If you consider yourself a car enthusiast who is not impressed by models popular among parents and dentists, then the new 2016 Acura MDX can make you change your mind. With a glimmer of excitement provided by a powerful engine, great luxury, and spacious design, this car will easily win over the most demanding folks.
Although some of the features might not provide the same heart-thumping effect but let’s keep in mind one thing: this is Acura, a car that does not just get you from point A to point B but does it in a remarkably pleasant and efficient way.
Fuel it up!
The 2016 Acura MDX comes with a V6 engine in its basic form; this is a brand new 3.5-liter unit capable of generating 290 horsepower. High tech equipped unit to come with some unique Acura features, including Variable Cylinder Management System, Direct Gas Injection, and Acura i-VTEC system.
These features are responsible for the best possible fuel efficiency, horsepower increase, and direct injection of the fuel into the cylinders. According to the official Acura website, this unit’s fuel efficiency is estimated to 19/27 mpg city/highway for the front-wheel model and 18/26 mpg for the all-wheel-drive version.
MDX also comes with the engine start-stop feature that helps it to achieve even better fuel efficiency, up to 20/27 mpg for the front-wheel model and 19/26 mpg for all-wheel drive models.
The powertrains are paired to a nine-speed short-shift automatic transmission which is provided with a push-button electronic gear selector (by the way, the same transmission is featured on the upcoming Honda Pilot).
Although it is a modern and fast system, many reviewers claimed it had just a little effect on the real fuel efficiency. However, they also say that the vehicle is firm, sharp and provides a great driving experience.
How does it look?
The car is decidedly sporty and good looking, with a lot of great design elements and features, including body side molding, moonroof visor, LED fog lights, and clear lines. Bold and big, the new MDX looks both technologically advanced and luxurious.
And, of course, it features a signature beak grille and LED headlights that make Acura stand out. For the customer’s pleasure, the company provides seven exterior color combinations: White Diamond, Silver Metallic, Graphite Metallic, Black Pearl, Blue Pearl, Mist Metallic, and Dark Cherry Pearl.
What’s inside?
The cabin of MDX is made with a sense of luxury and functionality and provided in four colors. All seats feature high-quality leather which makes driving a pretty comfortable experience. The driver’s seat is adjustable in 10 ways and includes a power lumbar comfort support while the front passenger enjoys an 8-way adjustable seat.
In addition to high-quality materials, the customers will get one of the roomiest three-row cabins with a lot of space for the first and second rows. According to many reviewers, the third row is best for children because of insufficient space for legs and heads. Up to 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space is available but when you fold the third row of seats this increases to 45.1 cubic feet and when the second row is also folded you get impressive 90.9 cubic feet.
Among the main interior features of the new MDX are 8-inch updated Acura infotainment system, rearview camera, Bluetooth, USB jack, satellite radio, automatic climate control, a second multi-use display, and a dual-cove signature Acura instrument panel. Music lovers will be satisfied with the 12 speakers located in the cabin to provide the best possible sound. Of course, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available as well.
Is it Safe?
There are a number of safety features available in the new MDX. The designers provided it with a complete package of airbags, including two front, front-side, side curtain, and even driver’s knee airbag. To ensure the maximum level of safety, MDX is equipped with the AcuraWatch suite that features many driver assistance and protective functions.
They include blind spot warning, vehicle stability assistant, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and multi-view rear camera. Clearly, the area of safety is one of the model’s best-selling points, which is illustrated by rating given by independent organizations.
For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given this version of MDX the highest possible rating, five stars, and has recommended it as a great safety pick on crossover market.
Trims
There are four primary trims designed by Acura for 2016 Acura MDX, including Standard, Technology, Entertainment, and Advance. However, they can be combined into Technology with Entertainment and Advance and Entertainment to meet the specific needs of customers.
First, the Standard package includes all essential features and even some premium ones, such as USB jack, heated front seats, and a rear view camera. Second, Technology trim provides four more speakers to the audio system, navigation package, second multi-functional screen, 19-inch alloy wheels and blind spot warning.
Third, the Advance trim level will satisfy the customers with ventilated seats, parking sensor system, heated rear seats, and premium materials of the interior, including Milano leather. Finally, the Entertainment package adds a wide range of features as well, including power outlet, additional speakers, DVD entertainment speaker and a 16-inch VGA screen. Pretty much enough for entertainment during a long journey.
2016 Acura MDX Price
The new MDX is a luxury vehicle and has a corresponding price range. Specifically, the Standard trim’s starting price is $43,015 (without the AcuraWatch package) and Technology trim level starts at $47,440 (again no AcuraWatch).
This package is standard on Advance and Advance/Entertainment trim levels, which increases the starting price to $53,230 and $55,230 respectively. An optional Technology/Entertainment package starts at $49,440. According to Acura, there will be additional trim levels available soon, but the pricing details have not been revealed yet.
Conclusions
What we loved about the new 2016 Acura MDX is its interior space, luxurious, high-quality materials, smooth transmission, an abundance of safety features, and sharpness for such a big vehicle. Beyond any doubt, it is a great car, the choice of which will satisfy demanding customers.
With competitors like BMW X5, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90, the latest MDX will certainly experience a fierce competition, but we think it will do just fine and impress many customers. After all, this is what it was made for.
