A good, solid SUV - but the Pilot’s price wins
THE 2017 Acura MDX AWD Advance sport-utility vehicle has much of the latest electronic equipment, but not all of it, not head-up display, which uses the windshield to present information such as current vehicle speed in comparison with local speed limits.
The MDX Advance, the top of the MDX line, which also includes the Standard and wellequipped Technology, does have many other blessings. But it has none of the luxury feel of an Audi Q5 or Volvo XC90.
But the MDX Advance is comfortable, satisfying and equipped with much of the latest advanced electronic safety equipment installed as standard equipment. I like that.
What is the essential difference between the Acura MDX and its technological twin, the Honda Pilot, which includes the Pilot EX-L, Touring and Elite trims?
Answer: None, really. The Pilot is generally less expensive. But like the Acura, it also is well made and well equipped. The 3.5litre, direct-injection, 24-valve V6 engine (290 horsepower) that is found in all of the MDX models can be had in the Honda Pilots, too.
Bottom line: The Acura MDX is a very nice, well- equipped, well- done sport-utility vehicle. The Honda Pilot is a better value.
Ride, acceleration and handling: It gets good marks in all areas.
Capacities: It seats up to seven people. Cargo capacity is an estimated 70 cubic feet with third-row seats folded. The fuel tank holds 88 litres of petrol.
City/highway mileage: I averaged a combined 9.35 km per litre.
Safety: Standard equipment includes four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated front/solid rear; fourwheel anti-lock brake system; emergency braking assistance; pre- collision safety system; stability and traction control; advanced electronics safety system suite; LED headlamps; side, head and front knee air bags.
Pricing: The MDX has been a bestseller for several years, and Acura dealers apparently want to keep it that way. The manufacturer’s final transaction price, fully loaded, is US$ 57,340 ( RM258,000). — Washington Post