2026 Acura MDX Type S Feature Guide: Comfort, Power, and Family-Friendly Luxury

July 29th, 2026 by

Finding a vehicle that satisfies both the demands of a busy family and the desires of an enthusiastic driver can be a difficult challenge. The 2026 Acura MDX Type S w/Advance Package solves this dilemma by blending genuine sports-car engineering with a spacious, premium three-row cabin. This flagship SUV delivers a highly engaging driving experience without compromising the daily utility required for school carpools and weekend road trips.

At Maus Acura North Tampa, we understand that local drivers need a vehicle capable of handling both congested highway commutes and sudden summer downpours. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional stability on wet roads, while the advanced cabin ventilation keeps everyone comfortable during hot Florida afternoons. This balance of performance and practicality makes the flagship model an incredibly compelling choice for families who refuse to compromise.

If you are ready to experience this luxury SUV firsthand, you can find our Tampa showroom directions online, or you can give our sales team a quick call to set up a personalized walkaround. Our team is here to guide you through every feature, trim difference, and purchasing option.

Under the Hood of the Turbocharged 3-Liter V6 Engine

The defining characteristic of the performance-oriented model is its powertrain. While the standard trims utilize a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, the Type S w/Advance Package features a specialized turbocharged 3-liter V6 engine. This advanced powerplant generates an impressive 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, delivering rapid acceleration and immediate throttle response.

Power is managed by a refined 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers quick, seamless gear changes. This transmission is paired with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which actively distributes power between the front and rear axles, as well as between the left and right rear wheels, to maximize traction through tight corners. This setup allows the heavy SUV to accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in approximately five to six seconds.

To complement this power, the performance trim is equipped with an exclusive adaptive air suspension system. This technology allows drivers to adjust the ride height and stiffness of the vehicle, offering a plush, comfortable ride in its default setting and tightening body control when sportier handling is desired. Braking performance is equally robust, utilizing large Brembo front brakes with four-piston calipers to ensure consistent stopping power. Despite its performance focus, the vehicle maintains respectable fuel economy for its class, with EPA-estimated ratings of 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway, resulting in 19 mpg combined.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Feature A-Spec Package A-spec w/Advance Package Advance Package Base Technology Package Type S w/Advance Package
Engine 3.5L 3.5L 3.5L 3.5L 3.5L 3.0L
Horsepower 290 hp 290 hp 290 hp 290 hp 290 hp 355 hp
Torque 267 lb-ft 267 lb-ft 267 lb-ft 267 lb-ft 267 lb-ft 354 lb-ft
Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

Feature A-Spec Package A-spec w/Advance Package Advance Package Base Technology Package Type S w/Advance Package
MPG 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined 17 city / 21 hwy / 19 combined

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Inside the Three-Row Cabin: Comfort and Family-Friendly Amenities

Navigating the daily commute along Interstate 275 in Tampa requires an SUV that can seamlessly transition from stop-and-go traffic into highway speeds. Inside the cabin, the vehicle surrounds passengers with high-quality materials and thoughtful layout choices. The front row features highly adjustable, supportive sport seats wrapped in a premium quilted Milano leather and Ultrasuede-trimmed interior. These seats offer 16-way power front seats with massage functions, allowing the driver and front passenger to enjoy a relaxing drive even during long road trips.

Families test-driving the MDX Type S at our Tampa showroom often ask about the second-row removable center seat before they even turn the key. This versatile seating arrangement allows you to easily convert the second row from a three-passenger bench to a pair of captain’s chairs with a convenient pass-through to the third row. The second-row outboard seats also feature built-in heating elements, ensuring passenger comfort in all weather conditions.

The third row is designed for quick access, using a simple push-button release that slides the second-row seats forward effortlessly. To keep the cabin comfortable in the Florida heat, a standard tri-zone climate control system allows passengers in all three rows to adjust their own temperature settings. A large panoramic moonroof spans the first two rows, filling the interior with natural light and creating an open, airy atmosphere for all occupants.

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Advanced Screens, Digital Displays, and Immersive Audio Technology

A major update in recent model years completely redesigned the dashboard interface, replacing the older touchpad controller with a modern, highly responsive touchscreen. The central dashboard now houses a large 12-inch touchscreen that is easy to reach and features intuitive menus. This display is paired with a matching 12-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, which provides the driver with customizable layouts, navigation maps, and performance data.

The infotainment system comes standard with Google Built-In, giving drivers direct access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store. Seamless smartphone integration is supported via wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps without cluttering the center console with cables. A dedicated Qi wireless charging pad is located conveniently in the center console to keep your devices powered up.

