2014 Acura MDX: Riding, Driving And Looking More Like A Luxury Crossover

Highlights: The MDX is being built at Honda’s Manufacturing Assembly Plant in Alabama.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $57,400 (Base Price Starts at $43,185.)

Seating Capacity: 7 occupants

Standard Safety Features: airbags (driver, passenger, side and knee); ABS; LED daytime running lights; rollover sensors; side impact door beams; vehicle stability system; traction control system; electronic brake distribution; a multi-view rear back up camera; and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Standard Equipment: 18-inch wheels; power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel; tri-zone automatic climate control system; a tri-zone automatic climate control system; power heated side mirrors; power moonroof; a push button keyless starter; heated front seats; three rows of seats; a one-touch button to access the third row seats; and leather seats.


Standard Audio: an 8-speaker, 432-watt audio system with AM/FM/CD/HD/XM Satellite radio

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles

Bluetooth Compatibility: Included

MP3 Capability: Included

ipod Capability: Included

a USB audio interface: Included

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.5- liter, 290-horsepower

Standard Fuel Mileage: 20-city/23-hwy (non all-wheel drive model)

Fuel Type: Premium

Other MDX models:

Base
Technology
Technology And Entertainment
Advance Entertainment Package
Advance Entertainment Package

What’s New: The third-generation Acura MDX has a slightly longer wheelbase for the 2014 model year. And for the first time, the MDX is now available as a non all-wheel drive model, which modestly increases the gas mileage and lowers the price tag.

Pros: On the surface the MDX looks the same as the model it replaces. However, upon a closer examination, one will notice significant improvements such as a slightly longer vehicle and LED headlights. Inside the vehicle are the big changes. The third-generation MDX now rides more like a Buick due to its revised front and rear suspension systems. The leather seats also offer more padding, providing a more luxurious ride. Also there is easier access to the third row seating area with the one-touch power feature. In fact, the second and third rows can be easily folded to provide additional cargo space inside the MDX.

The MDX also offer a range of trim packages too, meeting the needs of its buyers. Depending upon the trim, buyers can opt for a rear DVD entertainment system, a 12-speaker, 540-watt audio system, a Forward Collision Alert system, a Lane Departure Warning system, a Collision Mitigation Braking system, an Adaptive Cruise Control system, and a Blind Spot system. 

Moreover, the MDX is available in a front-wheel drive and a rear-wheel drive configuration. 

Cons:  At first glance, the redesigned 2014 MDX looks similar to the 2013 model. Also the MDX is equipped with a third-row seat which is not suitable for the average adult for long rides. Also when all three rows are is in use, the cargo room is reduced significantly.

Moreover, the luxurious MDX lacks a heated steering wheel. Even the Kia products offer heated steering wheel with most of its vehicles. Surely if Kia, a non-luxury brand, can offer such a feature, Acura should have it as part of their packaging too.

Furthermore, the rear camera view is obstructed by the rear tailgate design of the MDX.

 

The Verdict:  Although the styling looks similar to the outgoing to 2013 model, Acura MDX has made significant improvements with the third-generation Acura MDX. With the revised suspension systems, the availability of a front-wheel drive model, the additional available high-tech safety features and the additional padding for the leather seating area, the Acura MDX truly feels and rides more like a luxury vehicle than the model it replaces.  

The well-built restyled Acura is a worthy contender for those seeking a well-equipped, seven-passenger road warrior.  

Competition:  Audi Q7, Buick Enclave and Infiniti JX  (renamed Infiniti QX60)