Acura's commitment to preserving the environment continues with the MDX via reduction of the use of metals such as chromium and lead, volatile organic compounds VOCs and polyvinyl chlorides PVC. In the MDX manufacturing facility, a dedicated line separates different manufacturing scrap materials for recycling. In addition, the MDX is the first Acura vehicle to use a mercury-free navigation system display screen. To deliver a seamless blend of power, refinement and efficiency, the MDX features the latest-generation Acura 3.
The compact and efficient 3. The MDX's evolved 3. The engine reflects Acura's unwavering commitment to the environment with excellent fuel efficiency given its power output. The 3. With comparatively "short" gearing in the first five forward gears, acceleration is enhanced— while fuel economy and quiet cruising are optimized with a relaxed Sixth gear ratio. The transmission offers two automatic shift modes, or can be operated manually via racing-inspired steering wheel paddle shifters. The system's unique "torque vectoring" direct yaw control feature helps make the MDX exceptionally neutral handling under power, for greater vehicle control.
Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions. The cylinder block is constructed of aluminum and has high-silicon aluminum cylinder liners for added weight savings and excellent cooling. Power is achieved as a result of a In addition to a high power output, the 3.
The engine block of the 3. The cylinder liners are made of high-silicon aluminum rather than traditional cast-iron and are cast directly into the aluminum block.
The hard piston ring sealing surface of the liners is created during manufacturing via a mechanical etching process that exposes silicon particles embedded in the sleeves. The aluminum sleeves provide better cooling, thus allowing closer piston-to-cylinder clearance than iron liners afford. The cylinder block is heat-treated for strength and has a deep-skirt design with four bolts per main bearing cap providing excellent structural support for the crankshaft , thus minimizing engine noise and vibration.
The MDX uses the latest version of the 3. Adding further rigidity and improving reliability is a new cast-aluminum oil pan that works with a heavy-duty oil pump assembly. New In addition, the pistons feature a new 2-piece oil ring assembly that improves durability. Just as with the previous 3. A unique "crack separated" build process in which the bearing caps are broken away from the rod rather than machined separately allows for a lighter, stronger connecting rod with perfect mating surfaces.
Each cylinder head uses a single camshaft, turned by an Aramid-fiber reinforced toothed belt drive for long service life. To save weight and reduce parts count, the cylinder heads have integrated exhaust-port castings that provide optimal positioning of the close-coupled catalytic converters— one used on each cylinder bank.
This design results in more rapid "light off" of the catalytic converters during cold start-up for reduced emissions. Unique long-reach spark plugs are used in the cylinder heads that promote improved combustion for lower emissions and improved mid-range torque. The cylinder head castings feature port flow optimization for improved performance, while an upgraded water pump teams with revised cylinder head coolant flow for improved cooling performance.
The cylinder heads are sealed against the block with a 3-layer, shim-type head gasket. This is achieved by providing reduced intake valve lift and duration at low engine speeds for good torque, with increased intake valve lift and duration at higher rpm for optimum power. At 4, rpm, the Powertrain Control Module PCM electronically triggers the opening of a spool valve that routes pressurized oil to small pistons within the intake valve rocker arms.
Moved by this pressurized oil, the pistons lock each cylinder's pair of intake rocker arms together. The linked intake rockers then follow a single high-lift, long-duration camshaft lobe— an intake lobe with more lift and duration than used with the previous 3.
The MDX does not use a conventional mechanical throttle linkage, but instead employs sophisticated electronics to provide the connection between the throttle pedal and the engine's throttle-body. The result is more accurate and precise throttle control, along with less under-hood clutter and reduced weight. By programming such factors as "gain" and "tip-in" into the throttle actuation, engine response and drivability can be tailored to suit specific driving conditions.
This data is used to define the throttle control sensitivity necessary to provide the predictable and responsive feel corresponding to driver expectations.
To smooth downshifts, the system is programmed to "blip" the throttle to help match engine speed to gear speed within the Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission. The Programmed Fuel Injection PGM-FI system continuously tracks many engine parameters including crankshaft and camshaft positions, throttle position, intake air temperature and mass flow rate, engine coolant temperature and manifold pressure.
