The MDX carries a 3.7L V6 VTEC engine that achieves 300 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. This kind of performance does require 91-octane gasoline, but Acura makes up for it with no scheduled tune-ups for 100,000 miles. The MDX is the first Acura to have their new sequential SportShift automatic 6-speed transmission installed.
The MDX utilizes Acura's Super Handling all-wheel drive system, which was designed to grip the road all weather conditions. The system includes Hill Logic, which puts power to the rear wheels on steep inclines. There's independent suspension front and rear and 18-inch wheels with 4-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes and brake assist. The system was refined on the famously grueling and twisty Nurburgring course in Germany.
The MDX has done well in safety testing, thanks to standard equipment such as stability assist, tire pressure monitoring, six airbags and energy-absorbing knee bolsters. The optional Collision Mitigation Braking System uses a radar transmitter behind the grille to determine the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead of the MDX. If there's a possible collision about to occur, the driver first gets a visual warning. If no action is taken, the system tenses the seatbelt and applies light braking. If the collision is unavoidable, the system goes right for strong braking and tightened seatbelts.
The interior features power-adjustable, heated front seats and theater-style raised second-row seats that slide forward for easy access to the third row. Three-zone automatic climate control is standard, along with power windows and moonroof. A 6-CD stereo system with XM satellite radio has speed-dependent volume that adjusts as you drive.
The Technology Package adds a navigation system with Zagat restaurant reviews and real-time traffic, a 10-speaker sound system with iPod integration and USB, voice recognition and GPS-linked temperature control. It even adds a premium leather-trimmed upgrade to the interior.
The Advance Package includes everything above, plus and active damper sport suspension, perforated leather-trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, a blind spot information system, adaptive cruise control and the Collision Mitigation Braking System. It also gets 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels and auto-leveling headlights.
The Entertainment Package can be added to either the Technology or Advance package. It brings a DVD entertainment system to the rear seats, heated second-row seats and a 115-volt power outlet to the front center console.
Lots Of Power With Good Handling
Tons Of Available Technology
Luxurious Cabin
Following significant styling revisions last year, the 2011 Acura MDX sees no major changes.
This 7-seater MDX has a nice array of standard features even at the base level and includes a lengthy options list. There's plenty of room for a family and its gear--and the MDX includes 10 cupholders for just such duty. Fit and finish are excellent across the board including a very quiet cabin. Super Handling all-wheel drive is more for on-pavement performance than off-roading, but for those looking for a minivan or station wagon upgrade, the MDX performs admirably.
