Acura MDX

Acura MDX
Overview
Manufacturer Honda
Also called Honda MDX
Production 2000–present (Acura)
2003–2006 (Honda)
Model years 2001-present
Body and chassis
Class Mid-size luxury crossover SUV
Body style 5-door SUV
Chronology
Predecessor Acura SLX

The Acura MDX, or Honda MDX as known in Japan and Australia (only the first generation was imported), is a mid-size three-row luxury crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under its Acura luxury nameplate since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for "Multi-Dimensional luxury". According to Honda, the MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury crossover of all time, with cumulative U.S. sales expected to surpass 700,000 units before the end of 2014.[1] It has ranked as the second-best selling luxury crossover after the Lexus RX,[2] which offers only two rows of seats.

The MDX was the first crossover SUV to have third-row seating, and shares a platform with the Honda Pilot.[3] The Pilot seats eight, while the MDX seats seven, with two seating positions in the third row. The MDX was introduced as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. In Japan, it filled a gap when the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) was discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the Honda MDX went on sale in Japan and Australia. The MDX has been the most expensive crossover in Acura's lineup, except for the 2009-13 model years when Acura added a crossover to slot above the MDX, called the ZDX.

First generation (2000–2006)

Acura MDX (YD1)

2001-2003 Acura MDX
Overview
Production 2000–2006 (Acura)
2003–2006 (Honda)
Assembly Alliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM)
Designer Frank Paluch (engineering: 1998), Catalin Matei (styling: 1998)
Body and chassis
Layout Front engine, all-wheel drive
Related Honda Pilot
Powertrain
Engine 3.5 L V6
240 hp (180 kW), 245 lb·ft (332 N·m) (2001-2002)
265 hp (198 kW), 253 lb·ft (343 N·m) (2003-2006)
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 106.3 in (2700 mm)
Length 188.5 in (4,788 mm)
Width 77 in (1955 mm)
Height Base: 68.7 in (1,745 mm)
Touring: 71.3 in (1811 mm)
Curb weight 4451 lb (2023 kg)

Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX and Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 with VTEC. 2001-2002 3.5 V6 models produce 240 hp (180 kW) and 245 lb·ft (332 N·m) of torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. 2003-2006 3471 cc (3.5 in x 3.6 in) model engine produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 lb·ft (343 N·m) . Curb weight is 4,451 lb (2,019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase and 8 in (200 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row holds three passengers.

The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system (named VTM-4) that engages during off the line acceleration as well as when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4wd and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in the MDX is identical to the VTM-4 systems in the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline. It is different than the real time AWD system in the Honda CR-V in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs (by monitoring throttle inputs). The Honda CR-V system waits for slippage to occur and then sends power back.

2003 and later models use a revised 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2001 and 2002 models use a 5 speed automatic transmission which suffered a significant numbers of transmission problems that were similar to the problems with the Acura CL and TL. However, they did not get the benefit of the free extended warranty that the Acura CL and TL received, though the company often paid for the required parts. The 2003 and later models also received a number of structural and suspension modifications to help improve ride and handling. As of the Summer 2010 edition, Consumer Reports shows a drastic increase in reliability in the "Transmission, Major" category, going from far below average reliability on 01-03 models to above and well above average reliability on 04+ models. However, according to forum MDXers.org a significant portion of 05-06 owners have complained of harsh shifting and Acura has begun issuing recall letters in order to re-flash the computer which change transmission shift points and torque converter settings. Owners are reporting smoother shifting but some loss of MPG due to using lower gears.[4]

The navigation system and DVD entertainment system options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a rear view video camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005 the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg-US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg-imp) highway and 17 mpg-US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg-imp) city.

Facelifted Honda MDX

The 2001-2006 MDXs sometimes offered better fuel economy than competing SUVs and crossovers of similar size, interior volume, and weight (such as the Ford Explorer and BMW X5 for example) due to the front-wheel drive basis, at the expense of handling and road feel.

In the 2003 model, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp (15 kW) more power than the 2002 model and wheel designs were updated. The 2004 model received an additional 5 hp (4 kW). The 2004 model is credited for a top speed of 137mph, and a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model features dual tail pipes instead of the single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could now be had with a dark grey wood (as opposed to reddish wood on earlier models), and also a black dash and steering wheel in tan interiors.

