2017 Acura MDX

2017 Acura MDX
 Utility meets High-Tech!

By Charles Donaldson

Sales of cars have been steadily been replaced by SUV’s as people want and need more space. Is that because our population is becoming more overweight? I don’t know. Maybe we just want as the late great George Carlin use to say, “when we go somewhere we take part of our stuff”. Maybe we are taking too much of our stuff and simply need a way to carry it, or maybe we are super-sizing too many things. These days SUV’s come in all sizes and levels of luxury and performance. One of Acura’s offering in the luxury packaging is the 2017 Acura MDX.


In 2014 Acura launched the third generation MDX and for 2017 it received a major refresh. Upgrades and improvements for 2017 include refreshed exterior styling and a bold new diamond pentagon grille. New features for 2017 begin with the high-tech AcuraWatch™ suite of safety and river-assistive technologies, electric parking break with automatic brake hold, auto high beam headlamps, SiriusXM Radio™ , USB charging ports and more. Plus, Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure and a comprehensive list of active and passive safety features to deliver intelligent safety and confident driving performance.


The 2017 Acura MDX comes in Front Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive with a base model and Technology package, Technology and Entertainment packages, Advance packages, and Advance and Entertainment packages. Prices start at $44,890.

The 2017 Acura MDX leads its class with its combination of power and fuel efficiency. Power comes from an advanced 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC™ V-6 engine rated at 290 peak horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque (both SAE net). It incorporates a range of advanced friction-reducing technologies that help boost fuel efficiency and power output, and features a crossflow magnesium intake manifold, special "tumble" type intake ports, special piston-crown shapes, and an 11.5:1 compression ratio.

The restyled 2017 MDX's distinctive diamond pentagon grille represents the new face of Acura. Integrated with a more sculpted hood, front fascia, front fenders and revised Jewel Eye headlights, the result is a more "executive athletic" appearance for the Acura's class-leading luxury SUV. Additional styling updates include new chrome rocker panel trim, a revised rear bumper and skid garnish, and new dual exhausts with bright finishers.


The 2017 MDX offers a high level of luxury, convenience and technology in a spacious cabin graced with high-end appointments including standard leather seating surfaces and available new genuine Olive Ash Burl or Black Limba wood accent trim (Advance Package). The MDX comes with standard three-row, seven-passenger seating.  Advance grades accommodate six passengers with new second-row captain’s chairs and a center console. Smart interior packaging provides usable and versatile passenger and cargo space, including an Extended Slide feature for the second-row seats and convenient One-Touch Walk-In access to the third row. While up front, a large storage area in the center console can accommodate a purse and even tablet computers. New seat styling with contrasting piping and stitching and perforated Milano premium leather seating surfaces elevate the luxury look and feel of the Advance Package.


Cool Features:

·         The MDX with Advance Package also features a new Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles.

·         Millimeter wave radar and a monocular camera to detect other vehicles as well as lane markings

·         AcuraLink™ includes media channels available through Pandora™ and Aha™ mobile, delivered via the owner’s internet-linked smartphone and data plan

From the safety side, for 2017, every MDX model and trim level includes the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technology, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM).


In Summary – The 2017 Acura MDX is loaded with useful and powerful high-tech features throughout. These technology benefits create a driving experience that inspires one to avoid the shortcuts and chose the open road. Acura’s modifications for 2017 keep the MDX looking fresh, confident and Silicon Valley competent.

Specifications

2017 Acura MDX AWD Advance

Base price:                  $56,400 as driven: $57,340 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                        3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC™ V-6 engine

Horsepower:               290 @ 6,200 RPM

Torque:                       267 @ 4,700 RPM

Transmission:             9-Speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       7-passenger

Turning circle:            38.7 feet

Cargo space:               15 – 68.4 cubic feet

Curb weight:               4001 pounds

Fuel capacity:              19.5 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 19/Hwy 26

Wheel Base:                111 inches

Warranty:                    4 years/50,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Buick Enclave, Ford Explorer, Infiniti QX60, Lexus RX, and Lincoln  MKX