When Acura promises the new fourth-generation MDX will be the most premium, performance-focused SUV in their lineup, you sit up and pay attention. The Acura MDX Prototype provides a sneak peek at what we can expect when the fourth-gen MDX arrives early next year. Based on the MDX Prototype, the production version of the 2021 MDX will provide a more sophisticated in-cabin experience. The body of Acura’s flagship SUV is also marked by a wider grille meant to convey a more muscular design.

According to Acura, those riding in or driving the new MDX should experience more athletic handling, refined ride comfort, and exceptional cabin quietness. All these updates amount to an SUV brainchild built to carry the title of the Acura’s new flagship model.
The Acura MDX family throughout the years. The 2001 MDX (far left) debuted in 2000 and was honored as the North American Truck of the Year at the time. Photo: Acura.

Exterior Design

When painted in a matte liquid carbon, the Acura MDX Prototype gives me a futuristic Tron: Legacy vibe with that long hood, angular four-element JewelEye LED headlights, and three-dimensional Diamond Pentagon grille. Adding that hood gave a six-inch increase in the dash to axle dimension. The front fascia was sculpted to emphasize the wider grille and integrate the fog lights underneath the side vents. Acura pushed the 21-inch wheels further apart and added a sharp, sculpted beltline to give the MDX’s side view an elongated...