The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under its luxury Acura division since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for "Multi-Dimensional" luxury. It has ranked as the second-best selling mid-size luxury SUV after the Lexus RX in the U.S.
The MDX was introduced on October 5, 2000 as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. In Japan, it was made to replace the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) which was discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the vehicle went on sale in Japan and Australia as the Honda MDX; sales with Honda badges ended with the introduction of the second generation three years later.
Contents
First generation (YD1; 2001)
Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX and Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 gasoline engine with VTEC. Curb weight is 4,451 lb (2,019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase and 8 in (200 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row holds three passengers.
The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system (named VTM-4) that engages during off the line acceleration as well as when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4WD and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in the MDX has the same design as the VTM-4 systems found in the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline. It is different than Honda's "RealTime AWD" system in the Honda CR-V and other models in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs (by monitoring throttle inputs).
The navigation system and DVD entertainment system (also popular on other Honda/Acura models, such as the CR-V and Odyssey) options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a backup camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005, the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) highway and 17 mpg‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑imp) city.
The first two model years' 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 240 hp (179 kW) and 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) of torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. For the 2003 model year, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp (15 kW) more power than the earlier models, and the wheel designs were updated. The 2004 through 2006 engine received a modest increase in power and produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 lb⋅ft (343 N⋅m). The 2004 model is credited with a top speed of 137 mph, and a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model year features dual tail pipes instead of the single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during 2005 for the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could be available with a dark grey wood (as opposed to reddish wood on earlier models), and also a black dash and steering wheel in tan interiors.
Second generation (YD2; 2007)
On April 11, 2006, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept during the New York International Auto Show, showing to the public an indication about the exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX. The second-generation MDX was release in the U.S. on October 17, 2006, for the 2007 model year.
The second generation model's body has a wider track and longer wheelbase than the previous MDX. There is less visibility to the rear compared to the prior generation, however an available backup camera compensates for this. The redesigned Acura MDX's unit-body was engineered with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure designed to absorb energy from a collision. The suspension was tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track.
The engine was upgraded to a 3.7-liter (3664 cc) V6 gasoline engine tuned to 300 hp (224 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 270 lb⋅ft (366 N⋅m) of torque at 5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and is estimated by the EPA to consume 16 miles per US gallon (15 L/100 km; 19 mpg‑imp) in the city and 21 miles per US gallon (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp) on the highway. It is one of the most powerful engines Honda has produced to date. The MDX is able to tow 5,000 lb (2,300 kg).
The "VTM-4" all-wheel drive system on the previous generation was replaced by the new SH-AWD "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive" previously debuted on the 2005 Acura RL. This AWD system is one of the most advanced in its class, featuring an active rear differential often found on high performance cars, which somewhat mitigates the nose-heaviness of the MDX's traverse engine platform so it can dynamically compete with the longitudinal engine layout crossover SUVs. The latter types of vehicles, such as the BMW X5 or Audi Q5, have a more balanced 50/50 front/rear distribution for better handling, but have less efficient packaging for passenger/cargo room.
Like many Acura models, the MDX comes with a power sunroof, leather interior, and high-intensity discharge (Xenon) low-beam headlights. For the 2007 through 2009 model years, three option packages were available: Sport, Technology and Entertainment.
The Technology Package includes the Acura/Alpine DVD-based satellite GPS navigation system with AcuraLink satellite communications with real-time traffic reporting (XM NavTraffic), a 410-watt Acura/ELS DTS Surround audio system with XM Satellite Radio, backup camera, and a remote powered liftgate, operated either from the key's remote, inside the car or directly from the lift gate.
Third generation (YD3/4/7; 2014)
The 2014 MDX Prototype was unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, the production version was revealed at the New York Auto Show. Production began on May 2, 2013; vehicle assembly shifted from Ontario, Canada to Lincoln, Alabama. US sales began on June 20, 2013, for the 2014 model year
The MDX is powered by a 3.5-liter direct injected Earth Dreams V6 gasoline engine with Variable Cylinder Management. A front-wheel drive (FWD) model is available for the first time, in Canada all-wheel drive remains the only configuration offered. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) models rated at 18 mpg‑US (13 L/100 km; 22 mpg‑imp)/27 mpg‑US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg‑imp)/21 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp) (city/highway/combined) and FWD models rated at 20 mpg‑US (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg‑imp)/28 mpg‑US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg‑imp)/23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) (city/highway/combined).
The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED Headlights (first introduced on the RLX). Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three used for low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. LED bumper mounted fog lamps are offered as a dealer installed option.
The interior reduced button clutter by adding a 7-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback, an additional 8-inch screen is also standard. To reduce interior noise an acoustic (PVB layered) windshield, acoustic front door glass and thicker rear glass are used as well as triple sealed door openings. Advance package models include further noise reduction using a thicker carpet base layer and front fender liners. The seating H-point has been reduced.
According to Acura the exterior is more aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the new model lapping Nürburgring 8 seconds faster than its predecessor. The steering gear ratio is 9% quicker for a more sporty feel. The MDX rides lower, which reduces its center of gravity. To reduce unsprung mass, the front suspension lower control arms are made from forged aluminum. Structure rigidity is improved and weight reduced through increased use of high-strength steel. Overall, 64% of the total vehicle body mass is high strength steel (HSS), aluminum and magnesium. HSS makes up 59% of vehicle body mass; 1,500 MPa yield strength steel makes up 7%. A single ring-like hot stamped HSS outer door ring component reinforces the A-pillar, roof rail, B-pillar, and lower floor rail encircling the front doors for improved crash protection. Acura states that after conducting a simulated IIHS 25% small offset frontal crash test the front doors will open with normal force.