Afterwards, the PGM-FI system adjusts fuel delivery accordingly to deliver the best combination of power, fuel economy and low emissions. Special multi-hole fuel injectors mounted in the lower intake manifold spray directly toward the intake ports. The multi-hole injector design means that fuel droplet size is reduced for better fuel atomization, resulting in improved cold weather start-up, better fuel economy, lower emissions and higher horsepower.
The MDX features a dual-stage intake manifold made from lightweight magnesium-alloy. Divided into two banks feeding three cylinders per bank, the manifold has two Powertrain Control Module-controlled butterfly valves located between each bank. These closed valves separate bank-to-bank plenum chamber and improves the resonance charge effect. The result is an amplification of pressure waves within each half of the manifold at lower engine speeds, improving low rpm torque.
The open ends of the intake runners are flared into a "trumpet" shape as used on racing engines to further improve airflow. The butterfly valves open above 4, rpm, connecting the two halves of the intake manifold, increasing its effective volume.
Because accurate ignition spark timing is crucial for best power and torque output as well as reduced emissions, the Powertrain Control Module PCM continually monitors several engine parameters to determine optimum spark timing for all driving conditions. A strong ignition spark is critical to improve power and reduce emissions. Thus, the 3. Additionally, a block-mounted acoustic detonation knock sensor "listens" to the engine, sending information about potentially damaging detonation to the PCM, which then can incrementally retard ignition timing to help prevent damage.
Individual coil units positioned directly above each iridium alloy-tipped spark plug compliment the ignition system. The spark plugs require no scheduled service prior to , miles of use.
To help improve misfire detection, the 3. Attached directly to the cylinder heads are high-efficiency, free-flowing cell-per-inch catalytic converters. Due to closer-than-normal proximity to the exhaust ports, the catalytic converters "light off" very quickly after the engine starts, better reducing emissions in the critical start-up mode.
To ensure optimum flow and low backpressure, a hydroformed two-into-one collector connects the close-coupled catalytic converters to a cell-per-inch under-floor catalytic converter. The MDX's high-flow exhaust system splits just past the under-floor catalytic converter. To provide clearance for the all-wheel-drive system's rear-mounted differential, one exhaust pipe is routed on each side of the driveshaft and feeds into a high-flow silencer located on each side of the MDX.
Dual exhaust outlets, one on each side, are integrated into polished stainless-steel laser welded finishers positioned in the rear fascia. For corrosion resistance, the entire exhaust system including pipes, silencers, chambers and hanger rods is constructed of stainless steel.
Acura's advanced technologies contributing to this emissions performance are the close-coupled catalytic converters which light-off quickly on engine start-up and a high amount of EGR gas recirculated into the engine. Particularly in the critical post-startup mode, the high-efficiency multi-hole fuel injectors deliver excellent fuel atomization for lower emissions.
The MDX engine features a high-powered starter to crank the engine. In addition, it employs a one-touch system that automatically maintains starter engagement until the engine has started.
The driver simply turns the key, and without having to hold the key for any extended time, the one-touch system engages the starter until the engine fires up— and then disengages the starter automatically.
Cylinder bores with a degree V-angle, a high-rigidity die-cast engine block, forged-steel crankshaft, die-cast accessory mounts and stiff cast aluminum engine oil pan, all work together to ensure low engine NVH. Electronically Controlled Mounts ECM used at the front of the transversely oriented engine block have two firmness settings—softer for improved comfort at low speeds and firmer for improved performance as engine speed rises.
The MDX is an exceptionally low-maintenance vehicle. With features like Iridium alloy-tipped spark plugs and a space-saving, self-tensioning serpentine accessory drive belt, the engine requires no scheduled maintenance until , miles— with the exception of periodic inspections and normal replacement of fluids and filters.
The first scheduled tune-up at , miles includes valve adjustment, timing belt replacement and water-pump inspection. Exact mileage for service is determined by actual driving conditions. When the ignition is first turned on, the Multi-Information Display MID located between the tachometer and speedometer shows maintenance information, if required. To avoid driver distraction, the display is not shown while driving. The MID indicates the remaining percentage of engine oil life, and indicates when service is due by displaying a "wrench" icon.
A percentage-based countdown to the next service is displayed when the car is within percent of the end of the service interval. The type of service required is shown in an alphanumeric code, and if a service is missed, the MID indicates its urgency by showing past-due mileage. The MDX has a unique Battery Management System BMS that is designed to increase the overall service life of the battery, reduce the chance of a dead battery and help deliver improved fuel economy.
Should a MDX owner accidentally leave on the headlights or not close a door causing an interior light to remain on, after a set period of time the BMS will automatically terminate power delivery to prevent the battery from going dead. Moreover, the BMS continually monitors battery condition and will provide a warning message while automatically turning off the interior lights when battery condition or cranking capability drops too low.
As a result of the discharge protection afforded by the BMS, the battery should always have enough reserve capacity left to start the engine. The MDX 3. By closely controlling the alternator charge voltage range, BMS works to keep the battery in a specific charge range which can extend the service life of the battery by more than 25 percent.
With BMS keeping the battery in a specific charge range, the alternator can run more often in the low range which generates less drag on the engine resulting in improved fuel economy. Application of numerous electrical power reducing items such as the use of efficient LED lighting and a special humidity control system that has an automatic air conditioning "off" function allows the BMS to operate the alternator even more frequently in the more efficient low charge mode.
To maximize driver control, acceleration and fuel economy, the MDX starting with the model is equipped with an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Sequential SportShift with racing-inspired steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and two automatic shift modes.
Though comparable in size and weight to Acura's existing 5-speed automatic transmissions for V-6 engines, careful engineering of the layout and power flow minimizes size, parts count and overall weight. The Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic improves launch-feel, acceleration performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 5-speed transmissions used with other V-6 engines in the Acura line, the MDX has lower gear ratios higher numerically in First through Fifth gears and in Reverse. The lower gear ratios improve acceleration and pulling power.
The Sixth gear ratio is taller lower numerically than the top gear in Acura's 5-speed V-6 automatic transmissions. The taller final gear allows for a relaxed cruising rpm and enhanced highway fuel economy.
The 6-speed automatic transmission also includes engineering enhancements aimed at improved performance and fuel economy. Expanded control of the multi-disc lock-up assembly within the torque converter improves the efficiency of power delivery and works with the new gear ratios to provide a 1. The 6-speed transmission can be controlled by a straight-gate console-mounted shifter or a steering wheel paddle shifter system that works whenever the transmission is in either of its two automatic modes.
All of the transmission logic systems work together to automatically alter shift timing based on driving conditions.
The Sequential SportShift 6-speed transmission can be operated in two different fully automatic modes with the console-mounted straight-gate shifter. The D or "Drive" mode is ideal for most driving situations, and combines fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed. The S or "Sport" mode is for more performance-oriented driving, and features more aggressive shift mapping to keep engine rpm higher for greater acceleration and response.
In Sport mode the transmission typically operates in the four lowest gears, and won't shift to Fifth gear unless the vehicle reaches very high speed. In Sport mode, the economy-oriented Sixth gear is locked out.
When in the D mode that is optimized for normal driving , the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control System, Shift Hold Control and Cornering G Shift Control— all of which reduce unwanted shifting and gear hunting. The result is smart transmission operation that optimizes fuel efficiency and keeps the transmission in the appropriate gear for the specific driving conditions, thus generating excellent performance and smooth operation.
While traveling up or down hills, Grade Logic Control alters the transmission's shift schedule to reduce shift frequency and improve speed control. The shift schedule is then adjusted to hold the transmission in lower gears to boost climbing power or to provide engine braking when traveling downhill. Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current lower gear ratio when aggressive driving is detected, as in the case of decelerating at a corner entry.
Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by excess shifting and ensures that power will be immediately available without a downshift at the corner exit. Cornering G Shift Control is a transmission feature that first debuted on the Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission. When the system detects a sufficient speed differential between the rear wheels, it will suppress an unwanted upshift.
