Even as gas prices rise and truck and SUV sales shrink, Acura is going against conventional wisdom and launching an all-new version of its MDX. Acura figures the luxury midsize SUV category will grow 26 percent in the next five years and aims to be ready with its new truck.
The new MDX has crisper sheetmetal and a more driver-oriented interior. Acura officials said they were going for a sportier looking-and driving-MDX.
That starts with the new 3.7-liter V6 powering the new MDX. Horsepower is up 40 to 300 and the engine produces 275 lb ft of torque, up 25 lb ft. It is mated to a 5-speed sequential gearbox.
Three option packages will be available when the car is on sale in a month or so and can be mixed and matched. The Sport package has active dampers, high-zoot leather and alloy wheels. The Technology package includes DVD Nav system with real-time traffic updates, rearview camera, and automatic climate control. The Entertainment package has a rear-entertainment system, power tailgate and heated second row seats.
Prices aren't set in stone yet, but Acura is figuring on $41,000-$48,000.