Acura was one of the first car companies to begin the transition from segregated models under the labels of hatchbacks and SUVs, to crossover vehicles, which combined the most valuable assets from both worlds. This was first achieved with the release of the Acura MDX, which provided an advantage over its competitors in luxury SUV comparison tests, with the swivelling ability of its 3rd row seats. In addition to providing a lot of space, the original MDX proudly asserted its sporty nature, with its dynamic four-wheel drive option. Depending on the terrain in question, this intelligent system would switch back and forth between four and two-wheel drive mode, without requiring any instruction from the driver. However, although the MDX appeared to be rough and rugged on the surface, it failed to live up to the likes of Jeep in terms of luxury SUV comparison criteria, such as the ability to perform in off-road situations.
The MDX was a car aimed almost entirely at families with unrealized outdoor aspirations. The MDX left somewhat to be desired in terms of character and driving pleasure, especially when one looked to other brands in luxury SUV comparison magazines. One was always left with an impression of being unimpressed at this car, either as the driver, a passenger or a passer-by. Despite this, the MDX sold very well amongst American families with above average household income. This could be partly due to the aggressive advertising campaign that was held initially by Acura, in order to move the MDX to the top of luxury SUV comparison charts.
The new Acura MDX continues the legacy of being a family car, due to its seating arrangement, copious luggage space and child safety features. However, the company did take the complaints, found in luxury SUV comparison forums, into account in redesigning the MDX. This is noticeable due partly to the improved exterior of the vehicle. The once tame look of the MDX has been transformed into a more aggressive car, with a lower body, a larger front grill and thinner headlights. The sides of the MDX have also received bulges, which serve in lending the vehicle a more pronounced presence on the road.
The performance of the MDX has also been vastly improved with the introduction of a modern V6 engine, which lends the car a much lighter feeling during acceleration. The MDX has also received a complete overhaul in its gear system, with the integration of an intelligent four-wheel drive. This functions especially well in road tests, due to the fact that the gearbox and engine were designed with each other in mind, meaning there were no issues with respect to integration of the two.
The interior of the MDX is totally unrecognizable, having been completely redesigned in line with modern trimmings and features. All in all, the MDX now proudly leads the pack in Acura’s showroom, having become a marvel of modern engineering and aesthetics. It is certainly one of the recommended SUVs in terms of design, performance and luxury. One can even go as far as grouping the MDX together with much more expensive brands.