This prevents the transmission from upshifting during a corner, which could upset the chassis balance and would then require downshifting again at the corner exit when the throttle is applied. Temporary Manual Operation in "Drive" Whether in Drive or Sport mode, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. When the driver operates the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters while in Drive, the transmission responds to the driver's shift command and then returns to its normal fully automatic Drive mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a short time.
This special logic makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the comfort of Drive mode. When in Sport mode, use of the paddle shifters puts the transmission into full manual mode that remains until another mode of operation is selected with the console-mounted shifter. Manual Mode By moving the center console-mounted gear selector lever rearward to the detent labeled "S," the transmission is shifted into Sport mode.
This mode offers automatic operation with more aggressive shift mapping. A pull on the racing-inspired paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel places the transmission in fully manual mode. A digital display in the tachometer face indicates which gear the transmission is in. A new double-kick-down feature lets the driver command a sport-minded double downshift— such as from Fifth to Third gear. By pulling on the left downshift paddle twice in rapid succession, the transmission will drop directly to the chosen lower gear ratio.
To prevent harm to the powertrain when the transmission is paddle shifted by the driver including during double-kick-down shifts , the system will inhibit potentially damaging shifts. As an added safety measure, the Powertrain Control Module PCM can also cut off engine fuel flow to prevent over-revving. If fuel cut-off is insufficient to prevent engine over-revving, as may be possible when the vehicle is on a steep downhill, the transmission will automatically upshift to prevent damage.
On downshifts, the transmission will not execute a driver command that will over-rev the engine. For improved stop-and-go performance and to prevent "lugging" the engine, the Sequential SportShift transmission will automatically downshift to First gear even though the transmission has been left in a higher gear, except in Second gear as the vehicle comes to a stop.
In Manual Mode, when coming to a stop in Second gear, the vehicle will start in Second gear as well. The Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission teams with a special torque converter that not only has a higher maximum torque rating, but also has a unique converter lock-up assembly. The lock-up assembly uses multiple lock-up disks that generate nearly double the facing area of a typical torque converter.
The lock-up assembly not only reduces heat build-up during operation, but also features improved overall lubrication that generates better cooling. The torque converter allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of driving conditions that helps improve fuel economy. The straight-gate shifter is an intuitive and easy-to-use design that takes up little space in the center console.
The shifter allows the driver to choose D using First through Sixth gears or S, which activates the performance-oriented Sport mode, which has more aggressive shift programming and locks out the use of Sixth gear when operating automatically. When in Sport mode, gear selection via racing-inspired paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel automatically puts the transmission into manual mode, and the driver can select among all six forward gear ratios.
During upshifts and downshifts, the engine can be throttled by the engine management system, reducing peak forces shift shock on transmission components, thus improving component reliability and decreasing driveline harshness.
With cornering forces more evenly distributed between front and rear tires, overall cornering power is increased— regardless if driving on wet or dry roads. Vehicles with high power ratings using conventional front or rear drive systems often employ a limited-slip differential to help maintain traction when under power. By linking inside and outside drive wheels, these systems tend to resist turning and can increase understeer.
Conventional AWD systems similarly work to link the inboard and outboard tires as well as the front and rear axles— which can create resistance to turning.
Drive torque is calculated from PCM information, and then the acceleration situation, wheel spin, lateral G-force and steering angle are used to determine the front-to-rear torque distribution and the torque split between right and left rear wheels. The torque-transfer unit receives torque from a helical gear that is attached to the front differential's ring gear, and a short horizontal shaft and hypoid gear set within the torque-transfer unit's case send power to the rear propeller shaft, which in turn transfers power to the rear drive unit.
Direct Electromagnetic Clutch Systems Direct electromagnetic clutch systems mounted on either side of the hypoid gear that drives the rear axles control the amount of torque sent to each rear wheel and provide a limited-slip differential function when needed. An electromagnetic coil modulates the pressure controlling each clutch pack, which changes the speed of the sun gear within the rear differential's planetary gear set to control the amount of torque sent to each wheel.
Electromagnetic control of the clutches permits the torque delivery to each rear wheel to be proportioned in an exceptionally quick and precise manner, which reduces wheel-slip in low-traction conditions.
