup. But Acura will instead focus on their car lineup.
    "We don't know what's going to happen in the future. What's critical is that we stay disciplined and balanced. [We'll] do our best to hit home runs with our sedans also," said Acura General Manager Jon Ikeda.
    Acura wants to emulate the success of the RDX onto their sedans. That means bringing a more aggressive design and adding more performance to their three sedans - the ILX, TLX, and RLX.
    But what about the CDX?!
    For a time, we have been hearing murmurs about Acura possibly bringing over the CDX from China. The CDX shares the same platform as the Honda HR-V, but features an extroverted design.  But an Acura spokesman tells Automotive News that the RDX "can reach down into that smaller segment with its pricing and sway consumers with its added room."
    Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

    2019 Acura ILX Comes With A New Facelift

    Don't worry if you have forgotten that the Acura ILX still exists, as your author also forgot about it until this week when the Japanese automaker announced a refreshed version.
    The 2019 ILX gets Acura's new front end design with a large pentagonal grille, aggressive bumper cutouts, and LED ‘Jewel Eye’ headlights. Around back is a restyled decklid, taillights, and a new rear diffuser. For the interior, Acura has installed an updated version of their two-screen infotainment layout that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A-Spec models come equipped with a set of sport seats.
    One big change is all ILX models getting the AcuraWatch suite of active safety features as standard. This includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and and road departure mitigation.
    One item that hasn't changed is the powertrain. A 2.4L four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower is teamed with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
    Acura hasn't revealed pricing, but we wouldn't be surprised if it remains at the same $28,100 as the current model. Sales will begin in October.
    Source: Acura


