Used 2003 Acura MDX Consumer Reviews
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The Best SUV on the market today
This is my third Acura but my first SUV. I am very pleased with this and my other Acuras, as I have never had to take the vehicles into be service. The quality of workmenship is excellent. I have over my live time purchased over forty new vehicles for personal use and all other vehicles needed warranty work.I do use this vehicle (SUV) for personal use and also as a tow vehicle behind my motorhome. It pulls very easy on all four wheels and I do not notice the extra weight behind my motorhome.
lOVE THAT CAR
I absolutely love the car. Coming from a minivan it is a welcome relief. the only thing I do not like about the car is the small gas tank size. I am constantly filling up with gas. I like the navigational system and use it frequently. I also like the camera that shows what is behind me when I am backing up.
- Touring 4dr SUV w/Nav and Entertainment SystemMSRP: $2,99528 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,950194 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,900256 mi away
Getcha One!
I originally hail from the Detroit area and my family has always bought vehicles made by American manufacturers. After serious reliability problems with our 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee, we decided to look at foreign brands. We were pleasantly surprised to discover the Acura MDX. The build quality is far superior to any midsize SUV offered by GM, Ford, or Chrysler. And, I'm hoping Acura's reputation for reliability will help me keep the MDX on the road and out of the dealership's garage. The list of standard features is quite lengthy. If you are looking for a luxury vehicle with a not-so-luxury price, then the MDX is for you! Getcha one!
Very good
It drives wel in the rain, it's like there isn't any rain
Fun Vehicle
Decided on the MDX after driving a BMW 330CI for 1.5 year and needed a family car. Father has an X5 and the MDX, I feel, had most of the same qualities. A little less power, but hey its half the price of the 4.4 X5. Good car for the money. Used to own a 4-Runner and the power of the MDX blows it away.
New MDX
Just picked up my new MDX. What a fantastic car, comfortable seats and plenty of space. Trade in my 2000 TL w/nav, this car is even more comfortable on the highway!
Love this car!
Purchased this car used in 2006 and have had an excellent experience. I had had an Acura Legend earlier and had absolutely no problems. I need to say that this car has been a dream. I am looking forward to keeping it at least two more years. Currently I have 84,000 miles and still love it.
Love this Vehicle!!
I picked up my 2003 MDX/touring in early October and have been more than pleased with the ride and performance. I test drove quite a few luxury SUV's before deciding on this one and have not regretted the decision for one second. The build quality is superb. Am looking forward to my first big road trip over Thanksgiving!
excellent vehicle
SLAM DUNK FOR ACURA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'd buy it again
It rides very good and smooth. Could have more room in the front, I had a Town and Country before so I fell a little tight sometimes. 3rd row is confortable,my 10 year old rides there all the time.There are lots of room for cargo in the back. If you consider an entertainment system, get it factory installed, I'm having a hard time to get one, it is difficult to install because of the sunroof, and the headrest would only fit a 4" monitor, too small...Plus, there is not much room for a dvd player under the seats. My kids are disappointed! I enjoy driving my MDX and most of all I enjoy my Bose sound system!
Excellent Viehcle
Smooth Handling Fuel Efficiency Spacious Interior Standard 7 seaters
Acura MDX
Very Nice ride good handling with creature comfortxs inside and lots of pep to go
Classic Acura
Classic Acura, consertive styling, good (not excellent) interior materials, outstanding reliability!! I checked out four luxury SUVs (MDX, GX 470, X5, XC90) and the MDX was the most versitle (Seating 7 and excellent performance) and was, what I thought to be the BEST value. The GX 470 was really nice but you had to pay an extra $9 K and the 8 cylinder has 25 less HP. The X5 has an aweful relibility rating, and the XC 90 was nice but just too small - The MDX Wins!!!!
