The Return of Acura's Acclaimed MDX: The 2015 Edition
As of June 3, Acura's critically applauded MDX luxury SUV has rolled out its 2015 model. The returning model carries forward the same mix of two-wheel and Super Handling All-wheel Drive (SH-AWD) drivetrain configurations, arrayed across four luxurious grades. The opening price point for the 2015 MDX is pitched at a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $42,565.
A Reputation Steeped in Honors
Acura's MDX claimed a list of prominent awards in 2014, garnering praise from sources like Autoguide.com as "Utility Vehicle of the Year" and earning a top rating from Edmunds.com. Furthermore, U.S. News & World Report recognized the MDX as the "Best Luxury 3-row SUV for Families" and "#1 Luxury Crossover SUV," while Kiplinger's Personal Finance gifted it the "Best Value Award". It is this reputation that helped the MDX find favor with luxury SUV customers, making it a top choice among discerning consumers.
Luxury Merged with Performance
The 2015 MDX continues to merge an exemplary level of luxury comfort with a plethora of technology features, without sacrificing the thrill of dynamic performance. Notably, it's laudable fuel efficiency and advanced safety performance standards remain at the forefront. The MDX cabin's versatility extends to roomy seating and a second-row seat featuring reclining seatbacks and an Extended Slide feature. Access to the third row has been made effortless, thanks to the One-Touch Walk-In feature. Ensuring a tranquil cabin environment, the MDX employs three-layer acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows, with Active Noise Control technology, to significantly mitigate external noises.
A Dive into the Standard and Optional Features
The 2015 MDX comes lavishly equipped, boasting a broad array of standard luxury features. These include Smart Entry with Push Button Start, Jewel Eye™ LED headlights, an 8-inch On-Demand Multi-Information Display touchscreen, and a robust 432-watt Acura sound system. The range-topping MDX with Advance Package further augments the luxury quotient with additions like the Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, an Ultra-Wide DVD Rear Entertainment System with HDMI connectivity, and front and rear parking sensors.
Powerful Drive Paired with Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2015 Acura MDX houses a 3.5-liter, 24-valve i-VTEC direct-injected V-6 engine that generates 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It comes equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) to bolster fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sport Shift. Fuel efficiency varies depending on the choice between front-wheel drive or Acura's signature Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system.
Marked for Safety
The 2015 MDX incorporates Acura's next-generation Advance Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and is equipped with advanced safety features including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and Collision Mitigation Braking System™. Given this range of features, the 2015 MDX is expected to retain its top safety ratings from authoritative safety bodies in the U.S.
Final Thoughts: The Continuation of a Legacy?
The 2015 Acura MDX appears set to continue the prestigious legacy set forth by its 2014 predecessor. With a high standard of comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety, it holds a compelling spot in the market. Nevertheless, the true test will be in how it resonates with its most crucial audience - discerning luxury SUV customers.
-Ed
2015 Acura MDX
