2001-2006 Acura MDX: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger room
- Cargo room
- Refinement
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Navigation-system controls
- Climate controls
Vehicle Highlights
Honda's upscale division designed and built this all-wheel-drive midsize sport-utility vehicle to compete against the popular Lexus RX 300 and other car-based SUVs. Based on the Honda Odyssey minivan platform, the MDX ("Multi Dimensional Luxury") is about 5 inches longer than a BMW X5 and 8.5 inches longer than a Lexus RX 300. Both of those competitors seat five, however, while the MDX holds seven occupants. Additional rivals include the Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Toyota Highlander. Under the MDX hood sat a more powerful version of the Odyssey's 3.5-liter V6, producing 240 horsepower and linked to a five-speed automatic transmission rather than a four-speed. Standard Variable Torque Management (VTM-4) four-wheel drive normally powers the front wheels, but is designed to sense impending wheel slippage and direct up to 52 percent of power to the back wheels when needed. A rear-wheel locking device kicks in for maximum traction below 6 mph, but no low-range gearing was included. An MDX can tow a 3500-pound trailer or a 4500-pound boat. Standard fare included leather upholstery, heated power front bucket seats, a power sunroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Front side airbags, antilocking all-disc brakes, rear air conditioning, heated mirrors, and a CD player also were standard. The optional Touring package added a driver's seat/mirror memory, roof rack, and a six-disc in-dash CD changer. A navigation system with dashboard screen was optional. Second- and third-row bench seats were standard. As in the Odyssey, the third-row seat folds into the rear cargo floor. So does the second-row seat, which was an SUV "first." Both seats were split, so sections can stow individually to suit passenger/cargo loads.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Acura MDX base Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2001-2006 Acura MDX. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2001-2006 Acura MDX.
Year to Year Changes
2002 Acura MDX:
Noise-reduction measures marked the 2002 edition of Acura's SUV. Windshield glass grew thicker, sound dampening material was added to the roof and other areas, door mirrors and the roof rack were repositioned--all part of a quest to cut down on unwanted sounds. A rear wiper/washer was now standard, and child-seat anchors were installed.
2003 Acura MDX:
The MDX engine gained 20 horsepower for 2003, and an antiskid system became standard. Honda now had a seven-passenger Pilot on sale, with a 240-hp version of the same 3.5-liter V6 engine. But the upscale MDX had a shorter body than the Pilot, with unique styling and a somewhat smaller cabin. A new electronic "drive-by-wire" throttle was installed, along with rain-sensing wipers. Some structural stiffening took place, wheels were restyled, and the steering and suspension systems were revised. The available navigation system now operated with voice control and 3-D graphics, and its screen served the newly optional rearview camera. A new DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system could not be installed in models with Acura's navigation system.
2004 Acura MDX:
New for '04 were head-protecting curtain side airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. Also, front and rear styling were slightly altered.
2005 Acura MDX:
More entertainment features were added for 2005, including standard satellite radio on all models, plus a larger fuel tank. OnStar assistance is also newly standard with the navigation system.
2006 Acura MDX:
Revised interior trim for the top-line model heads the short list of 2006 MDX changes.
Our road test for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2001-2006 Acura MDX and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2001-2006 Acura MDX is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Coming across as a highly competent and pleasing compromise, the MDX feels more nimble than a Lexus RX 300 and lighter on its feet than a Mercedes ML, if not quite as athletic as a V8 BMW X5. Road manners are carlike and even sporty, at reasonable cornering speeds. The suspension is firm, but not jolting, over most large bumps, furnishing a nice balance between ride comfort and handling ability--though a Lexus RX or Toyota Highlander is better at ironing out lumpy freeways. Body lean isn't excessive, particularly by SUV standards. Brakes have good stopping power, with little nosedive. Acura's 3.5-liter V6 pulls a lot of weight here, which makes it feel weaker than its power rating implies. Even so, acceleration is lively enough for most situations, aided by the transmission's smooth, prompt downshifts. A test Touring model accelerated to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. Fuel economy ranks slightly above the six-cylinder midsize SUV norm, but premium fuel is needed. A test MDX averaged 17.8 mpg in city/freeway driving. Tire hum and highway wind rush are noticeable, but tolerable for an SUV. The engine is quite hushed at idle, and refined under hard acceleration. All but the very tallest front passengers have good head and leg room in comfortable, supportive seats. The driving position is efficient, except for an awkwardly shaped left-foot dead pedal. The cabin eschews opulence for a comfortably upscale, contemporary feel. Passengers in the second-row seat have similarly generous head room, with knee space sufficient for six-footers. It's comfortable and wide enough for three-across adult seating, although shoulders will likely rub. The third-row seat is kid-sized, yet useful. Both back seats have reclining backrests, and second-row seats slide fore/aft. Step-in isn't carlike, but it's lower than many midsize SUVs. Cargo room is modest with a full passenger load, but numerous seat-folding options help. Flush-folding second- and third-row seats have simple one-lever latches and are easy to stow for cargo hauling. The dashboard layout is mostly clear, logical, and handy. Controls for the automatic climate system are high in the center and don't require an attention-diverting downward look, but they're a far reach for some drivers. Also, their indicator lights and temperature display wash out in bright sunlight. Though easier to use than some, an MDX's optional navigation system can still be distracting.