Good SUV design; Possibly a bad year
At around 75000, my transmission went out and I've pampered this car since purchase. Luckily still under warranty at the time. Acura says this is highly unusual, though judging from other comments here not exactly so. Have had to replace air vent controls as they keep popping off. I asked Acura as often as this was happening, was this a manufacturer/material's defect or just a poor design (2-piece clip-on). I suspect both. I would expect more from Acura particularly in parts design. All in all a great SUV in general. MPG is about average for SUVs.
The X rocks
I have been very pleased with the MDX. I traded in my M3, because of the kids and skiing. I thought I would really miss it, but the MDX is great. A great car in the snow and, for such a large car, it is very fun to drive. I would recomend it to anyone in the SUV market. Plus the 6 hr drive to the mountains is realatively painless with the DVD system!
80,000 Miles and Still a Great SUV
Bought it new in July 2003 for a young family of 5. Road trips, in town, on the beach, in the mountains, deep snow, icy roads, high elevations. It has performed great through all of it. Drove it on NC's beaches on the outer banks and went right past Toyotas stuck in the sand. We now live at 8600' elev. in the Rockies and drive up and down 3000' of elevation change daily, often on unplowed roads. This car is perfectly balanced and always stays in control. We have had no mechanical problems. Only issue has been the seat heater, which quit working a year ago (and very expensive to repair). If I had to do it over again, I definitely would!
A excellent SUV
Spent a year testing SUV's. I finally had to decide between the new Lexus GX470 and the MDX. I choose the MDX because although the Lexus had a larger engine I couldn't justify the additional $12,000. Had to wait 6 weeks for delivery, but I'm not dissapointed.
MDX: SUV You Can Really Count On
The MDX provides great handling with style. The seating is very comfortable and adjustable. Driving the vehicle is effortless as it provides excellent stability on and off the pavement with good acceleration. Because it drives like a sedan, I was surprised to discover that it is a highly capable off-road vehicle. For me, the MDX provides a perfect balance of luxury features, comfort and the performance you'd expect from an SUV. When I let my friends drive the MDX, it can be difficult to get keys back. Even if you don't like the idea of driving an SUV, you will find that driving the MDX is the coolest. Price-wise, it is an amazing value.
Brother to purchaser
Having driven with my sister in her newly purchased 2002 MDX, the solidness, the control of the steering mechanism, the voluntary movement of the inner controls of the car taking turns, curves, up and dowwnhill movements were excellent.
Hands down the best SUV on the market!
After having tested out the BMW,VOLVO,TOYOTA,ACURA,INFINITI,LEXUS,H ONDA,AND MITSUBISHI.I found myself with only one vehicle that not only caught the emotional side of me,but also the important practical, and family oriented side. Basically to make a long story short I spent 2 months learning everythng humanly possilbe about everyone of these vehicles, and the Acura MDX by far took the lead.Once I purchased the vehicle I was reminded of the 0 scheduled maintenence for 105k miles, and 7,500 miles for every oil change. To anyone reading you MUST,and I mean MUST look into the Acura MDX before you purchase an SUV.
MDX 2003
great and pleasent SUV ride.Great accelaration.
Excellent, driving machine !
Before I buy MDX, I took test drive othe Suv's like, Mercedes ML, BMW MX, Toyota LC. This was the best car I've ever driven. It's fast, stable, yet I can still feel like a sport car. Eye catching design on the road too.
Wish I can get the 2003..
Just when I thought I got the best car I can find for my needs.. I was prooven wrong.. The 2003 MDX have much more of cool stuff..
2003 Base Model in Sagebrush
Have had the car for almost two months now. Very satisfied with the looks, ride, and quality. Car actually has more power and driving comfort than I expected. I have to remind myself I am driving an SUV and not go too fast into curves - it really feels like driving a much smaller vehicle. Really like the Sagebrush color - looks very dark at night, but looks almost grey in sunlight. Gets decent gas mileage - 17.5 mpg in mostly city driving.
