Refreshed 2017 Acura MDX Launches with Bold New Styling, Premium Features and Standard AcuraWatch™ Technology

Jun 21, 2016 - TORRANCE, Calif.

• 2017 MDX showcases next evolution of the Acura Precision Concept-inspired new Acura Diamond Pentagon grille and exterior styling
• Most premium and technologically advanced MDX in history now available with 20-inch wheels, second row captain's chairs, HD traffic, SiriusXM Radio® 2.0, heated steering wheel and Surround View Camera
• Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) variant launching later this year
• MDX is America's best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time

The restyled and refreshed 2017 Acura MDX, the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, goes on sale tomorrow at Acura dealerships nationwide with a starting MSRP of $43,950. The 2017 Acura MDX raises its game with bold new exterior styling, larger wheel and tire options and an expanded complement of premium features and technologies, including the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, now offered as standard equipment on all 2017 MDX models, a first in the luxury SUV segment.

Featuring refreshed exterior styling inspired by the Acura Precision Concept, the 2017 MDX is highlighted by the new face of Acura, the bold and distinctive Diamond Pentagon grille. Integrated with a more sculpted hood, front fascia, front fenders and revised Jewel Eye™ headlights, the result is a more "executive athletic" appearance for Acura's class-leading luxury SUV. Additional styling updates include new chrome rocker panel trim, a revised rear bumper and skid garnish, and the return of visible dual exhausts with bright finishers.

"We're raising the Acura MDX's game for 2017 with premium new features and technologies that luxury SUV buyers want, complemented by bold, new styling we know they're going to love," said Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager, Acura Division. "Backed by its high-performance credentials, the 2017 MDX has advanced its competitiveness and will continue its legacy of leadership as the best-selling three-row luxury SUV in America."

Premium Content
All 2017 MDX models benefit from increased standard luxury and technology features, including an Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Auto High Beam headlights, SiriusXM Radio 2.0, four 2.5-amp USB charging ports and capless fuel filler. Technology and Advance packages add Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, two new 20-inch wheel and tire options, power folding side mirrors, and HD Traffic.

In addition, Advance grades add LED fog lights, genuine Olive Ash Burl or Black Limba wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel and Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles. Advance models can also be equipped with two second-row captain's chairs and a center console with two additional USB ports for third-row passengers. An ultra-widescreen Rear Entertainment System is also available on models with the Advance ENT Package.

Safety
All 2017 Acura MDX models come equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies: Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). All models also come equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera, and upper grades add blind spot information (BSI), front and rear parking sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor and new Auto High Beam.

Combining AcuraWatch with Acura's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2017 MDX delivers intelligent safety and confident driving performance at the top of the competitive segment and targets top safety ratings; a five-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has already been achieved, and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is anticipated.

Powertrain
The 2017 MDX leads its class with its combination of refined and responsive power and outstanding fuel efficiency. The 3.5-liter direct-injected i-VTEC® 24-valve V-6 engine is rated at 290 peak horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. peak torque. The 2017 MDX with front-wheel drive and Idle Stop has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city/27 highway/23 combined, and MDX with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and Idle Stop is EPA rated at 19 mpg city/26 highway/22 combined. The MDX also meets the stringent EPA Tier 3/Bin 125 and CARB LEVIII ULEV-125 emissions standards.

An available Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) powertrain variant will be available later in the year, making MDX the third model in Acura's lineup to utilize its revolutionary three-motor Sport Hybrid powertrain with electric torque vectoring.

For More Information
Additional media information including pricing, features and high-resolution photography is available at www.acuranews.com/channels/mdx. Consumer information is available at www.acura.com. To join the Acura community on Facebook, visit facebook.com/Acura.

About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive luxury nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance, an original approach to technology and design that creates a new driving experience. On March 27, 2016, Acura celebrated the 30th anniversary of its launch as the first luxury nameplate from a Japanese automaker.

