2007 Acura MDX Review

The MDX is a midsize crossover SUV that first appeared in 2001. In 2004, the engine was boosted by 25 hp, and an extra exhaust pipe was added. Offering quality and luxury at a relatively low price, the MDX still lagged in performance behind its German rivals. However, the second generation 2007 MDX has managed to close the gap. It was voted the “North American Truck of the Year” and Car and Driver’s “Best Luxury SUV”.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The 2007 Acura MDX is a substantial improvement, making it just as good, if not better, than the German competition. Its bold styling doesn’t suit everyone’s taste, but behind that is a solid, efficient, and supremely safe CUV. It carries a high price tag for an Acura, but its numerous features make it an overall better buy over a BMW or Audi.

What’s New For 2007:

The 2007 MDX is all new, improving on style and performance. The exterior has been completely remodeled, making the vehicle larger, as well as adding a new grille, moonroof, LED exterior lights, and side mirror turn signals. The interior features a power-adjustable, heated driver’s seat, leather steering wheel, 10 cup holders, and LED gauges. The MDX is now powered by a 3.7-L 300-hp VTEC V6.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the MDX 3 stars for overall design quality. It had a few early problems, including automatic transmission failure, weak batteries, water leaks, loose wipers, and seats that fail to fold. The first generation MDX was recalled five times between 2001-05. Expect average reliability for the first year of the new MDX. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Safety in the MDX is excellent. It earned perfect government and IIHS ratings, and was chosen as a “Top Safety Pick” by the IIHS. Full side airbags, active head restraints, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, a tire-pressure monitor, and stability control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Excellent safety
+ Lots of features for the money
+ Substantial improvement over the first generation

Cons
– Uncertain reliability
– Pricey, even for a luxury SUV
– Controversial grille

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Audi Q7 features a six-speed transmission and DVD player for the same price as the MDX, but lacks the MDX’s CD changer, moonroof, and leather seats. The BMW X3 costs $2,000 less and gets around four more miles to the gallon. However, the MDX has a larger engine, a standard automatic, CD changer, leather seats, moonroof, and 40 more hp. The closest competitor is the Infiniti FX35, which costs $700 less, at the cost of 25 hp and a moonroof.

What Others Are Saying:

“While the Acura MDX isn’t built to traverse rugged terrain, it includes a version of the Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system found in the RDX compact SUV and the RL full-size luxury sedan. It distributes the optimum amount of torque between both the front and rear wheels as well as left to right. “ – Forbes

“The 2007 Acura MDX is a study in fearlessness, from its striking “dirty chrome” grille dotted with teardrop-shaped dimples to unusual headlights that appear to be inspired by the exaggerated makeup on Japanese Kabuki actors.” – The Detroit News

“We would have been thrilled with this car two years ago, but the competition has caught up, and in some cases surpassed Acura. A lot of the tech comes straight from the 2005 Acura RL model with little improvement in the interceding two years.” – C|Net

Read more about the 2007 Acura MDX at the Acura manufacturer web site.