2017 Acura MDX Review

Name: 2017 Acura MDX
Brand: Acura
Price: 16188 USD

Price Estimate: $16,295 - $24,990

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Acura MDX model years

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Acura MDX types

SUV
Hybrid

Edmunds' Expert Review

by Jonathan Elfalan

Pros

Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money
Optional SH-AWD system enhances handling and all-season surefootedness
Smooth and confident acceleration from the V6 engine
Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin

Cons

Touchscreen isn't user-friendly and graphics are subpar
Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than some rivals
Clunky auto stop-start function
Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does

What’s new

The 2017 Acura MDX receives a comprehensive face-lift, including a new front end with fresh headlight and grille designs. A Sport Hybrid model debuts with more power and better fuel economy than the regular MDX. New standard features for 2017 include capless fueling, an electronic parking brake, auto high beams, additional USB ports and the AcuraWatch suite of active safety aids (previously optional on some MDX versions). Newly available features include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, automatic locking when you walk away from the vehicle, power-folding mirrors, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, upgraded wood trim and second-row captain's chairs.

Vehicle overview

The Acura MDX has long been a popular choice for midsize SUV shoppers due to its reputation for reliability and favorable resale value, but it's more than just a practical alternative. Thanks to an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system (SH-AWD), the MDX is one of the sportier three-row SUVs on the market for drivers so inclined. Its buttery-smooth V6 engine is another strong point, offering acceleration comparable to some European rivals yet returning respectable fuel economy, too. There were some drivability issues with the nine-speed automatic transmission upon its introduction last year, but a software update this year aims to provide a solution.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale nearby

36 listings

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2017 Acura MDX
SH-AWD 4dr SUV w/Technology Package
$18,999
fair price
$119 below market
- 105,993 miles
- 7 Seats, 18 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- Driveway (338 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Ames, IA
CarFax No Accidents Reported,CarFax 1-Owner,Rare Find,3rd Row Seat,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Brake Assist,Heated Seats,Keyless Start...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (18 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5J8YD4H54HL006488
Stock: HL006488
Certified Pre-Owned: No
2017 Acura MDX
SH-AWD 4dr SUV w/Technology Package
$17,995
- 77,786 miles
- Insurance loss reported, 2 owners, personal use only
- 7 Seats, 18 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- The Internet Car Lot (360 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Lincoln, NE
Please note that this vehicle has a branded title.Experience the blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology with this 2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (18 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5J8YD4H55HL000795
Stock: 000795FA71148
Certified Pre-Owned: No

See all for sale

The 2017 MDX receives a significant face-lift, including a new hood, fresh front and rear fascias, restyled front fenders and different headlights. This year's MDX is also the first Acura to sport the brand's diamond pentagon grille, which will come as particularly welcome news if you weren't a fan of the previous shield-like grille.

Another notable addition is the Sport Hybrid model. With a gas-electric powertrain similar to the one in Acura's flagship sedan, the RLX Sport Hybrid, the MDX Sport Hybrid makes more power and returns better fuel economy than the standard model. And with its adaptive suspension and driver-selectable dynamic modes (two sport and two comfort modes), the Sport Hybrid is more agile than it appears. It comes at a significant price premium, however.
Overall, the 2017 Acura MDX still can't quite match the upscale feel of European rivals such as the Audi Q7 or Volvo XC90, but the gap is smaller than ever. Throw in the MDX's practical advantages and the Sport Hybrid's excellent three-row crossover fuel efficiency, and you've got a top contender in this class.

What's it like to live with?

Want to know even more about the Acura MDX? Learn about day-to-day ownership from our editorial team's long-term test of a 2014 SH-AWD with Technology and Entertainment Packages. How much did we like the MDX's quiet interior? How was the tech? Was the cargo room sufficient for everyday use? How was the fuel economy? Learn this and more from our test. Note that the updated 2017 MDX differs from the 2014 model we tested — in 2016, it added a new SH-AWD system, nine-speed automatic, smartphone integration and a hybrid trim — but our coverage is otherwise applicable.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

4.0 / 5

The MDX is one of the most sensible choices in the midsize luxury SUV segment thanks to a sufficiently powerful engine, plentiful features and impressive handling with the advanced all-wheel-drive system. There are quicker and more luxuriously appointed options, but none match the MDX at its price.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD w/Advance Package (3.5L V6 | 9-speed automatic | AWD).

Scorecard

Overall	4.0 / 5
Driving	4.5
Comfort	4.0
Interior	3.5
Utility	5.0
Technology	4.0

Driving

4.5

The 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 and optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive are key factors in making the MDX one of the most confident midsize SUVs in this price range. It's not as thrilling as some competitors, but it is effortlessly capable.