Second generation (2007–2013)

Acura MDX (YD2)

2007 Acura MDX
Overview
Production Sep 2006–2013
Model years 2007–2013
Assembly Alliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM)
Designer Frank Paluch (engineering: 2004)
Ricky Hsu (styling: 2003)
Body and chassis
Layout Front engine, all-wheel drive
Related Honda Pilot
Acura ZDX
Powertrain
Engine 3.7L (3,664 cc) 24 valve SOHC V6 VTEC
Transmission 5-speed automatic (2007-09)
6-speed automatic (2010-13)
Dimensions
Wheelbase 108.3 in (2,751 mm)
Length 2007-09: 190.7 in (4,844 mm)
2010-2013: 191.6 in (4,867 mm)
Width 2007-09: 78.7 in (1,999 mm)
2010-2013: 78.5 in (1,994 mm)
Height 2007-09: 68.1 in (1,730 mm)
2010-2013: 68.2 in (1,732 mm)
Curb weight 4,594 lb (2,084 kg)-4,669 lb (2,118 kg)

On April 11, 2006, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept during the New York International Auto Show, showing to the public an indication about the exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX. The second-generation MDX was released on October 17, 2006 in the U.S.

The second generation model's body has a wider track and longer wheelbase than the previous MDX, but visibility to the rear has worsened from the prior generation. The redesigned Acura MDX's unit-body was engineered with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure designed to absorb energy from a collision. The suspension was tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track. The engine was upgraded to a 3.7 liter V6 tuned for 300 hp (224 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 270 lb·ft (366 N·m) of torque at 5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds and is estimated by the EPA to consume 16 miles per US gallon (15 L/100 km; 19 mpg-imp) in the city and 21 miles per US gallon (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg-imp) on the highway. It is one of the most powerful engines Honda has produced to date. The "VTM-4" all-wheel drive system on the previous generation was replaced by the new SH-AWD "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive" previously debuted on the 2005 Acura RL. This AWD system is one of the most advanced in its class, featuring an active rear differential often found on high performance cars. The MDX is able to tow 5,000 lb (2,300 kg).[5]

Like all Acuras, the MDX comes with a high level of standard equipment, including a power moonroof, leather interior, and high intensity discharge (Xenon) low beam headlights. For the 2007 through 2009 model years, three option packages were available: Sport, Technology and Entertainment.

All Canadian Acura MDX models, aside from the heated front seats, also get the second-row heated outboard seats as standard equipment as well. A feature unique to Canadian MDX models are headlight washers. In terms of packages, Canadian MDX models get only two: Technology and Elite. The Technology package corresponds essentially to the US model's Technology package while the Elite package is an amalgamation of the US model's Sport and Entertainment packages. However, AcuraLink real-time traffic reporting through XM NavTraffic is unavailable for Canadian MDX models.

2007-2009 Acura MDX

Like the first generation model, the new generation is manufactured exclusively by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. But along with the 2007 RDX, the new MDX was the first Acura model to pass the Acura Quality Line, a special quality control and verification process separate from the other Honda vehicles.

2010-2013 Acura MDX

For 2008 the MDX received a new auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2009 MDX had added more upgrades to the navigation system and there are two new colors added. The power tailgate, previously available only with the Entertainment package, is now included with Technology and Sport packages.

The 2010 MDX got a facelift, adopting Acura's new "Power Plenum" grille that debuted on its 2009 model year sedans. The most important upgrades to the 2010 model are a new 6-speed SportShift automatic transmission. An Advance package became available that included Adaptive Cruise Control, blind spot monitor, Active Damper Suspension, circle-see assist, Tire Pressure Activation, Blind Spot Attention, 19 inch wheels and tires, Ventilated seats and paddle shifters. Non-navigation equipped MDX models now have a rear view camera monitor located in the rear view mirror.

The redesigned MDX overtook the TL as Acura's top seller in the United States.[6] In the 2012 model year, 50,854 units of the MDX were sold, making it the nameplate's top seller, while the Acura TL at 33,572 units was second.[3] It is also Acura's best-selling vehicle in Canada since the vehicle was redesigned.

