Fifteen years ago, it seemed like everyone starting buying SUVs overnight. Manufacturers scrambled to put their own versions to market, while others, seeing nothing resolutely looking like an SUV in their product pipeline, resorted to swinging a deal with other companies for a quick clone and rebadge.
Back in 1995, Acura had a small lineup of cars including the Integra, the Legend and the mighty NSX. But since they weren't developing their own sport-utility vehicle, Honda knocked on Isuzu's door and both companies agreed to do some vehicle sharing. So, Isuzu provided copies of their Trooper that Acura rebadged as the SLX and sold them in their dealerships from 1996 through 1999.
During that time, Honda created the MDX mid-size sport-utility, which was launched back in 2001. It offered space for 7 passengers and featured all-wheel drive as well as a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Base price was $47,000.
With handsome looks, a competent powertrain and a high level of luxury equipment, the MDX quickly draw rave reviews from the automotive press. It won the North American Truck of the Year award in 2001, and car magazines also chose it as the top SUV of that year.
Vehicle timeline
For the 2003 model year, the MDX received a 20-hp increase, as the 3.5L V6 then developed 260 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. It also gained standard-equipment traction and stability control systems, and revisions were done to the steering and suspension. A rear-seat DVD was then available, but choosing it eliminated the navigation system. Base price was $49,800.
The 2004 model year blessed the MDX with very minor cosmetic changes. Horsepower went up another 5 ponies, and side-curtain airbags were added. You could now get the navigation system and DVD together.
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Back in 1995, Acura had a small lineup of cars including the Integra, the Legend and the mighty NSX. But since they weren't developing their own sport-utility vehicle, Honda knocked on Isuzu's door and both companies agreed to do some vehicle sharing. So, Isuzu provided copies of their Trooper that Acura rebadged as the SLX and sold them in their dealerships from 1996 through 1999.
During that time, Honda created the MDX mid-size sport-utility, which was launched back in 2001. It offered space for 7 passengers and featured all-wheel drive as well as a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Base price was $47,000.
With handsome looks, a competent powertrain and a high level of luxury equipment, the MDX quickly draw rave reviews from the automotive press. It won the North American Truck of the Year award in 2001, and car magazines also chose it as the top SUV of that year.
Vehicle timeline
For the 2003 model year, the MDX received a 20-hp increase, as the 3.5L V6 then developed 260 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. It also gained standard-equipment traction and stability control systems, and revisions were done to the steering and suspension. A rear-seat DVD was then available, but choosing it eliminated the navigation system. Base price was $49,800.
The 2004 model year blessed the MDX with very minor cosmetic changes. Horsepower went up another 5 ponies, and side-curtain airbags were added. You could now get the navigation system and DVD together.
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