Acura MDX
| Acura MDX | |
|---|---|
| Acura MDX | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Honda Motor Company |
| Production | 2001–present |
| Designer | Frank Paluch (engineering), Ricky Hsu (styling) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mid-size crossover SUV |
| Related | Acura TL Acura TSX Honda Accord Honda Odyssey Honda Pilot |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in (2.7 m) |
| Curb weight | 4451 lb |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Acura SLX |
The Acura MDX (Honda MDX in Japan and Australia) is a mid-size SUV built by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. It was introduced in late 2000 as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. In 2003, the MDX went on sale in Japan. It competes with the Lexus RX, Infiniti FX35, BMW X3, Hummer H3 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The 2007 introduction of the Acura RDX moved the MDX from the entry-level to the top-line SUV, changing its competitors to the Lexus GX, BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne, Land Rover LR3 and Infiniti FX45.
Characteristics
Derived from Honda's Global Mid-size Platform that underpins cars like the Honda Accord, Acura TL, Acura TSX and the Honda Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 with VTEC. This 3471 cc (3.5 in x 3.6 in) engine produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 ft.lbf (343 Nm). Curb weight is 4451 lb (2019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2.7 m) wheelbase and 8 in (203 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers. The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system that engages only when wheel slippage is detected. The system runs as front wheel drive during normal operation.
The navigation system and DVD entertainment system options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a rear view video camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005 the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV.) EPA estimates 23 mpg (10.23 L/100km) highway and 17 mpg (13.84 L/100km) city.
In the 2004 model, the engine was improved to produce 5 hp (4 kW) more power than the 2003 model. The 2004 model features dual tail pipes instead of the single pipe in earlier models. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim.
Awards
The MDX won the North American Truck of the Year award for 2001. The MDX was also Car and Driver magazine's Best Luxury SUV and Motor Trend magazine's Sport/Utility of the Year that year [1].
2007 Acura MDX
On April 11, 2006 during the New York International Auto Show, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept, showing to the public an indication about the exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX due for Fall of 2006. However, Acura has been silent as to the new model's pricing, features and performance specifications. The only information known at the moment is that the 2007 MDX's body will feature a wider track and a longer wheelbase. Its suspension is tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track. Its engine is all-new and the most powerful in Acura's lineup. When coupled with the Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system, the upcoming MDX will provide class-leading powertrain and handling performance among its current V6 competitors. Also, the 2007 Acura MDX will finally be equipped with High Intensity Discharge headlights. This 2nd generation Acura MDX will continue to be manufactured by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada.