Why I Bought the Acura MDX Advance

When it was time to shop for a new car that suited my family, going bigger for peace of mind and added luxuries were my priority. That is why I chose the Acura MDX Advance.

Kim S. |

Updated: Aug 18, 2024

The 2024 Acura MDX Advance looks good on me. Photo: Kim S.

Size Matters When Peace of Mind is Priceless; that’s why I Purchased the 2024 Acura MDX

Leaving you on a cliffhanger about my next car decision, I finally made a choice. While my love for the Acura RDX is undeniable, practicality led me to the 2024 Acura MDX with the Advance package. This premium three-row SUV, wrapped in Liquid Carbon metallic exterior paint and adorned with espresso-colored premium leather inside, signifies a significant upgrade for my family.

This larger 3-row SUV, with seating that accommodates up to 7 passengers, isn’t just a step up in size; it’s a leap towards more technology, peace of mind during family drives, and a touch of added luxury. The cost of this upgrade, with an MSRP of $64,100, may seem steep, but it’s a move I made willingly for the enhanced driving experience and the perks of a premium SUV. And yes, this is the first time I’ve ever been brand loyal – a testament to my experience with the brand.

Related: Driving the Acura MDX Advance Type S Made me Feel like a Pilot

The Evolution of My Family’s Needs, and Mine

Before getting my 2021 RDX, the idea of a larger, three-row SUV like the MDX seemed unnecessary. Our family of three didn’t immediately require the extra space, and trips with extended family members were sporadic. The RDX served its purpose well during those initial years, but as our family dynamics shifted, it became apparent that a more spacious vehicle was needed.

The arrival of our second child after a nine-year journey through secondary infertility marked a turning point. Sibling squabbles in the car became a norm, and the limitations of the RDX’s two-row configuration were increasingly evident. The quest for a larger SUV was set in motion. While I did test-drive a pretty capable minivan, it didn’t suit my style. A test drive in the MDX Type S Advance provided a clear answer: I had to have it.

Related: 11 two and three-row SUVs Designed for Adventure and Value

Choosing the Acura MDX: A Blend of Power and Practicality

Opting for the MDX, despite its larger size, didn’t mean sacrificing the driving experience. In fact, the MDX managed to retain the sedan-like driving feel thanks to its SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive). It also provides more power with its 10-speed automatic V6 engine. My 2024 MDX has more technology and convenience features than my 2021 RDX, making it a seamless transition. While the allure of the Type S Advance’s 355 horsepower, massaging seats, and adaptive air was tempting, the MDX Advance package struck the perfect balance, providing all the necessary upgrades I was looking for.

Related: I’m a Millenial Mom; Here’s Why I Love my Acura RDX

Picking the Perfect Color: Sticking With What’s Familiar

Despite initially wanting the Phantom Violet Pearl, logistical challenges (like it being 200 miles away) prompted me to reconsider. Staying true to my exterior paint preference, I chose Liquid Carbon Metallic, a dark metallic gray that gives the MDX a menacing appearance. With a full-time job, mom duties, and side ventures keeping me busy, regular car washes are a luxury. While mobile car washes offer convenience, the associated expenses can add up quickly. The Liquid Carbon Metallic shade became my preference for its forgiving quality amid the inevitable dirt of daily life. In contrast, the leather interior showcases a captivating espresso hue, deviating from my usual choice of black or dark gray. For me, this combination emanates a luxurious appeal.

Related: 2025 Acura MDX First Drive

Must-Have Upgrades in the Acura MDX

The decision to upgrade went beyond just seeking a larger vehicle; it aimed to address the deficiencies of my RDX. While my RDX, equipped with the Technology package, heated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a backup camera, it fell short in providing certain conveniences I knew I couldn’t do without in my next car. The MDX emerged as the perfect solution, seamlessly rectifying these gaps with lots of specific features that conveniently enhance my driving experience in my family SUV:

Heated steering wheel – not having this made me realize I hate touching a cold steering wheel while driving
The 360-degree surround-view camera offers a view of my surroundings
Remote start from the key fob versus the AcuraLink App
Power folding mirrors

