Expansion of the SUV Lineup

Acura has officially confirmed the expansion of its SUV portfolio. According to a business roadmap released on Tuesday, the luxury brand is developing an eight-passenger vehicle that will sit above the current seven-passenger MDX. While a specific release date for this flagship model has not yet been disclosed, the company confirmed that an “adventure-ready” Acura SUV is scheduled for release in the first half of 2028. This launch will be followed later that year by a complete redesign of the fourth-generation RDX.


Focus on Next-Generation Hybrid Technology

A significant portion of Acura's future strategy involves the integration of new electrified powertrains. The upcoming RDX will serve as the brand's debut vehicle featuring an adapted version of Honda’s two-motor hybrid system.


Furthermore, the brand is currently developing a new V-6 hybrid powertrain specifically tailored for D-segment vehicles. Company officials noted that this system

“will deliver sporty performance, improved towing capabilities and environmental efficiencies.”
While official model applications have not been finalized, industry expectations suggest that the three-row MDX will be among the recipients of this new V-6 technology.


Strategic Realignment

The updated roadmap, which was shared with U.S. dealers earlier in October, addresses key gaps in the current Acura portfolio, specifically the absence of modern hybrid options and larger SUV variants. Historically, Acura leaned heavily into electrified performance, most notably with the NSX supercar produced between 2017 and 2022, as well as previous three-motor Sport Hybrid versions of the MDX and RLX.


Eiji Fujimura, president and CEO of American Honda, emphasized the importance of these additions, stating that the three new SUVs

“will meet customer needs across a range of life stages, which will create a sustainable long-term direction for the brand.”


Despite these advancements, the brand's immediate future remains focused on hybrids rather than fully electric vehicles. Following the cancellation of the RSX EV earlier this year, Acura currently lacks an EV in its immediate roadmap. Gary Robinson, VP of auto strategy at American Honda, concluded that the company is currently focusing on

“entering the most popular segments in the market while maintaining a leading position in gateway segments with Integra and ADX, to solidify a strong and sustainable future.”