2003 Acura MDX: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

More power and a new transmission, a standard antiskid system, and an available rearview TV camera headline MDX's 2003 changes. This hot-selling SUV shares its basic design with the newer Pilot SUV from Acura's parent company, Honda. Like Pilot, MDX has three rows of seats, but it holds seven passengers vs. Pilot's eight, and it has slightly less cargo room. MDX shares Pilot's V6 engine and all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. MDX gains 20 hp for '03, for a total of 260 vs. 240 for Pilot. MDX also trades its 4-speed automatic transmission for a 5-speed automatic, as in the Pilot. Also new for MDX, but not Pilot, is a standard antiskid system. Wheels are of a new design, steering and suspension are revised, and the body structure is stiffened. Again standard are front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, rear air conditioning, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. An available navigation system returns with new voice control and 3D graphics, and its dashboard screen now serves a rearview camera, which shows what's behind when the transmission is shifted into reverse. Finally, MDX offers its first rear-seat DVD entertainment option.

COMPETITION

Luxury SUVs vary in size and type, including former members of both the Full-size and Midsize SUV classes, along with a few all-new models. All offer higher standards of workmanship, comfort, refinement, and pricing than other SUVs.

Our Best Buys are Acura MDX and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both are extremely capable on-road and offer roomy interiors that feature quality workmanship and materials. MDX gets slightly better fuel economy and is more reasonably priced. Land Cruiser offers a V8 engine, rugged body-on-frame chassis, and true off-road ability.

Though rugged and trucky, the Recommended Mercedes-Benz M-Class is spacious, offers a variety of model and engine choices, and numerous safety features. If you don't venture too far off-road, take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300. Recommended based on price, refinement, and luxury appointments.