2007 Acura MDX: Road Test

Archived Review

2007 Acura MDX 

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  • MSRP: $39,995 -$47,795
  • Invoice: $36,063 -$43,083
CG Rating

65

out of 100

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Our road test for the 2007 Acura MDX includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Acura MDX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Acura MDX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Acura MDX help you decide if a 2007 Acura MDX is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.2

Strong from any speed--7.5 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Transmission generally works smoothly, but some testers note occasional hesitation during passing maneuvers. Towing capacity is 5000 lb.

FUEL ECONOMY

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
4 4 4 4 3.6

Test MDX averaged 15.5 mpg in city/highway driving, 18.0 with more highway work. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
6 6 5 5 5.6

Best is the base suspension, which provides a compliant but controlled ride. Sport Package includes Sport and Comfort suspension modes. Comfort absorbs bumps well but allows too much wallow; Sport makes the ride brittle.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
6 6 7 7 5.6

Sport Package suspension in Sport mode shines here, exhibiting good control of body lean and sharper steering response than with base suspension. However, even base suspension provides competent if not-quite-sporty handling. Fine steering and brake feel with either setup, though one test MDX's brakes felt overboosted. SH-AWD exceptional at apportioning power to enhance handling.

QUIETNESS

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.5

Moderate levels of tire hum and highway wind rush for an SUV. Engine smooth, with rich-sounding growl during acceleration.

CONTROLS

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
8 7 7 7 6.5

Instruments easy to read. Audio, climate controls easy to reach, but plethora of similar-sized and shaped controls can confuse. Navigation system reasonably simple to learn, and doesn't absorb often-used audio or climate functions. Navigation screen mounted high on dashboard in line of sight, but controller mounted low on dashboard, which forces eyes off road until functions are mastered. Available voice recognition for climate/audio/navigation misidentified some commands in our tests, and learning the terminology it understands takes time. Hi-tech interior design incorporates an attractive blend of rich-looking materials, with especially pleasing switchgear feel, movement.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
7 7 7 7 7.3

Standard power tilt/telescopic steering wheel automatically moves out of way to ease entry/exit, but high step-in will challenge shorter adults. Seats comfortable and supportive, but some testers wish for more rearward seat travel. Roof pillars, thick headrests hinder visibility to some angles. Available rearview camera useful in locating objects when backing.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
6 6 6 6 6.3

Outboard 2nd-row seat sections afford fine head and leg room unless front seats are far back. Seat cushion a bit firm for optimal long-distance comfort. Middle position is for kids, as is cramped 3rd row. Passenger-side 2nd-row bucket tilts/slides forward, though access to 3rd row still requires some contortions. Wide doors can be a hindrance in tight parking spots. Separate climate controls for 2nd row.

CARGO ROOM

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
8 8 8 8 7.8

Precious little space behind 3rd-row seat, but its split bench conveniently folds forward from rear of vehicle. With all seats folded, cargo floor nearly flat, and Acura says it can hold 4-ft-wide panels. Absence of separate liftgate glass a minus, but optional power liftgate a plus. Interior storage merely adequate.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
10 9 8 7 5.9

Acura's 2007 redesign of its midsize SUV adds a contemporary look and thoughtful features, sustaining MDX as a highly desirable blend of luxury, performance, and convenience. Highlights of this Best Buy pick include a strong and surefooted powertrain, 1st- and 2nd-row seat comfort, and urbane cabin appointments.

Total Score

Base Technology w/Entertainment Sport Sport w/Entertainment Class Average
67 65 64 63 61.3

Total Score: 65

Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
54
Average Score
61
High Score
82

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