2003 Acura MDX Review

The carlike MDX sport-utility vehicle from Honda's upscale Acura division should continue to be one of the hottest mid-size SUVs, with lots of new features, such as more power and a stability control system.

You can even get an optional rearview camera that shows what's behind via a dashboard screen when reverse gear is engaged.

The all-wheel-drive MDX has been a home run since its 2001 debut, with a winning combination of performance, luxury, refinement and competitive pricing. The 2003 model continues to be based on Honda's carlike Odyssey minivan.

The handsome, seven-seat MDX has list prices ranging from $35,700 to $42,000. It is mechanically similar to the new taller, wider, eight-seat Honda Pilot. The Pilot doesn't look as sharp and lacks the upscale Acura nameplate. But it's less costly, with prices ranging from $26,900 to $32,520.

The four-door MDX comes as a base model and in four differently equipped versions of the Touring model. All Touring models have such items as a power front passenger seat, upgraded sound system with an in-dash six-disc CD player and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

But even the base MDX is well-equipped, with such standard items as front-rear climate control system, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette/ CD player, tilt wheel with audio controls, leather upholstery for first two seat rows, cruise control, heated front seats and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

The MDX has three rows of seats, although the third seat is best suited to two short adults or kids because of scarce leg room. Front bucket seats are supportive and comfortable. And the second- row seat slides fore and aft allows three-across seating for average-size adults.

Second- and third-row seats split and fold into the floor to provide an impressive 82 cubic feet of cargo space, although there isn't much cargo room with all seats in their normal position.

Horsepower of the MDX 3.5-liter V-6 has been increased from 240 to 260 for stronger acceleration. Handling the extra power from the smooth 24-valve, overhead-camshaft engine is a new, compact five-speed automatic transmission.

The MDX was fast with its predecessor's V-6, so the 2003 version of the engine makes passing and merging into fast traffic even more effortless.

On the downside, fuel economy is an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 on highways, and premium fuel is called for. One can't expect a powerful sport-ute that weighs 4,420-4,504 pounds to deliver very high economy. However, fuel economy ratings are unchanged from last year, despite the higher horsepower. And the V6 meets emissions requirements not called for until 2005.

A new drive-by-wire throttle system eliminates need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and engine. It controls the throttle during transmission shifts for improved smoothness, which is an important asset with upscale sport-utes.

Other key new features for the 2003 MDX are an all-wheel-drive system that has been recalibrated to improve performance, especially on low-friction surfaces such as slippery roads. However, off-road prowess is limited because there's no low-range gearing.

The supple, all-independent suspension has been retuned to provide a smoother ride while maintaining precise handling.

A new Vehicle Stability Assist system works with the all-wheel-drive and drive-by-wire systems. It provides better control during acceleration, braking and cornering--and should calm fears of those who are apprehensive about sport-ute rollovers. A wide track, low center of gravity and wide tires on big 17-inch wheels also enhance stability and help provide carlike handling.

The steering has been refined for enhanced feel and reduced kickback on poor roads, and improved front brake calipers increase stopping power with the standard anti-lock brake system. Electronic brake force distribution allows surer control in panic stops.

Front side air bags continue to be standard. New safety items include dual-stage, dual-threshold front air bags and additional front air bag sensors that determine the front-passenger occupant weight and position.

The MDX feels more sturdy because body rigidity has been increased 35 percent by reinforcing such components as the rear subframe and tailgate.

Redesigned alloy wheels make the new MDX look a little more stylish, and there are newly standard rear mudguards.

Other new features include automatic on-off headlights and automatic-up driver's side window.

The rearview camera is nicely integrated into the tailgate. It uses the dashboard screen for the new-generation satellite-linked Acura Navigation System, which has a new voice recognition system, upgraded graphics and expanded database with more than seven million points of interest. However, the navigation system bumps the MDX to a list price of $40,500.

Also new is a rear DVD entertainment system with headphones and a seven-inch LCD screen in the headliner. It can be controlled with the front audio controls or from the rear seats via a remote control--or the screen's control panel. Order an MDX Touring model with the navigation and entertainment systems and you've got a $43,000 list price.

The MDX is more desirable than ever and promises to remain a hot commodity.


ACURA MDX
Prices:
$35,700-$42,000

Likes:
More power. New stability control system. New rear entertainment system. New rearview television camera. Other key improvements.

Dislikes:
Mediocre fuel economy. Tight third-row seat. No low-range gearing.