The 2023 Acura MDX is one of the most popular midsize luxury SUVs, offering a premium driving experience, refined interior, and ample cargo space. One key specification that many SUV buyers look at is the vehicle’s towing capacity – how much weight it can safely pull behind it. This helps determine what kinds of trailers or recreational equipment you can use with the vehicle.
In this in-depth article, we’ll take a close look at the 2023 Acura MDX towing capacities, how they compare to other vehicles in its class, and what factors impact towing ability. We’ll also provide tips on how to tow safely with the MDX.
2023 Acura MDX Towing Capacity Overview
The 2023 MDX has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs when properly equipped. This remains unchanged from the previous model year.
It’s enabled by the MDX’s robust 290 horsepower 3.5L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive models can tow up to the full 3,500 lbs, while front-wheel drive models are rated for 2,000 lbs.
Compared to other midsize luxury SUVs, the MDX lands right in the middle of the pack:
- BMW X5 – 6,614 lbs
- Volvo XC90 – 5,000 lbs
- Acura MDX – 3,500 lbs
- Lexus RX 350 – 3,500 lbs
- Lincoln Nautilus – 3,000 lbs
So while it doesn’t lead the class in maximum tow rating, the MDX still offers solid towing abilities for a wide range of recreational gear and small trailers.
What Impacts the Acura MDX Towing Capacity?
There are a few key factors that determine how much weight an SUV like the MDX can safely tow:
Engine Power – More horsepower and torque allows an engine to pull heavier loads without straining. The MDX’s 290 hp V6 provides ample low-end power.
Transmission Type – Automatic transmissions are better suited for towing than manuals. The MDX uses a 6-speed auto.
Drivetrain – All-wheel drive models distribute power better and maintain control. The MDX’s available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system improves traction.
Chassis/Suspension – An SUV’s frame, suspension design, and brakes must be robust enough to handle added weight. The MDX uses a rigid structure and capable suspension system.
Towing Package – Many SUVs offer optional towing packages with items like a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and supplemental transmission coolers. The MDX has an integrated hitch and wiring.
Vehicle Weight – Heavier vehicles can handle towing greater loads. The MDX tips the scales at over 4,500 lbs.
Towing Equipment on the MDX
Even though it doesn’t offer a dedicated towing package, the Acura MDX still comes standard with some important equipment for managing a trailer:
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Trailer Hitch – An integrated Class III hitch receiver allows you to connect a trailer without additional installation. It’s concealed behind a removable panel when not in use.
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Wiring Harness – A pre-installed 7-pin wiring connector provides the necessary hookups for lights and electric brakes on your trailer. No splicing required.
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Transmission Cooler – Helps regulate transmission temperatures when towing for extended periods to prevent overheating.
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Stability Assist – The MDX’s standard Vehicle Stability Assist system helps control swaying trailers.
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All-Wheel Drive – Distributes power to all four wheels for enhanced traction when pulling heavy loads.
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Strong Brakes – 13.0” front and 13.2” rear ventilated disc brakes provide confident stopping power.
Some additional recommended towing accessories for MDX owners include:
- Trailer brake controller – For electric or hydraulic trailer brakes
- Tow mirrors – Improved rear visibility around a trailer
- Heavy-duty hitch – For trailers over 3,500 lbs capacity
- Transmission cooler – For frequent or extended towing
- Trailer tire pressure monitoring – Alerts you to trailer tire issues
How to Tow Safely With the Acura MDX
While the MDX offers capable towing performance, it’s also important to tow responsibly and safely. Here are some tips:
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Know your weights – Confirm your MDX and trailer adhere to the vehicle’s tow ratings. Consider the curb weight, payload capacity, tongue weight, and GCWR.
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Use proper equipment – Only use a weight distributing hitch and sway control with heavier trailers. Make electrical connections secure.
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Adjust driving habits – Accelerate, brake, and turn more gradually. Allow extra distance for stopping. Engage tow/haul mode.
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Load trailer correctly – Keep tongue weight between 10-15% of total trailer weight. Load heavier items lower and forward.
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Check tire pressures – Inflate MDX and trailer tires to their maximum rated pressures.
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Conduct pre-tow inspection – Confirm lights, brakes, tires, fluids, connections, and safety chains are good to go.
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Consider supplemental coolers – Added transmission, engine, and power steering coolers when towing frequently.
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Mind the weather – Be prepared to slow down and take extra caution in rainy, windy, or hot conditions.
Following the MDX’s tow ratings closely and using proper towing procedures will provide peace of mind and allow you to safely enjoy all kinds of adventures.
Towing Scenarios for the 2023 MDX
To give you a better idea of good towing matches for the new MDX, here are some estimated trailer weights and examples of what you could tow:
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2,000 pounds – Lightweight aluminum trailer, personal watercraft trailer, small popup camper.
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3,000 pounds – 20-foot boat trailer, enclosed motorcycle trailer, mid-size camper.
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3,500 pounds (max) – Large pontoon boat, lightweight 2-horse trailer, larger camper (dry weight).
While the MDX may be able to physically pull heavier trailers than its rating, you never want to exceed the manufacturer capacities, especially for tongue weight and GCWR. Doing so risks compromised handling, stopping distance, and potential damage over time.
If you have a heavier boat or camper over 5,000 – 7,000 pounds, you may want to consider a pickup truck or SUV with a higher tow rating. But for most modest recreational towing needs, the MDX has you covered.
How Does the MDX Compare to Other Acura Vehicles?
Acura offers two SUV models – the midsize MDX and larger 3-row Acura MDX. How do their towing abilities stack up?
2023 Acura RDX
- Tow Rating: 1,500 lbs
- Engine: 272 hp 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel or all-wheel drive
2023 Acura MDX
- Tow Rating: 3,500 lbs
- Engine: 290 hp 3.5L V6
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel or all-wheel drive
2023 Acura MDX
- Tow Rating: 5,000 lbs
- Engine: 355 hp 3.5L V6
- Standard Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
The MDX clearly offers the strongest towing capabilities of Acura’s SUVs by a wide margin. But the RDX can still manage small trailers, while the MDX holds an advantage for more demanding towing needs.
Key Takeaways on 2023 MDX Towing
To summarize the key capabilities and considerations for towing with the 2023 Acura MDX:
- Maximum conventional towing capacity is 3,500 lbs
- Integrated trailer hitch and wiring harness included
- All-wheel drive models can reach full 3,500 lbs rating
- Robust V6 engine provides ample low-end torque
- Transmission cooler helps regulate operating temperatures
- All towing equipment should adhere to vehicle’s ratings
- Proper securement, loading, and driving habits are essential
- Capable midsize SUV for modest recreational towing needs
Towing a trailer requires careful preparation and practice. But when equipped properly and driven conscientiously, the new MDX can confidently handle most light-duty trailer towing tasks. Consider your specific needs to determine if the MDX has adequate capabilities. And always refer to the Acura towing guide for full ratings and safety information.
Here at Antich Automotive, we’re experts on getting the most out of your Acura vehicle. If you have any other questions about towing capacity or preparation for the 2023 MDX, please don’t hesitate to <a href=”#contact” target=”_blank”>contact us</a>. We
