Acura MDX Type S production is set to pause after the 2026 model year as uncertainty surrounding stricter EPA emissions standards adds pressure to the luxury brand’s shrinking U.S. lineup. The 355-horsepower midsize SUV will not return for 2027, according to Acura spokesperson Andrew Quillin, as reported by Automotive News.

Acura MDX Type S Will Not Return for 2027

The upcoming EPA regulations are expected to impose tighter limits on pollutants including particulate matter, non-methane organic gases and nitrogen oxide. Tier 4 criteria were originally scheduled to arrive next year but are now likely to be delayed until 2029.

However, the proposed delay from 2027 to 2029 has not yet been finalized, leaving automakers facing continued uncertainty. That uncertainty has already affected Acura’s lineup, with the brand previously discontinuing the manual Integra, electric ZDX crossover and TLX sport sedan.

The MDX Type S is now the fourth model to join that list. Quillin said the performance-oriented SUV will not return for the 2027 model year.

Acura Plans More Type S Features Across MDX Trims

Although the MDX Type S accounted for only a fraction of overall MDX sales, it played an important role in serving performance-focused buyers.

Quillin said Acura will “apply many of the premium Type S features and styling to the other trims in the MDX lineup.”

Acura has not said when, or even whether, MDX Type S production could resume. Acura was also contacted for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.

MDX Type S Inventory Expected Through Early 2027

Current dealer inventories of the Acura MDX Type S are expected to last until early 2027. With production ending after the 2026 model year, buyers seeking a new example will have limited time to find one through remaining dealer inventory.

For now, Acura has described the MDX Type S situation as a hiatus, but there is no confirmation that the performance variant will return. Any suggestion that a new MDX Type S is already being developed remains speculation.

Acura’s Lineup Continues to Shrink

The MDX Type S becomes the latest model affected as Acura’s U.S. portfolio continues to contract. The brand’s strategy going forward remains uncertain as automakers prepare for the proposed changes to EPA emissions standards.

For the time being, the 2026 MDX Type S represents the final model year confirmed for Acura’s 355-horsepower midsize SUV.