Acura MDX

The Acura MDX, or Honda MDX as known in Japan and Australia (only the first generation was imported), is a mid-size three-row luxury crossover,[3][4][5][6] produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under its Acura luxury nameplate since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for "Multi-Dimensional luxury". According to Honda, the MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury crossover of all time, with cumulative U.S. sales expected to surpass 700,000 units before the end of 2014.[7] It has ranked as the second-best selling luxury crossover after the Lexus RX,[8] which offers only two rows of seats.

Acura MDX
Overview
ManufacturerAcura (Honda)
Production2000–present (Acura)
2003–2006 (Honda)
Model years2001-present
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size luxury crossover SUV
Body style5-door SUV[1][2]
RelatedHonda Pilot
Chronology
PredecessorAcura SLX

The MDX was the first crossover SUV to have third-row seating, and shares its platform with the Honda Pilot.[9] The Pilot is available with a seven or eight person seating configuration,[10] while the MDX exclusively seats seven,[11] with two seating positions in the third row. The MDX was introduced on October 5, 2000[12] as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. In Japan, it filled a gap when the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) was discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the Honda MDX went on sale in Japan and Australia. The MDX has been the most expensive crossover in Acura's lineup, except for the 2009-13 model years when Acura added a crossover to slot above the MDX, called the ZDX.

First generation (YD1; 2000)
First generation (YD1)
2001-2003 Acura MDX
Overview
Production2000–2006 (Acura)
2003–2006 (Honda)
Model years2001-2006
AssemblyAlliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM)
DesignerFrank Paluch (engineering: 1998), Catalin Matei (styling: 1998)
Body and chassis
LayoutFront engine, all-wheel drive
RelatedHonda Pilot
Powertrain
Engine3.5 L V6
240 hp (180 kW), 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) (2001-2002)
265 hp (198 kW), 253 lb⋅ft (343 N⋅m) (2003-2006)
Transmission5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase106.3 in (2,700 mm)
Length188.5 in (4,788 mm)
Width77.0 in (1,955 mm)
HeightBase: 68.7 in (1,745 mm)
Touring: 71.3 in (1811 mm)
Curb weight4451 lb (2023 kg)
Acura MDX (USA) rear
Facelifted Acura MDX (USA)

Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX and Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 with VTEC. 2001-2002 3.5 V6 models produce 240 hp (180 kW) and 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) of torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. 2003-2006 3471 cc (3.5 in x 3.6 in) model engine produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 lb⋅ft (343 N⋅m) . Curb weight is 4,451 lb (2,019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase and 8 in (200 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row holds three passengers.

The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system (named VTM-4) that engages during off the line acceleration as well as when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4wd and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in the MDX has the same design as the VTM-4 systems found in the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline. It is different than Honda's "RealTime AWD" system in the Honda CR-V and other models in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs (by monitoring throttle inputs).

The navigation system and DVD entertainment system options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a rear view video camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005, the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) highway and 17 mpg‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑imp) city.

Honda MDX (Australia)

In the 2003 model, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp (15 kW) more power than the 2002 model and wheel designs were updated. The 2004 model received an additional 5 hp (4 kW). The 2004 model is credited for a top speed of 137 mph, and a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model features dual tail pipes instead of the single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could now be had with a dark grey wood (as opposed to reddish wood on earlier models), and also a black dash and steering wheel in tan interiors.

Second generation (YD2; 2006)
Second generation (YD2)
Pre-facelift Acura MDX
Overview
Also calledHonda MDX
ProductionSeptember 20, 2006–2013
Model years2007–2013
AssemblyAlliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM)
DesignerFrank Paluch (engineering: 2004)
Ricky Hsu (styling: 2003)
Body and chassis
LayoutFront engine, all-wheel drive
RelatedHonda Pilot
Acura ZDX
Powertrain
EngineJ37A1 3.7L (3,664 cc) 24 valve SOHC V6 VTEC [300HP]
Transmission5-speed BYFA automatic (2007-09)
6-speed MT4A automatic (2010-13)
Dimensions
Wheelbase108.3 in (2,751 mm)
Length2007-09: 190.7 in (4,844 mm)
2010-2013: 191.6 in (4,867 mm)
Width2007-09: 78.7 in (1,999 mm)
2010-2013: 78.5 in (1,994 mm)
Height2007-09: 68.1 in (1,730 mm)
2010-2013: 68.2 in (1,732 mm)
Curb weight4,594 lb (2,084 kg)-4,669 lb (2,118 kg)
Pre-facelift Acura MDX
Facelift Acura MDX
Facelift Acura MDX

On April 11, 2006, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept during the New York International Auto Show, showing to the public an indication about the exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX. The second-generation MDX was released on October 17, 2006 in the U.S.

The second generation model's body has a wider track and longer wheelbase than the previous MDX, but visibility to the rear has worsened from the prior generation. The redesigned Acura MDX's unit-body was engineered with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure designed to absorb energy from a collision. The suspension was tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track. The engine was upgraded to a 3.7-liter V6 tuned for 300 hp (224 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 270 lb⋅ft (366 N⋅m) of torque at 5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and is estimated by the EPA to consume 16 miles per US gallon (15 L/100 km; 19 mpg‑imp) in the city and 21 miles per US gallon (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp) on the highway. It is one of the most powerful engines Honda has produced to date. The "VTM-4" all-wheel drive system on the previous generation was replaced by the new SH-AWD "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive" previously debuted on the 2005 Acura RL. This AWD system is one of the most advanced in its class, featuring an active rear differential often found on high performance cars. The MDX is able to tow 5,000 lb (2,300 kg).[13]

Like all Acuras, the MDX comes with a high level of standard equipment, including a power moonroof, leather interior, and high-intensity discharge (Xenon) low-beam headlights. For the 2007 through 2009 model years, three option packages were available: Sport, Technology and Entertainment.

  • The Technology Package includes the Acura/Alpine DVD-based satellite GPS navigation system with AcuraLink satellite communications with real-time traffic reporting (XM NavTraffic), a 410-watt Acura/ELS DTS Surround audio system with XM Satellite Radio, rearview camera, and a remote powered liftgate, operated either from the key's remote, inside the car or directly from the lift gate.
  • The Sport Package featured active suspension dampers (co-developed by Honda and Beijing West Industries) that dynamically improves handling according to road conditions with a button in the center stack to switch to Sport/Comfort modes. This Comfort/Sport mode uses magneto rheological dampers, which change their characteristics when a magnetic field is introduced (usually in milliseconds). The Sport package also includes unique 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels, perforated leather seats and the items in the Technology package.
  • The Entertainment Package offers a flip-down 9-inch (230 mm) LCD screen with 2 wireless Dolby Digital headphones, second-row heated outboard seats, and a unique center-stack silver trim. The Entertainment Package is only available on Sport or Technology Package models as compared to the 1st Generation MDX where the Entertainment Package was available as a standalone package on Touring Models.

All Canadian Acura MDX models, aside from the heated front seats, also get the second-row heated outboard seats as standard equipment as well. A feature unique to Canadian MDX models are headlight washers. In terms of packages, Canadian MDX models get only two: Technology and Elite. The Technology package corresponds essentially to the US model's Technology package while the Elite package is an amalgamation of the US model's Sport and Entertainment packages. However, AcuraLink real-time traffic reporting through XM NavTraffic is unavailable for Canadian MDX models.

Like the first generation model, the new generation is manufactured exclusively by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. But along with the 2007 RDX, the new MDX was the first Acura model to pass the Acura Quality Line, a special quality control and verification process separate from the other Honda vehicles.

For 2008 the MDX received a new auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2009 MDX had added more upgrades to the navigation system and there are two new colors added. The power tailgate, previously available only with the Entertainment package, is now included with Technology and Sport packages.