Value for the Money
Although the MDX was a late arrival in the SUV market, Acura did its homework and the vehicle quickly became a hot seller. An MDX is competent, comfortable, and convenient--a must-see model for near-luxury SUV shoppers. Overall refinement and generous standard equipment make MDX a fine value, new or used, though the ride can be truck-lumpy at times.
Although the MDX was a late arrival in the SUV market, Acura did its homework and the vehicle quickly became a hot seller. An MDX is competent, comfortable, and convenient--a must-see model for near-luxury SUV shoppers. Overall refinement and generous standard equipment make MDX a fine value, new or used, though the ride can be truck-lumpy at times.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Acura MDX base Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Acura MDX includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Acura MDX .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
Transmissions may fail due to lack of thread-locking compound on nut for low clutch. Honda/Acura has extended warranty on affected vehicles to 7 years or 100,000 miles. (2001-03)
Battery:
The battery may become weak or die because the glove box light stays on and installing a plastic cap over the plunger makes it go off when closed. (2001-04)
Seat:
The left seat in the second row fails to fold down or slide away for third-seat access because of a loose cable. (2001)
Water leak:
Water may drip almost constantly for quite a while, especially after washing the vehicle. The mirrors should be removed and a drain slot cut into them at the base. (2001)
Wipers:
The nut holding the rear wiper arm comes loose, allowing the wiper to become loose. A redesigned nut must be installed. (2001)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $555 |
| Alternator | $310 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $955 |
| Brakes | $290 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $985 |
| Exhaust System | $550 |
| Radiator | $600 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $640 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $310 |
Our price chart for this generation Acura MDX details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2006 | |||
| MDX | $23,500-25,500 | $21,600-23,500 | $15,300-16,600 |
| MDX Touring | $25,800-28,000 | $24,000-26,000 | $17,000-18,500 |
| 2005 | |||
| MDX | $19,000-20,800 | $17,500-19,100 | $12,400-13,500 |
| MDX Touring | $21,000-23,000 | $19,300-21,200 | $13,700-15,000 |
| 2004 | |||
| MDX | $16,000-17,500 | $14,600-15,900 | $10,200-11,200 |
| MDX Touring | $17,500-19,200 | $16,100-17,700 | $11,200-12,300 |
| 2003 | |||
| MDX | $13,500-14,800 | $12,300-13,500 | $8,000-8,700 |
| MDX Touring | $14,800-16,300 | $13,500-14,800 | $9,300-10,300 |
| 2002 | |||
| MDX | $11,500-12,500 | $10,400-11,300 | $6,300-6,900 |
| MDX Touring | $12,300-13,500 | $11,100-12,200 | $7,000-7,700 |
| 2001 | |||
| MDX | $9,800-10,800 | $8,800-9,700 | $5,100-5,600 |
| MDX Touring | $10,500-11,500 | $9,500-10,400 | $5,600-6,100 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Acura MDX include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.3 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 188.5 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 76.3 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 68.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4328 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 81.5 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.2 | |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.5 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.0 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.8 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Acura's 3.5-liter overhead-cam V6 engine produced 240 horsepower, driving a five-speed automatic transmission. Engine output grew to 260 hp in 2003, 265 in 2004. All MDX models had all-wheel drive, which lacked a low range.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V6 | 3.5 / 212 | 240-265 | 245-255 | 5-speed automatic: 17/23 | 5-speed automatic: 17.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Canada
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Acura MDX include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2001-02 MDX:
On SUVs sold in specific states, excessive corrosion can cause spring failure and possible breakage, which could puncture a front tire and increase the risk of a crash.
2001-2002 MDX:
Gear failure due to heat build-up may result in transmission lockup, which could result in a crash.
2001-2002 MDX:
Heat may build-up between the countershaft and secondary shaft of the automatic transmission, resulting in gear failure. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2002 MDX:
Water-pump timing-belt tensioner pulley might be misaligned and could cause timing belt to fail, resulting in engine stalling. Dealers will inspect water pump and replace pump and timing belt if necessary.
2005 MDX:
During a crash, improperly-manufactured fuel tank could be damaged and leak; could result in fire, in presence of an ignition source.
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