Makes›Acura›MDX›2019

2019 Acura MDX

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2019 models.

Acura MDX
Pictured: 2022 Acura MDX Technology, front 7.2.22. Photo: Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Body styles
4dr SUV AWD
Engines
3.0L 6-cyl, 3.5L 6-cyl
Horsepower
290 hp
Transmission
9-speed automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Seats
6–7
Fuel
Hybrid, Premium Gasoline
MPG (best)
27 combined · 26 city / 27 hwy
Length
196.1 in
Curb weight
4,343 lb
NHTSA rating
★★★★★
Recalls
9 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
  • AWD / 4WD available
  • Seats up to 73 rows of seating.
  • 5-star NHTSA safety ratingTop overall score in federal crash tests.
  • Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.

Watch out for

  • Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
  • Modest powerUp to 290 hp, versus about 383 hp for similar 2019 models.
  • Many owner complaints199 complaints filed with NHTSA versus about 42 for similar models — most often about the engine.
  • 9 recallsMore than similar models (about 4). Confirm repairs with the VIN.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 23 similar 2019 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2019 Acura MDX is a small SUV offered with 2 engines (3.0L 6-cyl and 3.5L 6-cyl), including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.

It measures about 196 inches long and 77 inches wide on a 111-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,343 lb.

EPA rates its most efficient version at 27 MPG combined (26 city / 27 highway), 13% better than the 2019 small SUV average of 23.8 MPG, for an estimated $3,050 a year in fuel.

In NHTSA crash testing it earned the top 5-star overall rating.

It has 9 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 199 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the engine.

What changed for 2019

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2018 MDX — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2018; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2018 MDX →

Trims, performance & features

Engine290 hp3.5L 6-cyl
Transmission9-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating6–7 seats · 3 rows

Trims

SH-AWD TECH 7PTECH 7PSH-AWDSH-AWD A-SPECSH-AWD ADVANCE 6P

Safety & driver-assist features

Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Adaptive driving beamStandard
Keyless startStandard

Built in: East Liberty, Ohio

NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2019 MDX configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr SUV AWD196.1 in77.2 in67.3 in111 in66.5 / 66.1 in4,343 lb58/42

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
MDX Hybrid AWD Hybrid3.0L 6-cylAutomatic (AM-S7)All-Wheel Drive26 / 27 / 27+13%$3,050330
MDX FWD3.5L 6-cylAutomatic (S9)Front-Wheel Drive20 / 27 / 23-8%$3,550387
MDX AWD3.5L 6-cylAutomatic (S9)All-Wheel Drive19 / 26 / 22-8%$3,750404
MDX AWD A-SPEC3.5L 6-cylAutomatic (S9)All-Wheel Drive19 / 25 / 21-12%$3,900415
6/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
6/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Spend $3,250Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
23.8 MPG2019 Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2019 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

VersionOverallFrontalDriver / passengerSideSide poleRolloverRollover risk
2019 Acura MDX SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★5★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.4%
2019 Acura MDX SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★5★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.4%
StandardElectronic stability control
StandardForward collision warning
StandardLane departure warning
Frontal crash test — 2019 Acura MDX SUV AWD
Frontal crash test — 2019 Acura MDX SUV AWD. Photo: NHTSA.
Side crash test — 2019 Acura MDX SUV AWD
Side crash test — 2019 Acura MDX SUV AWD. Photo: NHTSA.

Similar 2019 small SUVs

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2019 Acura MDX (this car)27 MPG★★★★★9
2019 Porsche Cayenne21 MPGNot rated8
2019 BMW X522 MPG★★★★★13
2019 Cadillac Escalade17 MPGNot rated1
2019 Lexus RX30 MPGNot rated4
2019 Volvo XC9025 MPGNot rated6
2019 Audi Q721 MPG★★★★★4

Recalls (9)

Structure › Frame And Members · Jun 4, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V365000 · 965,561 vehicles

Problem
American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, 2017-2023 Ridgeline, 2019-2023 Passport, and 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles that were sold in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. The rear subframe may corrode at the suspension mounting points, which can result in rear suspension component failure.
Risk
Failure of rear suspension components, such as the rear control arm, can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
Dealers will inspect the rear subframe and install a rear subframe reinforcement kit and, as necessary, repair or replace the rear subframe components, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in the fall of 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are AOU and AOT. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning June 10, 2026.
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger · May 21, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V332000 · 98,892 vehicles

