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Acura has issued the following press release:
Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the world famous Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the completely redesigned 2007 MDX expands on the capabilities – and the appeal – of its highly successful predecessor. With substantial advances in power, handling, traction, luxury, and style, the MDX pushes performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment to new heights. The largest and most powerful V-6 engine in Acura history gives the MDX class-leading power and excellent fuel economy while Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) offers all-weather traction coupled with exceptional steering response and cornering prowess. An optional Active Damper System included in the available Sport Package helps give the MDX outstanding chassis control in performance driving, while retaining the comfortable, quiet ride that drivers of luxury vehicles demand. And, in traditional Acura fashion, the 7-passenger MDX has industry-leading standard and available electronics that make the luxurious driver-oriented interior a comfortably connected place.
“The MDX will once again set a new standard in the luxury SUV segment, just as it did when it was first introduced,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. “Bold styling, track tuned performance and the latest technology make the MDX one of the most advanced SUVs on the road.”
Driving the MDX’s newfound performance is an all-new 3.7-liter VTEC(R) V-6 that is the most powerful normally aspirated 6-cylinder SUV powerplant currently available in America. Rated at 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm, it features a dual-stage intake manifold and an electronic Drive-by-Wire Throttle System(TM) to help it deliver V-8 like performance with the fuel economy of a V-6. The MDX returns an EPA-estimated 17/22 mpg (City/Highway), placing it among the leaders of its SUV class. Despite gains in displacement, horsepower and torque, the MDX meets tough CARB LEV-2/ULEV emissions standards.
The MDX has a standard 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control designed to maximize acceleration and fuel economy. Operated via a console-mounted shifter, the Sequential SportShift transmission can function in conventional fully automatic mode, or in manual mode for maximum driver control. With its standard fluid cooler, the MDX’s upgraded transmission is a key component supporting the MDX’s increased 5000 lb. tow rating. — Lincoln MkX luxury crossover.
The all-new MDX features Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)). Mechanically similar to the system in the RDX, this innovative full-time all-wheel-drive system actively distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. For optimum stopping performance, the MDX has a standard 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
With its new emphasis on sporting performance, the second-generation MDX targeted the dynamics and driving feel of its strongest European SUV competitors. This led to the development of a platform with a longer wheelbase, new suspension geometry and calibrations that were tuned on Germany’s demanding Nurburgring Nordschleife race circuit.
For an optimized combination of ride comfort and fine handling control, the available Sport Package includes the Active Damper System. Tuned specifically for the MDX, these active dampers can individually adjust from minimum to maximum damping force in as little as five milliseconds (0.005 sec.) to provide improved transient handling, road isolation, and body control. To increase strength while minimizing weight, the MDX takes full advantage of greater use of high strength steel and lightweight aluminum than its predecessor. — 2006 Jeep Commander.
The all-new MDX has distinctive exterior styling that builds on the themes embodied in recent Acura products. Framed by high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, the grille retains Acura’s trademark pentagon shape, but is 30% larger than that of the previous MDX. The MDX rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels, and is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor. The body’s cleanly sculpted shapes echo those of a high-end megayacht.
The MDX interior blends purposeful sport sedan intensity with the best elements of SUV utility. Soft leather, highly supportive front bucket seats and a driver-oriented cockpit make it clear that the new MDX is focused on the driver, without compromising passenger comfort. The outboard second-row seats echo the style and lateral support of the front seats, giving the interior a unique 4+3 seating design, highlighting its blend of sport and utility.
True to form for Acura, the MDX has an impressive selection of standard electronic features that are designed for convenience and ease of use; a Tri-Zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions, and the HandsFreeLink(R) wireless telephone interface that connects with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). In addition, a 253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA changer, XM(R) Satellite Radio, 8 speakers, and an auxiliary jack for personal audio devices comes standard. — Suzuki SX4 sport crossover.
The new MDX provides state-of-the-art safety for its passengers. A new Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) unit body structure evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. A special frame member located below the front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.
Inside the handsomely appointed interior, passengers will find more advanced safety features, including the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger. There are also side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Front active head restraints help reduce the chance of neck injury and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) mounting systems in the second row of seating allow quick and secure installation of child seats.
Developed at Honda Research of the Americas, the MDX will be assembled at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario. Like all Acura models, the 2007 MDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