Third generation (2014-present)

Acura MDX (YD3)
Overview
Production May 2013–
Model years 2014-
Assembly Lincoln, Alabama, US (HMA)
Designer Jim Keller (Chief Engineer / Manager Honda R&D Americas)
Layout Front engine
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (SH-AWD)
Powertrain
Engine 3.5L J35Y5 (3,471 cc) 24 valve SOHC V6 VTEC
290 bhp (216 kW; 294 PS) @ 6200 rpm
267 lb·ft (362 N·m) @ 4500 rpm
Transmission 6-speed automatic (2014-15)
9-speed ZF 9HP automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 111.0 in (2,819 mm)
Length 193.6 in (4,917 mm)
Width 77.2 in (1,961 mm)
Height 67.6 in (1,717 mm)
Curb weight 3,960-4,169 (FWD)
4,195-4,268 (AWD)

The 2014 MDX Prototype was unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show,[7][8] the production version was revealed at the New York Auto Show. Production began in May 2013; vehicle assembly shifted from Ontario, Canada to Lincoln, Alabama. US sales began in June.

The MDX is now powered by a 3.5-liter direct injected Earth Dreams V6 with Variable Cylinder Management. A front-wheel drive (FWD) model is available for the first time in the United States,[9] but not in Canada, where all-wheel drive is the only configuration offered. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) models rated at 18/27/21 mpg (city/highway/combined) and FWD models rated at 20/28/23 mpg.

The interior reduced button clutter by adding a 7-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback, an additional 8-inch screen is also standard. To reduce interior noise an acoustic (acoustic PVB) windshield, acoustic front door glass and thicker rear glass are used as well as triple sealed door openings. Advance package models include further noise reduction using a thicker carpet base layer and front fender liners.[10] The seating H-point has been reduced and the steering gear ratio is 9% quicker for a more sporty feel. The MDX rides lower reducing its center of gravity.

According to Acura the exterior is more aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the new model lapping Nürburgring 8 seconds faster than its predecessor. The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED Headlights (first introduced on the RLX).[11] Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three used for low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. LED bumper mounted fog lamps are offered as a dealer installed option.

Structure rigidity is improved and weight reduced through increased use of high-strength steel. Overall, 64% of the total vehicle body mass is high strength steel (HSS), aluminum and magnesium. HSS makes up 59% of vehicle body mass; 1,500 MPa yield strength steel makes up 7%. A single ring-like hot stamped HSS component reinforces the A-pillar, roof rail, B-pillar, and lower floor rail encircling the front doors for improved crash protection. Acura states that after conducting a simulated IIHS 25% small offset frontal crash test the front doors will open with normal force.[12][13]

In terms of safety the MDX adds a standard driver's knee airbag, optional Lane Keeping Assist System and Collision Mitigation Braking System. The Adaptive Cruise Control now comes with stop and go functionality.

On August 19, 2013, the 2014 MDX was in a comparison test by Edmunds with the 2013 Lexus RX and 2014 Infiniti QX60. The MDX beat out its competition with the RX in 3rd and QX60 in 2nd. Edmunds said "The 2014 Acura MDX just had too many 'bests' to be denied: the best handling, the best front seats, the quickest acceleration, the largest max cargo capacity and the potential for the best fuel economy. And without question, it's the driver's SUV of the trio."[14]

The new MDX is currently outselling its predecessors, setting all-time monthly sales records.[15]

NHTSA 2014 MDX:[16][17]
Overall:
Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Passenger:
Side Pole Driver:
Rollover FWD: / 16.4%
Rollover AWD: / 15.5%
IIHS scores:[18]
Moderate overlap frontal offset Good
Small overlap frontal offset Good*
Side impact Good
Roof strength Good

*vehicle structure also rated "Good"

Marketing

As part of 2014 Acura MDX launch in the United States, a campaign called 'The Extremely New MDX - Made for Mankind' was produced. The campaign highlights the complete technical transformation of the MDX and centers around the idea of "Made for Mankind," a concept designed to highlight the unique engineering and design philosophy at the heart of all Acura vehicles - the synergy between man and machine. The campaign was developed by Mullen (Boston and LA) and with MediaVest.[19] Also, a series of 8 comedic commercials were created with comedian Jerry Seinfeld and director Barry Sonnenfeld. In addition, Acura became an exclusive sponsor of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.[20]

