Used 2011 Acura MDX

By combining manageable dimensions with 7-passenger capacity, a comfortable highway ride with responsive in-town handling and car-like construction with respectable off-pavement capability, the MDX has been one of our favorite SUVs since its introduction for the 2001 model year. In fact, as it trails only the Lexus RX 350 in category sales, the MDX has proven to be a favorite of many. Last year, Acura gave its flagship SUV a few major upgrades which carry over onto the 2011 model. Fortunately, the characteristics that made the original MDX appealing are still present on the current version.

The fact that Acura introduced the MDX on a racetrack with other high-performance SUVS says quite a bit. The fact that it was indeed the MDX that put the biggest smiles on our faces says even more. When pushed hard, the MDX’s 300 horsepower, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and optional active damping system combine to deliver an SUV that’s fun to drive even at or near its limits. We were also impressed by the MDX’s off-road ability, which we were able to sample on a short but extreme course. Fortunately, because very few will ever negotiate a racetrack or even a muddy trail, the handily athletic MDX is even more pleasing around town and on the highway than any MDX before it.

In its pursuit of greater performance, the 2011 Acura MDX has given up nothing in practicality. For example, the MDX offers 15 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row, which is just two cubic feet less than the full-size Chevrolet Tahoe. For bigger loads, both rear rows fold flat. The reclining second-row seats offer enough legroom for those six feet tall and more, while the third row is best suited for smaller folks riding on shorter trips. The MDX even offers a minivan-like 10 cupholders. Up front, the MDX is an attractive mix of sport, luxury and technology, with highlights that include perforated leather or premium Milano leather seats, wood-like or metallic trim and a collection of intuitive controls and LED lighting.

Complementing its wide, low, aggressive stance, the boldly styled MDX features a shield-like take on Acura’s 5-sided grille, thick wheel arches filled with 18-inch wheels and prominent oval tailpipes. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, mirror-integrated turn signals and LED taillamps further the cutting-edge appearance, as does a radio antenna that’s been cleverly integrated into the rear spoiler. The MDX is longer, wider and taller, by varying degrees, than the Lexus RX 350 and Volvo XC90.

Technology Package
With a navigation system that provides real-time traffic and weather info and an audio system that delivers amazing 6-channel Surround Sound via DVD-Audio disc, we’d be hard-pressed not to check this option box.

SH-AWD
Squeeze the throttle while in the middle of a corner and the MDX’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system transfers more torque to the rear outside wheel, delivering truer steering response and perceptibly higher cornering limits.

Some of the bigger features included at base price include the powerful V6 engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, power and heated front seats, power moonroof, HID headlamps, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, a 253-watt 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA changer, 3-zone automatic climate control, an auto dimming mirror, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, six airbags and electronic traction and stability controls.

All of the 2011 Acura MDX’s optional features are bundled into three packages. The Technology Package highlights include a sophisticated navigation system with an 8-inch LCD screen, AcuraLink real-time traffic and weather reports, Zagat restaurant reviews, plus a DVD-Audio Surround Sound system and power rear liftgate. The Advance Package features an active suspension, ventilated sport seats covered in rich perforated Milano leather, a sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, Collision Mitigating Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, blind spot information system, auto leveling HID front headlamps and 19-inch alloy wheels. The Entertainment Package includes a DVD rear entertainment system.

The MDX features Acura’s most powerful engine ever, connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system that distributes torque not only between the front and rear wheels, but also between the left and right rear wheels. In addition to cornering advantages, the system also makes for a less-intrusive stability control system. The available Active Damper System, in which the shock absorbers can change from soft to firm in milliseconds, helps mitigate the traditional trade-offs between a comfortable ride and spirited handling. The MDX features unibody construction and a fully independent suspension, and can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the added benefit of a Trailer Stability Assist feature.

3.7-liter V6
300 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21