Redesigned MDX shows promising future for Acura
Fresh off an overdue redesign, Acura’s fourth-generation MDX boasts great additions and upgrades to the seven-passenger SUV. Acura’s new flagship vehicle has an athletic stature as well as a more sophisticated design.
The enlarged front emblem and fascia are nothing new — you’ll see them in the RDX and TLX. The MDX has grown — overall length is up 2.2 inches while the wheelbase has increased almost 3 inches. The new light truck platform and double-wishbone front suspension has improved handling and collision integrity from a more rigid subframe. Passengers also get a smoother ride.
The 2022 MDX runs with the Audi Q7, Lexus RX 350L and Volvo’s XC90. We enjoyed the test ride’s Super Handling All Wheel Drive Advance model … nicely clad in “Red Pearl.”
A dream to ride in, its interior is spacious and comfortable. Multiple drive modes are available with a twist of a dial. We utilized Sport mode most of the time but Comfort was exceptional on the highway. Trim options escalate from the well-equipped MDX starting at $46,900 without AWD, to the Tech, A-Spec and then Advanced. The MDX with Advance package, which we tested, has standard AWD and a base price of $60,650.
Safety leads the way for Acura with its exceptional ability to detect vehicles, as well as pedestrians in your path. Other capabilities of AcuraWatch, Acura’s standard suite of driver assistive technologies, include low-speed braking, driver attention monitor, traffic jam assist and road departure mitigation, all of which we used on our weeklong test.
In the powertrain, the 290 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 SOHC i-VTEC engine was quiet and powerful. Aligned with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, acceleration was brisk and responsive.
A 12.3-inch HD driver display and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen is standard on all models. The heads-up display was bold and crisp. The infotainment system took some time to get used to, but with the help of Amazon Alexa, it was simple. Simply ask, and consider it done. Additional features on the MDX tested included wireless charging, panoramic sunroof, HD rearview camera, an ELS Studio 3D Premium audio system and selectable ambient lighting with 27 interior lighting color options.
Our love for Acura is no secret. It makes usable, sporty-luxury vehicles for all types of consumers. Whether you need a daily driver, a vehicle the neighbor doesn’t have, or just want the overall great experience of a classy vehicle, Acura has it. I know some families who look forward to a new Lexus RX 350L in their future, but I think the new MDX is a better option.
Acura MDX Advance
MSRP: $60,650
As tested: $61,675
MPG: 19 city, 25 highway, 24.6 as tested
from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3tSZ02C
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