Awards

Sales figures

Calendar year US sales
2000 9,750[22]
2001 40,950[23]
2002 52,955
2003 57,281[24]
2004 59,505
2005 57,948[25]
2006 54,121
2007 58,606[26]
2008 45,377
2009 31,178
2010 47,210[27]
2011 43,271[28]
2012 50,854
2013 53,040[29]
2014 65,603[30]

References

  1. ↑ Sanchez, Karla (2014-07-11). "Acura MDX is America's Best-Selling Three-Row SUV - Of All Time?". Motor Trend Magazine. TEN: The Enthusiast's Network. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  2. ↑ Mays, Kelsey (2013-05-31). "2014 Acura MDX". Expert Reviews. Cars.com. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Klino, Ron (2014-05-31). "First Drive: 2014 Acura MDX - A Better Bestseller: Acura rewrites a crowd-pleasing script". Motor Trend Magazine. TEN: The Enthusiast's Network. Retrieved 2014-09-13.
  4. ↑ http://www.mdxers.org/forums/58-transmission-problems/40612-2005-2006-pcm-update-lock-up-clutch-function.html
  5. ↑ http://acura.ca/mdx#/mdx/performance
  6. ↑ "American Honda Reports Best-Ever January Sales". hondanews.com. Archived from the original on September 27, 2007. Retrieved February 7, 2007.
  7. ↑ Acura to Debut the All-New 2014 MDX Prototype at the 2013 North American International Auto Show
  8. ↑ Acura will show all-new MDX Prototype in Detroit
  9. ↑ Sabatini, Jeff (August 2013). "2014 Acura MDX SH-AWD". Car and Driver. Retrieved 27 September 2014.
  10. ↑ http://articles.sae.org/12225/
  11. ↑ Acura future vehicles site
  12. ↑ http://www.sae.org/mags/sve/12225/
  13. ↑ http://www.autonews.com/article/20130621/VIDEO/306219953/autonews-now-acuras-crash-minded-design
  14. ↑ http://www.edmunds.com/acura/mdx/2014/comparison-test.html
  15. ↑ http://www.hondanews.com/channels/acura-automobiles-headlines/releases/american-honda-posts-record-august-sales-up-26-7-percent-as-year-to-date-sales-top-1-million-vehicles
  16. ↑ http://www.safercar.gov/Vehicle+Shoppers/5-Star+Safety+Ratings/2011-Newer+Vehicles/Vehicle-Detail?vehicleId=8473
  17. ↑ http://www.safercar.gov/Vehicle+Shoppers/5-Star+Safety+Ratings/2011-Newer+Vehicles/Vehicle-Detail?vehicleId=8474
  18. ↑ http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/acura/mdx
  19. ↑ 2014 Acura MDX ad campaign the most expensive in brand's history
  20. ↑ Acura launches ad spots for Seinfeld's Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee
  21. ↑ "2005 Sport/Utility of the Year - Behind the Scenes". Motortrend.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  22. ↑ "Honda Media Newsroom Release: American Honda Sets All-Time Sales Records". Hondanews.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  23. ↑ "Honda Media Newsroom Release: American Honda Sets New All-Time Sales Record for 2002". Hondanews.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  24. ↑ "Honda Media Newsroom Release: American Honda Sets New All-Time Sales Record". Hondanews.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  25. ↑ "Honda Media Newsroom Release: American Honda Posts 10th Consecutive Year of Record Sales in 2006". Hondanews.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  26. ↑ "Honda Media Newsroom Release: American Honda Reports 2008 Annual and December Monthly Sales". Hondanews.com. Retrieved 2009-09-11.
  27. ↑ http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/acura-announces-december-and-year-end-sales-results-112886544.html
  28. ↑ http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-honda-reports-december-sales-136680868.html
  29. ↑ http://hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-sets-all-time-december-sales-record-to-earn-2nd-best-annual-sales-total-for-american-honda-acura-light-trucks-post-best-year-in-brand-history
  30. ↑ http://www.hondanews.com/releases/honda-division-breaks-annual-auto-sales-record-as-honda-and-acura-brands-set-numerous-new-sales-marks

External links

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