The Acura lineup features five distinctive models – the RLX luxury flagship sedan, the TLX performance luxury sedan, the ILX sport sedan, the 5-passenger RDX luxury crossover SUV, and the seven-passenger Acura MDX, America's all-time best-selling three-row luxury SUV. This spring, Acura launched its next-generation, electrified NSX supercar as a new and pinnacle expression of Acura Precision Crafted Performance.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/releases/refreshed-2017-acura-mdx-launches-with-bold-new-styling-premium-features-and-standard-acurawatch-technology

2X 2017 Acura MDX Reveal Video's

2017 Acura MDX facelift spied ahead of New York debut

The 2017 Acura MDX has been spied ahead of its debut at the New York Auto Show on March 23rd.
Looking instantly recognizable, the facelifted crossover has been equipped with a new front fascia that features a more prominent grille and restyled headlights.  The styling changes are less noticeable out back but the model appears to have a new rear bumper with vents at both sides.

Spy photographers couldn't get close enough to snap interior photos but Acura has previously said the model will be equipped with additional luxury, comfort, and convenience features.  There's no word on specifics but buyers can expect to find an upgraded infotainment system and some new driver assistance systems.

The current model is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that develops 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque but Acura has suggested the facelifted variant will have "advanced new powertrain technology."  That's not much to go on but it the model could gain a new hybrid variant or possibly a new engine.

The 2017 MDX will go into production later this year and the model will be built in Lincoln, Alabama as well as East Liberty, Ohio.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/1160317105242/2017-acura-mdx-facelift-spied-ahead-of-new-york-debut

Redesigned and Reengineered 2017 Acura MDX to Debut at 2016 New York International Auto Show

America’s best-selling three-row luxury SUV to receive substantial design changes, new features and new powertrain technology

Feb 24, 2016 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Acura will unveil the redesigned and reengineered 2017 MDX luxury SUV at the 2016 New York International Auto Show on March 23. The 2017 MDX will boast substantial design enhancements, added luxury comfort and convenience features, and advanced new powertrain technology, in concert with the Acura brand's focus on Precision Crafted Performance.

"We are sharpening our focus on the Precision Crafted Performance DNA of the Acura brand and the 2017 MDX will integrate new styling elements and powertrain technology that takes us another step in that direction," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time and Acura's best-selling SUV, with sales topping 50,000 units in each of the past three years. The 2017 MDX was designed by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, Calif. and will continue be produced at the company's Lincoln, Ala. auto plant.  In early 2017, an additional production source for MDX will be added at the East Liberty, Ohio auto plant. Both plants will use domestic and globally sourced parts.

For More Information
Consumer information is available at www.acura.com. To join the Acura community on Facebook, visit facebook.com/Acura. Additional media information including pricing, features and high-resolution photography is available at acuranews.com/channels/acura-automobiles.

Source;
http://www.acuranews.com/acura-automobiles/releases/redesigned-and-reengineered-2017-acura-mdx-to-debut-at-2016-new-york-international-auto-show

Acura's Future Plans; Current to 2019

Acura TLX: The storm before the calm

Besides NSX supercar, brand will settle into product-launch lull

by Mark Rechtin of www.autonews.com

Once the TLX sedan is introduced this fall -- replacing both the TL and TSX in the lineup -- Acura will be in a product-launch lull.

All its volume products will have been launched in the last three years, so other than the upcoming NSX supercar, the brand will be carrying over existing product for several more years.

Of course, there will be midcycle changes, which could include installation of new nine- and eight-speed transmission technologies, but the sheet metal is going to remain relatively the same across the lineup for several years.

Acura also is studying bringing some sporting flair back to the rest of the lineup with the Type S designation, but how it plans to increase its vehicles' performance is being determined.

Here is a look at Acura's future product plans.

ILX: A redesign of the Honda Civic derivative comes in spring 2017. Whether Acura chooses to use a Honda Earth Dreams engine or switch to one of the new turbocharged mills is undetermined. The current ILX is critically underpowered, so Acura may vote for the turbo.

The Acura TLX will replace the TL and TSX sedans.

TLX: The redesigned 2015 TLX mid-sized sedan, unveiled at the 2014 New York auto show, will replace the TL and TSX sedans in the U.S. lineup. The TLX shares a 2.4-liter base engine with the Honda Accord, but the TLX's mill has higher compression ratios, a two-stage intake and a modified exhaust. The base TLX engine generates 206 hp. It's 1.5 seconds quicker in 0 to 60 mph than the outgoing TSX. The TLX's 290-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is shared with the MDX and RLX and gets 5 mpg better highway fuel economy than the outgoing TL. Both the four- and six-cylinder cars will have standard four-wheel steering; the V-6 has optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, or SH-AWD. It goes on sale this fall, with pricing expected to be released closer to launch.

