There are two sides to the Acura MDX. It can serve as the cool three-row sport utility vehicle that laboriously can take a carload of kids to various destinations, or be the comfortable, classy mode of travel for a small family.
Now in its eighth year of production by Honda’s luxury division, the 2017 Acura MDX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that is appealing for a variety of reasons.
The MDX arrives with some changes this year, but remains one of the standouts in this segment. The most notable changes are the inclusion of a sport hybrid, new front end, grille, and headlight design, electronic parking brake, and available safety features that can be added to the standard package.
The MDX has plenty of competition in the Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, Infiniti QX60, BMW X5 and Buick Enclave.
We previously tested the traditional MDX and this time spent a week with the new MDX Sport Hybrid. It passed the test here, surprisingly offering lots of performance. The hybrid model features a 3.0-liter, V6 that generates 325 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque.
It has three electric motors, plus a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Note that the hybrid is available only with the Technology or Advance package and costs roughly $52,000.
The Acura MDX has one very solid standard engine, a 3.5-liter, V6 that produces 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. However, a turbocharged option would be a nice addition, since that’s a popular choice these days.
The base model is front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with (SH-AWD) is an option. The MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Even without the Sport mode engaged, the MDX offers a good ride. It handles with ease in any around-town driving and demonstrates its agility when challenged by an S-curve road or maneuvering in freeway traffic. In Sport mode, the MDX shows off a little more and does it with a pleasing engine roar.
A smart interior characterizes the MDX. It has an appealing look with leather upholstery, quality material, and a very sensible layout. The interior has both an upper and lower touchscreen that are intuitive in nature. A few interior tweaks were added this year.
We love that the third row is so easily accessed. One push of the second-row seat button will flip up and provide access for two rear seats. Can it get any easier? Comfort is also a plus with the MDX, with the exception of the third row, which is only comfortable for a child. Front and back seat folks will enjoy the head and leg room.
The third row eats up much of the trunk space (15.8 cubic feet), but fold it down and there is ample storage capacity.
2017 Acura MDX
- Performance: 3.5-liter, V6, 290 horsepower; 3.0, V-6 hybrid, 325 horsepower
- Mileage estimate range: 19-27 mph; 25-26 mpg
- Price: $44,890 – $51,850
- Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles; drivetrain 6 years/70,000 miles;
roadside assistance 4 years/50,000; corrosion 5 years/unlimited
The MDX provides good value for the price (approximately $45,000). It has strong upside, providing a fun SUV to drive with good performance, strong handling, comfortable ride, and very few flaws.
Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel. His “Weidel on Wheels” auto reviews are featured periodically on this website at www.tahoeskiworld.com.
