The all-new 2022 Acura MDX is better than ever before. With new styling inside and out, a revised engine, and enough tech-savvy features to keep the whole family happy, the Acura MDX proves that it can hold its own as the best-selling three-row SUV. For the new year model year, there are different trim levels to choose from, but is opting for the top-trim MDX Advance worth the extra cash?

The 2022 Acura MDX has four different trim levels to choose from

Now in its fourth generation, the Acura MDX comes in four different trim levels: Base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance. The two bottom trim levels are available in either front-wheel-drive or with the brand’s Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system, but the two upper trim levels only come with SH-AWD.

Acura has always been known for value packaging its cars in order to provide an easier shopping experience, so you can bet that the base trim level comes well-equipped. According to Kelley Blue Book, the entry-level MDX comes with power front seats, a tri-zone automatic climate control, a power tailgate, panoramic moonroof, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a large 12.3-infotainment display. That display works in conjunction with Acura’s True Touchpad interface located on the center console.

The higher Acura MDX trim levels yield more style and tech

As far as technology goes, the base MDX trim level includes wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, a wireless charging pad, a nine-speaker audio system, and a pair of USB input in the first and second rows. The Cabin Talk feature is also included, which allows the driver to amplify their voice to the back rows via the audio system.

If you step up to the MDX Technology trim level, you’ll get the added benefit of an onboard navigation system, Milano leather seating surfaces, and larger 20-inch alloy wheels. If you like your MDX a little on the sportier side, then you can opt for the A-Spec trim, which adds black accents and 20-inch Shark Gray wheels in addition to a sporty-looking two-tone interior with an NSX-inspired steering wheel.

But if you enjoy the softer, and comfier, side of life, then you might want to check out the MDX Advance trim level. At its highest option level, the 2022 MDX adds more luxury via Milano seats with contrast stitching, open-pore wood trim accents, a 10.5-inch head-up display, a surround-view camera, and a hand’s-free power tailgate.

If you want more than that, then the Advance trim has you covered. You’ll also get 16-way power seats that are not only heated and ventilated, but also massage you. There’s also a heated steering wheel, an AC outlet in the second row, and a premium ELS sound system.

Is the top trim really worth the extra price?

The base 2022 Acura MDX carries a starting price of $46,900 (before destination) while the Technology package starts at $51,600. If you want the sporty A-Spec package, then you’ll have to put about $6,000 on top of that and for the top-trim Advance, you’re looking at $60,650.

So the main question is: Is the MDX Advance really worth the $13,750 over the base trim? In our experience, yes. We spent a week in the 2022 MDX Advance and although it does cost a lot, the equipment that it provides is worth the extra cost. After all, if you’re going to buy the best-selling SUV on the market, you might as well go all in.