The clutch packs and their friction material are carefully designed to withstand the small amount of continuous slip between front and rear axles created by the 1. The MDX fuses the model's traditional virtues of generous space, functionality, safety and environmental responsibility with an exciting visual presence along with excellent handling and ride comfort.
Customers in the luxury SUV arena demand distinctive style. The MDX is at the top of the class with items such as standard inch aluminum wheels and tires, standard Xenon High Intensity Discharge HID headlights and very distinctive front end styling. Sitting in the vehicle - and then experiencing it - makes the ownership desire even more intense. An additional list of build elements earmarks the MDX as top shelf. These include the wide use of LED lighting including the taillights , plentiful use of high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium in the vehicle, and convenience features like a standard power rear tailgate.
An available Technology Package and Advance Package further enhance functionality and luxury. One of the primary goals in designing the second generation MDX was to keep its previous strengths, but advance its performance and image.
The clear direction for the MDX was to create a bold and innovative look that clearly conveyed the "Driver's SUV" nature of the vehicle. The original MDX provided an excellent blend of utility, luxury and style. The Acura MDX has powerful, dynamic styling that is a continuation of the themes that have been embodied in recent Acura products. Designers found inspiration in a high-powered mega yacht, which features an exceptionally bold, lean and contemporary design.
The challenge was to apply the useful elements of the yacht design to an SUV, and designers found their answer in the adoption of large areas of clean surfaces and the addition of decisive line breaks and dynamic surface curvature.
Large inch diameter aluminum wheels with performance tires not only benefit handling, but also create a muscular look.
In front, the MDX has a distinctive, advanced Acura look. The platform is long, low and wide to enhance cornering and high-speed stability. The MDX has a significantly wider track than its primary market competitors. As a result it offers dramatic appearance, packaging and utility advantages. The MDX uses a large amount of high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle weight while simultaneously increasing strength. Alternative materials including aluminum and magnesium alloys are also used throughout the vehicle, further reducing vehicle mass, which helps improve fuel economy and increase performance.
Attaining a high level of dynamic body rigidity is essential for precise handling, ride quality and quietness inside the cabin. By researching the body's dynamic response to chassis loads resulting from everyday driving events, MDX engineers considered the unit body's "dynamic stiffness" as an entire system— not just as a single component.
Thus, body rigidity is not an end to itself, but rather it is an enabler for enhanced vehicle dynamics, riding comfort and driving quietness. Instrumented testing revealed that the "tailgate ring" the open area surrounding the tailgate is particularly important for handling, stability and ride.
In the second generation MDX, this area has been markedly stiffened, providing the rear suspension with a more solid mounting and netting an improvement in handling precision. In addition, the MDX's floor frames are wider than before for improved packaging and rigidity.
The use of high-strength steel contributes to improved rigidity, excellent crashworthiness and light weight. High-strength steel is specified in different grades for use in different parts of the vehicle. Some unit body areas using this material include the roof arches, floor cross members, tailgate opening, front rails and body sides. About 4. This material is ideal for certain components such as the hood and instrument panel support, where light weight is preferred and the strength of steel is not imperative.
The hood on the first-generation MDX was constructed of steel, and the weight savings of using aluminum instead of steel for the MDX hood is Aside from using a unique metal conditioner and phosphate dip prior to painting, there are no unique production challenges to using an aluminum hood - and no ownership compromises either.
To improve environmental efficiency, a factory separation line isolates different scrap materials including aluminum for recycling during the manufacturing process. The aluminum instrument panel support saves an additional This support structure, which connects the A-pillars to the front floor crossmember, is a structural element consisting of die cast parts, extrusions and sheet aluminum.
Acura MDX prototypes spent a total of seven weeks in the wind tunnel to test and develop its aerodynamic properties. The attention to detail in aerodynamic efficiency resulted in the development of body side sills that help keep air from moving underneath the vehicle which can cause turbulence. Coefficient of lift and lift balance were also addressed to help keep the MDX stable at high speeds.
