Thursday, May 20, 2010

2010 Acura MDX - First Drive

Acura MDX is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Japanese automaker Acura. Its first generation came to markets in 2001. It was known as Honda MDX in Japan and Australia after its introduction in 2003. The first-generation model was a success, and it soon became a customer favourite with its riding comfort and extra space with a third row seat. With the launch of the second-generation models in 2007, Acura made a mark in the luxury SUV segment. The success attributed to the redesigned spiced up styling, with more powerful engine and better handling. Acura was successful in maintaining the family-friendly package followed by them. The newest member of this family is the 2010 edition to be launched next year in US.

In the 2010 Acura MDX, the striking change is the introduction of six speed automatic transmission for the first time, replacing the past five speeds. Acura have retained the 3.7 liter, 300-hp V6 which has been re-tuned for higher power output. Other changes include a large,13 inch front, 13.2-inch, rear brake discs, with an optional 19-inch wheels.The new, all-wheel drive system with superior handling is supplemented by smooth and quick transmission. The MDX receives heaps of praise for its sporty performance and its impressive, 0-60 mph times. Another feature is the ability to deliver power to the outside, rear that boosts the performance. It is attributed to the torque-vectoring rear differential. New adaptive dampers replaces the previous sports package makes cornering possible at higher speeds. On the downside, the six-speed does not improve fuel economy, which is now estimated at only around 16 mpg and 21 mpg for the city and highway respectively compared to 15/20 in 2009.

Introduction of the second generation in 2007 model, was a complete redesign of the previous models. Since then, its design has been relatively unchanged. It is priced at the high end of the midsize SUV segment, and its high level of performance positions it against upscale competition like the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90 etc. However, in 2008 and 2009, Acura MDX was popularly ranked first in this segment. The favourable reasons for it are the perfect contemporary styling and outstanding features. MDX is a highly desirable combination of luxury, performance and intelligent design. Right from the 2007 model, Acura MDX has been the priciest car in this section.


On the interior appearance, Acura MDX 2010 has an elegant appearance with a delightful combination of rich looking materials inside. It can seat as many as seven with a third row of seat. Other features include new VGA screens 8″ front and 9″ rear with? a detachable remote. There’s a graceful, LED lighting in high-tech blue, cooled and heated leather seats, a back up camera with three selectable views ,blind sport warnings, radar cruise control which comes with collision control brakes, a Sat/Nav with real-time Doppler radar gives traffic and weather information. For music lovers there are features like a fully voice-controlled iPod with Bluetooth connectivity, massive 15GB memory for storing your favourite music tracks. It has a wallpaper function for the Nav screen which is capable of displaying anything of your wish.

All in all it is a carefully crafted luxury SUV with a lot of technology additions. These innovations create a high-price tag. For the 2010 model year, Acura was compelled to updated the pattern and features of the MDX, with the exterior tieing up with its ancestors. Still question arises on its looks especially with the associated price tag demanding more to survive the stiff competition.


Source: www.nitrobahn.com