RLX: Redesigned in summer 2013. A hybrid version of the sedan was to arrive in dealerships this spring but has been delayed until late 2014.

NSX: Acura's sports car will be as much about technology as performance when it arrives in the first half of 2015. Instead of a monster engine, the NSX will have a compact, direct-injection V-6 combined with a lithium ion battery pack for power. The Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system uses two integrated drive units at the rear wheels connected to a motor-generator that delivers power. Regenerative brakes will capture electricity and then deliver torque to the outside wheel -- while absorbing negative torque from the inside wheel -- as the car goes through a corner. Development issues with the new-generation hybrid may delay the launch.

RDX: Redesigned in spring 2012. Expect the next version of the crossover in calendar 2018, with a midcycle change in spring 2015.

MDX: Redesigned in summer 2013. Expect the next version in calendar 2019, with a midcycle change in mid-2016.

Source;
http://www.autonews.com/article/20140728/OEM04/307289975/acura-tlx-the-storm-before-the-calm

2014 Acura MDX Gets Positive Review from Consumer Reports [Video]

When you say the worlds "luxury" and "SUV" together, you're usually talking about the Range Rover or some sort of German model, like the Porsche Cayenne. The thing is, American consumers still have a lot of needs that are not met by European models, and Acura knows this.

One of their more popular models is the MDX, a large SUV which offers third row seating for large families. With the NSX Roadster and the NSX crossover both appearing in the Avengers movie, Acuras are cooler than ever, so Consumer Reports tested the 2014 MDX and found it had many of the qualities it needs.

The 2014 model is new and base some pretty bold styling, most notably headlights that look like little jewels in a row. Consumer Reports says this looks like a bug's eye, but we think it's a welcomed feature that gives it Acura-specific identity.

Consumer Reports never gives positive reviews to buttonless infotainment systems and we do agree with them. But this is an industry norm now and can't really be considered a fault with the SUV.

Overall, the 2014 MDX is roomier, more refined, quieter and more practical. If you're looking for a three-row SUV, you can't ignore it.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2014-acura-mdx-gets-positive-review-from-consumer-reports-video-61244.html

AutoGuide.com Reviews the 2014 Acura MDX (Video)

Drive On: Honda's Acura shifts focus to U.S.

by Mark Phelan of detroit free press

Acura, Honda's luxury brand, is shifting design, engineering and production of its vehicles to the U.S.

The new 2014 MDX crossover vehicle that goes on sale in July is the first Acura to be developed entirely by the company's Ohio tech center, the first Honda Group platform conceived here. The MDX architecture will probably also underpin the next Honda Pilot SUV.

"Acura as a brand is very heavily NAFTA-focused," Mike Accavitti, Honda and Acura senior vice president of automotive operations, says. For a long time, that simply meant that Acura only existed in the U.S. and Canada. The same vehicles bore Honda badges in the rest of the world.

Honda understands Acura must become more distinctive, particularly as the brand enters new markets such as China, Russia, Brazil and the Middle East. As the brand's historic home and largest market, Honda's U.S. operations have an unprecedented opportunity to shape Acura's future.

The MDX was designed by Acura's studio in Torrance, Calif. It just went into production in Lincoln, Ala. Every model but the RLX and TSX cars is built in North America.

Honda reinforced Acura's American identity when it decided to build the next generation NSX exotic sports car in Ohio.

"It'd be nice to have a higher brand premium" in terms of pricing, and a higher overall perception of Acura's status, said Accavitti, a former Chrysler executive who joined Honda in 2012. Accavitti said buyers see Acura as a smart choice because its cars have good resale value and offer lots of features compared with similarly priced competitors.

Acuras also tend to have roomy interiors, good fuel economy and high quality and reliability, said Frank Markus, technical director of Motor Trend magazine, and my driving partner in the MDX last week.

