The Acura MDX, one of the most popular luxury SUVs in America, has staked its reputation on sharp styling, a high-tech all-wheel-drive system and excellent durability. In fact, Acura reports that the MDX is the No. 1 selling three-row luxury vehicle of all time, with total sales of nearly 1 million units.
This week's tester is a snazzy A-Spec version of the MDX, an up-scale trim that became available for the first time for the 2019 model year. The A-Spec package includes ventilated sport seats with Alcantara inserts, sport pedals, 20-inch alloy wheels and LED fog-lights.
More Info
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We drove our tester, provided for a one-week test-drive by the manufacturer, on streets and highways across East Tennessee. The MDX is one of our favorite family haulers, and has a rare combination of utility and performance that sets it apart from the competition.
Locally, MDXs are available at Acura of Chattanooga at 2131 Chapman Road. Late this week the dealership listed 23 MDXs in digital inventory. The A-Spec builds off the already richly appointed Tech trim level, which includes a 9-inch VGA screen, real wood accents, 11-speaker surround audio, remote engine start, navigation with real-time traffic updates and perforated leather seats.
FAST FACTS
* Model: 2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec* Exterior color: Apex Blue Pearl* Interior color: Red/black* Engine: 3.5-liter, V-6* Horsepower: 290* Transmission: 9-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 25 mpg highway, 19 mpg city* Local Dealer: Acura of Chattanooga, 2131 Chapman Road* Price (as tested): $56,295
Photo by Mark Kennedy/ The interior of the Acura MDX includes sport seats with Alcantara inserts.
WHAT IS IT?
The Acura MDX A-Spec is a mid-size luxury SUV with three rows of seating for seven (six with second-row captain's chairs). It's powered by a 290-horsepower, six-cylinder engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The MDX competes with the Lexus RX350 the Infiniti QX60, the Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Our generously optioned tester has a base price of $54,900 and a bottom line of $56,295 after a $400 up-charge for the premium exterior color and a $995 handling fee.
WHAT WE LIKED
The styling of the MDX has plenty of visual interest. The black, 20-inch wheels are especially fetching.
Photo by Mark Kennedy/ Special 20-inch wheels are part of the A-Spec package on the Acura MDX.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
We had to fidget a bit to figure out how the audio functions. The touchscreen is not oriented toward the driver, so try to figure things out before you start moving. The Alcantara seats are plush, but suede-like surfaces might not be the best for small children.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
The drive-train is impressively powerful and smooth. The all-wheel-drive system is first-rate, especially if you live at altitude and occasionally have to navigate icy roads. Four drive modes are available: comfort, sport, normal and sport-plus. Fuel economy is 25 mpg highway and 19 mpg city.
BOTTOM LINE
There are reasons the Acura MDX is a best-selling model. Value and performance are at the top of the list.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.
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