Flash Drive

Flash Drive 2016 Acura MDX

December 31, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2016 Acura MDX AWD

The Acura MDX received major changes and upgrades for 2016, but it retained the signature Acura grille.
The Acura MDX received major changes and upgrades for 2016, but it retained the signature Acura grille.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 gas, 290 horsepower, 267 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 19/City—26/Highway—22/Combined

Base Price: $57,080

As Tested: $58,000

Performance:

Very smooth, powerful V-6 engine

9-speed automatic: a gear for every occasion

Paddle shifters

Unique buttons on console for transmission engagement

Push for Park, Neutral, and Drive

Pull for Reverse

Luxurious highway ride

Excellent long distance cruiser

Confident in winter weather conditions

Front row space, luxury, and comfort are excellent. The seats are heated and ventilated.
Front row space, luxury, and comfort are excellent. The seats are heated and ventilated.

Comfort:

Very quiet, well-insulated interior

High quality materials, tastefully applied

Minimal wood trim

Stretch-out front legroom

Slight ductwork shoe interference for front passenger

Wide, sliding armrest above center console

Power lumbar support for driver and front passenger

Three temp heated and ventilated front seats

Heated outboard second row seats

Power tilt/telescopic steering column

Excellent, thick, contoured leather steering wheel

Great steering wheel auxiliary controls

Seven-person capacity

Long back doors for better third row access

Second row seats slide forward for third row access

Third row access is enhanced by sliding second row seats and an oversized rear door.
Third row access is enhanced by sliding second row seats and an oversized rear door.

50/50 split folding third row seating

Adults can fit in third row, but limited leg and knee room

Utility:

Interior lights up and door unlocks as you approach

Power liftgate

Wide cargo area opening

Flat cargo floor

Deep, wide storage bin underneath cargo deck

Cargo tie-down loops

Rear power outlet

Ample grocery space behind third row seat

Big front door bins

Small, locking glovebox

Big, deep console bin with sliding cover

Two nice seatback storage pouches

Pull-up second row window shades

Two navigation and infotainment screens

Navigation on upper screen with music below

Rain sensing wipers

Excellent suite of safety features including collision mitigation

Wide, roof-mounted DVD screen for second row

Rear HVAC controls

Wow Factors:

Handsome styling in and out

The 2016 Acura MDX is off-road capable, but it's most at home cruising down the highway.
The 2016 Acura MDX is off-road capable, but it’s most at home cruising down the highway.

Luxurious accommodations

Great safety features

Very comfortable ride

Whines:

It takes a while to get used to the unique five bulb headlights

Sticker shock—not much left from a $60,000 bill

Bottom Line:

The Acura MDX received a major updating for 2016 with the addition of state-of-the-art safety features and a new 9-speed automatic transmission. The MDX is a fine blend of luxury and utility.