None of that has translated into the prestige and prices Acura needs to compete in the top tier of luxury automakers.

"Acura has a crisis in design," Markus said. "Their vehicles just don't look very interesting or good. Especially versus competitors like the Audi A7 or Mercedes CLA. They've got a long way to go on styling and to simplify their controls."

The 2014 MDX — almost certain to be a highly profitable successor to Acura's best-selling model — is vital to the brand's immediate future, but the Ohio-built and-engineered NSX hybrid supercar may be the key in the long term. It could change people's perception of the brand, particularly as others jump on the high-performance bandwagon with hyper-priced hybrids such as the $845,000 Porsche 918 Spyder, $1.3-million McLaren P1 and $2.3-million LaFerrari.

"We're breathlessly awaiting the NSX," Markus said. "It's the affordable hybrid supercar."

It's the successor to the legendary NSX that helped put Acura on the map in the 1990s. Acura expects the combination of all-wheel drive, three electric motors, a turbocharged V6 and high fuel economy raise the brand's profile.

"They can't get the NSX fast enough," said Jim Hall, managing director of 2953 Analytics. "Acura needs a serious flagship with a clear connection to the rest of its models."

Source;
http://www.usatoday.com/story/driveon/2013/06/03/acura-honda-mdx/2383523/

2014 Acura MDX Production Begins in Alabama

The mass production of the all-new 2014 Acura MDX luxury SUV has begun at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, with the vehicle set to go on sale at US dealers nationwide in the coming weeks.

Designed, engineered and developed in the United States, the seven-seater vehicle received a new platform for 2014 and Acura says it will come with improved ride comfort, a more versatile and luxurious cabin, class-leading fuel economy and enhanced dynamic performance. Also, the Japanese company claims the new MDX will achieve the highest available safety rating.

"What a beautiful vehicle we have created together," said Jim Keller, chief engineer for the 2014 Acura MDX at Honda R&D in Raymond, Ohio. "Today we celebrate not a finish line, but a starting line. Our race is just beginning, and to win this race takes a constant and committed focus on quality and on the customer."

Honda also announced that the 2014 Acura MDX will be offered for the first time with a more affordable and more fuel-efficient two-wheel-drive configuration, but pricing information has yet to be revealed. Besides the Acura MDX, the Alabama facility also builds Honda vehicles such as the Odyssey minivan, the Pilot SUV and the Ridgeline pickup.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2014-acura-mdx-production-begins-in-alabama-58912.html

All-New 2014 Acura MDX to Restake Luxury SUV Benchmark Status at the 2013 New York International Auto Show

With its sharpened performance, efficient design, and refined cabin, the third-generation MDX aims to redefine the 7-passenger luxury SUV segment

03/18/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif 

 

The production version of the all-new 2014 Acura MDX will be unveiled March 27, at the 2013 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), which will further cement the model's position as the benchmark in the three-row luxury SUV category. Utilizing a completely new platform that has been optimized in every respect, the seven-passenger MDX will offer enhanced ride comfort, a more versatile cabin, and increased fuel efficiency, while also improving dynamic performance.

The new third-generation 2014 Acura MDX is equipped with a highly efficient direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), and will be offered in both SH-AWD and 2-wheel-drive drivetrain variants, the latter configuration being a first for the model. The 2014 MDX features a longer wheelbase that raises ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access. In addition, the 2014 Acura MDX harnesses a collection of Acura signature technologies, including the next-generation of the AcuraLink® Connectivity System and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps.

The 2014 MDX offers a collection of innovative driver assistive and visibility technologies such as the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the available Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, and Blind Spot Information (BSI). The third-generation MDX is also equipped with a broad array of advanced safety technologies, including the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ II (ACE™ II) body structure and the available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems. Further, the 2014 MDX is expected to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS.

The Acura press conference is scheduled for 12:10 PM (EDT) on March 27, 2013 inside the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Shortly after, the recorded press conference will be available for view on www.acuranews.com and www.youtube.com/acura. For members of the media, press materials and photography will be posted at www.acuranews.com immediately following the press conference.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/all-new-2014-acura-mdx-to-restake-luxury-suv-benchmark-status-at-the-2013-new-york-international-auto-show

Acura 2014 MDX Prototype Makes World Debut at North American International Auto Show

The 2014 Acura MDX Prototype made its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, offering a strong indication of the styling and design direction for the third generation of the popular, 7-passenger Acura MDX performance luxury SUV, launching by mid-2013 in both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts.

