Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2013 Acura MDX
With an overall Carivo score of 7.3/10, the 2013 Acura MDX earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.8/10. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.6/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 7.8/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.8/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology comes in at 7.4/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $28,140–$33,579, 10 MPG, seating 7, the Acura MDX sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.0/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 13 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2013 Acura MDX, but it needs the right buyer. Its performance scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2013 Acura MDX ranks #1384 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 44% of the segment. Its 7.3/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $28,140 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 22%.
Across the MDX model years we've scored, the 2013 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 10 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2013 Acura MDX (1 on record)
The following recall campaign has been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2013 Acura MDX
Is the 2013 Acura MDX reliable?
We rate the 2013 Acura MDX's reliability 7.6/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 1 NHTSA recall campaign on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2013 Acura MDX have?
1 NHTSA recall campaign matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2013 Acura MDX worth buying?
It scores 7.3/10 overall, ranking #1384 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 44% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2013 Acura MDX cost?
The 2013 Acura MDX starts at $28,140 and ranges up to $33,579 across trims (MSRP when new). At 10 MPG, expect roughly $5,250/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Acura MDX
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
