Acura MDX Review

The Acura MDX was first sold in the United States by the Japanese luxury carmaker in late 2000. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking features such as third row seating and all-wheel-drive in a refined, family-friendly, crossover SUV. It shared many similarities with the Honda Pilot, including the engine, but the Pilot sported more passenger and cargo room.

The first model suffered from transmission problems that were corrected in the 2003 model with the introduction of a new 5-speed automatic. The 2003 model also featured improved ride and handling, increased horsepower and the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle classification. Gas mileage was rated at 23 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg in the city. The navigation system evolved over the years to include a rear view camera, Zagat recommendations, OnStar assistance and a hands-free cell phone link. Acura made minor safety improvements between 2003 and 2006 such as the addition of side curtain airbags. Minor styling improvements in the first-generation included different paint colors and trims. The first-generation MDX was Acura's second-best-selling car after its TL sports sedan.

Acura released a completely redesigned second-generation MDX in October of 2006 as a 2007 model. It was designed to appeal to soccer moms and dads who want SUV practicality paired with sporty performance. It is several inches longer than its predecessor, and interior room increased to 143 cubic feet. It also has a wider stance at 78.5 inches. Exterior style changes included a prominent new grille, feline-looking headlamps, fat dual exhaust pipes and five-spoke wheels. The V6 became larger and more powerful at 300 hp, but fuel economy decreased to an estimated 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Standard equipment included leather seating, a sunroof, satellite radio, a Bluetooth phone link, Xenon headlamps and second-row heated seats.

Three option levels are available with features such as Acura-Link real-time traffic reporting, a voice-activated navigation system, a power tailgate, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with flip-down LCD screens and wireless Dolby headphones. The 2009 model included a couple more color choices, and the power tailgate became available in all option packages. The redesigned MDX overtook the TL as Acura's best-selling model.

Possible changes to the 2011 MDX include reworking to the grille to more closely resemble that of the TL. Honda has also hinted that it may offer a V6 diesel in future versions.

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