    Acura ILX Ups its Game with Major Refresh for 2019; New Styling, Improved Tech, and New A-Spec Treatment
    Sep 5, 2018 - TORRANCE, Calif.
    ILX completes transformation of new Acura design identity across lineup All Acura sedans and SUVs now feature AcuraWatch™ active safety and driver-assistive technology standard, a luxury first Enhanced dual-screen user interface with new graphics, quicker response, and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration ILX earned top Initial Quality Study (IQS) ranking in-segment for 2018 Acura's gateway sport sedan, the refreshed and significantly upgraded 2019 ILX, debuts today, ahead of its October market launch. Continuing to capture the highest percentage of millennial buyers of any model in-segment, the 2019 ILX delivers a sportier and more sophisticated design, premium cabin materials, tech-savvy features and distinctive A-Spec sport appearance variant. With the application of Acura's signature Diamond Pentagon Grille to the 2019 ILX, the transformation of the brand's design language, inspired by the Acura Precision Concept, now stretches across its line-up.
    Additional upgrades for 2019 include standard AcuraWatch™ active safety and driver-assistive technology and more luxurious and sporty cabin appointments, as well as an available quicker, more responsive dual-screen user interface with updated graphics, and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration. All ILX models are powered by a naturally aspirated 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder engine mated to a quick-shifting 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
    Acura ILX serves a unique and important role as the gateway vehicle to the Acura brand, bringing in the most first-time Acura customers and youngest buyers. ILX also remains a top choice in the entry luxury segment, gaining more than four points of retail market share in the first half of the year and capturing the highest percentage of millennials of any model in segment, something it has done in every year since 2013. ILX recently topped industry quality rankings in its segment, receiving a Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and a quality award in the Small Premium Car segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2018 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). Acura ILX also captured the top spot in the entry-luxury car category in Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own Luxury Brand Awards – with Acura the #1 ranked brand for the third year in a row.
    Sporty, Sophisticated Refresh
    For 2019, ILX gets a styling refresh to deliver a more sporty and premium vibe. ILX is all-new from the A-pillars forward – inspired by the Acura Precision Concept. The new face of ILX emanates from Acura's signature Diamond Pentagon Grille, framed by 7-element Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights and a more sharply sculpted hood. The Precision Concept styling theme continues at the rear with an all-new decklid, fascia, LED taillights and lower diffuser with exposed exhaust outlet. All-new wheel designs for 2019 include a 17-inch split-5 spoke wheel with trim specific finishes and an A-Spec exclusive 18-inch wheel.
    Inside, the 2019 Acura ILX receives more intricately styled and reshaped sport seats, front and rear, with available high-contrast piping and stitching. All ILXs now feature power adjustable lumbar for the driver's seat. Additional interior enhancements include a silver-finished dash trim with a chrome insert and a machine-finished push-button start.
    The 2019 ILX's exterior color palette expands with five new colors – Platinum White Pearl, Majestic Black Pearl1, Performance Red Pearl1, Canyon Bronze Metallic1 and A-Spec-exclusive Apex Blue Pearl1 – in addition to the current offerings of Lunar Silver Metallic and Modern Steel Metallic. The interior colors available include a new-for-2019 Espresso, along with Graystone and Ebony. Exclusive A-Spec interior colors are Ebony and Red, both with Ultrasuede™ inserts.
    ILX A-Spec 
    The new ILX A-Spec, available with Premium and Technology Packages, joins the TLX sedan and the RDX and MDX sport-utes in receiving the latest-generation A-Spec treatment, with a more distinctive and easily recognizable performance-inspired character, inside and out.
    On the exterior, the new ILX A-Spec is distinguished by dark chrome trim for the front grille and lower fascia, LED fog lights, dark appearance for the headlights and taillights, and a gloss-black decklid spoiler. A-Spec models feature 18-inch wheels with an aggressive new design and Shark Gray finish. Apex Blue Pearl, also found on A-Spec variants of RDX and MDX, is now available on the ILX A-Spec.
    Interior enhancements for the ILX A-Spec include a graphite-silver dash accent with chrome insert, A-Spec badged steering wheel with contrast stitching and aluminum sport pedals. The all-new sport seats are finished in A-Spec exclusive Ebony or Red leather with black Ultrasuede™ center panels and high contrast stitching.
    Technology Enhancements
    For 2019, every ILX comes standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of active safety and driver-assistive technology, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). This makes Acura the only luxury brand to provide these features as standard equipment across all its sedans and SUVs.
    In addition, ILX continues to be equipped with Acura's Advance Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and with additional standard safety and driver assistive features, including Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, an Expanded View Driver's Mirror, advanced front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, side curtain airbags, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and pedestrian injury-mitigation design features, along with Acura's available blind spot information (BSI) system and rear cross traffic monitor.
    The 2019 ILX is equipped with an available refreshed dual-screen On Demand Multi-Use Display™ (ODMD™ 2.0) interface with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility. New software improves system response time, offering more intuitive menus and command structures for a seamless and speedy user experience – approximately 30 percent faster. An enhanced 7-inch touchscreen has a capacitive display that is more responsive to touch and is positioned within easy reach of the driver and front passenger.
    The 2019 Acura ILX will begin arriving at Acura dealers nationwide in October of this year.

    2019 Acura MDX Gets Modest Changes

    After a major refresh for the 2017 model year, Acura is giving the MDX a number of modest changes for the 2019 model year.
    The big changes of note deal with the MDX's mechanicals. Acura has reprogrammed the nine-speed automatic transmission that is said to provide smoother starts and will prioritize second-gear when leaving a stop. The previously optional stop-start system becomes standard on all MDX models. Acura's Active Damper System (ADS) that was only available on the Sport Hybrid model is added the MDX with the Advanced package.
    Next up is an A-Spec appearance trim that brings a revised front fascia, black trim, 20-inch wheels, seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather, thicker steering wheel, and other minor changes. 
    The remainder of the updates are as followed,
    Four new colors: Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red, Canyon Bronze Metallic, and Apex Blue Pearl (exclusive to A-Spec) New trim options including Desert Olive Ash wood 4-Way Power Lumbar adjustments for front seats The MDX is powered by either a 3.5L V6 (290 horsepower) or a V6 hybrid powertrain (321 horsepower).
    Pricing for 2019 MDX ranges from $45,295 for the base FWD model to $61,045 for the SH-AWD model with Advance & Entertainment packages. Pricing includes a $995.00 destination charge. No word on how much the Sport Hybrid will set you back.
    Source: Acura