In 2010, the MDX received a facelift adopting to Acura's new "Power Plenum" grille that debuted on its 2009 model year sedans. The most important upgrades to the 2010 model where a new paddle shift six-speed SportShift automatic transmission with downshift Rev-matching, and an increase in compression ratio to 11.2:1 with forged aluminum pistons to replace the previous 2007–2009 3.7L's 11.0:1 pistons. Structural rigidity was improved for the 2010 model year. An Advance package became available that included Adaptive Cruise Control, blind spot monitor, Active Damper suspension, collision mitigation braking system, wider 7-spoked 19 inch wheels and tires, Premium Milano leather ventilated seats and auto leveling headlights. Non-navigation equipped MDX models now have a rear view camera monitor located in the rear-view mirror.

The redesigned MDX overtook the TL as Acura's top seller in the United States.[14]

Third generation (YD3; 2013)
Third generation (YD3)
Overview
ProductionMay 2013–December 2020
Model years2014–2020
AssemblyLincoln, Alabama, HMA (2013-2017)
East Liberty, Ohio, ELP (2017-present)
DesignerJim Keller (Chief Engineer / Manager Honda R&D Americas)
Body and chassis
LayoutFront engine
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (SH-AWD)
RelatedHonda Odyssey (North America)
Honda BR-V
Honda Pilot
Honda Ridgeline
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission6-speed automatic (2014-15)
9-speed ZF 9HP automatic (2016- )
7-speed DCT (hybrid)
Dimensions
Wheelbase111.0 in (2,819 mm)
Length196.2 in (4,983 mm)
Width77.2 in (1,961 mm)
Height67.6 in (1,717 mm)
Curb weight3,960-4,169 (FWD)
4,195-4,268 (AWD)

The 2014 MDX Prototype was unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show,[15][16] the production version was revealed at the New York Auto Show. Production began on May 2, 2013; vehicle assembly shifted from Ontario, Canada to Lincoln, Alabama. US sales began on June 20.

Acura MDX (US)

The MDX is powered by a 3.5-liter direct injected Earth Dreams V6 with Variable Cylinder Management. A front-wheel drive (FWD) model is available for the first time,[17] in Canada all-wheel drive remains the only configuration offered. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) models rated at 18/27/21 mpg (city/highway/combined) and FWD models rated at 20/28/23 mpg.

The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED Headlights (first introduced on the RLX).[18] Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three used for low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. LED bumper mounted fog lamps are offered as a dealer installed option.

The interior reduced button clutter by adding a 7-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback, an additional 8-inch screen is also standard. To reduce interior noise an acoustic (PVB layered) windshield, acoustic front door glass and thicker rear glass are used as well as triple sealed door openings. Advance package models include further noise reduction using a thicker carpet base layer and front fender liners.[19] The seating H-point has been reduced.

According to Acura the exterior is more aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the new model lapping Nürburgring 8 seconds faster than its predecessor. The steering gear ratio is 9% quicker for a more sporty feel. The MDX rides lower reducing its center of gravity, to reduce unsprung mass the front suspension lower control arms are made from forged aluminum. Structure rigidity is improved and weight reduced through increased use of high-strength steel. Overall, 64% of the total vehicle body mass is high strength steel (HSS), aluminum and magnesium. HSS makes up 59% of vehicle body mass; 1,500 MPa yield strength steel makes up 7%. A single ring-like hot stamped HSS outer door ring component reinforces the A-pillar, roof rail, B-pillar, and lower floor rail encircling the front doors for improved crash protection. Acura states that after conducting a simulated IIHS 25% small offset frontal crash test the front doors will open with normal force.[20][21]

The updated Adaptive Cruise Control adds low-speed stop-and-go functionality. In terms of safety the MDX adds a standard driver's knee airbag, optional Lane Keeping Assist System and Collision Mitigation Braking System.

