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2007 Acura MDX Full Review
Date Published: 3/07/08
Also in the 2007 Acura MDX Review:
2007 Acura MDX Review
Fresh styling, more power, and new features highlight the 2007 redesign of Acura's premium midsize SUV. MDX gains 2 inches in wheelbase and overall length vs. the 2001-06 model, but keeps seven-passenger seating. MDX retains a V6 as its only engine, but a new 300-hp 3.7-liter version replaces a 253-hp 3.5. The sole transmission remains a 5-speed automatic. New and standard for '07 is Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which does not include low-range gearing but apportions power between the rear wheels to enhance cornering ability. ABS and antiskid control are also standard. So are front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows and include rollover deployment. Other standard features: sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and wireless cell phone link. Options come in three packages. The Technology Package has a rearview camera and a voice-activated navigation system that can display real-time traffic conditions. A Sport Package includes those features plus driver-adjustable suspension. The Entertainment Package contains DVD entertainment, heated 2nd-row seats, and power liftgate.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Chrysler Aspen, and Lincoln MKX.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Chrysler Aspen, and Lincoln MKX.
News
No major near-term changes loom for the just-redesigned MDX. However, a diesel V6 may become available around 2009-10. Parent Honda plans to introduce 4-cyl and V6 "clean diesels" to the U.S. market in that timeframe. Honda prides itself on being the American market's fuel-economy leader, and a diesel MDX would help maintain its lead over other automakers. It would also be more affordable than gas/electric hybrid power, which Honda feels works best in cars, not SUVs.
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2007 Acura MDX Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel economy |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
Test MDX averaged 15.5 mpg in city/highway driving, 18.0 with more highway work. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.
| 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
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.
| Base | Technology w/Entertainment | Sport | Sport w/Entertainment | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
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
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.
| 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
Moderate levels of tire hum and highway wind rush for an SUV. Engine smooth, with rich-sounding growl during acceleration.
| 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
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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 | 61.4 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 54 | |
| Average Score | 61 | |
| High Score | 82 |
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2007 Acura MDX Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 11/15/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Base 4-door wagon | $39,995 | $36,063 | $670 |
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| Technology 4-door wagon | $43,495 | $39,213 | $670 |
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| Technology w/Entertainment 4-door wagon | $45,695 | $41,193 | $670 |
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| Sport 4-door wagon | $45,595 | $41,103 | $670 |
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| Sport w/Entertainment 4-door wagon | $47,795 | $43,083 | $670 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
3.7-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front and rear air conditioning w/tri-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), interior air filter, power steering, power tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, 10-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), center console, cupholders, 2nd- and 3rd-row split folding seats, heated power mirrors w/tilt-down back-up aid and turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, digital-media player connection, satellite radio, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, map lights, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear spoiler, rear privacy glass, xenon headlights, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
255/55R18 tires, alloy wheels.
Technology adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system w/voice recognition and traffic information , rearview camera, AcuraLink assistance system (requires monthly fee after 3rd month), upgraded sound system.
Technology w/Entertainment adds to Technology:
Comfort and Convenience Features
DVD entertainment system, heated 2nd-row seats, power liftgate.
Sport adds to Technology:
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Automatic and driver adjustable suspension.
Sport w/Entertainment adds Technology w/Entertainment:
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Automatic and driver adjustable suspension.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2007 Acura MDX Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Acura MDX 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 78.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 66.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4539 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 83.5 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.7 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.7 /224 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 300 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 275 @ 5000 |
| Availability | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | 17/22 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Acura MDX 4-door wagon |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
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%. Side-impact
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%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 6/70,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: N/A Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 15.54 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Ed Piotrowski Like its predecessor, MDX raises the bar for premium SUV execution. Seek a Base model for the best blend of comfort, luxury, and sport. And at just a bit over $40,000, it's the best value in the MDX lineup and arguably the best value among all premium midsize SUVs. Tom Appel The MDX is a fine blend of Acura dynamic spirit and SUV utility. Though lacking in raw muscle, this truck's drivetrain is supremely responsive, if a bit thirsty. I'd skip the fancy stuff and target the high-value $40,000 base model. Bonus! The stereo is awesome. |
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Also in the 2007 Acura MDX Review:
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