Acura a real pleasure in all kinds of weather
Still a standout in the market niche it pioneered, this third-generation utility is roomy and fun
Driving the new Acura MDX took me back to a winter road trip to Nelson, back when my kids were kids.
The weather got progressively worse after leaving Osoyoos on the Crowsnest Highway, yet despite intimidating snow, icy roads and tricky crosswinds on some stretches, I felt blissfully in control at the wheel of that first generation MDX. I’ve been a fan ever since.
The all-new, third generation, 2014 MDX treads a lighter path, is more fuel frugal and offers an impressively high level of electronic sophistication. It’s that great mix of ride comfort and sure-footed handling in a roomy, well-appointed utility package that continues to make the MDX a standout in a market niche it pioneered.
Longer, lower and not as wide as its predecessor, the 2014 MDX is built on a completely new and exclusive platform, yet the overall shape is still familiar. That said, new “Jewel Eye” LED headlights do give MDX a more menacing frontal appearance.
An evolutionary change to MDX has been the addition of an extra (third) row pair of seats, so potentially there’s now seating for seven people. Realistically, however, that’s five adults and two smaller people. Access to that third row seat has been enhanced with a new easy-entry, single button release on each outboard second row seat.
When folded, both the third and second row seats also provide an extended flat cargo floor. There’s also a large storage well beneath the cargo floor, by the rear liftgate. A clever hinge system on the well cover also allows it to fold flat in the open position.
Even though the new MDX comes with a bunch of new technologies and features, Acura has still managed to reduce its weight by 131 kilograms and, combined with a more efficient power provider, drop fuel consumption a dramatic 21 per cent.
The star of the under-hood mechanical changes is a new 290-horsepower direct-injected i-VTEC V6 engine with fuel-conserving Variable Cylinder Management technology. Even though power output is down a little when compared to the previous 3.7-litre V6, Acura claims slightly faster acceleration times due to its torque characteristics and the structural weight savings.
The engine is mated to a carry-over six-speed automatic transmission with a sport mode and steering wheel paddle shifters for even more driver control. A front-drive (base) version of the new MDX is sold in the U.S., but all Canadian models came with the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This is a sophisticated torquevectoring type of all-wheel-drive that can provide additional stability while cornering or on slick surfaces.
Another new feature is an Integrated Dynamic System. A button (marked IDS) next to the centre console shift lever allows you to select between “sport”, “normal” and “comfort” driving styles.
This system makes changes to the steering effort, throttle response, allwheel-drive system and noise cancellation system, depending on the setting.
I was particularly impressed by the comfort setting while cruising at highway speeds — it seemed to magically improve directional stability.
Other new standard features include keyless entry with push button start, exterior and interior LED lighting, an eight-inch multi-function touch screen, a 432-watt audio system and acoustic glass front windows and windshield.
In addition to the already-mentioned easy access feature on the second row seats, the fore/aft slide feature has also been extended.
My top-line test MDX came with a slew of new technologies and features, including lane keeping assist system, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, remote engine start, a new extra wide (split) screen DVD rear entertainment system and surround view camera system, which I loved.
A driver can look at three different camera views at the tap of a button on the dash. The images include what appears to be an overhead view of the MDX (highlighting the steering position of front wheels) and its immediate surrounds on all four sides … an incredibly great parking aid.
Changing with the times, the leaner and more refined new Acura MDX is an exceptional, family-friendly vehicle and a pleasure to drive in any kind of weather.
Bob McHugh is a freelance automotive journalist and this article is sponsored by BCAA. Contact him at to.mchugh