Vehicle Tested
2012 Acura MDX Advance w/Ent SUV (3.7L 6-cyl. AWD 6-speed Automatic)
Driven On
5/8/2012
Ratings Summary
This rating has been carried forward from a prior year because the newer model has no substantial differences.
Because the competition is so fierce and so varied in this luxury SUV segment, the Acura MDX's middle-of-the-pack positioning keeps it from being particularly good at any one thing. Still, we recommend it highly for its utility, interior space and care-free ownership experience.
B
Performance
The MDX's 300-hp V6 definitely has a perky personality, unlike some other V6 SUVs in its segment. The sophisticated AWD system and responsive steering are also intended to point the MDX in the direction of sportiness.
| Acceleration |
B
|
Seven seconds to 60 mph is about average, but also consider it can earn up to 21 mpg on the highway. |
| Braking |
B
|
Typical stopping power appropriate for its class. Good fade resistance and intuitive pedal action. |
| Steering |
B
|
Steering is light and precise. Standard rake and reach adjustment. |
| Handling |
B
|
Because of the way its active AWD is interlaced with a sophisticated stability-control program, the MDX always feels nimble and controlled. |
| Driveability |
B
|
The MDX has the ability to respond in kind to various situations (straight highways and twisty roads) and this quality provides excellent drivability. |
| Towing |
B
|
Properly equipped, the MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds which is good for a V6 in its class. The stability-control system includes trailer-stability assist, as well. |
| Off-Road |
C
|
More all-weather capability than true 4x4, the AWD MDX can switch off traction and stability control for trickier/stickier situations if needed. |
B
Comfort
With its combination of comfortable, adjustable seating for seven plus a quiet and smooth highway ride, the MDX will provide the expected level of comfort for its class.
| Seating Comfort |
B
|
Standard heated eight-way power front seats and reclining second row can be optioned to also include front-seat ventilation and rear-seat heat. |
| Ride Comfort |
B
|
While we're glad the adjustable suspension no longer defaults to stiffer Normal (Comfort is now a retained setting), we wish there were a wider/more evident spread between the two. |
| Quietness |
A
|
Engine noise is evident during acceleration, but at a steady 70-mph cruise, the MDX was one of the quietest SUVs we've tested. |
B
Interior
Enviable high-tech features are sometimes difficult to use, however, a relatively roomy, comfortable, and useful interior adds up to a very good overall package.
| Ergonomics |
C
|
Once it becomes "your" MDX, we're pretty certain the vast array of buttons and knobs will be committed to memory, but we were searching endlessly for even common functions. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
Large doors, a high roofline and agreeable seat heights give the first two rows easy access. Third-row access is best left to nimble children. |
| Space/Room |
A
|
The MDX is spacious for a three-row midsize luxury crossover SUV. |
| Visibility |
B
|
Visibility challenges are met with a bevy of optional electronics: collision warning/initial braking, blind-spot monitoring, reverse camera, adaptive cruise control, and so on. |
| Cargo/Storage |
A
|
For SUVs of its size, the MDX's angular body shell makes the most of the interior space with up to a max of 83.5 cu-ft of cargo volume; plenty of cubbies/storage as well. |
B
Value
Priced from mid-$40K up to mid-$50K, the MDX offers a wide range in price and content. Overall, the added cost goes into the infotainment and comfort rather than added performance.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
B
|
Famous Honda/Acura tight-fitting body panels, good door seals, pretty metallic paint, and well fitted interior. Materials should be a bit nicer for a "luxury" SUV. |
| Features(vs. $) |
B
|
The Base model is well equipped for the money. The full-boat Advance w/Entertainment package adds plenty of high-tech goodies, but for a hefty price increase. |
| Cost |
C
|
Our MDX Advance with Entertainment represents the most expensive version of the Acura available. For that money, you can also consider Audi, BMW, Land Rover, M-B and Porsche. |
| MPG |
B
|
A 300-hp V6 earning up to 21 mpg on the highway with permanent AWD and third-row seating is an impressive feat. |
| Warranty |
B
|
With a 4-year/50,000-mile basic, and 6/70,000 drivetrain warranty, there are few better. |
| Ownership |
B
|
With 4 years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance, Acura has a well-earned reputation of providing a sporty alternative to boring luxury cars plus years of carefree ownership. |
B
Fun To Drive
A combination of willing engine, clever AWD, sharp steering and confident handling all add up to a very rewarding driving experience we'd even call "fun to drive."
| Driving Experience |
B
|
Some crossover SUVs tend toward comfort while others stress sportiness. The MDX manages to satisfy both without going to extremes either way. |
| Personality |
B
|
There's a definite high-tech personality to the look and the operation of the MDX, especially as you climb the model lineup. Luxury is slightly secondary. |
