2011 Acura MDX

Standing competitively among its counterparts is the luxurious seven seater family vehicle-the 2011 Acura MDX. This Acura crossover SUV was patterned after Honda’s minivan, the Odyssey.

Performance

Its combined performance, safety and styling will definitely meet the growing needs of today’s families. With its power coming from 3.7 liter V6, packing 300 horsepower and a whopping 270 pound-feet of torque, the Acura MDX makes for a more reliable companion on the road.

Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and race-inspired paddle shifters, this SUV is also benefited by electronic sensors such as Sequential SportShift mode and Intelligent Shift Control to ensure smooth shifting between gears and to optimize engine efficiency by continuously monitoring the power needed. For well-mannered cornering, the MDX also features Super Handling All- Wheel- Drive system or SH-AWD.

Exterior & Interior

Available in only one trim, the MDX looks elegant and aggressive on the outside with its bold and automatic xenon headlamps, foglamps, 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate and a sunroof. On the front end are neat, sharp and sturdy lines that convey a sense of utility. Looking inside is a treat to the eyes. This family-oriented SUV offers three rows of premium seating to comfortably accommodate seven. It also comes with enough luggage space through a 50/50 split flat-folding 3rd-row bench seat and a 60/40 split folding 2nd-row seat.

Although the rearmost seat is ideal for kids, it can still sit an adult for a short journey. The plush seats have sporty leather upholstery. The 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat and an 8-way power adjustable front seat for the passenger give you an excellent view of the road. Among its class leading features are the hidden storage solution for a clean and clutter-free cabin. The valuable items can be secured in a large lockable glove compartment or a concealed cargo located at the back.

Extra Features

A journey can be a delight to the technology savvy individual as modern features abound in the MDX, starting with Acura DVD Entertainment System which comes with a 9-inch LCD color display, integrated remote control, wireless headsets with personal surround sound, 15 GB hard disk drive (HDD) storage and a body structure that encases the subwoofer for enhanced bass response, and Bluetooth-enabled audio interface.

Even you are on the go or your hands are positioned on the steering wheel, you can still stay connected to anyone thru your programmed mobile device with the integrated MDX’s audio system and convenient to use HandsFreeLink. Additional technology package comprises of a reliable navigation system, multiview parking camera and real-time traffic and weather detector. For the desired temperature, a synchronized tri-zone automatic climate control with air-flirtation system is included in this Acura SUV.

Safety

Being a paragon of safety, the 2011 ACURA MDX has structural safety features such as the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) designed to protect the passengers from multi-directional collision. When on slippery surface, Traction Control will keep the wheels in constant contact with the road. Its advanced Anti-lock Brake System or ABS will prevent wheel lock ups on sudden hard braking situations.

The MDX also comes very well equipped with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), six airbags, a rearview mirror camera and a blind-spot warning system. In terms of reliability, the 2011 Acura MDX was given a high score based on Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

The Competition

The Acura MDX is undoubtedly loaded with numerous useful features, but when it comes to spacious seats for adults, the Buick Enclave (MSRP $35,865; 17 city / 24 hwy) and Ford Flex (MSRP $29,355; 17 city / 24 hwy) are worth a look. Costing less than the MDX, the Lexus RX 350 (MSRP $39,075; 18 city / 25 hwy) offers better gas mileage and all wheel drive standard.

Pros & Cons

This Acura SUV downside include the dashboard and controls layout which are difficult to figure out and the third row seat which is only comfortably suited for children. However, the 2011 MDX is praised for its generous cargo space, powerful engine performance, advanced driving dynamics, loads of high tech features and sophisticated interior design.

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“With a few notable flaws in styling and features, the 2011 Acura MDX still impresses us with its friendly handling and gutsy power.”Car Connection

“Though many premium-midsize-SUV competitors offer V8 engines, the MDX’s V6 is no slouch. It feels a touch sleepy from a stop, but it builds speed quickly. The transmission works smoothly, and downshifts with minimal hesitation for passing maneuvers.”Consumer Guide

“Capable handling; user-friendly high-tech features; powerful engine with decent fuel economy; finely crafted interior; relatively large third-row seat.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Full Size SUV Base Price: $42,930.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 16 city / 21 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 191.6 in. (486 cm) Width: 78.5 in. (199 cm)
Height: 68.2 in. (173 cm) Wheel Base: 108 in. (275 cm)
Curb Weight: 4550 lbs (2063 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.2 in. (20.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 83.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 24-valve SOHC VTEC® V-6 Displacement: 3.7 LITERS
Horsepower: 300 HP Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)

->