Acceleration

4.5

Acceleration is smooth and assertive. Although low-end torque is not this V6's strong suit, the nine-speed transmission does a great job of keeping the revs high at full sail. The MDX hits 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is more than respectable but a half-beat slower than the supercharged Audi Q7.

Braking

2.5

Pedal feel is light. We found the MDX's brakes easy to modulate in real-world driving. But at our test track, the initial stopping distance from 60 mph was a longish 123 feet and it got worse from there, with notable brake fade after multiple stops. This could be an issue on long downhill stretches.

Steering

4.0

Of the three steering mode settings, the Normal setting achieves a nice balance between light and precise, while the Sport setting's tighter on-center effort feels best suited for stability at highway speeds. Comfort is ultra-light and a little too loose for our preferences.

Handling

5.0

The MDX's torque-vectoring AWD system is impressive. It whips this big SUV around corners and magically allows it to carve tighter lines than you'd believe it could. We can't imagine the front-wheel-drive MDX being capable of the same.

Drivability

3.5

The nine-speed transmission is smoother-shifting for 2017 thanks to a software update, but the auto engine stop-start function still takes too long to react off the line after coming to a stop. The MDX Sport Hybrid's three electric motors promise to enhance the base MDX's modest low-end oomph.

Off-road

4.0

The MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is capable enough, but it's designed more for inclement weather than off-road exploration. The SH-AWD system lacks the adjustable terrain/surface settings that its lesser Honda Pilot sibling provides. There is no hill descent control.

Comfort

4.0

Comfortable seats and ample sound deadening are hard to fault, but more expensive competitors offer slightly better accommodations. The same goes for the ride, which lacks some of the bump-smoothing sophistication that pricier rivals provide.

Seat comfort

4.5

The front seats offer all-day comfort along with standard heating and available ventilation (standard on Advance). The high second-row seats require minimal knee bend but are somewhat tight on headroom. The third row is quite snug and best reserved for kids.

Ride comfort

3.5

Sharp, higher frequency bumps are felt through the 20-inch wheels (especially at lower speeds), but body motions are well-controlled and bigger undulations are nicely damped.

Noise & vibration

4.5

Wind noise is kept at bay thanks to triple-pane windows. The smooth-revving V6 never feels harsh and stays quiet below 5,000 rpm. There is some mild thumping from the tires over surface changes.

Climate control

4.0

Climate controls are split between the touchscreen and a row of buttons and rocker switches. The layout is more logical than in some other Acura/Honda products, but it requires an extra step for certain adjustments. Performance is effective.

Interior

3.5

The MDX is spacious and versatile for the midsize luxury segment, and though its third row is tight, it's more usable than most. Still, mainstream models such as the mechanically related Honda Pilot are even more practical.

Ease of use

2.0

The push-button gear selector will take some time to adjust to and requires that drivers look down to see what they're doing, which isn't optimal. The same goes for the two-screen infotainment system, which allocates functions between screens in a sometimes confusing manner.

Getting in/getting out

3.5

Clever single-press buttons slide the second-row seats forward for third-row access, but the resulting pass-through can be a squeeze for adults. Otherwise, access to the front- and second-row seats is good and comparable to others in the segment.

Driving position

5.0

A highly adjustable driver seat and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column are standard on all MDX models, so chances are you'll be able to find a comfortable position regardless of trim level and personal dimensions.

Roominess

4.0

The third row will please only kids and perhaps adults of short stature. Still, it's better than the third rows of some other luxury SUVs. The front seats feel spacious in every dimension, but headroom in the second row is surprisingly tight.

Visibility

4.0

Tall side windows, an upright windshield and big side mirrors all facilitate visibility, but the second-row seat blocks the rear quarter window. The optional surround-view camera lends significantly more confidence while parking.

Quality

3.5

Everything seems meticulously put together, and the Advance's wood trim adds an air of luxury. However, European competitors still manage to feel more substantial than the MDX, and their cabin designs more elegant.

Utility

5.0

Convenience and efficiency play a big part in vehicle utility, and here the Acura MDX capitalizes. Total cargo volume isn't the biggest, but easy fold-flat seats make loading long items a breeze. Storage space in nooks and crannies is another win.

Small-item storage

5.0

The MDX's cabin features large cupholders and door bins, plus a deep center bin with clever compartment configurations that can accommodate a purse or a tablet. Use of space is commendable.

