The Acura XL Is Coming—New Flagship Hybrid SUV Bigger Than The MDX

Acura is reportedly developing a new flagship three-row SUV to slot above the midsize MDX in its North American lineup.

The new model would be aimed squarely at SUVs like the Lexus TX and Lincoln Aviator, among other roomier premium family rigs.

According to a report by Automotive News, internal company documents are calling the flagship SUV the "Acura XL". Production is allegedly scheduled to begin in September 2029 at Honda’s assembly plant in Lincoln, Alabama, with the automaker expecting annual production volume of up to 40,000 units.

While the MDX is one of Acura's sales leaders, the crossover's tight third row and limited rear cargo area have put the brand at a disadvantage. Buyers in the premium three-row segment seem to want genuine passenger room in all three rows along with actually usable cargo volume behind the last row.

The new model will give Acura a direct answer to the questions being asked by the expanding premium large crossover market, which reached nearly 195,000 U.S. sales last year. Vehicles like the Lexus TX are being benchmarked because it offers genuine adult-friendly third-row accommodations.

Speaking with Automotive News, one unnamed dealer is hoping for a full-fledged large SUV capable of rivaling truck-based alternatives like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Cadillac Escalade. Using an extended wheelbase or dedicated large platform would be necessary to deliver the proper rear legroom and cargo space.

Rather than using a large-displacement internal combustion engine or going fully electric, the "Acura XL" is expected to receive an all-new, large-vehicle hybrid powertrain. Details like the engine's cylinder count, total system horsepower, and torque ratings remain unknown; the powertrain is expected to prioritize premium performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The TX, for example, offers a 2.4L four-cylinder hybrid in various states of tune, or a 404 horsepower PHEV option powered by a 3.5L V6—although production of the TX 550h+ PHEV has been paused temporarily to support the launch of Toyota's standalone Century brand.

The news comes as Acura is riding high—the division recently passed both Cadillac and Audi in first-half sales to become the fourth best-selling luxury brand in the United States.

Introducing a massive, high-margin flagship hybrid SUV will add to that momentum, giving the brand a proper alternative to top-tier European executive crossovers like the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and upcoming Audi Q9 without forcing buyers to absorb their significantly higher price points or depreciation.