1. Acura MDX Hybrid: Technology Overview and Analysis

From Honda to Acura, from luxury sedans to high-performance supercars, the Acura brand embodies the essence of Japanese craftsmanship. It shares many similarities with Lexus and Infiniti, as all three are premium Japanese brands that focus on high-end products primarily sold in overseas markets, especially the United States. In China, however, Acura's sales have remained relatively quiet. Despite its hybrid version of the MDX using the same technology as the high-performance NSX, it has still been labeled by netizens as a "millionaire's car." So, after this small update, is the new MDX really different from the previous one?

Written in the front: Although Acura carries the legacy of Japanese automotive excellence, it was actually born in the U.S. This gives it an identity that is more American than Japanese. Its sales are predominantly driven by the U.S. market, where it has no presence in Japan. In modern terms, Acura can be seen as a “mixed-race” brand—American-born but with Japanese roots. Recently, models like the CDX and TLX have been introduced to the Chinese market, signaling a broader expansion strategy.

Acura MDX Sport Hybrid – Technology Overview

Let’s take a closer look at how the new MDX Sport Hybrid is performing. The current model is the third generation, which has undergone a major redesign. The most significant change is the powertrain: instead of the old 3.5L V6 engine, it now features a 3.0L V6 combined with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and three electric motors. Additionally, the front grille has been updated to match Acura’s latest design language.

The core of the hybrid system is the 3.0L V6 engine, paired with a 7-speed DCT transmission that includes a small motor to assist the front axle. Many people might wonder about the purpose of the other two motors.

These two rear motors are used to replicate the SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system in an electric way. Each motor can independently apply torque to the left or right rear wheel, improving cornering performance by generating a torque vectoring effect. Unlike the traditional 3.5L V6 model, this setup eliminates the need for a complex mechanical four-wheel drive system.

This year, Acura made a bold move by replacing the popular MDX with a hybrid variant. While it may seem like a step back in terms of brand image, there are clear reasons behind it. One is the displacement tax in China, and another is the need to meet strict fuel consumption regulations. Despite these changes, the hybrid MDX still offers strong performance and improved efficiency.

The hybrid version of the MDX is significantly more fuel-efficient than its non-hybrid counterpart, achieving an average of 7.9L/100km. This represents a 22% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the standard model.

MDX Hybrid System – Technology Analysis

The Acura MDX hybrid system consists of a 3.0L V6 engine, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated motor, a motor drive inverter (PDU), a power control unit (IPU), and a twin motor unit (TMU). These components work together to deliver efficient and powerful performance. Acura also placed the PDU and IPU under the front seats, which helps maintain a flat floor in the rear and ensures ample legroom without compromising trunk space.

3.0L V6 Engine

The new 3.0L V6 engine replaces the previous 3.5L V6, offering better fuel economy and lower emissions. While this change reduces the smoothness of overtaking, it brings improved efficiency and performance. The engine delivers 192kW (261PS) of power and 296Nm of torque. With the addition of the three motors, the combined output increases to 239kW (321PS) and 391Nm, making it more powerful than the standard MDX while cutting fuel consumption by 45%.

7-Speed DCT Transmission

The 7-speed DCT works closely with the hybrid system, providing smoother shifting compared to the older ZF 9-speed automatic. However, due to the hybrid nature, the system may produce motor noise even when downshifting. This is a trade-off for the increased efficiency and performance it provides.

Three Motors: More Than Meets the Eye

The three motors are strategically placed: one at the front axle and two at the rear. The front motor, built into the DCT, provides auxiliary power, regenerative braking, and energy conversion for the battery. The two rear motors enable advanced torque vectoring, enhancing cornering performance and allowing independent torque distribution to each rear wheel.

Power Control Unit (IPU)

If the three motors are the body of the hybrid system, the IPU and PCU are its brain and nervous system. The IPU houses 72 lithium-ion batteries, providing power and cooling through air circulation. This design is based on the RLX Sport Hybrid, with improvements in energy density and power output.

Power Control Unit (PCU)

The PCU, located under the passenger compartment, manages the power flow between the motors and the battery. It converts DC power to AC for use by the three motors, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

2. Acura MDX Hybrid Four-Wheel Drive System – Technology Analysis

After understanding the hybrid system, let’s explore how it transforms power into driving force. The MDX hybrid uses a SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD system, which evolved from Honda’s original SH-AWD. While the traditional SH-AWD relies on mechanical components, the hybrid version adds electronic control, representing Honda’s top engineering innovation.

Traditional SH-AWD allows torque distribution between front and rear axles, ranging from 70:30 to 30:70, with rear torque adjustable from 0 to 100%. The SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD replaces the mechanical clutches with two rear motors, enabling precise torque vectoring to each rear wheel.

The MDX hybrid offers four driving modes: pure electric, engine-only, engine + motor, and electronic four-wheel drive. At speeds above 90km/h, the rear motor takes over, while below 65km/h, the engine engages for better performance. This logic is designed to maximize both efficiency and power.

In conclusion, the Acura MDX hybrid integrates cutting-edge technology from the NSX into a large seven-seat SUV. It enhances safety and handling without sacrificing interior space or increasing fuel consumption. By adopting a V6 hybrid system, Acura aims to deliver V8-like performance with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine. Whether this will revitalize Acura’s presence in China remains to be seen, but time will tell if this hybrid version can turn the tide.

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