"Our goal is to advance on MDX's already great dynamic performance while improving fuel economy and luxury comfort," said Mike Accavitti, vice president of national marketing operations. "Building on the great momentum we established in 2012 with the launch this year of our flagship RLX, followed later this year by a terrific new luxury SUV in MDX we are very excited about the direction of the Acura brand. And we are truly looking forward to a great 2013."

The "Aero Sculpture" styling of the 2014 MDX Prototype pursues the direction of a smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions; a clean, efficient and uncluttered design; and elegant, premium detailing, including the signature Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights. This "aero" image also reflects significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency, up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX, achieved through extensive testing in Honda R&D Americas' new wind-tunnel laboratory in Raymond, Ohio – where the vehicle is being created.

The 2014 MDX Prototype's sculpted exterior and arcing roofline (1.5-inches lower than the outgoing model) encase what will be an even more spacious and versatile cabin compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX. The 2014 MDX Prototype features a longer wheelbase that enhances ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access.

"While we aren't showcasing the interior today, I can assure you it will further improve the already great functionality in the cabin and cargo area while really amping up luxury, comfort and quiet," added Jon Ikeda, chief designer, Acura Design Studio. "And that's really the focus of this new MDX, delivering outstanding luxury performance and family capability in a more refined and alluring package."

In response to strong demand from consumers in warm weather markets Acura also will, for the first time, offer a front-wheel drive version of MDX in addition to the all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) model that has earned MDX a reputation as a leader in dynamic handling and all-weather performance for a luxury SUV.

The 2014 MDX will also feature an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis, including new front and rear suspension designs that deliver a more refined, confidence-inspiring, and sporty driving character. An all-new, direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) will deliver improved torque and more spirited performance while realizing a significant increase in fuel efficiency to class-leading levels. Special attention was also paid to improving cabin quietness, which is greatly enhanced by the vehicle's all-new chassis and body design and new sound-deadening techniques.

The 2014 MDX also will be equipped with a broad array of advanced safety technologies, including the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and the available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems, as well as visibility technologies such as the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow. Further, the 2014 MDX is designed to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS. All 2013 Acura models other than the outgoing ZDX achieved at least a TOP SAFETY PICK safety rating, while the TL sedan was one of the first two vehicles in the industry to achieve TOP SAFETY Pick+ status.

The new MDX will also feature a full array of advanced information technologies, including the next-generation AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system featuring Pandora® connectivity, SiriusXM™ radio, SMS text messaging, and cloud-based Aha™ by Harman connectivity that brings thousands of personalized news, information and media feeds into the vehicle via the customer's compatible smartphone and data plan. A premium Acura/ELS® audio system will be available on the new MDX. Next-generation AcuraLink will also be available with a host of fee-based convenience, assistive and security features, such as automated crash notification, remote locking/unlocking, emergency "SOS" call feature, and live-operator concierge services.

With the introduction of the all-new 2014 Acura MDX production will move from Alliston, Ontario, to the company's vehicle and V-6 engine manufacturing facility in Lincoln, Alabama. Using domestic and globally sourced parts, the MDX is built exclusively in North America.

About Acura
Acura is the fastest growing automotive luxury brand in America, having posted a 26.7% year-over-year gain in 2012, its best annual sales result since 2007. Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 272 dealers within the United States. The Acura lineup features six distinctive models: the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and Sport Wagon, the ILX luxury compact sedan, the 5-passenger RDX crossover SUV, the 7-passenger MDX luxury SUV, and the all-new Acura RLX flagship sedan, launching in March 2013.

For More Information
Additional media information including detailed features, pricing and high-resolution photography of the Acura model line is available at www.acuranews.com. Consumer information is available at www.acura.com.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/acura-2014-mdx-prototype-makes-world-debut-at-north-american-international-auto-show

2014 Acura MDX Prototype / Concept First Photos

The brand new Acura MDX is poised to make its debut shortly, at an official Detroit Auto Show scheduled to stat at 10:40 AM (EST). However, photos of the crossover have already leaked onto the web.

