The 2023 Acura MDX AWD Type-S gets 19 MPG combined. The Type-S, with its distinctive styling, sport-tuned chassis, and turbo V6, is not for someone prioritizing hyper-efficient fuel consumption. It’s a trade-off for buyers who want a practical, family-friendly three-row SUV and still enjoy driving. They accept that fuel efficiency is secondary to 355 horsepower and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show 17 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The lower city MPG reflects stop-and-go driving, where the engine works harder to accelerate a heavy vehicle. The highway MPG, while not great, is more realistic for longer trips. This has a conventional gasoline engine tuned for performance, not a hybrid system. The engine’s eagerness and the SH-AWD system in bad weather will likely keep your MPG close to the EPA estimates. Drivers who often take long highway trips at steady speeds might see slightly better MPG but driving aggressively will lower it quickly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2023 Acura MDX Type-S will cost $3,050 per year for fuel. This is based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on how much you drive, your driving style, and local fuel prices. The Type-S requires premium fuel, which costs more than regular gasoline. $3,050 is not cheap based on Acura fuel economy data. The annual fuel cost is significant, and buyers should consider whether they can afford it.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are standardized, but real-world fuel economy varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and heavy loads will hurt fuel consumption. Extremes in temperature can reduce fuel efficiency. Consistent driving habits and proper maintenance can help improve MPG. If you’re concerned about fuel costs, monitoring your driving habits and making small changes can help. Reading up on MDX MPG across all years can also give you a more realistic idea of past owner’s experiences.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the MDX Type-S has a specific niche. The BMW X5 M50i, with a similar engine, gets a slightly better EPA-estimated combined MPG of 19, but costs considerably more. The Audi SQ7 offers comparable performance, and lands at an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. The Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD posts 18 MPG combined. These small MPG differences matter less when considering the overall cost and appeal of these brands. Those interested in the MDX Type-S, are less concerned about the minor MPG differences than the Acura’s SH-AWD system, its aesthetics, interior layout, and driving experience. Buyers in this segment will trade some fuel efficiency for luxury, practicality, and performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines don’t need extended warm-up periods. Idling wastes fuel. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine and restart it.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control helps you avoid unintentional acceleration and deceleration, which wastes fuel.

Anticipate traffic conditions. Look ahead and anticipate traffic flow to avoid sudden braking and acceleration. Smooth changes in speed are more fuel-efficient than abrupt maneuvers.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying heavy cargo reduces fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area to lighten the load.