NHTSA 2014 MDX:[22][23]
Overall:
Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Passenger:
Side Pole Driver:
Rollover FWD: / 16.4%
Rollover AWD: / 15.5%
IIHS scores:[24]
Moderate overlap frontal offset Good
Small overlap frontal offset Good1
Side impact Good
Roof strength Good2
1 vehicle structure rated "Good"
2 strength-to-weight ratio: 5.87

MY 2016

Acura swapped the Honda 6-speed automatic transmission for a ZF 9-speed automatic and changed the SH-AWD system for 2016. The revised SH-AWD system uses a hydraulically-controlled clutch and is similar to system found in the TLX.[25]

MY 2017 facelift
Facelift Acura MDX
Facelift Acura MDX (USA)

A refreshed for 2017 model year MDX went on sale in June 2016,[26] and features a diamond pentagon front grille which debuted on the Acura Precision Concept, redesigned LED headlamps with automatic high beams, LED DRL light pipes and LED amber light pipe turn signals. Restlyed LED fog lamps are optional from the factory. MDX models will come standard with AcuraWatch which includes forward collision warning (with automatic emergency braking), lane departure warning (with lane keep assist) and Adaptive Cruise Control. A 360-degree surround view camera is optional. To reduce body mass the front fenders switched from steel to an alumiunum panel.[27]

Hybrid

A 3.0-liter V6, 7-speed dual-clutch, 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery hybrid was added to the lineup. The front wheels are powered by the engine and a single electric motor while the rear wheels are powered by twin electric motors (tri-motor[28]). The hybrid is only available in all-wheel drive. Acura's Active Damper System is standard. Sales began in April 2017.

MY 2019

For 2019, the Active Damper System is available for non-hybrids, the front seats feature 4-way power lumbar. During the 2018 New York International Auto Show, alongside the debut of the third generation RDX, Acura announced the introduction of the A-Spec appearance package. The exterior features black and dark chrome accents, replacing all the chrome and rides on 20" grey aluminum wheels. The bumpers are redesigned to give the A-Spec a more sharp and aggressive design. Red leather seats with black alcantara inserts is now an option for the A-Spec package. Other changes for the A-Spec trim are new gauges, carbon fiber trim, sport pedals, and thicker steering wheel with paddle shifters.

Powertrain
EngineDrivetrainTransmissionHorsepowerTorque
3.5 SOHC i-VTECFront Wheel Drive6 or 9-speed Automatic Transmission290 hp (216 kW) at 6,200267 lb⋅ft (362 N⋅m) at 4,700
3.5 SOHC i-VTECSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive6 or 9-speed Automatic Transmission290 hp (216 kW) at 6,200267 lb⋅ft (362 N⋅m) at 4,700
3.0 SOHC i-VTECSport-Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive7-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission321 hp (239 kW) at 6,300 (combined)289 lb⋅ft (392 N⋅m) at 5,000 (combined)

Marketing

As part of 2014 Acura MDX launch in the United States, a campaign called 'The Extremely New MDX - Made for Mankind' was produced. The campaign highlights the complete technical transformation of the MDX and centers around the idea of "Made for Mankind," a concept designed to highlight the unique engineering and design philosophy at the heart of all Acura vehicles - the synergy between man and machine. The campaign was developed by Mullen (Boston and LA) and with MediaVest.[29] Also, a series of 8 comedic commercials were created with comedian Jerry Seinfeld and director Barry Sonnenfeld. In addition, Acura became an exclusive sponsor of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.[30]

Fourth generation (YD4; 2021)
Fourth generation (YD4)
Overview
ProductionJanuary 12, 2021—present
Model years2022–present
Assembly
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size Premium Luxury Crossover SUV
Body style
  • 5-door SUV
LayoutFront engine
Front-engine, front-wheel drive
All-wheel drive (SH-AWD)
PlatformAcura TLX chassis
RelatedAcura TLX
Honda Pilot
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission10-speed automatic

