2005 Acura MDX Road Test

This rig is so good first time around there's little need to await a replacement. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Sensitivities aside, this is one fine mid-size SUV that knows how to treat its occupants with class, for less coin than many of its premium brand competitors. It pulls all of the SUV virtues together in a reasonably fuel-efficient, reasonably-priced, reasonably-sized package. Although pushing 6-years without a major facelift or revision is an eternity in the world of automotive manufacturing, the MDX has pulled it off. This rig is so good first time around there's little need to await a replacement--or a harvest moon, so shine on MDX. Sorry Neil.

Specifications:

Price Range (MSRP): $50,800 - $56,400
Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
Layout: front engine, 4WD
Engine: 265 hp, 253 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L, SOHC, 24-valve V6
Transmission: 5-spd auto with locking torque converter
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Curb Weight: 2,046 kg (4,511 lbs)
Cargo Volume (max): 2,308 L (81.5 cu ft)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.1 / 9.4 L/100 km
Fuel Type: premium unleaded
Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
Direct Competitors: Audi Allroad, BMW X5, Buick Rainier, Cadillac SRX, Chrysler Pacifica, Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Infiniti FX35/45, Lexus RX 330, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Nissan Murano, Toyota Sequoia, Volvo XC90, Volkswagen Touareg
Web Site: www.acura.ca