Hybrids have been a tough sell lately, but Acura is setting up the new MDX Sport Hybrid for success by pricing it at only $1500 more than the equivalent gasoline-powered MDX with all-wheel drive. That makes the new gasoline-electric luxury SUV seem like a smart buy, at least on paper, given that it provides more horsepower and better fuel-economy numbers than its gasoline V-6?powered stablemate. When it goes on sale next month, the MDX Sport Hybrid will start at $52,935 for the Technology model and $58,975 for the Advance model.
The MDX’s hybrid drivetrain comprises a 3.0-liter V-6 and three electric motors to make a total of 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, a boost of 31 hp and 22 lb-ft over the standard MDX’s 3.5-liter V-6 (although the hybrid’s 200-pound weight penalty might negate the extra power). One electric motor is built into the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and two rear motors enable all-wheel drive with torque-vectoring capability. It all sounds complex, but the real benefit is simple: improved fuel economy, specifically 26 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined, increases of 7, 1, and 5 mpg, respectively, over the MDX SH-AWD model.
Tested: 2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD
Dissected: Acura NSX Hybrid Supercar
Acura MDX Research: Pricing, Reviews, Specs, and More

Acura’s hybrid SUV also underprices its closest competitors, the Lexus RX450h and the Infiniti QX60 hybrid. The Lexus, which does without a third row of seats, sta...