REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Successful genetic manipulation After securing the quality and reliability reputation of its luxury cars, Acura wanted to venture into new territories. Its first attempt was made in the American all-terrain vehicle segment, with a disguised Isuzu Trooper called SLX, later replaced by the Acura-built MDX.

The MDX is a brand new vehicle in a segment that is just as new, the Genetically Modified Vehicle (GMV). In fact, the MDX is not exactly a traditional 4X4 , nor is it a minivan, from which it is derived.

In less than a year since its introduction, the MDX is already playing trouble-maker in its category, with over 2,000 sales. Lexus RX300 and Mercedes ML sales have dropped by 29.3% and 39.5%. Only BMW ’ s X5 and Buick ’ s RendezVous (combined with Aztek sales) saw their sales figures increase.

In 2002, Acura is subtly touching up the MDX with re-modeled exterior mirrors, intermittent rear window wiper and new exterior paints. Nothing worth hiking up the sales price, already at $47,000. This price includes leather, heating buckets, air, side air bags, power windows, CD player and sunroof among others, on every MDX that comes out of the Alliston, Ontario plant. Unlike most competitors, the MDX offers as standard equipment a third row of seats to accommodate seven people.

The driving position is high and visibility is flawless, except for the blind angles created by the third roof pillar and bulky headrests. Front seat access, comfort and support are very good, but no foot rest can be found. In the back, a medium size adult will be seated lower, with knees higher and in the winter, exiting will be a problem with the presence of the wheel pits. But there is worse: access to the third row of seats will be reserved to young children or gymnasts. Under the hatch, the trunk is quite small unless the third row of seats is removed, and the threshold is quite high for lading heavy or cumbersome objects.

The typical buyer will enjoy the abundant storage, accessible and handy, although the Buick RendezVous is superior in that regard with its two tier central console that can accommodate a laptop computer, a cell phone, sunglasses and handbag.

The dashboard style cannot be called bold except for the central console equipped with a cathode display showing redundant air conditioning and sound settings, while a comprehensive navigation system is offered south of the border. And ironically, primary controls for these same systems have been moved out of the way to insert this display. Making things complicated has never been so simple!

But this is very little inconvenience in comparison to the global style, comfort and enjoyment of this MDX, associated with the brand ’ s rational qualities. Some of the plastics used, however, could be upgraded on a vehicle in that class. While the Buick RendezVous hardly hides its minivan origins, the MDX almost makes us forget it is actually a 4-wheel drive Odyssey (Honda). Acura engineers have made a real good job at that, like Lexus engineers with the RX300, from on a Camry platform.

With the MDXm Acura is aiming directly at the Lexus RX300. Even the base price is almost identical. The MDX has a thicker, heavier body that is compensated by a 3.5-litre, 240 hp V6 engine, more performing than the Lexus 220 hp 3.0-litre. Channelling that power to the wheels is a 5-speed semi-automatic transmission that helps the MDX accelerate 0-100 km/h in 9.34 seconds, while drinking 12.8 litres premium fuel per 100 km. The MDX drives and performs very much like the RX300, although less manoeuvrable and noisier than the Lexus. Unlike the RendezVous and others, the MDX drives effortlessly on the highway, its favourite grounds, but like many other vehicles in this category, remains sensitive to side wind.

The MDX is built around a self-supporting body instead of a distinct chassis like many 4X4. Despite a button that transfers up to 56% of the torque to the rear wheels (only in the first two gears and at speeds below 40 km/h), the MDX does not feature a low range, essential for off-road driving. But if you ever try off-road with the MDX, remember its tires are in no way adapted to such conditions, the engine brake is inexistent, the emergency brake is foot (and not hand) activated, the ground clearance is quite low and too tight approach and exit angles will get you stuck very quickly. Don ’ t count on Acura ’ s road assistance to get you out of trouble. Are you sure you want to take it in the woods?

Take note that the MDX can pull a 1,588 kg (3,500 lb) while a traditional utility easily pulls up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) load). This may mean a lot for campers and boat owners.

As a conclusion, let ’ s say that in its class, it is probably the most versatile and pleasant to drive. Roomier than the RX300 and more refined than the RendezVous, the MDX deserves the affection of its current owners.

PROS Rich and comprehensive equipment
Visibility
Room for up to 7
 
CONS
Poor off-road capabilities
Trunk capacity (with 3rd seat up)
 Sound level

CRASH
TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)

Driver: no data Passenger: no data

New model in 2001

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