The 2025 Acura MDX AWD with its reliable 3.5L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. This number reflects the SUV’s ability to haul families comfortably and provide secure all-wheel drive performance. It’s not a fuel sipper, nor is it trying to be. It’s a premium SUV that prioritizes space, features, and capability, and the MPG reflects that balance.

City and highway performance

The MDX’s EPA ratings break down to 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure is indicative of a vehicle that spends time in stop-and-go traffic, its 10-speed automatic transmission working smoothly but frequently. The highway MPG is more respectable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. A buyer considering an MDX understands they’re not prioritizing ultimate fuel efficiency, but these figures offer a reasonable compromise for daily commuting and longer road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Acura MDX AWD at $2,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual spending will vary based on local fuel costs, driving habits, and the proportion of city versus highway miles driven. This figure provides a benchmark for budgeting and comparing the MDX to other vehicles in its class. It also highlights where potential savings could be made by adopting more fuel-conscious driving practices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive acceleration, heavy loads, and severe weather can all negatively impact fuel economy. Drivers who frequently use the MDX’s towing capabilities can expect significantly lower numbers.

It’s reasonable to expect figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions, but understand those conditions play a role. Some owners might even see slightly better MPG on long highway drives if using cruise control effectively.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row luxury SUVs, the MDX’s fuel economy sits in a competitive, yet not class-leading, position. Consider the Lexus RX 350 AWD, which achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The RX prioritizes fuel efficiency to a greater extent with its more advanced drivetrain. The BMW X5 xDrive40i, with its turbocharged inline-six, manages around 23 MPG combined, balancing performance and fuel economy more effectively. The Volvo XC90 B6 AWD lands around 22 MPG combined as well. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, the Acura MDX offers a hybrid version delivering higher MPG.

To explore all Acura fuel economy data, a comparison of the entire lineup offers further clarity. Exploring MDX MPG across all years further shows the MPG numbers aren’t significantly different from previous years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow pay dividends in saving fuel. The MDX’s 10-speed transmission helps with efficiency, but rapidly accelerating reduces its effectiveness. Smooth, measured throttle inputs are the key.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo increases the engine’s workload and lowers MPG. Clear out items you don’t need regularly to lighten the load and improve fuel economy. Items in a roof carrier are also known to dramatically decrease MPG due to decreased drag performance.

Ensure tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels to optimize fuel efficiency and handling. A good target PSI is 35.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, improving fuel economy on longer drives. The MDX’s adaptive cruise control system assists with this, but be mindful of maintaining a safe following distance.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for prolonged periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to conserve fuel, especially in city traffic with extended red lights. The MDX does not have a start-stop system to eliminate this problem.