Acura MDX
Acura MDX

2017 Acura MDX

Pros: Good fuel economy for the class; surprisingly sporty driving character; quiet cabin; addition of hybrid model

Cons: Unexceptional comfort and space in 2nd and 3rd rows; complicated control layout; steep sticker prices on high-end models

CG Says: The Acura MDX is significantly refreshed for 2017, gaining a hybrid model and exterior styling updates that include a new front fascia with Acura’s “diamond pentagon” grille. Also, the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance and safety features is now standard on every MDX. It includes lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with low-speed-follow functionality, and a collision-mitigating automatic emergency braking system. The 3.5-liter V6 gains a fuel-saving automatic start/stop feature in topline Advance models. The new Sport Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission with an integrated electric motor powering the front wheels; a Twin Motor Unit with two electric motors powers the rear wheels. Total horsepower output is 325, an increase of 35 hp over the regular MDX. The MDX is an exceptionally well-balanced premium midsize SUV. The cabin is quiet and refined, and the driving character is surprisingly sporty for a vehicle of this size. Rear-seat room and comfort are not outstanding, and the control interface has a couple usability issues. Still, this Acura deserves a top spot on your shopping list. Topline versions are quite pricey, but the Base and Technology models deliver lots of safety, convenience, and luxury features at reasonable-for-the-class prices. The new Sport Hybrid model offers a real improvement in fuel economy.

The Facts
Class Premium Midsize SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 7
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Acura
Nation of Manufacture USA
Base Prices Base: $43,950
AWD Base: $45,950
Technology Pkg: $48,360
AWD Technology Pkg: $50,360
Technology and Entertainment Pkg: $50,360
AWD Technology and Entertainment Pkg: $52,360
Advance Pkg: $54,400
AWD Advance Pkg: $56,400
Advance and Entertainment Pkg: $56,400
AWD Advance and Entertainment Pkg: $58,400
AWD Sport Hybrid: $51,960

Base Engine
3.5-liter V6
Horsepower
290
Std. Transmission
9-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
18-20
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
26-27

Optional Engine
3.0-liter V6/electric
Horsepower
325
Std. Transmission
7-speed automated-manual
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
26

Share this: