The 2012 Acura MDX competes well in the arena of midsize luxury SUVs. Overall, the new Acura MDX provides good value, comfortable interior and sporty performance.
The best thing about the new MDX is it is one of the most affordable SUVs in its class. Most competitors that offer cheaper SUVs don’t have the same quality that the MDX provides.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $43,030.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters) | MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy |
| Length: 191.6 in. (486.7 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) |
| Height: 68.2 in. (173.3 cm) | Width: 78.5 in. (199.4 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4594 lbs (2084 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.2 in. (20.8 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 83.5 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: 3.7L V6 SOHC VTEC® | Compression Ratio: 11.2: 1 |
| Horsepower: 300 HP | Max RPM: 6300 RPM |
| Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (4536 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:MDX w/ Tech Package | MSRP: $46,705; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy |
| Option:MDX w/ Advance Package | MSRP: $52,665; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy |
Engine
The 2012 Acura MDX comes with a V6 3.7 liter engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 270 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with an automatic 6-speed transmission together with paddle shifters. From a standstill, the MDX does not accelerate fast but once it gains speed, you will start feeling its power. The transmission is responsive and smooth, thus complementing the muscle that the MDX supplies.
Performance
Despite its size, the MDX delivers a performance that you can get from sport sedans. It does not give the same comfort that the Lexus RX 350 offers but the sports tuning and smooth handling make it one of the most fun to drive SUVs in the market. If you are fond of weekend adventures, the MDX is definitely for you.
Exterior
The front layout for the Acura MDX looks like all Acura cars. But since the MDX is bigger, the headlights and the front grille are a bit wider. Still, there are no organic curves and flowing lines so the MDX looks as smooth and sleek as ever. It is not devoid of all the sportiness though, because its stance will make you feel that it is ready for a fun ride.
Interior
The cabin of the new MDX is luxurious, supportive and comfortable. Standard in the MDX is the leather upholstery and heated front seats that are 10-way power adjustable. The first and second rows have adequate legroom and headroom for adults but the third row should be reserved for children. The MDX is targeted at families that have kids. The only complaint that we have is the confusing center console because it has too many buttons.
Safety
The MDX scored “good” in all tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. On that note, it has become a Top Safety Pick of IIHS. The federal government gave it 4 out of 5 stars, on the other hand. The MDX is equipped with a collision mitigation braking system that detects an imminent accident. It alerts the driver and starts braking at that moment.
Reliability
The MDX comes with the standard 4-year warranty, a powertrain warranty that lasts for six years, and 5-year corrosion warranty. These warranties are common in its class so we can conclude that the reliability for MDX is average in its class.
Pros
The Acura MDX has a capable engine and excellent handling, making it ideal for fun loving people. The cabin is spacious and is specifically designed for families with children. The quality of the interior is worth mentioning, too. The base MDX comes with plenty of standard features that other SUVs provide only in their upgrades. The MDX provides great value for its price.
Cons
The center console is studded with buttons which make it look busy. If you are more comfort-oriented, you will find the MDX a little harsher because of its sports tuning.
The drawbacks of the MDX are clearly outweighed by its outstanding features. Without a doubt, the 2012 Acura MDX is one of the best choices in the arena of midsize luxury SUVs.
Competition
There are other SUVs that can be compared to the MDX, these include the Volvo XC90 (MSRP $39,500; 16 city / 23 hwy), the Lexus RX350 (MSRP $40,710; 18 city / 24 hwy), and the higher priced BMW X5 (MSRP $47,500; 16 city / 23 hwy).
Overall Rating
80 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Acura MDX has three rows of seating and a rather boxy exterior that promises a lot of utility. And even though the MDX is a luxury vehicle, it’s quite the cargo workhorse for weekend projects.”Car Connection
“Advance models with the suspension in Sport mode shine here, exhibiting good control of body lean and sharper steering response than with the base suspension. Steering and brake feel are fine. Despite good handling prowess, we don’t think it’s worth the toll on ride quality exacted by the adjustable suspension on Advance models.”Consumer Guide
“The well-rounded MDX is very enjoyable and competitively priced. It rides well and its refined powertrain provides smooth and quick acceleration and an average of 18 mpg with the slick six-speed automatic.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“A navigation system that provides real-time traffic and weather info and an audio system that delivers amazing 6-channel Surround Sound via any medium you want make this option group a must-have. SH-AWD- Apply some power in a hard corner and the MDX’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system transfers extra torque to the rear outside wheel, delivering truer steering response and perceptibly higher cornering limits.”KBB
“Capable handling; user-friendly high-tech features; finely crafted interior; relatively roomy third-row seat. Not as much interior space as some larger rivals; busy control layout.”Edmunds
