If you like to rev
The larger displacement 3.7L V6 pumps out 300 hp, 50 more than the previous 3.5L and 275 lb/ft of torque. The extra grunt is especially noticeable once the rev-counter runs north of 4,500 rpm. For highway passing, this peaky powerband is ideal. The 3.7L is lively and emits a pleasing muscular sound. The story is a little different when starting off from a dead start. There is an annoying noticeable lag from idle to about 2 grand. If you are taking off smoothly from a stoplight, it will not be much of a problem. It could be the moment you put the hammer down from a full stop.
Like any good Acura product, road manners are impeccable. The ride is seriously cosseting as well as confidence inspiring. Tossing the big MDX into a corner only mildly upsets passengers as the truck's chassis and suspension work in unison to counter any unwanted reactions. Perhaps my favourite aspect of the MDX's driving dynamics is its steering: It is deliberately heavy and sporty.
The difference between it and the RDX is drastic. It is almost as though Honda forgot to tune the RDX's rack and pinion for proper feel and assistance. Another strong point is the brakes; the combined stopping power and a pedal that can be easily modulated make the MDX a surprisingly reassuring vehicle to drive. The MDX feels substantial and almost rewarding. The total package, drive, assembly and styling make the driver-owner realise that they have made a wise choice.
Acura's future
According to a source, 2006 was a tough year for Acura; sales of the TL were still strong but the same could not be said about the TSX, MDX, RL and even the new CSX. Hopefully, the new duo composed of the RDX and MDX will have luxury vehicle buyers back into Acura dealerships. Their products are amongst the best engineered and designed in the business. Although the previous MDX was getting old, it was still an excellent luxury family hauler. The 2007 is even better.
The MDX's price range is from $57,700 to $61,000 for an Elite.
Good stuff:
Interior fit, finish and design
Seats
No so good stuff:
3.7L lacks low-end grunt
Competitors:
BMW X5
Volvo XC90
Infiniti FX
Lexus RX
Mercedes M-Class
Audi Q7
Cadillac Escalade
photo:Mathieu St-Pierre
The larger displacement 3.7L V6 pumps out 300 hp, 50 more than the previous 3.5L and 275 lb/ft of torque. The extra grunt is especially noticeable once the rev-counter runs north of 4,500 rpm. For highway passing, this peaky powerband is ideal. The 3.7L is lively and emits a pleasing muscular sound. The story is a little different when starting off from a dead start. There is an annoying noticeable lag from idle to about 2 grand. If you are taking off smoothly from a stoplight, it will not be much of a problem. It could be the moment you put the hammer down from a full stop.
 |
| The 3.7L V6 offers a 50 hp upgrade. |
Like any good Acura product, road manners are impeccable. The ride is seriously cosseting as well as confidence inspiring. Tossing the big MDX into a corner only mildly upsets passengers as the truck's chassis and suspension work in unison to counter any unwanted reactions. Perhaps my favourite aspect of the MDX's driving dynamics is its steering: It is deliberately heavy and sporty.
The difference between it and the RDX is drastic. It is almost as though Honda forgot to tune the RDX's rack and pinion for proper feel and assistance. Another strong point is the brakes; the combined stopping power and a pedal that can be easily modulated make the MDX a surprisingly reassuring vehicle to drive. The MDX feels substantial and almost rewarding. The total package, drive, assembly and styling make the driver-owner realise that they have made a wise choice.
Acura's future
According to a source, 2006 was a tough year for Acura; sales of the TL were still strong but the same could not be said about the TSX, MDX, RL and even the new CSX. Hopefully, the new duo composed of the RDX and MDX will have luxury vehicle buyers back into Acura dealerships. Their products are amongst the best engineered and designed in the business. Although the previous MDX was getting old, it was still an excellent luxury family hauler. The 2007 is even better.
The MDX's price range is from $57,700 to $61,000 for an Elite.
 |
Good stuff:
Interior fit, finish and design
Seats
No so good stuff:
3.7L lacks low-end grunt
Competitors:
BMW X5
Volvo XC90
Infiniti FX
Lexus RX
Mercedes M-Class
Audi Q7
Cadillac Escalade
photo:Mathieu St-Pierre
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