2003 Acura MDX Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2003 Acura MDX includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Acura MDX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Acura MDX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Acura MDX help you decide if a 2003 Acura MDX is right for you.

2003 Acura MDX Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger and cargo room	Climate controls

	Fuel economy

	Navigation-system controls

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5.8

No opportunity to time the 2003 model, but expect it to beat test 2002 model's 8.7 sec 0-60 mph. New transmission's five speeds make the best of available torque, providing quick, seamless shifts.

Fuel Economy

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	3.1

Test 2003 MDX averaged 17.4 mpg in mix of city/freeway driving. That's better than 6-cyl luxury-SUV norm, but premium fuel required.

Ride Quality

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.6

Firm but not jolting even over large bumps, though a Lexus RX 330 or Mercedes-Benz M-Class is better at ironing out lumpy freeways.

Steering/Handling/Braking

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

Not as athletic as BMW X5, but more nimble than RX 330 or M-Class. Sporty at reasonable cornering speeds. Moderate body lean, but still less steady than a car in sudden swerves. In slick corners, antiskid system modulates brakes and throttle for added measure of security. Brakes provide short stops with little nosedive, but pedal modulation too touchy for some testers.

Quietness

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5.4

Modest tire hum and highway wind rush for an SUV. Engine smooth, audibly pleasant, but not luxury-car hushed.

Controls

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	6	5.7

Models without navigation system mount climate controls a far reach from the driver, and their indicator lights can wash out in daytime. Acura's navigation system friendlier 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, supportive. Driving stance efficient, visibility good. Rearview TV system helpful in determining if anything is in vehicle's path when backing, but shouldn't replace turning around and looking.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	5.9

Ample 2nd-row knee and head room. Just enough width for three adults. Third-row seat is kid-sized, 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	7.5

Not much with a full passenger load, but numerous seat-folding options compensate. Second- and 3rd-row seats stow easily, quickly. Load deck a bit high.

Value within Class

Base	Touring w/nav. sys.	Class Average
10	9	5.2

A highly desirable blend of competence and convenience keeps improving. Its ride can be truck-lumpy at times, but MDX shines for overall refinement, generous standard equipment, and competitive pricing. No wonder it's such a sought-after Best Buy--and seldom discounted.

Total Score