The MDX is a pre-producton prototype with no interior right now, but within a year or so, it will be ready for the American market.

The small crossover is designed using Acura’s new "Aero Sculpture" language. Compared to the existing MDX, the front end is more masculine, with sharply angled grille.

Since this is a concept powertrain details are not available, but power could come from either the existing V6 3.5-liter engine developing 310 hp or the hybrid all-wheel drive system developed for the RLX sedan.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2014-acura-mdx-prototype-concept-first-photos-53952.html

2014 Acura MDX hits the Ring [video]

Goes into production early next year

The 2014 Acura MDX has been spied at the Nürburgring.

While the model is heavily disguised, the crossover has an evolutionary design with distinctive headlights and a toned-down ‘shield' grille. The camouflage hides other details but we can see the model will have prominent wheel arches, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and wraparound taillights. It also appears larger than its predecessor, so expect a more accommodating cabin.

Engine options will likely be shared with the 2014 RLX, so expect the entry-level model to be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with 310 hp (231 kW). There should also be an all-wheel drive variant with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and three electric motors for a combined output of 370 hp (276 kW).

The 2014 MDX is slated to go into production at the company's Lincoln, Alabama plant in early 2013.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/112102549747/2014-acura-mdx-hits-the-ring-video

Car and Driver Spies the 2014 Acura MDX!

2014 Acura MDX Spy Photos

Acura's three-row crossover grows longer and adopts the brand's latest styling.

• October 2012
• BY ALEXANDER STOKLOSA
• MULTIPLE PHOTOGRAPHERS

What It Is: A next-generation Acura MDX prototype being tested in the desert while towing a trailer. Setting aside the fact that the mule in these spy photos is the first MDX this author has ever seen towing anything, the covered-up crossover does reveal what to expect when the redesigned model hits the market—besides its towing capability.

Why It Matters: The MDX in its current form was introduced for 2007 and has only received a single major refresh, which updated it for 2010. Despite its age, the MDX managed to place third in a recent five-crossover comparison test, and we still think it’s one of the better-driving offerings in its segment. Acura is in the throes of overhauling its entire lineup, having recently introduced the new RDX crossover and ILX compact sedan, as well as previewing the upcoming, range-topping RLX sedan in lightly disguised “concept” form. This MDX would be nearly the final piece in Acura’s mainstream lineup puzzle. (We’re not counting the highly anticipated NSX sports car revival here for obvious reasons.) Once this new MDX is squared away, pretty much all that’s left for Acura to do is figure out which sedan to place between the ILX and RLX—the TL or the TSX.

Platform: Expect the 2014 MDX to continue to offer three-row seating, some form of all-wheel drive, and crisp exterior styling. It’s also clear from these spy photos that there’s a size increase in store for the next MDX, chiefly in length. The wheelbase doesn’t look hugely different, but this tester has a lot more rear overhang than the current model. We expect the added length will free up more space in the way back of the MDX’s cabin, possibly allowing real-world adults to sit in the third row.

It appears the MDX will ditch its angular, techno-Transformer look for softer, less-exciting duds. An RDX-like face is visible through this prototype’s camouflage, and the roofline has more curvature than the current greenhouse. In profile, the new Acura doesn’t look too different from Infiniti’s new JX crossover, a vehicle targeted directly at the strong-selling Acura. We’ll reserve final judgment on the MDX’s cosmetics until we can see more of it, but we think the outgoing model wore Acura’s (now-last-gen) styling language the best.

Powertrain: The current MDX is motivated by a 300-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 driving all four wheels through Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system. We don’t anticipate this basic formula to change much, although there’s a chance that the heavy and expensive SH-AWD setup could be ditched, like it was for the latest RDX, for a non-super system. There’s also a chance of the MDX switching to a hybridized AWD system like the RLX’s. It remains to be seen whether such a powertrain could handle the kind of towing duties undertaken in these photos.

Competition: BMW X5, Infiniti JX, Lexus RX350, Land Rover LR4, Mercedes-Benz ML-class.