The fourth-generation MDX was revealed as a prototype on October 14, 2020 and went into production on January 12, 2021 for the 2022 model year, and went on sale on February 2, 2021, with the Type-S trim coming in mid-2021.[31] Acura claims the 2022 MDX will be their new flagship model, following the discontinuation of the Acura RLX. The improved interior includes a 12-inch infotainment system and 12-inch digital instrument cluster, massaging front seats, and more legroom and headroom compared to the third generation. The 2022 MDX also features a new 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system with over 1,000 watts of power. Powertrains are also improved, with the existing J-Series 3.5L V6 now paired with a new 10-speed transmission. Type-S trim models will get a 3.0L turbocharged V6 with an estimated 355 horsepower and the same 10-speed transmission. The double wishbone suspension from the 2021 TLX makes its way into the 2022 MDX, with FWD as standard and SH-AWD optional. The fourth generation MDX gets 4-piston Brembo front brakes as standard.

Awards

Sales figures
Calendar year US sales[37]
2000 9,750
2001 40,950
2002 52,955
2003 57,281
2004 59,505
2005 57,948
2006 54,121
2007 58,606
2008 45,377
2009 31,178
2010 47,210
2011 43,271
2012 50,854
2013 53,040
2014 65,603
2015 58,208
2016 55,495
2017 54,886
2018 51,512
2019 52,019
2020 47,816

References
  1. "Acura MDX". Consumer Reports. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
  2. http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Acura_MDX/2016/specs/?tid=374380&tid=374391&tid=374377
  3. http://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/acura_mdx
  4. "2016 Acura MDX | Pricing, Ratings & Reviews | Kelley Blue Book". Kbb.com. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
  5. http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Acura_MDX/
  6. "Acura MDX Prices, Reviews, and Pictures | Edmunds". Edmunds.com. 2019-08-30.
  7. Sanchez, Karla (2014-07-11). "Acura MDX is America's Best-Selling Three-Row SUV - Of All Time?". Motor Trend Magazine. TEN: The Enthusiast's Network. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  8. Mays, Kelsey (2013-05-31). "2014 Acura MDX". Expert Reviews. Cars.com. Archived from the original on 2014-09-08. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  9. Klino, Ron (2014-05-31). "First Drive: 2014 Acura MDX - A Better Bestseller: Acura rewrites a crowd-pleasing script". Motor Trend Magazine. TEN: The Enthusiast's Network. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  10. "Honda Build & Price | Honda Canada". www.honda.ca. Retrieved 2021-01-14.
  11. "Specifications | 2020 MDX | Acura Canada". www.acura.ca. Retrieved 2021-01-14.
  12. https://acuranews.com/en-US/releases/release-b3e0916ee54bc7b99235a9004c34c8ad-mdx-to-debut-october-5-with-best-in-class-performance-safety-and-versatility
  13. Honda Canada Inc. "2016 Acura MDX". acura.ca. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  14. "American Honda Reports Best-Ever January Sales". hondanews.com. Retrieved June 26, 2020.
  15. "Acura to Debut the All-New 2014 MDX Prototype at the 2013 North American International Auto Show". Honda.com. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
  16. Jonathon Ramsey. "Acura will show all-new MDX Prototype in Detroit". Autoblog. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  17. Sabatini, Jeff (August 2013). "2014 Acura MDX SH-AWD". Car and Driver. Retrieved 27 September 2014.
  18. "2016 Acura MDX - Photos, Specs, Accessories - Acura.com". Acura.com. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
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  20. "2014 MDX re-engineered to pass IIHS test, reduce NVH". Archived from the original on 14 July 2013. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
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  23. "2014 Acura MDX SUV AWD". Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  24. "2016 Acura MDX Midsize luxury SUV / 2014 Acura MDX 4-door 4wd". IIHS. Retrieved 30 September 2015.
  25. http://youwheel.com/home/2017/05/07/acura-sh-awd-a-comprehensive-analysis/
  26. "Refreshed 2017 Acura MDX Launches with Bold New Styling, Premium Features and Standard AcuraWatch™ Technology".
  27. https://www.revemoto.com/products/2015-acura-mdx-painted-fender?variant=31954622281
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  30. Brandon Turkus. "Acura launches ad spots for Seinfeld's Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee". Autoblog. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
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