My First Acura MDX
Probably will never buy anything other than an MDX. Love it ! Wish we had ordered the entertainment system.
great to date
Have had my MDX for two weeks and so far it's great. Drove 4Runner, M350, MDX and was headed to BMW but never got there. Had a Tahoe previously and the MDX handles better, has a more carlike ride, better standard features, and was less to purchase. Gave a 9 on exterior design only because side door moldings are an add on. Alittle concerned with possible door dings in parking lots. This SUV has delivered style, ride, efficiency, safety, and comfort at a very affordable price. The 5 star safety rating is a plus. I drive a car for a long time and I'm hopeful this vehicle will deliver many years of maintenance free miles.
Love this car..er..truck
Looked at several other SUV's before going to the Acura dealership. Was leaning heavily towards the RX300 and Highlander. Once we sat in the MDX and drove it though, we knew that it was the vehicle for us. Great room. Third seat is a nice benefit, even if it's never used. The engine is amazing. Plenty of power when you need it. And the ride is more car than truck like.
Best SUV - MDX
Bought for my wife, I drive a RL. Most surprised by car like feel and ride. If this Acura product is as good as the others I have owned, then we will have this for a long time. Handling is the best of all SUV that I have been in (MB-320,Expedition,Yukon and Jeep).
Chose MDX over Lexus GX470
I chose the MDX over the Lexus GX470 for the price, gas mileage, drive and options. The MDX has plenty of options. It handles very well, has an awesome sound system, a great navigation system, and plenty of room-- the middle row fits three car seats (I have three little ones) and there's still plenty of room in the back for strollers, groceries, and other items with the third row folded down. It accelerates very well/quickly for an SUV.
jmreissmdx
outstanding suv. the voice activated navigation system with the rear backup camera is a must. this is the best suv for any price
worth the wait
fun to drive. Sharp style which is distinctive. Very comfortable. I put my deposit down and took 3 months to look at the competition. It was a no brainer. Much nicer than the Lexus which was too feminine(sorry ladies, but my wife agrees). Navigation system is awsome!!
Fine SUV
Overall very happy. Just passed 4000 miles in 6 weeks. Excellent build quality, quiet and generally comfortable. Underpowered compared to American competition, especially from a dead stop. Gas mileage slightly less than EPA.
My 2003 MDX SS/S Navi Review
The good news is the MDX is built by Honda and its build quality, ride, quiet cabin and overall look and feel are well above anything experienced with any of my previous GM, Jeep and Ford SUV's . The bad news is the MDX is serviced by Honda. If Honda could learn how to service their their luxury Acura line like Toyota did with Lexus, it would be perfect. I love my MDX, but I love the service my wife gets with her less expensive Lexus GS more. Common Acura owner service complaints include: no free pick up and delivery service; no free loaner; and, no feeling that there's a service person at Acura who really takes an interest in your car.
2003 Acura MDX
Ordered the 2003 6 months ago and it was worth the wait. Quiet, smooth and fun. Just plain makes allot of sense!
Gas Mileage Rip off
I've had my MDX for 5 months and am truely dismayed at the gas mileage. The sticker reads 17 to 22, but I get 13-14 mpg driving 70/30 city/hwy. And when I bring it to the dealer, they have some excuse like its winter gas or we can't know your driving habits. Well I've been driving for 30 years and never had such rotten gas mileage. And it takes premium gas to make it worse. Don't believe that sticker.. you're in for a shock.
great
It is a great experience to have this lovable SUV in our garage!
Perfect vehice
I live In the Seirra Foothills, the MDX Is just right In terms Of comfort, safty and well It does have the best looks vs BMW Toyota etc. I had a 2001 Navi, (It was totaled)I own a 03 now. we were hit head on and walk away without any Injuries, so safe. In short.... an OUTSTANGING SUV period. Saved our life ???
2003 MDX Touring
I have researched at least 10 SUV models including RX300, ML 320, ML 320, BMW X5 and Volvo XC 90). Acura MDX is the best one out there. Great value and Acura's high quality. Smoother than I expected.