Acura MDX Advanced Features

The MDX Advance package boasts a range of features that not only enhance my driving experience, but also the comfort of my passengers from young to old. These are the features in my Acura MDX that I find particularly appealing:

A 10.5-inch head-up display provides clear visibility of navigation, speed limit, and the speedometer, enhancing my overall driving experience.
The ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers offers an unparalleled audio experience. My husband was amazed by the sound and the number of speakers. It’s worth noting that newer models are transitioning to the Bang & Olufsen system.
Tri-climate controls are a practical addition, catering to my preferences as a woman of a certain age while also addressing the varying temperature preferences of my husband and oldest daughter, thus minimizing debates over car temperature.
Second-row heated outboard seats contribute to passenger comfort, which is especially appreciated by my older daughter, who tends to run cold.
The MDX Advance provides multiple charging options, including a wireless charging pad, USB-A and USB-C ports in the first row, additional USB-A ports in the second row, and even an AC outlet in the second row for added convenience.
The 16-way power seats with power lumbar, thigh extension, and side bolsters offer superior comfort during longer drives, providing unexpected relief. The support is akin to a comforting hug, a welcome relief, especially needed for moms after a long and demanding day.
Ventilated seats, which I experienced in the Type S Advance, are anticipated to be a welcome feature during the upcoming summer, enhancing overall driving comfort.
The three-position front passenger seat memory, a feature my husband appreciates, is a notable addition he wishes his Volvo XC90 had.
Iconic drive ambient LED cabin lighting, available in 27 color themes, creates a visually delightful atmosphere, adding an element of surprise for my youngest daughter during pickups from daycare.
The power lift tailgate with hands-free access and walk-away close proves convenient, especially when juggling my (soon to be) four year old, purse, and other items.
The LED outer door handle lights and interior lights automatically illuminate when the car is approached, enhancing both security and aesthetics.

Storage Solutions and Family Comfort in the Acura MDX

Storage has always been a standout feature in my RDX, and the MDX lived up to expectations. The MDX’s thoughtful storage solutions contribute to maintaining an organized and clutter-free interior, enhancing the overall driving experience for my family. Drawing from my experience with the RDX, where storage was a notable highlight:

The familiar hidden storage in the cargo area, cherished in my RDX, made a welcome return in my new MDX. This space serves as a discreet hideaway for gifts, ensuring my family remains unaware of their surprises.
The large center console is impressive. Within this spacious compartment, I stow away an extra pair of shades, a clean microfiber cloth for impromptu fingerprint cleanups, and a secret storage tray. Ingeniously, my kids are yet to crack the code to open it, making it an ideal spot to conceal my favorite candies.
Despite the MDX lacking the floating console that was a notable feature in my RDX, previously utilized for my wallet on purse-free outings, I’ve adjusted by placing my purse strategically on the floor, either in front of the passenger or behind when my husband occupies the front seat.

Dealership Experience: A Hassle-Free Approach

Dealership experiences had tested my patience in the past, leading me to discover the ease and efficiency of using a broker. Going this route had proven to be a breeze, ensuring not only a stress-free transaction but also a high likelihood of securing a favorable deal. I was able to get the 2024 Acura MDX Advance at 9% off of the MSRP. Add to that loyalty incentives and trade-in of my low-mileage 2021 RDX, and it was a sweet deal.

This Just Might Be My Forever Car

With a little over 1,000 miles on my 2024 Acura MDX, I find myself content and surprisingly contemplating this as my “forever” car. Despite a monthly payment increase of nearly $200 and a slightly lower fuel economy compared to my RDX, the peace of mind, premium features, and the joy of driving a sporty SUV that mirrors a sedan have made the investment worthwhile.

The MDX stands as a testament to Acura’s commitment to blending luxury, practicality, and performance, ensuring it meets not just my preferences but also the evolving needs of my growing family.

If you’d like to see videos of the interior of my new Acura MDX, check them out right here.

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