What is it?
Acura MD-X Concept
What's special about it?
"While the actual production version is still under wraps, this MD-X concept provides a very good idea of where we're going," John Mendel, senior VP of auto operations, informed the New York auto show crowd at the Acura stand.
As best as we can tell, Acura is going to an all-new level of performance for SUVs with three rows of seating. You see, the MD-X concept's suspension was tuned on the famed Nürburgring, because the goal, according to Chief MD-X Engineer Frank Paluch, is to offer a European-grade driving experience. "We asked ourselves, 'How do we make a high center-of-gravity car into a Nürburgring car?'"
We asked Paluch that as well, but he wouldn't get into specifics on the chassis other than to say that the MDX rides on a new platform with a longer wheelbase, a wider track and a lower stance. Despite the heavy emphasis on on-road dynamics, off-road capability is a bit higher than on the old MDX, primarily because of the engine's improved torque characteristics, said Paluch.
We couldn't wrest any horsepower or torque figures, either, but we do know that the second-generation MDX will again have a 3.5-liter V6 and, according to Acura, it will be the most powerful gasoline V6 in the class. Most likely, it will be paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.
Another advantage on slippery terrain will be the '07 MDX's adoption of the sophisticated Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system which works so well on the Acura RL.
On the outside the look is more aggressive, with an angular, Audi-size grille framed by slim HID headlamps. Wheels and tires will be larger, too, and "the wheel arches hug the wheel as opposed to the almost square arches on the old MDX," said Chief Designer Ricky Hsu.
Inside, the new MDX will match the TL and RL sedans feature for feature. Look for a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, an ELS audio system with discrete 5.1 sound and Bluetooth wireless capability.
What's Edmunds' take?
Few manufacturers know how to package their vehicles as well as Acura, and the MDX has long been a hit with families who have $35K to $40K to spend on an SUV. However, it has always been low on passion. This new MDX should solve that when it goes on sale this fall and give more buyers reason to pass up the pricier BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class. — Erin Riches
Acura MD-X Concept
What's special about it?
"While the actual production version is still under wraps, this MD-X concept provides a very good idea of where we're going," John Mendel, senior VP of auto operations, informed the New York auto show crowd at the Acura stand.
As best as we can tell, Acura is going to an all-new level of performance for SUVs with three rows of seating. You see, the MD-X concept's suspension was tuned on the famed Nürburgring, because the goal, according to Chief MD-X Engineer Frank Paluch, is to offer a European-grade driving experience. "We asked ourselves, 'How do we make a high center-of-gravity car into a Nürburgring car?'"
We asked Paluch that as well, but he wouldn't get into specifics on the chassis other than to say that the MDX rides on a new platform with a longer wheelbase, a wider track and a lower stance. Despite the heavy emphasis on on-road dynamics, off-road capability is a bit higher than on the old MDX, primarily because of the engine's improved torque characteristics, said Paluch.
We couldn't wrest any horsepower or torque figures, either, but we do know that the second-generation MDX will again have a 3.5-liter V6 and, according to Acura, it will be the most powerful gasoline V6 in the class. Most likely, it will be paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.
Another advantage on slippery terrain will be the '07 MDX's adoption of the sophisticated Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system which works so well on the Acura RL.
On the outside the look is more aggressive, with an angular, Audi-size grille framed by slim HID headlamps. Wheels and tires will be larger, too, and "the wheel arches hug the wheel as opposed to the almost square arches on the old MDX," said Chief Designer Ricky Hsu.
Inside, the new MDX will match the TL and RL sedans feature for feature. Look for a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, an ELS audio system with discrete 5.1 sound and Bluetooth wireless capability.
What's Edmunds' take?
Few manufacturers know how to package their vehicles as well as Acura, and the MDX has long been a hit with families who have $35K to $40K to spend on an SUV. However, it has always been low on passion. This new MDX should solve that when it goes on sale this fall and give more buyers reason to pass up the pricier BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class. — Erin Riches
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