2010 Acura MDX 3.7L AWD Automatic

Model Highlights

The MDX has a new 3.7L V6 VTEC engine under the hood that achieves 300 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. This kind of performance does require 91 octane gasoline, but Acura makes up for it with no scheduled tune-ups for 100,000 miles. The MDX is the first Acura to have a new sequential SportShift automatic 6-speed transmission installed. The MDX utilizes Acura's Super Handling all wheel drive system, which was designed to grip the road in dry conditions as well as wet, plus reduce understeer. The system also includes Hill Logic, which puts power to the rear wheels on steep inclines. There's independent suspension front and rear, and 18-inch wheels with 4-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes and brake assist. And all this was put to the test on the famously grueling and twisty Nurburgring course in Germany. The MDX has done well in safety testing, thanks to standard equipment like stability assist, tire pressure monitoring, six airbags, and energy-absorbing knee bolsters. The optional Collision Mitigation Braking System uses a radar transmitter behind the grille to determine the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead of the MDX. If there's a possible collision about to occur, the driver first gets a visual warning. If no action is taken, the system tenses the seatbelt and applies light braking. If the collision is unavoidable, the system goes right for strong braking and tightened seatbelts. The interior features power-adjustable, heated front seats and theater-style raised second row seats that slide forward for easy access to the third row. Three-zone automatic climate control is standard, along with power windows and moonroof. A 6-CD stereo system with XM satellite radio has speed-dependent volume that adjusts as you drive. The really fun stuff comes with several packages of options. The Technology Package adds a nav system with Zagat restaurant reviews and real-time traffic, a 10-speaker sound system with iPod integration and USB, voice recognition, and GPS-linked temperature control. It even adds a premium leather-trimmed upgrade to the interior. The Advance Package includes everything above, plus and active damper sport suspension, perforated leather-trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, a blind spot information system, adaptive cruise control, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System. It also gets 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels and auto-leveling headlights. The Entertainment Package can be added to either the Technology or Advance package. It brings a DVD entertainment system to the rear seats, heated second-row seats, and a 115-volt power outlet to the front center console.