    2019 Acura MDX Arrives with Luxury and Performance Upgrades Plus First A-Spec Variant
    Jul 17, 2018 - TORRANCE, Calif.
    Best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all-time boosts luxury appeal with upgraded interior and expanded color palette A-Spec sport appearance package available for the first time on MDX Available Active Damper System and wider wheel & tire option improve dynamic experience 9-speed automatic transmission enhanced for smoother, more fluid acceleration feel The 2019 Acura MDX arrives in dealerships today boasting upgraded interior fitment, new available premium exterior colors, drivability and dynamics enhancements, and an A-Spec sport appearance package. The 2019 MDX with standard AcuraWatch® technology and available Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) carries a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP1) of $44,300 (excluding $995 destination and handling) while the new MDX A-Spec starts at $54,800 with standard SH-AWD®. The 2019 MDX lineup will be further strengthened by the arrival of the 2019 MDX Sport Hybrid, going on-sale next month.
    With nearly a million units sold since its inception, the MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time2. It is the only three-row luxury SUV in segment with six straight years of more than 50,000 sales3, and is the #1 retail-selling three-row model in segment year-to-date4.
    Interior and Exterior – More Luxury, More Choices
    Building on a major design refresh in 2017 and key technology updates in 2018, the 2019 Acura MDX comes with new interior enhancements designed to up the luxury quotient. New features include available authentic Desert Olive Ash wood trim, high-contrast seat and door panel stitching, and contrasting front seat side garnishes. Driver and front passenger seats now feature standard 4-way power lumbar adjustments, while the Technology and Entertainment packages receive an updated second-row seat configuration, allowing easy passage to the third row. The MDX with Advance Package adds trim-exclusive matching wood center console trim.
    The 2019 MDX expands its color palette to a total of nine options, including a rich new Gunmetal Metallic and four new available premium colors—Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Canyon Bronze Metallic and the A-Spec-exclusive Apex Blue Pearl.
    Newly-designed 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels grace the Advance Package with a machine finish and Shark Grey accents, gaining a half-inch in width (up from 8.0 inches) and shod with wider 265/45-series tires (up from 245/50). MDXs with the Advance Package also gain body-color lower garnishes.
    A-Spec Variant Joins MDX
    For the 2019 model, MDX adds an all-new A-Spec sport appearance variant. Available exclusively with Acura's torque-vectoring Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), A-Spec features a more athletic stance highlighted by exclusive half-inch wider 20-inch Shark Grey aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in low profile 265/45-series tires. An aggressive new front fascia, body-color lower sills, larger-diameter exhaust finishers, as well as gloss-black and dark chrome trim for the headlights, grille, window surround and rear tailgate spoiler further distinguish the MDX A-Spec.
    Interior enhancements feature sport seats trimmed in rich red or black leather with black Alcantara™ inserts, high-contrast stitching, unique A-Spec gauges, sport pedals, Alcantara door inserts, gloss-black trim, a thicker-rimmed A-Spec-badged steering wheel with paddle shifters, and an exclusive A-Spec door step garnish.
    Performance, Ride and Handling Refined
    The 2019 MDX can now be optioned with Acura's Active Damper System (ADS), previously available only on the MDX Sport Hybrid, offering both ride comfort and handling advantages while further expanding the dynamic "range" of the driver-selectable Integrated Dynamics System.
    The responsive 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC® 24-valve V6 engine continues to power MDX with 290 peak horsepower (SAE net) and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (SAE net), in either standard front-wheel drive configuration, or the available SH-AWD® system. SH-AWD® delivers up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels and the ability to distribute up to 100 percent of that torque between the left and right rear wheels to optimize available traction and sharpen steering and handling response.
    The 2019 model year also brings significant drivability enhancements to MDX. Its 9-speed automatic transmission gains a smoother, more fluid acceleration feel in normal driving by prioritizing second-gear starts. When demand is higher in conditions such as full-throttle acceleration, certain uphill and towing situations, and when S-mode is selected, first gear starts are then prioritized for maximum available acceleration and pulling power.
    Further drivability refinements are realized via an upgraded Idle Stop feature that is now standard across the MDX lineup for 2019. System enhancements shorten engine re-start response and operational smoothness via a new brake pressure trigger and software upgrades, resulting in a more natural, seamless feel.
    The 2019 MDX with front-wheel drive has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20/27/23 mpg (city/highway/combined)5, A-Spec is rated at 19/25/21, and all other models with SH-AWD® have an EPA rating of 19/26/22 mpg (city/highway/combined)2.
    Standard Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology  
    All 2019 MDX trims will come standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
    In addition to AcuraWatch technology, all MDX's boast a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features, including Acura's Advance Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, advanced front, side, and side-curtain airbags, front pre-tensioning seatbelts, 4-channel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
    2019 MDX Pricing and EPA Fuel Economy Ratings

