2002 Acura MDX Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2002 Acura MDX includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Acura MDX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Acura MDX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Acura MDX help you decide if a 2002 Acura MDX is right for you.

2002 Acura MDX Road Test

Pros	Cons

Build quality	Climate controls

Interior materials	Fuel economy

Passenger and cargo room	Navigation-system controls

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5.1

V8 SUVs have more muscle, but MDX is lively enough in most situations, and aided by smooth, prompt transmission shifts, is as fast as most 6-cyl rivals. Test Touring model clocked 8.7 sec 0-60 mph.

Fuel Economy

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	3.3

Slightly better than the 6-cyl midsize-SUV norm, but premium fuel required. One test MDX averaged 17.8 mpg in city/freeway driving, another 19.3 in mainly highway use.

Ride Quality

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.3

Firm but not jolting even over large bumps, though a Lexus RX or Toyota Highlander is better at ironing out lumpy freeways.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.2

Not X5 athletic, but more nimble than RX 300 or a Mercedes M-Class. Sporty at reasonable cornering speeds, with moderate SUV body lean, but feels typically unsteady in sudden swerves. ABS provides short stops with little nosedive, but the brakes were touchy on our test Touring model.

Quietness

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.5

Noise-reduction measures largely erase most marked tire hum and pronounced highway wind rush that plagued 2001 MDX. Engine smooth, audibly pleasant, but not luxury-car hushed.

Controls

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	6	4.7

High-mount climate controls a far reach in models without navigation system, and their indicator lights can wash out in daytime. Acura's navigation system easier to use than most, but can still be distracting to operate. Gauges, other controls clear, convenient. Upscale, contemporary cabin design; materials quality just a notch below BMW, Lexus, Mercedes.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	8	7.3

All but the very tall have good head and leg room. Seats comfortable and supportive, driving stance efficient, visibility good.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	6.2

Ample 2nd-row knee and head room, plus just enough width for three adults. Third-row seat is kidsize, but useful. Both seats have reclining backrests; 2nd-row seat also slides fore/aft.

Cargo Room

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	8	7.4

Not much with a full passenger load, but numerous seat-folding options compensate. Second- and 3rd-row seats easy and quick to stow, far more convenient than rivals' removable seats. Load deck a bit high.

Value within Class

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
10	9	4.5

A highly desirable blend of competence and convenience. Its ride can be truck-lumpy at times, but overall refinement, generous standard equipment, and competitive pricing make MDX a Best Buy.

Total Score