Audio enthusiasts will find the sound system in the top-tier trim to be a true masterpiece. The vehicle features an extraordinary Bang & Olufsen 31-speaker premium audio system, which includes multiple subwoofers and overhead speakers to deliver 3D sound. This high-end system transforms the cabin into a private concert hall, providing crisp, clear audio quality that far surpasses the standard speaker setups found in lower trims.

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AcuraWatch 360 Safety Technologies and Driver-Assist Systems

Protecting your family on busy local roads is a top priority, and the vehicle is fully equipped to provide peace of mind. The flagship trim comes standard with the comprehensive AcuraWatch 360 safety suite, which utilizes an array of advanced sensors, cameras, and radar units to monitor the road in every direction. This system acts as an extra set of eyes, helping to detect potential hazards before they cause an accident.

Key driver-assist features include Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability, which maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead even in heavy traffic. The Lane Keeping Assist system gently guides the steering to keep the SUV centered in its lane, while the Blind Spot Information system alerts you to vehicles in adjacent lanes. For added safety in tight parking lots, a standard Surround View Camera System provides a clear, bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings.

The upgraded safety suite also includes advanced technologies such as Front Cross Traffic Warning and an active lane-change assist system. This lane-change technology can scan surrounding traffic and safely perform a lane change automatically when you activate the turn signal while using cruise control. These advanced safety systems contributed to the vehicle earning a top 5 out of 5 stars overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Cargo Capacity, Towing Power, and Practical Road-Trip Utility

Versatility is essential for a primary family vehicle, and this SUV delivers ample space for luggage, groceries, and sports equipment. Behind the third row, you will find about 16 to 18 cubic feet of cargo space, which includes a highly practical underfloor storage compartment for keeping valuable items out of sight. When you need to haul larger items, the third-row seats fold flat with a simple pull of a strap, expanding the cargo capacity to approximately 39 cubic feet behind the second row.

For maximum utility, folding both the second and third rows flat opens up a massive 71 cubic feet of cargo volume. The flat load floor makes it easy to slide in large boxes or outdoor gear. If you are packing up for a family vacation or loading up gear for a local youth sports league, the cabin layout adapts quickly to your changing needs.

When the cargo area inside is not quite enough, the vehicle’s robust mechanical design offers excellent trailering capabilities. The Type S w/Advance Package boasts a maximum 5,000-lb towing capacity when properly equipped. This level of towing power is ideal for pulling a small boat, a pair of jet skis, or a lightweight utility trailer, making it the perfect companion for active families who love outdoor adventures.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Feature A-Spec Package A-spec w/Advance Package Advance Package Base Technology Package Type S w/Advance Package
Seating 7 7 7 7 7 7
Cargo 16.3 / 18.1 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 / 18.1 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 / 18.1 cu ft 16.3 / 18.1 cu ft
Curb weight 4,544 lbs 4,544 lbs 4,544 lbs 4,268 lbs 4,302 lbs 4,776 lbs
Towing 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs 5,000 lbs

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Common Questions About the 2026 Acura MDX Type S

Q: What is the starting MSRP of the 2026 Acura MDX Type S w/Advance Package?

The Type S w/Advance Package starts at a base MSRP of $75,850 with a destination charge of $1,450. This premium trim level comes equipped with performance upgrades and luxury amenities, offering exceptional value compared to similarly equipped European rivals.

Q: What are the terms of the manufacturer warranty on the MDX Type S?

Every new model comes backed by a comprehensive 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and a 6 years / 70,000 miles powertrain warranty. It also includes 4 years / 50,000 miles of roadside assistance and a 1 year / 12,000 miles scheduled maintenance program for added peace of mind.

Q: How quiet is the cabin compared to standard MDX models?

The vehicle features extensive acoustic upgrades, including laminated rear door glass and redesigned fender liners. These enhancements, combined with additional sound-deadening insulation in the doors and cargo area, result in an exceptionally quiet cabin that isolates passengers from road and wind noise.

Q: Does the MDX Type S feature an emergency roadside assistance program?

Yes, Acura includes manufacturer-backed emergency support with every new vehicle purchase. If you experience a flat tire, battery issue, or other unexpected event on the road, you can call Acura Roadside Assistance: 800-594-8500 for immediate professional help and towing to an authorized service center.

Q: What is the fuel economy rating for the turbocharged engine?

The high-performance turbocharged engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway, which averages out to 19 mpg combined. These figures represent a highly competitive balance of power and efficiency for a three-row performance-focused luxury SUV.

Prices and MSRP referenced in this article are estimates for informational purposes only and do not constitute an offer to sell. Please contact Maus Acura North Tampa for current pricing and availability.  Fuel economy estimates shown may differ from official EPA ratings and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of actual vehicle performance.

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