    Trim MSRP6
    MSRP6 
    Including $995 Destination Charge
    EPA MPG Rating
    (city/highway/combined)5
    MDX (FWD)
    $44,300
    $45,295
    20/27/23
    MDX (FWD) with Technology Package
    $49,300
    $50,295
    20/27/23
    MDX (FWD) with Technology & Entertainment Packages
    $51,300
    $52,295
    20/27/23
    MDX (FWD) with Advance Package
    $56,050
    $57,045
    20/27/23
    MDX (FWD) with Advance & Entertainment Packages
    $58,050
    $59,045
    20/27/23
    MDX (SH-AWD)
    $46,300
    $47,295
    19/26/22
    MDX (SH-AWD) with Technology Package
    $51,300
    $52,295
    19/26/22
    MDX (SH-AWD) with Technology & Entertainment Packages
    $53,300
    $54,295
    19/26/22
    MDX A-Spec (SH-AWD)
    $54,800
    $55,795
    19/25/21
    MDX (SH-AWD) with Advance Package
    $58,050
    $59,045
    19/26/22
    MDX (SH-AWD) with Advance & Entertainment Packages
    $60,050
    $61,045
    19/26/22
    MDX Sport Hybrid
    TBA
    ←
    ←
    1. MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) excluding tax, license, registration, $995 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary. 
    2. Based on Autodata total sales of all luxury three-row SUVs 1980 to 2018CYTD June.
    3. Based on Autodata total sales for all three-row models in the Mid Premium CUV segment.
    4. Based on Urban Science retail sales for all three-row models in the Premium Upper Mid-size CUV segment 2018CYTD May.
    5. Based on 2019 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors. 
    6. MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) excluding tax, license, registration, $995 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.


  • Roadmap

    Done
    • ✓ Replaced the Garage with a custom-built IPS Pages app, preserving all vehicle profiles ahead of the V5 upgrade
    • ✓ Fixed duplicate content issue where Google treated article comment forums as separate pages, diluting search results
    • ✓ Fixed an issue where Google could only read 500 of our albums
    • ✓ Published an AI Crawling Policy with instructions for crawlers to cite us correctly
    • ✓ Added hidden classification fields to Articles for make, model, model year, body style, subject matter, and more
    In Progress
    • ◔ Search engine optimization overhaul of nearly 2,000 photo albums using AI analysis of every image
    • ◔ SEO optimization of nearly 7,000 articles including headings, image tags, meta tags, and formatting repairs
    • ◔ AI backfilling of classification data to all legacy articles to power future Hub pages
    • ◔ Resuming the weekly newsletter
    Roadmap
    • ○ Hub pages consolidating Articles, Albums, and Forums by topic, brand, and auto show with filtering by year and category
    • ○ V5 software upgrade with a new site theme
    • ○ Dedicated iOS and Android apps
    • ○ Automatic distribution to social media
    • ○ Updated branding and graphics for Pride month and our 25th birthday in August 2026

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