Cargo space

4.5

Total cargo capacity is on par with that of other three-row midsize luxury crossovers, and better than two-row models. The ease with which the third- and second-row seats fold flat and provide a level load floor merits praise.

Technology

4.0

Acura has projected an image of advanced technology in recent years but hasn't always followed through. The MDX remains a mixed bag. Its smart device integration and host of advanced safety aids are impressive, but its clunky dual-screen interface and so-so graphics leave something to be desired.

Audio & navigation

4.0

The MDX's navigation system is straightforward to use via the rotary knob, with easy zoom and pan functions, but its graphics aren't great. Acura's 10-speaker ELS sound system comes standard on all but the base model, adding a speaker or two with the Entertainment package. Sound quality is strong.

Smartphone integration

4.5

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aside (they aren't offered), the MDX offers responsive smartphone integration, particularly for iPhone users. The standard Siri Eyes Free feature allows you to hear and respond to texts on the go.

Driver aids

3.0

Acura deserves credit for the MDX's suite of standard active safety features, though we find the adaptive cruise control to be somewhat dimwitted. It's often too quick to hit the brakes and too slow to speed up again. The surround-view camera is effective and easy to recommend.

Voice control

4.0

Acura's native voice recognition has always been pretty good for inputting navigation directions, and it's even more powerful when paired to the Siri Eyes Free system for access to functions such as reading and responding to texts.

Compare 2017 Acura MDX trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2017 Acura MDX models

The 2017 Acura MDX is a three-row luxury crossover SUV that seats up to seven. It’s offered in three trim levels — Standard, Technology and Advance — that are positioned as packages. There's also an Entertainment package that's offered on both Technology and Advanced models. The Standard MDX comes pretty nicely equipped, but the Advance can't be ignored with its many attractive features. All of the above models employ a 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 horsepower, 267 pound-feet) paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission and can be had with front or all-wheel drive. The Sport Hybrid uses a smaller 3.0-liter V6 combined with three electric motors (combined 321 hp, 289 lb-ft) and a seven-speed automatic transmission to deliver an estimated 27 mpg combined.

Note that the AcuraWatch safety suite, which used to be a package, is now included in all models, so all MDX drivers will reap the benefits of features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane and road departure warning and mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.

Highlights of the well-equipped Standard package include 18-inch wheels, automatic LED headlights with auto high beams, heated side mirrors, an electronic parking brake, a power liftgate, a sunroof and keyless entry and ignition. Inside, you'll find heated, eight-way power-adjustable front seats (with power lumbar adjustment for the driver), driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Technology highlights include dual dashboard displays (a lower 7-inch touchscreen and an upper 8-inch regular screen), Bluetooth, five USB ports, Siri Eyes Free, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, Pandora and Aha compatibility and satellite radio.

The Technology package adds niceties such as 20-inch wheels, automatic wipers, remote engine start, power-folding side mirrors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a navigation system, a color driver information display and a 10-speaker premium audio system with HD radio.

The Advance package turns on the charm with front and rear parking sensors, LED foglights, automatic engine stop-start, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, sport seats with premium leather and trim, power lumbar adjustment for the front passenger, front-seat ventilation, natural wood trim, heated second-row captain's chairs, second-row sunshades and two additional USB ports for the third row.

The Entertainment package can be specified with either the Technology or Advance package and adds a DVD-based rear entertainment system. If you add it to the Technology package, it comes with a 9-inch screen and 11 audio speakers; if you add it to the Advance package, it comes with a 16.2-inch screen (with an HDMI input) and 12 audio speakers, plus it replaces the captain's chairs with seven-passenger seating.

Lastly, the all-wheel-drive MDX Sport Hybrid boasts a 31-horsepower advantage over the non-hybrid MDX, with a total of 321 hp delivered via a unique powertrain consisting of a smaller 3.0-liter V6 engine, three electric motors and a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Sport Hybrid is available with the Technology or Advance package only, however.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

$220/mo

$181/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4/5Above Average

#7 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$446/yr

vs. $602/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Frequency

1.24x/yr

vs. 1.09x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Severity

8.9%

vs. 9.4%
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Acura MDX Owner Reviews

3.8

93 reviews

5(45%)

4(23%)

3(15%)

2(5%)

