Acura's 2017 MDX: More Than A Makeover?
Just recently, Acura lifted the curtains on their updated 2017 MDX luxury SUV. The model now features a bold design, additional luxury perks, and the inclusion of the Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) powertrain technology as an option. The 2017 MDX also distinguishes itself as the first luxury SUV in its segment to standardize a full suite of advanced safety features and driver-assistive technologies, commonly known as AcuraWatch™, across all its variants.
A Glance at the New Acura Aesthetic
With the 2017 MDX, Acura introduces their new design language to the luxury SUV space. This restyled model is emphasized by a diamond pentagon grille - a departure from the shield-style grille of its predecessors and a nod to the Acura Precision Concept, which made its debut earlier that year. Additional exterior enhancements include a sharply sculpted hood, revised front fascia, fenders, and dual exhausts, all topped off with redesigned Jewel Eye™ headlights and new LED fog lights. From a design standpoint, Acura seems to be making a statement - boldness is the way forward.
Power and Performance: What to Expect?
According to John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., the updated MDX is not just about aesthetics. Acura seems committed to boosting the MDX’s performance profile with the addition of a Sport Hybrid powertrain. This new inclusion, coupled with the standard AcuraWatch™ technologies, aims to inject a healthy dose of Acura's Precision Crafted Performance DNA into the MDX.
Increased standard luxury and technology features also join the fray in the 2017 MDX, including an Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Auto High Beam headlights, SiriusXM Radio® 2.0, and four 2.5-amp USB charging ports. Certain optional packages offer even more features, like a Surround-View Camera System, Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, power folding side mirrors, and an ultra-widescreen Rear Entertainment System.
Introducing the MDX Sport Hybrid
The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid marks a significant milestone for Acura, as it's the third model to feature Acura's three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain, following the Acura NSX supercar and RLX flagship sedan. With the integration of this powertrain, Acura appears to be attempting to strike a balance between power, control, and fuel economy in their luxury SUV offerings. While one might question whether this innovative technology will significantly improve the MDX’s performance and fuel efficiency, Acura promises notable improvements in both areas.
AcuraWatch: A Standardized Safety Suite
Undoubtedly, a key highlight of the 2017 MDX is the standardization of AcuraWatch™ across all its variants. This suite includes features like Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and more. AcuraWatch™ uses radar and camera sensing technology to detect vehicles and lane markings and can even intervene to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. This commitment to safety is a commendable step from Acura and one that will likely be welcomed by potential buyers.
Stepping Into the Future?
As the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, the Acura MDX has a reputation to uphold. While the 2017 MDX seems to be a leap in the right direction, with its bolder aesthetics, upgraded technology, and advanced safety features, the real test will be in how it performs on the road and in the market. Will the new MDX live up to its legacy, or is Acura trying to fix something that isn't broken? Only time will tell.
-Ed
2017 Acura MDX
