2015 Acura MDX: A Real First-Liner

Honda’s luxury brand hasn’t had it easy lately, with many models hungry for buyers. This is especially true for Acura’s cars, since its SUVs are generally doing better. Surprisingly, the MDX—the biggest and most expensive model in their portfolio—is generating the most sales and its little brother, the RDX, is right behind it. The duo accounts for more than 50% of Acura sales. 

What’s the MDX's secret for success? Generous dimensions, great style and the ability to carry up to seven people. Unlike many other luxury SUVs, the MDX comes with terrific standard equipment, which means that buyers don’t have to reach deep into the options catalogue (and their pocketbooks) to get a reasonably well equipped vehicle. Practically the only options are the navigation and entertainment systems; the rest is included. Quite the opposite of German cars. 

• Also: Updates For The 2016 Acura MDX
• Also: 2017 Acura MDX: New York will get the New SUV

More affordable

The MDX was entirely revamped in 2014, so it’s no surprise that little has changed this year. All four trims (MDX, Navi, Tech and Elite) come with the same 3.5 litre V6 with 290 horsepower and 267 lbs.-ft. of torque. Thanks to its direct injection technology and variable valve timing (which deactivates three cylinders in certain conditions) the MDX is very good on gas. We recorded a combined city/highway average of just over 10 L/100 km, marking a major improvement over the past generation. There’s no diesel or supercharged version at Acura. They prefer to keep things pure and simple. 

The engine is paired with only one available transmission, a six-speed SportShift Automatic. It comes with paddles behind the steering wheel so that you can shift manually. Acura may boast about this system and how fun it is, but it’s actually pretty useless in an SUV.

In terms of style, the MDX’s new look is doing wonders for it. Its design is much more anonymous, which some people like. More fluid lines enhance its sophistication, as do the Jewel Eye LED lamps. Overall, the exterior is reminiscent of the CR-V, particularly the roofline and rear-plunging side windows.

Inside, the quality fit and trim and choice of materials are worth noting. The ergonomics are significantly improved and the dashboard presentation is more serious and better organized. There are two screens right in the middle. The one on the upper section displays computer data and navigation system information, while the other is a touch screen for controlling various systems, including the radio, air-conditioning, etc.. The Elite trim’s infotainment system includes a massive screen in back that can display two sources at the same time. Your kids will love it!

On the road

Even though the MDX has lost a bit of power compared to the previous generation's 3.7-litre V6, the 2015 model’s performance is just as good, mainly because the vehicle is lighter than before (it shed 130 kilograms by using lighter components). The MDX can sprint from 0-100 km/h in about six seconds, which is not bad for an SUV of this size. The careful soundproofing is immediately noticeable on the highway. The vehicle blocks most ambient noise, enclosing the passenger compartment in peace and quiet. Various tactics are used to achieve this, including thicker glass, an active noise control system and a new suspension design.

These days, buyers often get to adjust vehicle handling according to their preferences—and the Acura MDX is no exception to the trend. Its Integrated Dynamic System comes with three modes—Sport, Normal and Comfort—to adjust steering, accelerator responsiveness and even engine sound. Sport mode obviously uses more gas, but it’s also the most fun. 

When road conditions deteriorate, you’re suddenly very glad to be driving an SUV. The MDX comes with the excellent Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which responds to road conditions by transferring torque between the front and rear wheels, and even between the left and right sides for maximum traction. It is definitely one of the best on the market. The 2015 MDX continues to seduce buyers with its good qualities and great value.