Teresa’s View

Sat., Feb. 17, 2007

Teresa Mccallion Marketing Department Columnist

Although the Acura MDX is a car-based, crossover SUV, it’s never felt like a poser. There’s nothing loud, rude or otherwise off-putting. No “Look at Me!” wheels or brawn-inspired chrome; just composed, sophisticated efficiency. In fact, when the MDX was introduced in 2000 as a 2001 model, it was criticized for its rather bland exterior. The rig’s first generation redesign addresses that issue with a “love it” or “hate it” redo. The main point of contention seems to be the protruding nose and toothy grille that sets off a longer, wider and lower body.

Since Acura engineers didn’t have to scramble to accommodate our more recent taste for luxury sedan-like sport-utes, they could focus on fun stuff, like honing the on-road experience at Germany’s Nurburgring racetrack, improving the MDX’s already first-rate ride and handling.

A new 3.7-liter V-6 VTEC engine sits under the hood. It delivers 300 horsepower — more than any other V-6-powered SUV. The downside is it takes premium fuel, but EPA ratings are a tolerable 17 mpg city/22 highway.

The MDX is outfitted with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System that not only directs power to the front and rear wheels, but side-to-side as well. The result is a sure-footed companion and a warm, happy feeling.

Among the many upgrades in this year’s redesign is driver comfort. The new 10-way power driver’s seat includes power-adjustable lumbar and my beloved heated seats. A tilt and telescoping, leather-wrapped steering wheel helps everyone find a comfortable driving position.

Acura owners love that they hardly ever see the inside of a service department. The MDX is said to require no scheduled tune-ups in the first 100K-plus miles under normal conditions, and comes with Acura’s Total Luxury Care (TLC) service that includes 24-hour roadside assistance.

What Is It?: The 2007 Acura MDX is a seven-passenger, midsize luxury crossover SUV, offered in a single trim with a choice of either the Technology or Sport package. Prices for the MDX start in the $41K-plus range.

Gadget Rating: 8.5 out of 10. Instead of hiding controls for the long list of features behind a display screen, the MDX lays out every gizmo’s button on the cascading center console. Although I’m not fond of the former method, the sheer number of buttons on the MDX can be overwhelming on first glance. The 8-inch display screen, nestled in the dash, is home to my favorite navigation system. Pop for the Technology Package to add voice recognition and real-time traffic reports, plus a clever climate control system that works with the GPS to automatically adjust the cabin temperature based on the angle of the sun.

The Back Seat: The second row seating is fabulous. However, once in the third-row seat, one immediately notices there’s virtually no leg- or headroom. The third row folds neatly into the floor for added cargo room.

Cheat Sheet: Acura is the luxury division of Honda.

So, Where Are Ya From?: The MDX is assembled in Alliston, Ontario, Canada.

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