the super cars: 2011 Acura MDX

2011 Acura MDX

2011 Acura MDX

2011 Acura MDX

For all intents and purposes the MDX should be considered Acura's flagship vehicle in the US. Although Acura officially claims the RL sedan holds that position, the MDX consistently outsells it here in America, no doubt because it was designed for our country – and our once blazing premium SUV market. While that segment has cooled considerably in recent years, the trend towards smaller, higher efficiency SUVs creates the perfect opportunity for the redesigned MDX.

In 2010, MDX received a thorough revision to its powertrain that resulted in improved performance at the track and fuel pump. Clad in sharp, polarizing sheet metal, and graced with a rich, button-laden interior, it's no surprise the MDX drives more like a car than a traditional SUV. Although it has Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, this three row SUV is suited for suburban exploration and only occasional off-road excursions.

It may lack V-8 power, serious towing and off-road ability, but this is by design. Acura is betting on the MDX's sporty, high tech appeal to win over consumers.... Expand full summary
The Range
Body style: Sport utility vehicle
Engine: 3.7L V-6
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Models: MDX; MDX and Technology; MDX , Technology and Entertainment; MDX and Advance; MDX, Advance and Entertainment
What's New
MDX received a comprehensive revision in 2010 that included the addition of the brand's controversial front grille and a stealthy, but substantial powertrain revision. Given these upgrades, the 2011 MDX receives no major changes.
Exterior
Now bearing Acura's controversial front grille, the stocky MDX looks even more stocky and edgy. The hood, front/rear facias, and side sills were also tweaked in 2010, with revised taillights added to the rear end.
Interior
Premium leather can found throughout, along with sharp-looking gauges and a thick sport steering wheel with paddle shifters. Numerous optional tech upgrades include real-time weather and traffic info, 8-inch nav-screen, and rear-view camera system.
Performance & Handling
The paddle shiftable 6-speed transmission makes the MDX fun to drive, particularly when paired with the 300-horsepower 3.7 L V-6 engine. MDX is surprisingly fast and easy to drive - revised power steering and chassis reinforcements in 2010 increase cornering prowess, as do retuned optional magneto rheological shocks. Full size, three row SUVs, don't drive much better than this.
Safety
The MDX features loads of active and passive safety systems, including dual stage driver and front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows. Advance Package offers blind spot detection and automatic collision-mitigating braking system.
EPA Fuel Economy
All: 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway
You'll Like

    * 6-speed transmission
    * Usable power and torque
    * High tech interior
    * Sporty ride and handling

You Won't Like

    * Controversial styling
    * Button crazy dashboard
    * No V-8 available