22 MPG combined for the 2025 Acura MDX FWD 3.5L won’t win any fuel economy awards; however, it reflects the realities of a comfortable, spacious, and generally satisfying three-row SUV. Families who prioritize features like a plush ride, quiet interior, and the Acura nameplate choose this vehicle and are willing to accept middling fuel consumption as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2025 Acura MDX FWD 3.5L break down to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure highlights the fuel demands of a naturally aspirated V6 engine, and a vehicle weighing in at over 4,200 pounds. Stop-and-go traffic is not where this MDX performs best. The highway number is more respectable, suggesting that longer road trips at consistent speeds will yield a better return at the pump. Even 26 MPG is hardly groundbreaking in a world of turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrid powertrains.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Acura MDX FWD 3.5L will be $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices for regular gasoline. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the MDX’s running costs to other vehicles, and buyers should carefully consider this cost, especially if they anticipate driving more than the average mileage. Some drivers may find that higher fuel prices in certain regions push this annual cost even higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, remember that real-world fuel economy can vary significantly based on individual driving habits, traffic conditions, and even weather. Expect the city MPG to dip even further if your daily commute involves heavy congestion and frequent acceleration. Conversely, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds might see you approach, or even slightly exceed, the 26 MPG estimate. Aggressive driving, frequent use of air conditioning, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy.

How it compares

When stacked against its competitors, the 2025 Acura MDX FWD 3.5L’s fuel economy is about average. For example, the Lexus RX 350 FWD achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined, while the Infiniti QX60 FWD is rated at 23 MPG combined. The Volvo XC90 B5 FWD demonstrates the efficiency advantage of a turbocharged and mild-hybrid powertrain, delivering 25 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up significantly over the course of a year, influencing the total cost of ownership. Buyers considering the MDX should weigh these fuel economy figures against other factors like styling, features, and overall driving experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The MDX’s 10-speed automatic transmission is designed to optimize fuel efficiency; however, it can’t compensate for aggressive driving habits. Maintain a steady pace and look ahead to minimize the need for sudden stops and starts.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as cold weather can cause a significant drop in pressure. You can find all Acura fuel economy data on this website.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Clear out any items you don’t need, such as extra equipment or recreational gear. Consider upgrading to lighter wheels and tires.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can help you avoid unintentional acceleration and deceleration, improving fuel economy on long road trips. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and be prepared to disengage cruise control when necessary.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups. You can find detailed MDX MPG across all years on our site.