The 2020 Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury SUV, part of the MDX's third generation. It's known for its blend of practicality, luxury, and performance. Key trims include the base MDX, Technology Package, A-Spec Package, and Advance Package. Pricing typically ranged from the mid $40,000s to the low $60,000s when new. It's popular for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Acura's reputation for reliability, offering a compelling value proposition in the luxury SUV segment.
The Good
The 2020 Acura MDX provides a smooth and engaging driving experience. Acura's reputation for reliability offers peace of mind. The comfortable cabin and spacious seating appeal to families, while the stylish design and available A-Spec trim appeal to those seeking a touch of sportiness. It offers a strong value proposition in the luxury SUV market.
The Bad
The 2020 Acura MDX's infotainment system can feel dated compared to competitors, with a less intuitive interface. Some find the ride a bit firm. The nine-speed automatic transmission has been known to have occasional issues. Inspect the transmission during a test drive for any unusual behavior.
2020 Acura MDX: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower:
- 290 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- FWD: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- AWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
- 0-60 mph Time:
- Around 6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 3,500 lbs (FWD)
- 5,000 lbs (AWD)
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, AcuraWatch safety suite (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking), 8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto.
- Technology Package: Navigation system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, upgraded ELS Studio premium audio system, rain-sensing windshield wipers.
- A-Spec Package: Sportier exterior and interior styling, unique 20-inch wheels, Alcantara-trimmed seats, sport seats.
- Advance Package: Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, surround-view camera system, head-up display, premium wood trim.
2020 Acura MDX Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2020 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | MDX |
| Trim | - |
| Style | All-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | EAST LIBERTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1922.78 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2721.55 kg |
| Overall Height | 171.2 cm |
| Overall Length | 498.35 cm |
| Overall Width | 197.36 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 281.94 cm |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | J35Y5 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 9-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $51,400 USD |
| Invoice Price | $48,239 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $995 USD |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2020 Acura MDX Have?
While the 2020 Acura MDX generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, some owners have reported issues with the nine-speed automatic transmission. These can include rough shifting, hesitation, or occasional slipping. Software updates have been released to address some of these concerns, but it's important to have the transmission thoroughly inspected before purchasing a used model.
Other reported problems, though less frequent, include issues with the infotainment system, such as glitches or slow response times. Some owners have also reported minor electrical issues.
It's always a good idea to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any recalls related to the 2020 Acura MDX. While no major, widespread issues are commonly reported, staying informed about any potential recalls is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's safety and reliability over the long term. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
Other reported problems, though less frequent, include issues with the infotainment system, such as glitches or slow response times. Some owners have also reported minor electrical issues.
It's always a good idea to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any recalls related to the 2020 Acura MDX. While no major, widespread issues are commonly reported, staying informed about any potential recalls is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's safety and reliability over the long term. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
How long will the 2020 Acura MDX last?
With proper maintenance, the 2020 Acura MDX can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. A well-maintained MDX can provide 10-15 years of reliable service. Regular oil changes, timely fluid flushes (transmission, coolant, brake fluid), and adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule are critical. Potential long-term weaknesses may involve the aforementioned transmission issues, as well as potential wear and tear on suspension components and the infotainment system. Overall, Acura's reputation for durability holds strong for the MDX.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2020 Acura MDX boasts a comprehensive suite of tech and safety features. Standard features include an 8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims offer a navigation system and an upgraded ELS Studio premium audio system.
AcuraWatch, Acura's suite of driver-assistance features, is standard across all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
Optional features include a surround-view camera system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a head-up display.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are typically high for the MDX, often earning Top Safety Pick+ awards, demonstrating its strong performance in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also provides overall safety ratings and individual crash-test scores.
AcuraWatch, Acura's suite of driver-assistance features, is standard across all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
Optional features include a surround-view camera system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a head-up display.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are typically high for the MDX, often earning Top Safety Pick+ awards, demonstrating its strong performance in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also provides overall safety ratings and individual crash-test scores.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Platinum White Pearl
Lunar Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Majestic Black Pearl
Performance Red Pearl
Canyon Bronze Metallic
Fathom Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Ebony
Graystone
Parchment
2020 Acura MDX Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2020 Acura MDX had a starting MSRP in the mid $40,000s, reaching the low $60,000s for the fully-equipped Advance Package. Current used market prices vary depending on mileage, condition, and trim level, but typically range from the high $20,000s to the mid $40,000s. Acura's generally strong reliability contributes to good resale value. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, accident history, and the presence of desirable features like the Technology or A-Spec packages. Depreciation is relatively moderate compared to some other luxury SUVs.
2020 Acura MDX Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2020 Acura MDX are typically moderate for a luxury SUV. Fuel costs will depend on driving habits, but the EPA estimates provide a good baseline. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, thanks to Acura's reliability and the availability of parts. Repairs can be more expensive than non-luxury vehicles. Overall, the MDX offers a relatively economical ownership experience compared to some of its European rivals, striking a balance between luxury and practicality.
