2008 Acura MDX Review

There are only a few vehicles that can be used in place of a small fleet of cars, and the 2008 Acura MDX is one of the best of those vehicles. On the one hand the MDX, redesigned for the 2007 model year, can double nicely as a luxury sedan. The front leather-trimmed power seats both coddle and support you, plus their heating function is a godsend when winter's arctic blasts hit. The electric moonroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, speed-sensing windshield wipers, satellite radio, and incredible sound system almost seem out of place in an SUV.

The MDX is still an SUV, though. All-wheel drive ensures the vehicle can handle inclement weather, a possible 83.5 cubic feet of storage space guarantees a trip to Home Depot won't be a problem, seating for seven helps for carpool duties, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity can get the boat to the lake.

The MDX was developed partly on European racetracks, and offers driving dynamics that make it a suitable substitute for sportier alternatives. The MDX may weigh nearly 4,600 pounds and have a high center of gravity, but the 300-horsepower 3.7L VTEC V6 goes a long way to satisfying boy racer fantasies. The four-wheel disc brakes provide ample stopping power, the ride is excellent, and the handling is assured. A five-speed automatic transmission backs up all MDXs.

A Technology Package adds cruise, audio, and phone controls to the steering wheel, and a rearview camera, hands-free telephone interface, and real-time traffic updates to further the luxury theme. An Entertainment Package adds heated second row seats, a remote power tailgate, and a DVD entertainment system.

An optional Sport Package comes with an active damping suspension system that adjusts the shocks in milliseconds to meet driving demands. A button on the console allows the driver to select between sport and comfort modes. Most impressive is Acura's use of their SH-AWD (super handling-all wheel drive). Not only is power shifted front to rear to aid in the slippery stuff, but it also transfers a goodly portion of the 275 lb-ft of torque between the right and left rear wheels to provide better drive out of the corners. The Sport Package also tacks on premium leather seat trim and the contents of the Technology Package.
Acura redesigned their top-of-the-line MDX SUV in 2007, so changes are relatively few for the 2008 model. Grade logic control and xenon high-intensity discharge headlights are standard, as are LED taillights. The Technology Package includes upgraded leather interior trim, and both the Sport and Entertainment Packages include one more 12-volt power outlet to up the total to three. see less