All-New 2007 Acura MDX Combines Dynamic Styling, Advanced Technology and Su
09/08/2006
Acura
Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the world famous Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the completely redesigned 2007 MDX expands on the capabilities - and the appeal - of its highly successful predecessor. With substantial advances in power, handling, traction, luxury, and style, the MDX pushes performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment to new heights. The largest and most powerful V-6 engine in Acura history gives the MDX class-leading power and excellent fuel economy while Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) offers all-weather traction coupled with exceptional steering response and cornering prowess. An optional Active Damper System included in the available Sport Package helps give the MDX outstanding chassis control in performance driving, while retaining the comfortable, quiet ride that drivers of luxury vehicles demand. And, in traditional Acura fashion, the 7-passenger MDX has industry-leading standard and available electronics that make the luxurious driver-oriented interior a comfortably connected place.
"The MDX will once again set a new standard in the luxury SUV segment, just as it did when it was first introduced," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "Bold styling, track tuned performance and the latest technology make the MDX one of the most advanced SUVs on the road."
Driving the MDX's newfound performance is an all-new 3.7-liter VTEC(R) V-6 that is the most powerful normally aspirated 6-cylinder SUV powerplant currently available in America. Rated at 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm, it features a dual-stage intake manifold and an electronic Drive-by-Wire Throttle System(TM) to help it deliver V-8 like performance with the fuel economy of a V-6. The MDX returns an EPA-estimated 17/22 mpg (City/Highway), placing it among the leaders of its SUV class. Despite gains in displacement, horsepower and torque, the MDX meets tough CARB LEV-2/ULEV emissions standards.
The MDX has a standard 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control designed to maximize acceleration and fuel economy. Operated via a console-mounted shifter, the Sequential SportShift transmission can function in conventional fully automatic mode, or in manual mode for maximum driver control. With its standard fluid cooler, the MDX's upgraded transmission is a key component supporting the MDX's increased 5000 lb. tow rating.
The all-new MDX features Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)). Mechanically similar to the system in the RDX, this innovative full-time all-wheel-drive system actively distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. By distributing power to help control yaw throughout a turn, SH-AWD(TM) improves traction and reduces understeer to improve handling precision. Working in conjunction with the MDX's standard cooperative Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) with traction control, SH-AWD(TM) provides enhanced traction and driver control, on- or off-road, in rain, snow or ice. When towing, special Trailer Stability Assist algorithms built into the VSA(R) logic help stabilize the vehicle after sensing oscillations of the vehicle and trailer system. For optimum stopping performance, the MDX has a standard 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
With its new emphasis on sporting performance, the second-generation MDX targeted the dynamics and driving feel of its strongest European SUV competitors. This led to the development of a platform with a longer wheelbase, new suspension geometry and calibrations that were tuned on Germany's demanding Nurburgring Nordschleife race circuit.
For an optimized combination of ride comfort and fine handling control, the available Sport Package includes the Active Damper System. Tuned specifically for the MDX, these active dampers can individually adjust from minimum to maximum damping force in as little as five milliseconds (0.005 sec.) to provide improved transient handling, road isolation, and body control. To increase strength while minimizing weight, the MDX takes full advantage of greater use of high strength steel and lightweight aluminum than its predecessor.
The all-new MDX has distinctive exterior styling that builds on the themes embodied in recent Acura products. Framed by high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, the grille retains Acura's trademark pentagon shape, but is 30% larger than that of the previous MDX. The MDX rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels, and is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor. The body's cleanly sculpted shapes echo those of a high-end megayacht.
The MDX interior blends purposeful sport sedan intensity with the best elements of SUV utility. Soft leather, highly supportive front bucket seats and a driver-oriented cockpit make it clear that the new MDX is focused on the driver, without compromising passenger comfort. The outboard second-row seats echo the style and lateral support of the front seats, giving the interior a unique 4+3 seating design, highlighting its blend of sport and utility. There are many possible configurations for the MDX's three rows of seating, providing a maximum useable cargo volume of 83.5 cubic feet with the second and third row seats folded to provide a flat load floor.
True to form for Acura, the MDX has an impressive selection of standard electronic features that are designed for convenience and ease of use; a Tri-Zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions, and the HandsFreeLink(R) wireless telephone interface that connects with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). In addition, a 253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA changer, XM(R) Satellite Radio, 8 speakers, and an auxiliary jack for personal audio devices comes standard.
Three optional packages are offered on the MDX; Technology, Entertainment and Sport. The Technology Package features a spectacular 410-watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc CD/DVD-Audio changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM(R) Satellite Radio. Engineered by Grammy(R) award-winning recording engineer and producer Elliott Scheiner, this advanced 410-watt system delivers six discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) when playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A). The Technology Package also includes the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), which can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including freeway flow, accident, construction and weather conditions in 44 major metro areas (where available). In addition, the 8-inch (diagonal) Navigation screen displays the image from a rearview camera when the transmission is placed in reverse. Also featured is AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic which allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers the latest information specific to their vehicle. The final element of the Technology Package links climate control to GPS to automatically adjust the temperature and fan speed according to the position of the sun.
The Entertainment Package focuses on enhancing passenger comfort and convenience. A large 9-inch (diagonal) flip-down TFT (Thin Film Transistor) color screen is mounted in an overhead console to provide on-the-road entertainment for the second and third row passengers. Audio plays through the MDX's speakers in Dolby Digital surround sound, via two wireless Personal Surround headphones and three audio jacks. The package also includes a 110-volt AC power outlet on the center console, second-row heated outboard seats and a remote power-operated tailgate.
The Sport Package includes all of the upgrades of the Technology Package and adds additional upgrades such as exclusive alloy wheel design and auto-leveling headlights. As the center focus of the Sport Package, the Active Damper System features proprietary fully active dampers that adjust to road conditions on a real-time basis to boost handling precision while maintaining a smooth and controlled ride. Inside, premium full-grain leather seating surfaces and unique textured metallic accents on radio, cupholder and shifter trims are included.
The new MDX provides state-of-the-art safety for its passengers. A new Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) unit body structure evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. A special frame member located below the front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.
Inside the handsomely appointed interior, passengers will find more advanced safety features, including the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger. There are also side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Front active head restraints help reduce the chance of neck injury and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) mounting systems in the second row of seating allow quick and secure installation of child seats.
Developed at Honda Research of the Americas, the MDX will be assembled at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario. Like all Acura models, the 2007 MDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.