Best SUV I've ever owned
If you're considering an SUV in this class, don't even consider anything else. I've owned Lexus, Ford and Jeep SUVs and this tops them all. Very comfortable, quick acceleration, and stylish. This MDX turns heads!
Disappointment
There is nothing really wrong with the Acura but there is nothing exciting about it either. Kinda cheap on the inside and outside and the vehicle isn't cheap. Bought one for my wife and it doesn't compare to the Volvo XC90 T6 that I bought. Price was close between the two but the Volvo is much nicer both on the inside and outside and has so many more safety features. A boring car that gets the job done but doesn't excite in anyway.
BEST SO FAR
GREAT AUTO ONE OF THE BEST I HAVE OWNED SO FAR
All purpose family vehicle
I purchased my MDX used with 64000 miles after I got my wife and father-in-law to leave the Lexus RX300. The ride is very sporty and comfortable. The roominess paid off immediately on a family trip. The navigation screen is big and simple to use, with voice activation, and the rear entertainment system kept the kids quiet and entertained on the whole trip from Texas to South Carolina. The vehicle ran perfect with no problems, just regular oil changes and services. I feel very comfortable putting my wife and kids in this vehicle anytime. The bland exterior should not distract you from the safety and comfort and style you get for the same luxury as Lexus without the 15000 price increase.
Great all round SUV
Everything was great about this Vehicle. It rides and drives like an Honda/Acura car product. It has great power with the 260hp engine. There's no problem accelerating with four people inside. Note that the last 2 seats are good for short trips and are for kids at best. Just one nag. The interior driver door handle came with a defective molding setting but an Acura dealer took car of it without no hassle. I only give "build Quality" a "9" and all others 10. I used to have a '96 Honda Accord EX and it had no problems up to 134,600 miles (sold it afterwards) so I expect this SUV to last.
great suv
the acura mdx is a very good car. it has only been with me for about two months, but i am very pleased with this vehicle. it is a great buy for suv lovers.
Acura MDX Performance Review
With the exception of the low gas mileage (14.6 mpg), I have only favorable comments about this vehicle.
Wish it would last forever!
Love my MDX and have had no major problems. My brake pads have been replaced several times, common for heavy SUVs. Vent knob spontaneously broke when I touched it a few months ago--sounds like this happens often with MDXs. Plastic trim on driver's seat has come off--also common. So far drive train and transmission work fine, but at 65K, I wonder how long that will last. Don't like style of new MDX as much! Too flashy! Want to keep this one as long as possible.
My Review
I have owned the Acura MDX for one week and I love this vehicle. The ride is smooth, the noise level is minimal and the style and luxury compares to my luxury sedan.
Excellent vehicle
After looking closely at the Volvo XC90 my wife and I ended up with the MDX. We now have over 7500 miles on it and it has been TREMENDOUS vehicle. Outstanding ride quality, power, comfort and utility.
I Love My MDX
Researched cars 3 yrs, chose MDX.Waited 9 mos (switch from '02 to '03,delayed it a few months).Well worth the wait! I accessorized it so it's the sharpest one I've seen yet.Very sporty!I'm 54, had a Buick LeSabre for 11 yrs.Needed something sharp, sporty. I drive safer now: with it's weight, it's a weapon. It's L/W are same as my Buick, but it took me a long time to get used to driv- ing it.I did purchase a larger rearview mirror for help with backing up. Didn't know about the rear camera when I bought this; that whole package is EX- PENSIVE but I’d now consider it to help with backing up. A great car,passengers love it, & I plan to keep it 15-20 yrs!
Roof Rack Stink
Even though I love my MDX the only thing bad is the Roof Racks. First of all they are too close to each other to put any soft storage carriers. If you want to get a hard cargo top its not compatible to 99% of non-dealer companies. The Acura's cargo carries is priced twice as much and half the space of THULE's brand. So if your going to buy the MDX, save some money and don't include them in the package.