Posted on Feb 27, 2017 in
AUTO REVIEW
absolutely! AUTO REVIEW | By Steve Kursar –
The 2017 Acura MDX is the serious upgraded version of the popular, midsize crossover from Honda’s luxury brand. Stylish, peppy, roomy and chock full of high-tech features, this new MDX is sure to continue to attract growing families who want to avoid the minivan stigma.
The first generation Acura MDX was introduced back in 2000 at a time when American car buyers were getting hooked on luxury SUVs. Even though the first MDX shared a platform with the decidedly unexciting Honda Accord, this luxury crossover received rave reviews from the car buying public, because this all-wheel drive vehicle was really fun to drive. Also, Acura designers worked hard to incorporate loads of technology into the MDX, a tradition that continues to this day.
The high-tech feel of the 2017 MDX begins in the driver’s seat. The panoply pushbuttons that surround the driver are deliberately placed to make you feel that you’re in a plane cockpit. There is a suite of safety and driver assistive technologies designed to keep the MDX’s occupants safe including Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Road Departure Mitigation. The Surround-View Camera System that has six selectable viewing angles may make you forget about using your rear-view mirror while backing up.
The transmission shifter normally in the center console has been replaced by pushbuttons that both save space and give the cockpit a very modern feel. If you feel the need to shift gears, don’t worry, there are racing-inspired paddle shifters on the steering wheel connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The only engine option is a 290 hp, 3.5 liter, direct-inject V6 engine that utilizes all cylinders at top acceleration but uses only four while cruising to save fuel. Both front-wheel drive and Acura’s terrific Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system are available. The SH-AWD setup delivers great driving performance and makes this three-row crossover into a large sports car. And with the SH-AWD option, the MDX EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
The MDX starts with an MSRP of $44,050 for the base front-wheel drive version. The all-fun driving SH-AWD model has a $2,000 premium that’s well worth it. If you’re looking for a kid hauler that’s the opposite of stodgy, the 2017 Acura MDX has to be on your shopping list.
Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com.
