Fulfillment is also found behind the wheel
The ability to accommodate seven passengers and plenty of gear is an attribute of most mid and large size SUVs, and that’s certainly the case with Acura’s contribution to this popular automotive segment. Setting the MDX apart from others in this category is its Nurburgring-tuned underpinnings and its Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) traction.
But before a vehicle can showcase its pavement prowess, it needs motivation. In the case of the MDX, motivation—or is that “motorvation”—comes from Acura’s 3.7-litre SOHC V-TEC V6. This modern mill sends 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque through a 6-speed autobox to the rubber at all four corners.
And how much of that output each corner receives is regulated by Acura’s sophisticated SH-AWD, which has the ability to side-split torque between the right and left wheels. This functionality enables the system to send extra torque to the outside wheels when cornering.
The physics majors among us can explain the science in operation here more eloquently than I am able. Suffice for me to say that the torque-splitting process enables the outside wheels to drive their way through a corner rather than being forced through like a kid entering a dental office.
Whether an expert driver or not, all motorists would undoubtedly appreciate the MDX’s reassuring, nimble handling characteristics. For a large sled, this vehicle is remarkably athletic. It’s also relatively fast in the passing lane.
Despite being two cylinders shy of a V8, the Acura powerplant really comes alive when asked to exert itself. Along with the production of vigorous acceleration, the engine emits a commanding growl as the V-TEC variable valve technology kicks in.
Unlike the Honda Ridgeline I recently tested, the MDX is equipped with shift paddles. I found their presence to be a welcomed asset, especially to apply engine-braking when decelerating or descending a hill. In addition to their utility in such driving scenarios, the shift paddles add a dose of sportiness to administering the MDX.
The ability to accommodate seven passengers and plenty of gear is an attribute of most mid and large size SUVs, and that’s certainly the case with Acura’s contribution to this popular automotive segment. Setting the MDX apart from others in this category is its Nurburgring-tuned underpinnings and its Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) traction.
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| The “motorvation”—comes from Acura’s 3.7-litre SOHC V-TEC V6. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
But before a vehicle can showcase its pavement prowess, it needs motivation. In the case of the MDX, motivation—or is that “motorvation”—comes from Acura’s 3.7-litre SOHC V-TEC V6. This modern mill sends 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque through a 6-speed autobox to the rubber at all four corners.
And how much of that output each corner receives is regulated by Acura’s sophisticated SH-AWD, which has the ability to side-split torque between the right and left wheels. This functionality enables the system to send extra torque to the outside wheels when cornering.
The physics majors among us can explain the science in operation here more eloquently than I am able. Suffice for me to say that the torque-splitting process enables the outside wheels to drive their way through a corner rather than being forced through like a kid entering a dental office.
Whether an expert driver or not, all motorists would undoubtedly appreciate the MDX’s reassuring, nimble handling characteristics. For a large sled, this vehicle is remarkably athletic. It’s also relatively fast in the passing lane.
Despite being two cylinders shy of a V8, the Acura powerplant really comes alive when asked to exert itself. Along with the production of vigorous acceleration, the engine emits a commanding growl as the V-TEC variable valve technology kicks in.
Unlike the Honda Ridgeline I recently tested, the MDX is equipped with shift paddles. I found their presence to be a welcomed asset, especially to apply engine-braking when decelerating or descending a hill. In addition to their utility in such driving scenarios, the shift paddles add a dose of sportiness to administering the MDX.
 |
| Unlike the Honda Ridgeline I recently tested, the MDX is equipped with shift paddles. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |