2012 Acura MDX Review
The Acura MDX deserves second notice if you are looking for a refined and capable midsize crossover vehicle. The MDX comes with Honda’s very own SH-AWD system, or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive that automatically transfers engine torque to the outside wheels for better handling and maneuverability. The Acura MDX also comes with a fuel-efficient V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Acura MDX can get lost in a sea of other European luxury crossovers but this should not be the case. The MDX is not only a showcase of technology, but it is also one of the best-handling luxury SUVs that money can buy.
What’s New For 2012:
Nothing has changed in the current 2012 Acura MDX. Buyers still get a premium cabin with top notch luxury appointments along with a pleasant and refined interior. The 3.7-liter 300hp V6 engine remains the solitary engine choice for the Acura MDX.
What is the Predicted Reliability?
The Acura MDX is a reliable car, staying true to the Honda and Acura name. There were no significant problems reported on the engine, drive train, and transmission of the previous generation model. It also garnered a high score when it comes to overall quality and refinement. The 2012 Acura MDX is expected to serve you with many years of enjoyable and reliable driving.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Acura MDX is also known as being one of the safest luxury crossovers in the market. It received 4 out of 5 stars from the NHTSA and was also included in the IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012. The MDX is equipped with modern safety features including active head restraints, side curtain airbags, and front-seat side airbags including traction control and stability control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+Superb handling
+Refined and luxurious interior
+Roomy third-row seat
Cons
-Complicated control layout
-Limp acceleration at low engine speeds
-Design is a love-it or hate-it affair
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Volkswagen Touareg is more expensive by around $300 in base trim but has 20 horsepower less compared to the Acura MDX. The Lexus GX costs around $10,000 more and has a larger and more powerful V8 engine but lacks the sophisticated ride comfort of other premium SUVs. The Acura MDX comes with an impressive amount of luxury equipment for the low base price and it also returns 16/21 MPG with the 300hp V6 engine.
What Others Are Saying:
“If every Acura were as thoughtfully designed and spirited as the MDX, the brand wouldn’t have any trouble competing with the BMWs and Audis of the world.” – Automobilemag.com
“But it’s clear from the point margins that the MDX need offer no apologies. One tester called it the ‘most easygoing of this bunch. You don’t have to make any excuses for it” – CarandDriver.com
“For a three-row SUV, the 2012 Acura MDX rarely acts like one. The all-wheel-drive system, while biased toward the front wheels, does an outstanding job of shifting torque during hard cornering.” – Edmunds.com
Read more about the Acura MDX at the Acura manufacturer web site.