2017 facelift
The MDX was refreshed for the 2017 model year and went on sale in June 2016. It features a diamond pentagon front grille which debuted on the Acura Precision Concept. To reduce body mass the front fenders switched from steel to an aluminum panel.
All 2017 MDX trims will come standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow, and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). An Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Auto High Beam headlights, SiriusXM Radio™ 2.0 and four 2.5-amp USB charging ports features are standard.
Models with Technology and Advance packages add Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, new 20-inch wheel and tires (+1 inch), power folding side mirrors, and HD Traffic™. Advance grades models add LED fog lights, genuine wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel and Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles. Also come equipped with two second-row captain's chairs and a center console with two USB ports, replacing the three-person second-row seating found on lower grades. An ultra-widescreen Rear Entertainment System is also available on models with the Advance ENT Package.
The MDX Sport Hybrid (YD7) powered by a 3.0-liter SOHC V6, 7-speed dual-clutch, 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery gasoline hybrid producing 321 hp (239 kW) and 289 lb⋅ft (392 N⋅m) was added to the lineup. The front wheels are powered by the engine and a single electric motor, and the rear wheels are powered by two electric motors. The Sport Hybrid comes as standard with the SH-AWD system, Acura's Active Damper System and the Integrated Dynamics System with a SPORT+ mode. Sales commenced in April 2017 for the 2017 model year and was available in Technology and Advanced packages.
For 2018 model year, the MDX features a redesigned dual-screen user interface (ODMD 2.0) with more intuitive menus and command structures complemented by a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen (previously resistive type) with a 30% faster response time, which support for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility as standard.
Marketing
As part of 2014 Acura MDX launch in the United States, a campaign called 'The Extremely New MDX - Made for Mankind' was produced. The campaign highlights the complete technical transformation of the MDX and centers around the idea of "Made for Mankind," a concept designed to highlight the unique engineering and design philosophy at the heart of all Acura vehicles - the synergy between man and machine. The campaign was developed by Mullen (Boston and LA) and with MediaVest. Also, a series of 8 comedic commercials were created with comedian Jerry Seinfeld and director Barry Sonnenfeld. In addition, Acura became an exclusive sponsor of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
Fourth generation (YD8/9/YE1; 2022)
Skipping the 2021 model year, the fourth-generation MDX was revealed as a prototype on October 14, 2020, virtually revealed on December 8, went into bulk production on January 12, 2021, for the 2022 model year, and went on sale on February 2, with the Type-S trim released on December 23. The MDX became the flagship model of the Acura marque following the discontinuation of the RLX mid-size luxury sedan in June 2020.
The exterior includes the standard panoramic sunroof, either 19 or 20-inch alloy rims, a tailgate similar to the 2019 RDX, headlights and taillights similar to the second-generation TLX, a differently styled grille emblem, nine exterior and seven interior colors. For the Type-S trim, a yellow color, called Tiger Eye will also be available. The improved interior includes a 12.3-inch infotainment system and the Acura's first 12-inch digital full TFT instrument cluster, touch pad, 16-way power front seats with 3-memory positions, removable center second row seat, a removable double sided trunk floor with carpet and plastic, and more legroom and headroom compared to the third generation MDX. The MDX also features an optional audio system with 16-speakers including four roof-mounted speakers and a foot sensor for Hands Free Access power tailgate release and closure when the key fob is nearby. A redesigned key fob that is shaped like a convex irregular polygon is included.
Powertrains are improved, with the existing 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with a 10-speed transmission available for four trims; base, technology package, A-Spec, and advance package. While the all-wheel-drive (AWD) is optional on the base and technology trims, it is standard on A-Spec and advance trims. The Type-S trim model will get a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 gasoline engine and front brakes with four-piston Brembo calipers as standard. All-wheel-drive will also be standard for the Type-S. However, there is no hybrid powertrain available unlike the previous generation.
In the front, a double wishbone suspension with forged aluminum lower control arms, damper forks, and steering knuckles makes its way into the MDX along with more rigid cast-aluminum shock towers, larger front brake rotors and wider alloy wheels. Plastic wheel well liners are replaced with fabric material and a repositioned air intake for easier access to both battery terminals. High-strength steel (HSS), press-hardened steel and aluminum make up 69.7% of vehicle body mass. The rear body is more rigid with suspension load paths passing into the C and D-pillars, allowing for towing capabilities. Standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) while it can be increased to 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg) when the transmission cooler is added. The cooler kit is available as an accessory for the AWD models.
2025 facelift
The MDX facelift was revealed on April 9, 2024, for the 2025 model year. Changes include updated exterior styling, new exterior colors, new alloy wheel designs, the touchpad controller has been replaced in favour of additional storage space and a wireless charging pad, a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google built-in and the addition of new safety features such as AcuraWatch 360 system. The ELS Studio 3D audio system is replaced by a new Bang & Olufsen system with 19 speakers in non-Type S trims and 31 speakers in the Type S trim. SiriusXM satellite radio was discontinued beginning with the 2025 model year. Powertrain options remain unchanged.
Safety
The 2022 MDX was awarded "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS.
Awards
North American Car of the Year Utility Finalist for 2019.
Car and Driver magazine's Best Luxury SUV in 2001.
Motor Trend magazine's SUV of the Year Contender in 2017.
The MDX also won the IIHS Top Safety Pick award for the 2018 model year.
The 2019 Acura MDX ranked #6 Luxury Midsize SUV by U.S. News & World Report as of 2019.
The MDX was ranked 7th for the SUV vehicle owners keep for the longest time according to a 2019 iSeeCars study.