Problem
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.
Risk
Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
Fix
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 29, 2026.
Interior Lighting · Apr 17, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V259000 · 152,800 vehicles

Problem
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid light assembly and wiring harness, which can cause the interior and exterior lights to fail, including the lid lights, position lights, license plate lights and taillights.
Risk
Vehicle lights that fail to illuminate can decrease visibility and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will inspect the wiring and install a fuse harness, replace the lid light, and repair the body dust sealer, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Acura's customer service at 1-800-382-2238. Acura's number for this recall is FLI. Vehicles included in this recall that were previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 19V-256 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump · Dec 18, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V858000 · 2,490,460 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
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.
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical · Nov 13, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V751000 · 248,999 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
A damaged engine may run improperly or stall while driving, increasing the risk of a fire, crash, or injury.
Fix
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.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump · Mar 25, 2021

NHTSA campaign 21V215000 · 624,552 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
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.
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts And Associated Pulleys · Apr 12, 2019

NHTSA campaign 19V298000 · 93,946 vehicles

Problem
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura MDX and Honda Pilot vehicles and 2019 Acura RLX, RLX Sport Hybrid, TLX and Honda Odyssey and Ridgeline vehicles. The timing belt teeth may separate from the belt.
Risk
Teeth separation from the timing belt may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace any affected timing belt free of charge. Vehicles receiving a replacement timing belt will also have the engine inspected and any damaged components will be replaced for free. The recall began June 7, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is L4M. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is Z4L.
Exterior Lighting · Mar 28, 2019

NHTSA campaign 19V256000 · 322,897 vehicles

Problem
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Acura MDX and 2017-2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid lights, possibly causing a loss of the tailgate lid lights and the taillights.
Risk
Loss of the taillights reduces the vehicle's visibility, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix
Acura will notify owners, and dealers will modify the tailgate lid lights and install updated gaskets and a wiring sub-harness or will replace both tailgate lid lights. The repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is M49.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper · Nov 1, 2018

NHTSA campaign 18V777000 · 64,785 vehicles

Problem
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Acura MDX, 2017-2018 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda HR-V and Honda Odyssey, and 2016 Honda HR-V vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating, causing gas pockets to form, reducing brake performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk
A reduction of braking performance increases the risk of a crash.
Fix
Owners will be notified, and Honda or Acura dealers will bleed the brakes, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are C31 and L30.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2019 Acura MDX is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

199Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
4Involved a crash
3Involved a fire
3Injuries reported
22,229 miTypical mileage at failure
Engine48
Electrical System39
Power Train33
Engine And Engine Cooling30
Unknown Or Other26
Fuel/Propulsion System23
Fuel System, Gasoline23
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control13
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/09: 824/10: 324/11: 925/01: 325/02: 325/03: 125/05: 125/06: 325/07: 225/08: 325/09: 325/10: 425/11: 225/12: 226/01: 526/02: 226/03: 326/04: 326/05: 226/06: 626/07: 126/08: 226/09: 326/10: 324/0925/0125/0525/0825/1126/0226/0526/08max 9

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2019 Acura MDX buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 9 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Engine — 48 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
  3. Electrical System — 39 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
  4. Power Train — 33 owner reports. Test-drive through all gears, including reverse; note slipping, harsh or delayed shifts.
  5. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 22,229 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  6. Hybrid system. Check for hybrid-system warning lights and ask whether the high-voltage battery has been replaced or is still under warranty.
  7. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2019 Acura MDX. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other MDX years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2026 MDX22198.4 inNot rated19
2025 MDX22198.4 in★★★★★4114
2024 MDX22198.4 in★★★★★343
2023 MDX22198.4 in★★★★★348
2022 MDX22198.4 in★★★★★3181
2020 MDX27196.1 in★★★★★8231
2018 MDX27196.1 in★★★★★10170
2017 MDX27196.1 in★★★★★9268
2016 MDX23193.7 in★★★★★7377
2015 MDX23193.7 in★★★★★867
2014 MDX23193.7 in★★★★★8128
2013 MDX18190.9 inNot rated124

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Acura. How we calculate this →