1(12%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

My favorite MDX so far

Nancy, 07/14/2017

2017 Acura MDX Advance Package 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 9A)

I've owned 2004, 2010 and now the 2017 Acura MDX. The 2017 is an awesome car. I looked at the Infinity QX60 and Audi Q7, and I thought the MDX drove the nicest and was the most comfortable. The improvements between the 2010 and 2017 were many. The handling is better, the seats are comfortable, the 4 captain chairs are great, the sun shield are handy, the rear camera and views are … very helpful. I am averaging 27mpg (on the 2010 I averaged 18mpg) I think the fit and finish is way better with the 2017 model. The sensors work, almost too good. I have noticed that when I'm driving back roads and have a sharp right turn and there is a vehicle is approaching at the turn, the "brake" sensor illuminates. I do not mind the engine energy saving when at a complete stop, I've learned to anticipate when to let the foot off the brake to restart the car and continue on my way. I was concerned about purchasing the MDX after reading some of the reviews here, and I'm so glad that made the decision to buy it. Update: I still own the 2017 MDX. I still enjoy driving it. The seating is comfortable and the controls are convenient. The MDX is different from the previous models and I've had to change my acceleration habit to conform to this automobile. When I accelerate, it needs to be deliberate to avoid a hesitation when start from a stopped position. It's not a big deal and I've gotten used to it. I still do not care for the "brake" sensor, but I have learned that the sensor only senses the direct line of sight, so now I've adapted my driving to help prevent the sensor from detecting a "brake" condition where there isn't one. The gas mileage is much improved over the previous models, If I drive 55-58mph (speed limit) I average 31mpg and I'm happy with that. Update: I've owned the MDX for 9 months and have been able to drive it in winter conditions. The MDX handles Michigan winters flawlessly. I appreciate the Auto Start to warm up the car before I get in it, the seats and steering wheel are warm and toasty when it below zero outside. The 4 captains chairs available with the Advanced package have turned out to be great. There is more room in the 2nd row since the chairs can be adjusted and I do not feel bad having a couple sit back there because of the ample leg room. All in all, the MDX is a great car. I will own it for years. Update 1/21: I still own this car. I tend to hold onto cars if they don't give me any problems, this car has been simple to maintain and problem free. I still like it The car handles wonderfully, decent gas mileage and I don't plan on getting a new car for several more years.

Great car!

Justin, 01/06/2017

2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)

I cross shopped multiple vehicles prior to purchasing this SUV. My wife and I sat in and drove many SUVs. We felt like this SUV offered a lot more than the others for the price. The biggest/best surprise is the SH-AWD (google torque vectoring if you haven't already) which makes the car a lot of fun to drive and adds a spare tire. The ELS sound system is great. The safety features should …

Great relief!!!

RG, 12/01/2016

2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology and Entertainment Packages (3.5L 6cyl 9A)

I've owned it for about a month and from all my experiences so far, I'm very impressed with quality of interior as well as luxury feel of the car. I've driven German cars for the last 5 years and decided to go back to old reliable Japanese-made cars and couldn't be more relieved. After spending a ridiculous amount for maintenance on my 328 iX Drive, looking forward to owning this car and …

Now at 67,000 miles: As good as day 1.....

Michael DeWaal, 10/27/2017

2017 Acura MDX SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (3.5L 6cyl 9A)

Update: Now at 67,000 miles. Proven reliability, space for clients, luggage, our dogs, etc. Sometimes, all at once. On our 2nd day of ownership, we had our clients with us in Breckenridge, Colorado. After our meetings, we decided to take them behind the resort to an old mining town site. We had been there several times before on our own for our daily hikes with our dogs - thought it …

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2017 Acura MDX video

2017 Acura MDX Review

Edmunds' Josh Sadlier takes you on a walk around Acura's midsize SUV, the 2017 MDX. He goes over specs, design, the interior and more.

2017 MDX Highlights

Type:

SUV

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$44,050
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$220/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the MDX models:

Lane Keeping Assist: The system uses a camera that identifies lane markings and works to keep the vehicle within its detected lane using steering corrections.
Adaptive Cruise Control: Allows you to set a speed and maintain a desired distance from the car detected ahead. Will bring you to a stop if needed.
Surround-View Camera System: Four exterior cameras create a 360-degree view of the MDX's immediate surroundings. Six different camera angles can be selected.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.4%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2017 Acura MDX Review

Selling or Trading-In?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Vehicle overview

For sale nearby

2017 Acura MDXSH-AWD 4dr SUV w/Technology Package

2017 Acura MDXSH-AWD 4dr SUV w/Technology Package

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Which MDX does Edmunds recommend?

2017 Acura MDX models

Cost to Drive

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Acura MDX Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

My favorite MDX so far

Great car!

Great relief!!!

Now at 67,000 miles: As good as day 1.....

2017 Acura MDX video