Careful attention was paid to reducing wind noise heard inside the MDX cabin. An acoustic wind tunnel was used to identify and correct noise issues, and an added benefit of wind tunnel testing was the ability to rotate the MDX sideways into the airflow. This allowed engineers to approximate even the most severe gusting side winds and solve unexpected and unwanted wind noise that could accompany such severe conditions.
The MDX's moonroof is the widest of any direct competitor. A specially tuned air deflector ensures that the moonroof does not add objectionable wind noise when in the open position— even at highway speeds. Attention to detail in the sealing of the doors and tailgate also heighten the performance of the MDX's overall wind noise level. Engineers attacked noise from virtually every source inside and outside of the MDX.
Their primary goal was to reduce noise at its source. One creative noise-reduction technique is the use of composite seals in the exterior door panels. These composite seals actually serve two purposes - to reduce the transmission of noise through the doors and to shield the interior components from dirt and water while driving through rain or puddles.
The new door insulators provide a substantial reduction in objectionable sound— up to five decibels on some roads. The MDX's door handles are sized for comfort as well as ease of use, regardless whether the user is bare handed or wearing winter gloves. There are three door checker positions the detent mechanism that holds the door partially open instead of the usual two, thus providing a convenient "in between" position useful during tight parking situations.
The door openings are finished with an attractive composite garnish that hides the doorsill when the door is open, and door striker covers are used to improve looks. Normally only sports cars use windshields with high compound curves. Deeply contoured glass is more complex and costly to make, thus it is usually reserved for low-production vehicles. Designers specified deeply curved glass for the MDX for its styling appeal as well as to improve aerodynamic efficiency and quietness.
The MDX uses an acoustic glass front windshield that incorporates a unique PVB film to help quell wind and windshield wiper noise from entering the cabin.
The rear glass is also a deep wrap-around design— the deepest in the Acura product range. The MDX has 3. All glass from the B-pillar rearward has a gray tint to reduce eyestrain and to deter heat buildup inside the cabin. In addition, the outside rearview mirrors use a special blue glass that provides bright imaging along with excellent glare resistance.
The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-color light balance and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers.
The rear suspension features aluminum uprights to reduce unsprung weight for improved response, while special trailing-arm mounting points reduce body squat during acceleration. As part of the available Advance Package, the Active Damper System gives the MDX an elevated level of handling precision designed to satisfy the most discriminating drivers- all while maintaining a smooth ride.
The MDX's Active Damper System features special algorithms that provide two driver-selectable settings-Comfort and Sport-that tailor the suspension dampers for a more comfortable or more sporting ride. Using "active" Magneto-Rheological fluid dampers and predictive computer algorithms, the MDX's Active Damper System can respond in as little as five milliseconds 0.
The Comfort mode allows for a more relaxed driving experience by prioritizing road isolation and reduced passenger fatigue caused by road inputs, while the Sport mode prioritizes handling response and vehicle body control to allow for spirited driving with high levels of precision and vehicle composure.
For excellent stopping power and control, the MDX employs large Interior Attention to detail and supple luxury distinguishes the MDX interior from competitors. Generous use of Milano premium leather with the available Technology Package, excellent look and feel of interior trim materials, relocated front seat headrests for improved comfort, upscale leather stitching such as the Lancia-style stitching on the steering wheel and shift knob , a thick steering wheel grip, and copious use of LED interior lighting make it clear that the MDX is focused on top tier luxury.
The MDX features sport contoured front seats with power actuated way adjustability for the driver seat and 8-way adjustability for the passenger front seat. The second-row outboard seats mirror the style and lateral support of the front seats, giving the interior a unique feel that highlights the MDX's blend of sport and utility.
Convenience and cargo features abound, including under-floor storage in the rear cargo area and a standard power-operated rear tailgate. There are multiple configurations of the MDX's three rows of seating allowing for seven passengers, or enabling a maximum useable cargo volume of With all seats folded down, the MDX has a flat load floor that is perfect for hauling bulky items.
The MDX offers a formidable list of standard equipment including items such as a leather trimmed interior, power moonroof, power windows, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with racing-inspired paddle shifters, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated rear view camera and a tri-zone climate control system with humidity control.
