The MDX is Acura's full-size, all-wheel-drive (AWD) SUV that seats seven occupants. This luxurious rig was completely redone for 2007; apart from some minor décor enhancements, the vehicle is substantially unchanged for 2008.


Extroverted design language
The current generation MDX projects a distinctive image that's difficult to confuse with the multitude of crossovers and SUVs jamming mall parking lots these days. I particularly admire its flush-mounted grille and beveled fender flares. These touches combined with a swooping roofline eliminate the typical unimaginative two-box design that we so often find with larger SUVs.

The same fresh approach has been taken inside the MDX as well. Here occupants will find a cabin composed of soft, attractive materials that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the fingertips. Large expanses of hard plastic have been banished to the Isle of Inferiority, never to set forth in an MDX.

The dashboard incorporates a twin cockpit design highlighted by a swath of woodgrain trim. The majority of buttons and switches are laid-out along a sweeping centre stack that morphs into an attractive centre console housing the gearshift lever and cup holders. Included in the array of controls is a jog-wheel that interfaces with the navigation system. I found this arrangement to be straightforward to use and interpret.

My only complaint pertains to the myriad of other buttons on the centre stack that control other primary and secondary functions. They are difficult to read and administer at a glance until sometime is spent growing accustomed to each of them.

Seating mostly first class
The MDX spoils most of its occupants with "first class" seating. The front perches can melt away stress and body aches by the manner in which they support a human form. The second row seats are among the most comfortable I have sampled in any SUV. In addition to comfort, they provide plenty of room to stretch.

The dashboard incorporates a twin cockpit design highlighted by a swath of woodgrain trim.