Estimated Arrival Time: The new MDX could appear at an auto show as soon as early next year, although, in typical Acura fashion, we’ll likely get a look at a near-production-ready “concept” version first. Look for the production MDX to go on sale sometime next year as a 2014 model.

Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-acura-mdx-spy-photos-news

2014 Acura MDX Crossover Takes Shape In Europe

Written by: Evan McCausland of www.automobilemag.com

Nearly six years have passed since the second-generation Acura MDX debuted, and a little more than two since it was overhauled and wrapped with a mild facelift. If it feels like high time for a new MDX, you’re in luck: an all-new model is just around the corner, and our spies caught an early Acura MDX prototype undergoing testing in Europe.

It’s hard to see much of the new MDX’s exterior styling in these photos, as the next-generation crossover wears both heavy cladding and makeshift head- and taillamp assemblies, but a few cues up front suggest Acura’s next three-row crossover will take a page from its new 2013 RDX compact crossover. Not only does the “beak” grille seem softer and a bit more conservative, but the lower edges of the tapered headlamp assemblies will be in line with the lower edge of the V-shaped grille. The lower front fascia, which presently boasts a smattering of unusual apertures and intakes, appears cleaner on this tester, and more in-step with that applied to the latest RDX.

Beneath the skin, expect the MDX to continue sharing its Accord-derived platform with both the Honda Pilot and Odyssey. Expect the MDX to retain six-cylinder power: we hear rumbling’s that a revised 3.5-liter V-6, revamped under the company’s Earth Dreams powertrain program, will gain direct fuel injection and a number of other tweaks to boost power and fuel economy. Early estimates suggest the V-6 could produce somewhere in the neighborhood of 310 hp, which is about 10 hp more than the current MDX’s 3.7-liter V-6.

We’ve heard rumblings that the MDX could adopt a ZF-sourced nine-speed automatic in the years to come, but there’s still a chance that the next-gen MDX could initially launch with the six-speed transmission it presently employs. Another unknown lies with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system: although the torque-shuffling driveline aids handling and is something of a hallmark, there’s a chance Acura could ditch it for a lighter, less expensive driveline. The automaker did just that when revamping its 2012 RDX, citing a lack of demand for the technology in this family-centric segment. It’s also fairly unlikely that the company’s new hybrid SH-AWD system, which will be used in both the upcoming RLX luxury sedan and the NSX sports coupe, will be used in this particular application.

These remaining details will likely emerge in due course – and we won’t have to wait all that long to see them unfold. The next-generation Acura MDX should make its public debut in late 2013, possibly even as a 2014 model year vehicle.

Source;

http://rumors.automobilemag.com/spied-2014-acura-mdx-crossover-takes-shape-in-europe-160929.html

Spyshots: 2014 Acura MDX Testing in Germany

We’re pretty sure that the fact that we spotted the Acura MDX crossover in Germany doesn’t mean they will be bringing it to Europe. In fact, the roads where these photos were taken are quite close to the Nurburgring test track, indicating the Americans are actually testing some sporty tech.

This is the third generation of the MDX, feating the new styling direction and a five-poing grille, first seen on the RDX, but with several elements borrowed from the RLX and ILX sedans. It’s likely that what the engineers are testing here is a new hybrid all-wheel drive system.

In the US, the current MDX has been on the market since 2006, and has received a facelift in 2009. So we’re likely looking at a 2013 reveal of the 2014 model year MDX round about the Los Angeles Auto Show. It's likely there will also be a greener hybrid version with three electric motors working in conjunction with a 3.5-liter V6 engine.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/spyshots-2014-acura-mdx-testing-in-germany-45192.html

2014 Acura MDX spied for the first time

Our spies have snapped the first pictures of the 2014 Acura MDX.

Caught heavily disguised, the model appears to have an evolutionary front fascia with a prominent grille and larger air intakes. There's also a dual exhaust system and five-spoke alloy wheels.

Engine options remain a mystery, but speculation suggests the crossover could be equipped with a 3.5-liter V6. It will likely be connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and an optional hybrid SH-AWD system.

Source;

http://www.worldcarfans.com/112042643818/2014-acura-mdx-spied-for-the-first-time