FIRST GENERATION

The MDX shares Honda’s mid-size platform with the Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX, and Odyssey and is powered by a 3.5 L SOHC 24 V6 engine. The cargo floor flips up for two more seats. Four-wheel drive is automatic and engages when there is wheel slippage. In lock mode, it works as a locked rear differential. To increase fuel efficiency, it runs in front-wheel drive mode when AWD is not needed. The 2003 model was rated as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle with EPA mileage estimates of 23 mpg highway and 17 mpg city.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 240 hp. In 2003 the engine was improved to make 20 hp more power than the earlier models, and the wheel designs were updated. The 2004 through 2006 engine produces 265 hp. The 2004 model goes 137 mph with a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds.

SECOND GENERATION 2006

The second generation was engineered to absorb energy from a collision for greater safety. A new 3.7-liter V6 engine makes 300 hp. The EPA estimates 21 MPG on the highway. The previous generation all-wheel drive was replaced by a new AWD system featuring an active rear differential. The MDX can tow 5,000 lb.

The option packages for 2007-2009 were:

• The Technology Package: It has a GPS navigation system, a 410-watt audio system, a backup camera, and a powered liftgate.
• The Sport Package: It features active suspension to dynamically improve handling with magnetorheological shocks, which change their characteristics in milliseconds according to road conditions. It also includes aluminum alloy wheels, leather seats, and Technology Package items.
• The Entertainment Package: It includes a 9-inch LCD screen and second-row heated seats.

The 2008 MDX offers an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2009 MDX upgraded the navigation system and added two new colors.

The most significant upgrades to the 2010 model were a new six-speed automatic transmission with rev-matching downshifts and forged aluminum pistons that increased compression ratio to 11.2:1. New options included 19-inch wheels, Milano leather ventilated seats, and auto-leveling headlights.

The redesigned MDX became the top seller for Acura in the United States.

THIRD GENERATION

A 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 powers the 2014 MDX with Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management. The new model features LED headlights. EPA-estimated fuel economy for all-wheel drive models is rated at 18 mpg; for FWD models is 20 mpg.

Clutter was reduced in the interior by adding a 7-inch touchscreen. An acoustic windshield, acoustic front door glass, thicker rear glass, and triple-sealed door openings minimize interior noise. To further reduce noise, thicker carpeting and fender liners were added to Advance Package models.

Newly updated adaptive cruise control improves stop-and-go handling. The new exterior reduces drag by 16%. A quicker steering gear ratio gives a sportier feel. High-strength steel improves rigidity, reduces weight, and improves crash protection. Additional safety items are standard driver’s knee airbag, optional Lane Keeping Assist, and automatic emergency braking.

A ZF 9-speed automatic and revised AWD system is new for 2016.

A diamond pentagon front grille and LED headlamps were new standard features for 2017. LED fog lamps were optional, as was a surround-view camera. Front fenders were switched from steel to aluminum for reduced body mass.

HYBRID

For 2017 a hybrid was added to the lineup. The hybrid model was only offered with the all-wheel drivetrain. An engine powers the front wheels; twin electric motors power the rear wheels. Standard was Acura’s active damper system.
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MODEL YEAR 2019

The active damper system is available for 2019 non-hybrids. New exterior elements include black chrome accents and 20″ grey aluminum wheels. The A-Spec package includes red leather seats, new gauges, carbon fiber trim, sport pedals, and a thicker steering wheel.

FOURTH GENERATION

The MDX is Acura’s flagship following the RLX termination. The fourth generation MDX was produced for the 2022 model year. Standard exterior features include a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a newly styled grille. Type-S trim consists of an improved interior, a 12-inch instrument cluster, and improved leg and headroom. There is an optional 16-speaker audio system.

The 3.5-liter V6 is joined with a 10-speed transmission in four trims: Base, Technology Package, A-Spec, and Advance. Type-S trim gets a standard 3-liter turbocharged V6, all-wheel-drive, and Brembo front brakes. All-wheel-drive is optional on Base and Technology trims and standard on A-Spec and Advance models. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, 5,000 pounds with an available transmission cooler.