Acura Plans Three-Row Flagship SUV for Its US Lineup To Fight Lexus TX in the Luxury Segment

Acura may finally be ready to enter the full-size SUV segment. According to reports, the luxury automaker is developing a new flagship three-row SUV that could begin production in late 2029, marking a major expansion of its North American lineup as the company shifts its focus away from an all-electric future.

The timing makes sense. Acura has recently backed away from several planned EV programs as Honda adjusts its long-term product strategy. With the electric ZDX expected to exit the lineup and the current RDX nearing the end of its production run before a next-generation replacement arrives in 2028, dealers are facing a thinner selection than they've had in years.

That has increased pressure on Acura to introduce fresh products capable of attracting new buyers and strengthening its position in the premium SUV market.

According to industry reports, the new flagship is internally referred to as the "Acura XL." While that almost certainly isn't its production name, the project is said to be moving forward with manufacturing scheduled to begin in September 2029 at Honda's plant in Lincoln, Alabama. Annual production is reportedly targeted at approximately 40,000 units.

Honda has not confirmed the vehicle or commented on future product plans, but the SUV is expected to feature a hybrid powertrain designed to deliver both strong performance and improved fuel efficiency.

The move would allow Acura to compete in one of the fastest-growing luxury segments in North America. Demand for premium three-row crossovers has climbed steadily over the past several years, with buyers increasingly looking for spacious interiors, advanced technology, and upscale amenities.

The Lexus TX has quickly become one of the segment's benchmarks thanks to its roomy third row and family-friendly packaging. Acura's new flagship is expected to offer significantly more passenger space than the current MDX, particularly for adults riding in the third row.

Beyond Lexus, Acura is also expected to target buyers considering European luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, and the upcoming Audi Q9. Those models offer generous space and premium features but come with substantially higher price tags. Acura's strategy reportedly centers on delivering similar practicality and luxury at a more accessible price point.

Some U.S. dealers reportedly believe the new SUV should also compete with domestic full-size models like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Cadillac Escalade. However, Acura is unlikely to adopt a traditional body-on-frame architecture. Instead, the company is expected to stay with a unibody platform while stretching the wheelbase to maximize interior room.

Large SUVs remain one of the strongest-performing segments in the U.S. market, with buyers continuing to prioritize spacious cabins, premium technology, and comfortable third-row seating. If the reported flagship reaches production as planned, it could become Acura's most ambitious SUV yet—and help the brand establish a stronger foothold in the full-size luxury market.