The Acura MDX, or Honda MDX as known in Japan and Australia, is a mid-size
three-row luxury crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under
its Acura luxury nameplate since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for
"Multi-Dimensional luxury". According to Honda, the MDX is the best-selling
three-row luxury crossover of all time, with cumulative U.S. sales expected to
surpass 700,000 units before the end of 2014. It has ranked as the second-best
selling luxury crossover after the Lexus RX, which offers only two rows of seats.
The MDX was the first crossover SUV to have third-row seating, and shares a
platform with the Honda Pilot. The Pilot seats eight, while the MDX seats seven,
with two seating positions in the third row. The MDX was introduced as a 2001
model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on
the Isuzu Trooper. In Japan, it filled a gap when the Honda Horizon was
discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the Honda MDX went on sale in Japan and Australia.
The MDX has been the most expensive crossover in Acura's lineup, except for
the 2009-13 model years when Acura added a crossover to slot above the MDX,
called the ZDX. First generation
Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the
Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX and Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24
valve V6 with VTEC. 2001-2002 3.5 V6 models produce 240 hp and 245 lb·ft of
torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. 2003-2006 3471 cc model engine produces 265 hp and
253 lb·ft . Curb weight is 4,451 lb, with a 106.3 in wheelbase and 8 in of
ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats.
The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are
small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row
holds three passengers. The vehicle features an automatic four
wheel drive system that engages during off the line acceleration as well as
when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock
mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4wd
and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing
steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise
and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal
cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in the MDX is identical to the VTM-4 systems in
the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline. It is different than the real time AWD
system in the Honda CR-V in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when
traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs.
The Honda CR-V system waits for slippage to occur and then sends power back.
2003 and later models use a revised 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2001
and 2002 models use a 5 speed automatic transmission which suffered a
significant numbers of transmission problems that were similar to the
problems with the Acura CL and TL. However, they did not get the benefit of
the free extended warranty that the Acura CL and TL received, though the
company often paid for the required parts. The 2003 and later models also
received a number of structural and suspension modifications to help improve
ride and handling. As of the Summer 2010 edition, Consumer Reports shows a
drastic increase in reliability in the "Transmission, Major" category, going
from far below average reliability on 01-03 models to above and well above
average reliability on 04+ models. However, according to forum MDXers.org a
significant portion of 05-06 owners have complained of harsh shifting and Acura
has begun issuing recall letters in order to re-flash the computer which
change transmission shift points and torque converter settings. Owners are
reporting smoother shifting but some loss of MPG due to using lower gears.
The navigation system and DVD entertainment system options were
mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time
since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a rear view video
camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005 the navigation system featured
information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003
model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The United States Environmental
Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg-US highway and 17 mpg-US city.
The 2001-2006 MDXs sometimes offered better fuel economy than competing SUVs
and crossovers of similar size, interior volume, and weight due to the
front-wheel drive basis, at the expense of handling and road feel.
In the 2003 model, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp more power
than the 2002 model and wheel designs were updated. The 2004 model received an
additional 5 hp. The 2004 model is credited for a top speed of 137mph, and
a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model features dual tail pipes instead
of the single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights
and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use
matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models.
Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor
revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could now
be had with a dark grey wood, and also a black dash and steering wheel in tan
interiors. Second generation
On April 11, 2006, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept during the New
York International Auto Show, showing to the public an indication about the
exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX. The
second-generation MDX was released on October 17, 2006 in the U.S.
The second generation model's body has a wider track and longer wheelbase than
the previous MDX, but visibility to the rear has worsened from the prior
generation. The redesigned Acura MDX's unit-body was engineered with Honda's
Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure designed to absorb energy from
a collision. The suspension was tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track. The
engine was upgraded to a 3.7 liter V6 tuned for 300 hp at 6,000 rpm and 270
lb·ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds
and is estimated by the EPA to consume 16 miles per US gallon in the city and
21 miles per US gallon on the highway. It is one of the most powerful engines
Honda has produced to date. The "VTM-4" all-wheel drive system on the previous
generation was replaced by the new SH-AWD "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive"
previously debuted on the 2005 Acura RL. This AWD system is one of the most
advanced in its class, featuring an active rear differential often found on
high performance cars. The MDX is able to tow 5,000 lb.
Like all Acuras, the MDX comes with a high level of standard equipment,
including a power moonroof, leather interior, and high intensity discharge
low beam headlights. For the 2007 through 2009 model years, three option
packages were available: Sport, Technology and Entertainment.
The Technology Package includes the Acura/Alpine DVD-based satellite GPS
navigation system with AcuraLink satellite communications with real-time
traffic reporting, a 410-watt Acura/ELS DTS Surround audio system with XM
Satellite Radio, rearview camera, and a remote powered liftgate, operated either
from the key's remote, inside the car or directly from the lift gate.
The Sport Package featured active suspension dampers. The Sport package
also includes unique 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels, perforated
leather seats and the items in the Technology package.
The Entertainment Package offers a flip-down 9-inch LCD screen with 2
wireless Dolby Digital headphones, second-row heated outboard seats, and a
unique center-stack silver trim. The Entertainment Package is only available
on Sport or Technology Package models as compared to the 1st Generation MDX where
the Entertainment Package was available as a standalone package on Touring
Models. All Canadian Acura MDX models, aside
from the heated front seats, also get the second-row heated outboard seats as
standard equipment as well. A feature unique to Canadian MDX models are
headlight washers. In terms of packages, Canadian MDX models get only two:
Technology and Elite. The Technology package corresponds essentially to the
US model's Technology package while the Elite package is an amalgamation of the
US model's Sport and Entertainment packages. However, AcuraLink real-time
traffic reporting through XM NavTraffic is unavailable for Canadian MDX models.