An available Technology Package adds a range of advanced features designed to offer drivers increased connectivity to the world around them along with added driving enjoyment. The display also works with a unique rearview camera system that offers three different rear view angles- normal rear view, wide angle rear view and a tow-friendly top view.
The Technology Package also includes a GPS-linked, solar-sensing tri-zone climate control system that automatically adjusts the air temperature and fan speed according to the position of the sun. The MDX is rich with cutting edge technology features including an Advance Package that replaces and goes beyond the previously available Sport Package. Inside the cockpit, the Advance Package adds ventilated front seats with specially contoured seat foam covered by perforated Milano premium leather, a sport steering wheel with unique design racing-inspired paddle shifters on the steering wheel and textured metallic interior accents.
On the outside, the Advance Package delivers 19x8-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels and auto-leveling HID front headlights. In sport mode, the MDX clicks off its gears and lingers in manual mode for up to 30 seconds as it waits for another quick shift.
The powertrain enables the MDX to step away from stop lights smartly. Acura says the crossover will run to 60 mph in about 7. The glaring error here lies in its electronic power steering. It's far, far too light and fast for a truck of this size and caliber; there's almost a total lack of connection between wheel motions and cornering forces, and that's a shame because retuning available magnetically controlled shocks has cleared up the brittle ride that affected those vehicles.
We used to recommend only the base suspension; now it's up to you and your budget. Acura fits standard all-wheel drive in the MDX. It's a complex setup that can send power to any wheel, based on input from the anti-lock brake sensors at each wheel. The MDX constantly measures grip, hands out more power to the wheels stuck best to the pavement. That ability cuts out most of the sluggish steering feel tht afflicts most all-wheel-drive crossovers. That's why the MDX is more engaging to drive, and why it can be hustled along a curvy road like a smaller, lighter vehicle.
The MDX's cabin is quite roomy. The front seats offer up lots of support, with right-size bolsters and supple leather trim. The foot wells are flat, for better comfort; the step-in's a bit high, though, so shorter drivers will have to clamber into the seats. In the second row, there's a bit less open-door space to climb in, but the seats themselves have good foot room under the front seats, and feel supportive enough for longer drivers.
The MDX's third-row seats are sized for children, as are most of these benches. It's not particularly easy to get in the back, though the MDX's second-row seat tilts and slides forward to expand access to the back.
Storage bins and cubbies are everywhere inside the MDX, and the rear cargo area is large enough to accept a lot of luggage, particularly when the third row is folded down. Even with the third-row seat in the upright position, the MDX has more than15 cubic feet of cargo space.
Both rear rows fold flat for a total of nearly 84 cubic feet of storage. A power tailgate, standard this year, makes loading cargo easier. The MDX is crafted from high-quality materials, and though its busy-looking dash has plenty of buttons, lines, and lights, it's functionally not a difficult place to work. Acura has tinted the woodgrain trim a medium shade of brown, which warms up the cabin a bit from its former grey drabness.
Fit and finish is excellent, typical for Acura, and noise levels are low, especially at highway speeds. The Acura MDX has new safety ratings for the new model year, but unlike many other vehicles, it's maintained a class-leading score from both agencies.
The MDX comes with standard dual front, side and curtain airbags; all-wheel drive; anti-lock brakes, stability, and traction control; active headrests; and a rearview camera. An Advance option package adds on adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot warning system, and a multiple-view rearview camera, but none are available individually--a shame, since we'd opt for the camera and leave behind the bleeps and bloops of the other systems.
Every MDX comes with leather upholstery; power windows, locks and mirrors; heated power front seats; a rearview camera viewed in the rearview mirror; a three-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration; a power tailgate; inch wheels; a six-disc in-dash changer and XM Satellite Radio; a auxiliary audio jack; steering-wheel audio and phone controls; and a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface.
You'll be dumbfounded by the controls at first--and if you buy a base MDX, you won't be offered a USB port or stereo Bluetooth streaming at all, odd omissions in this price class. The Technology package is one we'd highly recommend. Acura bundles some features we'd prefer to order one by one into expensive packages, but this bundle has a lot of the features we'd opt for which some would say, should be standard in a vehicle priced so high.
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