The Acura MDX Type S will go on hiatus after the 2026 model year, marking a production pause for the high-performance version of Acura’s midsize SUV. The automaker has not said when the Acura MDX Type S will return, while uncertainty surrounding new U.S. emissions regulations scheduled for 2027 is reportedly affecting the model’s future.
Acura MDX Type S Production Pauses
First reported by Automotive News, the MDX Type S is being paused as Acura evaluates the Environmental Protection Agency’s new emissions regulations for 2027 model-year vehicles. Acura did not confirm that the upcoming rules are the reason for the production pause and has not provided a timeline for the Type S’s return.
The same emissions regulations have also been cited as the reason for dropping the manual-transmission Integra A-Spec and manual Civic Si for 2027. Acura is expected to have enough MDX Type S inventory at dealerships to last through early 2027.
Other MDX Trims Will Get Type S Features
Acura spokesperson Andrew Quillin told Automotive News that the company plans “to apply many of the premium Type S features and styling [elements] to the other trims in the MDX lineup.”
The base MDX and MDX Technology trims, with or without all-wheel drive, are not expected to receive all of those changes. The A-Spec, Advance and A-Spec Advance trims are positioned to receive additional styling and equipment inspired by the Type S.
However, the other MDX models will not match the Type S Advance’s powertrain. The performance SUV uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
What Makes the MDX Type S Different
The Type S Advance also features adaptive air suspension that can be raised and lowered, four-piston Brembo front brakes and 21-inch wheels. It also includes Type S-specific drive modes and a 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system inside the cabin.
It remains unclear which Type S features will be applied to which MDX trims. Non-Type S MDX SUVs use a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.
EPA Tier 4 Rules Create Uncertainty
The Environmental Protection Agency finalized new Tier 4 criteria pollutant standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles in March 2024, with the rules scheduled to take effect for 2027 model-year vehicles.
The EPA has proposed moving the Tier 4 phase-in to 2029. Existing Tier 3 requirements will remain in place for 2027 and 2028.
The MDX Type S uses a turbocharged V6 that is not offered in any other Acura product. As a result, meeting average emissions values across Acura’s U.S. lineup could be more costly and difficult with the standalone engine.
The Tier 4 rules also include stricter onboard diagnostic software requirements. The 3.0-liter engine would require specific attention under those requirements.
Acura MDX Type S Return Remains Unclear
If the EPA delays the new rules until 2029, Acura will probably bring the turbocharged engine back to the MDX lineup. Until the emissions requirements are finalized, however, the future of the Acura MDX Type S remains uncertain.
