When a nameplate manages to top one of the most popular segments- crossovers – right now, you should probably take notice. That means it’s doing something right. Well done, Acura. But wait; does that mean the 2012 MDX is the best car on the road right now? We’ll let you decide that one.
Check out all that is golden and then maneuver yourself over to Carwoo to grab your own MDX.
Acura MDX Trims and Features
Acura offers just one version of the 2012 MDX (from $42,930), but it’s stocked well enough so that you won’t want much more. Standard niceties include seating for 7, a 300 horsepower V6 engine, all-wheel drive, leather seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a power tailgate.
If you still crave more, here you are. Extras are wrapped up in the form of packages: The Technology Package (trims start at $46,605) includes the navigation system you’re looking for (on an 8” screen), with an improved 3-view rearview camera, plus voice command for infotainment needs. And look forward to the GPS linked climate control, which offsets in-cabin temps in relation to the sun’s rays. You’ll also receive a 10 speaker ELS surround sound music system for kicks.
The MDX Advance Package ($52,555) includes everything from the Tech Package and throws in 19” wheels, adaptive suspension & cruise control, and safety prevention in the form of blind spot and front collision warning systems.
And if you’ve got kids in tow, an Entertainment Package can be added to either Technology ($48,505) or Advance ($54,455) bundles; entertain rear passengers with a 9” DVD flip down screen and 2nd row heated seats.
Acura MDX Performance
Every MDX owner gets a 3.7 liter V6 engine that’s capable of 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. Acura pairs the V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission that utilizes paddle shifters. Drivers can toggle between ‘Drive’ mode, emphasizing fuel economy, and ‘Sport,’ which allows one to manually control MDX with the paddle shifters for maximum performance. And remember that SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) is standard.
When equipped with the Towing Package ($634), MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Acura MDX Fuel Economy
EPA estimated MPG is 16/21/18 (city/highway/combined), which won’t wow the thrifty, but is doable for a 3-row vehicle.
Acura MDX Interior Highlights
Space shouldn’t be a problem for most families. MDX seats up to 7 with its 3 rows, and upscale comforts like leather and wood trim, tri-zone climate control, and impressive tech options will keep almost everyone happy. 2nd row sitters get 38.7” of legroom, and the seats themselves will tilt and slide for 3rd row access. Adults will likely suffer a bit if forced into the rear row because of a scant 28.7” worth of legroom, but everyone should realize by now that any 3rd row is almost always Kidsville.
You’ll get a nice 83.5 cubic feet of cargo space with 2nd and 3rd rows folded, 42.9 cubes behind the 2nd row, and 15 with all rows in use.
Acura MDX Safety
MDX standards include anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, and 6 airbags- including 3-row side curtain bags. A rearview camera is also standard, though its features vary, depending on what package you end up with. The standard system gives drivers a rear view from a display on the rearview mirror, while MDX trims with navigation get a multi-view display visible from the nav screen. Options include a blind spot warning system and a Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) that warns drivers about possible frontal impacts. The IIHS has made MDX a 2012 Top Safety Pick, and government crash testing has yielded 4/5 scores for both frontal and rollover damage.
Acura MDX’s Bottom Line
Impressive performance, superior tech features, a livable price range, and Acura branding all add up to a win. There’s a reason the 2012 MDX is number 1 on most luxury crossover lists. Find out why it’s the one to beat by getting over to Carwoo and buying one right now.
