The 2007 Acura MDX - The Track Tuned SUV

 

It does not matter if you're a fan (or not) of the new front facia on the MDX, you will be impressed with the dramatic changes Acura has in store for you. There is more power, more space, more technology and improved safety for everyone.

One look at the aggressive new sheetmetal will tell you that this new car is not trying to please everyone, but rather elicit an emotional response much like the 2004 TL did when it was unveiled in late 2003. I predict that some will never "get it" but those that do will love it!

The new 18" wheels (sport package shown above) wear 255/55R-18 tires. These cover new 13" vented front disc brakes and 13.2" solid rear brakes. Naturally, these include all the latest in braking technology: ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Brake Assist.

The final suspension calibrations were set at the legendary Nurembergring race track that winds through scenic Ardennes forests of Germany. Before you think the MDX has become some kind of "track monster" please note that there will be three packages that will certainly influence the ride and handling.

As usual, there are a number of standard features that are built into all the MDXs, these include: The 300 hp VTEC V-6, Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), and the Leather trimmed seating for 7. Front, Side and Side Curtain air bags and our ACE body structure will surely earn a 5 star safety rating as it has in all the other Hondas and Acuras using it. However, in a departure from "normal" Acura practice, there are going to be 5 Trim levels for the new MDX. These are split into Three Packages, the 5 trims are a combination of these items and I've got them itemized below.

The Standard MDX

The new "Base" model can hardly be called base since it begins largely where the current Touring model leaves off and in many ways improves on it. This means you can count on such features as Memory Seats linked to the remote control, a Power Tilt and Telescoping Steering wheel (also linked to the remote), Tri-Zone A/C (vs.dual zone), HID projector lighting (vs. Halogen), Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, and new Active (front seat) Head Restraints.

The Technology Package

As in the RDX, the Tech package bundles the Navigation System, and the Back Up Camera. This package also includes the upgraded DVD Audio system that will play MP3 and WMA files if they're burned on a CD or DVD.

The Sport Package

As you can probably guess, the sport package will probably be my favorite. However, please remember that this is not available by itself, all Sport Packages include the Tech Package above! This upgrade adds the new Active Damper System, Premium Perforated Leather, and an Auto Leveling feature to the (already) standard HID headlights. A unique 18"alloy wheel will visually set this model apart from the normal MDX.

The Entertainment Package

This may be added to either Tech or Sport packages and as the name suggests, this has the DVD player and 9" screen for the 2nd and 3rd row passengers. For reasons known only to Acura, the Entertainment Package is the only one available with the new Power Tailgate (with remote control). Also included are heated 2nd row seats and a handy 115 volt power outlet on the front console.

The next question is "how do I choose which model it best for me?" I guess the answer to that depends on where you are coming from. If you're in a current MDX, the new car should give you more of everything. If you're in a Touring, the new MDX will be an exciting upgrade to your current car and you won't lose any features that you already have (except that everyone loses the autodimming rearview mirror).

Personally, I'd go with the process of elimination: Do I need the power tail gate and rear DVD? If not, that eliminate the Entertainment Package.

The next question is do I want or need the Active Dampers? To me, this is a tough one because these promise to provide a significant improvement in both handling and ride quality. The auto leveling HIDs should help keep the Xenon lights out of the other drivers' eyes. Due to the packaging, you also gain Bluetooth phone integration, the ELS DVD-Audio 6-disc CD changer with 410 watts of power and the Back Up Camera. You also get the fully functional (in Hawaii) Navigation system.

Pricing will follow but officially the model breakdown is as follows:

1) MDX

2) MDX Tech

3) MDX Sport (includes Tech)

4) MDX Tech w/ Entertainment Package

5) MDX Sport w/ Entertainment Package