Like the first generation model, the new generation is manufactured exclusively
by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. But along
with the 2007 RDX, the new MDX was the first Acura model to pass the Acura
Quality Line, a special quality control and verification process separate from
the other Honda vehicles. For 2008 the MDX received a new
auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2009 MDX had added more upgrades to the
navigation system and there are two new colors added. The power tailgate,
previously available only with the Entertainment package, is now included
with Technology and Sport packages. In 2010, the MDX received a facelift
adopting to Acura's new "Power Plenum" grille that debuted on its 2009 model
year sedans. The most important upgrades to the 2010 model where a new paddle
shift 6-speed SportShift automatic transmission with downshift
Rev-matching, and an increased in compression ratio to 11.2:1 with forged
aluminum pistons to replace the previous 2007-2009 3.7L's 11.0:1 pistons. An
Advance package became available that included Adaptive Cruise Control, blind
spot monitor, Active Damper Suspension, Collision mitigation braking system,
wider 7-spoked 19 inch wheels and tires, Premium Milano leather ventilated seats
and auto leveling headlights. Non-navigation equipped MDX models now
have a rear view camera monitor located in the rear view mirror.
The redesigned MDX overtook the TL as Acura's top seller in the United States.
In the 2012 model year, 50,854 units of the MDX were sold, making it the
nameplate's top seller, while the Acura TL at 33,572 units was second. It is
also Acura's best-selling vehicle in Canada since the vehicle was redesigned.
Third generation The 2014 MDX Prototype was unveiled at
the 2013 North American International Auto Show, the production version was
revealed at the New York Auto Show. Production began in May 2013; vehicle
assembly shifted from Ontario, Canada to Lincoln, Alabama. US sales began in
June. The MDX is now powered by a 3.5-liter
direct injected Earth Dreams V6 with Variable Cylinder Management. A
front-wheel drive model is available for the first time in the United States, but
not in Canada, where all-wheel drive is the only configuration offered.
EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive models rated at
1821 mpg and FWD models rated at 2023 mpg.
The interior reduced button clutter by adding a 7-inch touchscreen with haptic
feedback, an additional 8-inch screen is also standard. To reduce interior noise
an acoustic windshield, acoustic front door glass and thicker rear glass are
used as well as triple sealed door openings. Advance package models include
further noise reduction using a thicker carpet base layer and front fender
liners. The seating H-point has been reduced and the steering gear ratio is
9% quicker for a more sporty feel. The MDX rides lower reducing its center of
gravity. According to Acura the exterior is more
aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the new model lapping Nürburgring 8
seconds faster than its predecessor. The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED
Headlights. Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three used for
low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. LED bumper mounted fog lamps
are offered as a dealer installed option.
Structure rigidity is improved and weight reduced through increased use of
high-strength steel. Overall, 64% of the total vehicle body mass is high strength
steel, aluminum and magnesium. HSS makes up 59% of vehicle body mass; 1,500 MPa
yield strength steel makes up 7%. A single ring-like hot stamped HSS
component reinforces the A-pillar, roof rail, B-pillar, and lower floor rail
encircling the front doors for improved crash protection. Acura states that
after conducting a simulated IIHS 25% small offset frontal crash test the
front doors will open with normal force. In terms of safety the MDX adds a
standard driver's knee airbag, optional Lane Keeping Assist System and Collision
Mitigation Braking System. The Adaptive Cruise Control now comes with stop and
go functionality. On August 19, 2013, the 2014 MDX was in
a comparison test by Edmunds with the 2013 Lexus RX and 2014 Infiniti QX60.
The MDX beat out its competition with the RX in 3rd and QX60 in 2nd. Edmunds
said "The 2014 Acura MDX just had too many 'bests' to be denied: the best
handling, the best front seats, the quickest acceleration, the largest max
cargo capacity and the potential for the best fuel economy. And without question,
it's the driver's SUV of the trio." 1 vehicle structure rated "Good"
2 strength-to-weight ratio: 5.87 = Marketing =
As part of 2014 Acura MDX launch in the United States, a campaign called 'The
Extremely New MDX - Made for Mankind' was produced. The campaign highlights
the complete technical transformation of the MDX and centers around the idea of
"Made for Mankind," a concept designed to highlight the unique engineering and
design philosophy at the heart of all Acura vehicles - the synergy between man
and machine. The campaign was developed by Mullen and with MediaVest. Also, a
series of 8 comedic commercials were created with comedian Jerry Seinfeld and
director Barry Sonnenfeld. In addition, Acura became an exclusive sponsor of
Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Awards
The MDX won the North American Truck of the Year award for 2001.
The MDX was also Car and Driver magazine's Best Luxury SUV in 2001.
Motor Trend magazine's Sport/Utility of the Year in 2001.
The MDX also won the Top Safety Pick award for the 2007 model year.
The 2010 Acura MDX ranked #1 Luxury Midsize SUV by US News and World Report
as of 2010 Sales figures
References External links
MDX Official Site MDX Enthusiast Site
Official Acura News