2015 Acura MDX Review

Following a big overhaul last year, the 2015 Acura MDX remains virtually untouched as the automaker hopes their SUV continues to pull in big numbers. We put the top trim to the test: MDX SH-AWD with Advance and Entertainment Packages in the US (MDX SH-AWD with Elite Package in Canada). Interior and drive impressions, fuel economy figures, and more.

The Acura MDX has been a top-selling luxury SUV since entering the market as a 2001 model. At first glance, its chart-topping status makes a lot of sense: this vehicle speaks to premium, mid-size SUV shoppers. The 2022 MDX goes even further with a complete redesign (read our full 2022 Acura MDX Platinum review here).

Aside from the fact it’s made at the plant in Alliston, Ontario, the Acura MDX is a seven-seat SUV capable of tackling snowy winters, hauling everything from drywall to several hockey bags, and it’s stylish without being flashy. On paper, it’s the ideal vehicle for families who need extra space and can afford a little bit of luxury.

2015 Acura MDX Price and Trims

2015 Acura MDX rear shot driving on the street on a gloomy day in the mountains
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

That last point is pretty key. In the US, the 2015 Acura MDX started at $42,565 to $43,185 before any additional options, taxes, or fees. In Canada, it started at $49,990. The top-end MDX Elite, which I tested, comes in at around $49,230 USD or $63,990 CDN, while the MDX Navi and MDX Tech fill in the middle trim levels. It’s a fair bit of change for a vehicle that’s more likely to fill the role of a school bus than a track car. But that money is explained—to some degree—when you step inside.

Below are the trims for both the US and Canada. We tested the top trim.

United States:

  1. Acura MDX (Base)
  2. Acura MDX with Technology Package
  3. Acura MDX with Technology and Entertainment Packages
  4. Acura MDX with Advance and Entertainment Packages
  5. Acura MDX SH-AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
  6. Acura MDX SH-AWD with Technology Package
  7. Acura MDX SH-AWD with Technology and Entertainment Packages
  8. Acura MDX SH-AWD with Advance and Entertainment Packages

Canada:

  1. Acura MDX (Base)
  2. Acura MDX with Technology Package
  3. Acura MDX with Elite Package
  4. Acura MDX SH-AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
  5. Acura MDX SH-AWD with Technology Package
  6. Acura MDX SH-AWD with Elite Package

2015 Acura MDX Interior

2015 Acura MDX interior front cabin
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

I was unimpressed with the Acura ILX’s interior. It lacked personality. The 2015 Acura MDX interior is similar—materials, navigation screen, HVAC controls—but feels very different. It’s better. Much better. Maybe it’s because we’re dealing with a large, seven-seat SUV, and the setup has more space to breathe.

Or maybe it’s due to some of the differences: the touch-screen eliminates a lot of the dull, black buttons; the volume-track wheel and rocker control on the steering wheel perfectly combine functions; the big, comfy, centre console. Whatever it is, it works well in the MDX.

2015 Acura MDX interior steering wheel and gauges
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

And, you’ve given all the trimmings: leather seats that warm and cool, heated steering wheel, upgraded sound system, moonroof…the list appears endless.

What doesn’t work so well, though, is the aforementioned touch-screen. While it eliminates buttons, it increases frustration. I found that I had to hit the screen just right for it to register my command. Or, simple functions, like turning on the heated seat, required a number of steps to dig through a series of menus, rather than a switch or dial that most other vehicles use.

2015_acura_MDX_trunk
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

2015 Acura MDX interior dimensions and cargo space

Interior DimensionMeasurement (2015 Acura MDX)
Front Headroom38.1 inches (970 mm)
Front Legroom41.4 inches (1,052 mm)
Rear Headroom38.3 inches (974 mm)
Rear Legroom36.6 inches (930 mm)
Passenger Capacity7 passengers
Cargo Volume (Behind Second Row)Approximately 45.1 cubic feet
Cargo Volume (Behind Third Row)Approximately 15.8 cubic feet
2015 Acura MDX interior showing all three rows
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

As with many three-row vehicles, the back bench lacks the comfort and space of the first two rows. But, overall, it’s totally fine for rides within the city. When you’re taking a longer trip and need extra space for luggage, the back row folds down in a cinch. And the second row adjusts fore and aft, providing less or more legroom as needed. It’s a great setup that speaks to the numerous needs of a growing family, especially when compared to the small Acura RDX.

2015 Acura MDX Engine Specs and Driving Impressions

Engine Type3.5-liter V6
HorsepowerApproximately 290 hp
TorqueApproximately 267 lb-ft
Transmission6-speed automatic (standard)
9-speed automatic (with Technology Package)
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
Fuel TypePremium unleaded
0-60 mphApproximately 6.5-7 seconds (varies by trim and drivetrain)
Top SpeedApproximately 125 mph
2015 Acura MDX in white parked on the street in the city
2015 Acura MDX. Photo: Acura

While performance probably isn’t the first reason to shop for an SUV, it certainly plays a factor in the MDX’s sales. This big guy is powered by a 3.5L, six-cylinder engine that’s capable of 290 horsepower. When on the road, regardless if it’s a city or highway, it feels more like a sedan than a bulky SUV.

The only time it felt really big was when I reversed into a parking spot. The ride is quite refined for its size, and little features like its Jewel Eye LED lights make it incredibly easy to see at night.

2015 Acura MDX Fuel Economy: Here’s What to Expect

The fuel economy figures for the 2015 Acura MDX can vary depending on factors such as the trim level and drivetrain. Here are the approximate fuel economy figures for the 2015 Acura MDX in the United States and Canada; our model here was the all-wheel drive variant:

United States (MPG):

  • City: Approximately 18-20 mpg
  • Highway: Approximately 27-28 mpg
  • Combined: Approximately 21-23 mpg

United States (MPG):

  • City: Approximately 18-20 mpg
  • Highway: Approximately 27-28 mpg
  • Combined: Approximately 21-23 mpg

Takeaway

If its price isn’t an issue, then the 2015 Acura MDX is nearly perfect for a family that needs the space and wants some luxury. The Advance and Entertainment Packages / Elite model isn’t necessary since lower trims offer enough features to keep most people happy. And, while it’s handsomely designed, it isn’t a flashy vehicle—something that may entice those who don’t want to turn heads on the road.

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Author:
Travis Persaud
Travis Persaud
Travis Persaud has contributed to a number of magazines across North America, including enRoute and Exclaim! He loves variety and it shows in the wide range of topics he’s covered: automotive to music, technology to travel, beer to real estate. He’s currently the editor of WHERE Ottawa (city travel guide), beer columnist for Ottawa Magazine, a frequent contributor to CAA Magazine and the former associate editor of Zoomer Magazine.