2020 Acura MDX Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
41.26 liters
City Mileage
5.23 km/l
Highway Mileage
3.91 km/l
2020 Acura MDX Safety Rating
NHTSA
2020 Acura MDX Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2021-03-25
Recall no.
21v215000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Acura Mdx, MDX Sport Hybrid, Rdx, Tlx, Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Insight, 2019 Acura Ilx, Honda Accord Hybrid, Civic Coupe, Civic Coupe SI, Civic Sedan, Civic Sedan SI, Civic Type R, Fit, Hr-V, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Cr-v Vehicles. THE Low-pressure Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence
Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Assembly, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed MAY 18, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 20v-314.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2023-06-29
Recall no.
23v458000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot, and 2020 Acura MDX Vehicles. THE TIE ROD Fastener That Connects THE Brake Booster and THE Brake Master Cylinder MAY Have Been Improperly Assembled During Manufacturing, Which CAN Cause THE Brake Master Cylinder TO Separate From THE Booster Assembly.
Consequence
Brake Master Cylinder Separation CAN Cause A Loss OF Brake Function and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Repair THE Brake Booster Assembly AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed August 7, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Veu, Aev, and Zet.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Recall date
2023-11-13
Recall no.
23v751000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2015-2020 Acura Tlx, 2016-2020 Acura Mdx, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey Vehicles. DUE TO A Manufacturing Error, THE Connecting ROD Bearing IN THE Engine MAY Wear and Seize, Damaging THE Engine.
Consequence
A Damaged Engine MAY RUN Improperly or Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire, Crash, or Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Repair, or Replace THE Engine AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024. 2016-2017 Acura MDX Owner Letters Were Mailed November 1, 2024. 2016-2020 Acura MDX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed IN Mid-december 2024. Honda Began Mailing Owner Notification Letters AS OF March 18, 2024. 2015-2016 Acura Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-december 2024, 2018 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed THE END OF March/Early April 2024, 2019 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-may 2024, 2020 Acura TLX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed Mid-june 2024, and 2016-2020 Acura MDX Owner Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed January 27, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XG1 and Gg0.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2023-12-18
Recall no.
23v858000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, Cr-V, Hr-v, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura Ilx, Mdx, MDX Hybrid, Rdx, Rlx, Tlx, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda Cr-v Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity Phev, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence
Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed September 6, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KGC and Kgd. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Numbers 21v-215 and 20v-314.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date
2024-02-01
Recall no.
24v064000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic Sedan, Hr-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic Coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic Hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 Cr-v, Cr-v Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura Mdx, 2022 Acura Mdx, 2020-2022 Acura Rdx, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX Vehicles. THE Front Passenger Seat Weight Sensor MAY Crack and Short Circuit, Failing TO Suppress THE AIR BAG AS Intended.
Consequence
AN AIR BAG That Deploys Unintentionally During A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Weight Sensors, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This IS A Phased Recall. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XHP and Vhq.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2020 Acura MDX Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
72 months / 70,000 miles
Estimated remaining
12 months / 70,000 miles
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2020 Acura MDX Insurance
Insurance for a 2020 Acura MDX is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Acura MDX Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2020 Acura MDX competes with SUVs like the Lexus RX 350, BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60. In terms of performance, the MDX offers a balanced driving experience, though some rivals offer more powerful engine options. Feature-wise, the MDX is well-equipped, but some competitors have more advanced infotainment systems.
Acura shines in reliability, often outperforming European rivals. The Lexus RX 350 is a close competitor, offering similar reliability and a comfortable ride. The BMW X3 and Audi Q5 provide sportier handling but may have higher maintenance costs. The Volvo XC60 stands out with its stylish design and advanced safety features.
The MDX often presents a stronger value proposition than many of its rivals, offering a similar level of luxury and features at a competitive price point. The Lexus RX is a great alternative if you prioritize ride comfort and reliability above all else. If performance is a key consideration, the BMW X3 or Audi Q5 might be better choices.
Acura shines in reliability, often outperforming European rivals. The Lexus RX 350 is a close competitor, offering similar reliability and a comfortable ride. The BMW X3 and Audi Q5 provide sportier handling but may have higher maintenance costs. The Volvo XC60 stands out with its stylish design and advanced safety features.
The MDX often presents a stronger value proposition than many of its rivals, offering a similar level of luxury and features at a competitive price point. The Lexus RX is a great alternative if you prioritize ride comfort and reliability above all else. If performance is a key consideration, the BMW X3 or Audi Q5 might be better choices.
Ranks #1234 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1234 | 2020 Acura MDX | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Acura MDX a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2020 Acura MDX is an excellent choice for families seeking a reliable, comfortable, and well-equipped luxury SUV. It's particularly appealing to buyers who prioritize value and Acura's reputation for dependability. It's worth buying, especially on the used market, where it offers a compelling price-to-feature ratio. The Technology Package is a good sweet spot, adding desirable features like navigation and blind spot monitoring without the higher cost of the Advance Package. Consider a pre-purchase inspection to address potential transmission concerns. If you value sporty handling above all else, consider alternatives, but for overall practicality and reliability, the MDX is a strong contender.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.