2010 Acura MDX

For the 2010 model year, Acura has updated the style and substance of the MDX, revamping the exterior to tie-in with the rest of the automaker's line-up and making a few upgrades to its powertrain to keep up with the competition. Obviously, the biggest change is the adoption of Acura's new corporate fascia. If you can get passed the massive shield, you'll notice a modified lower valence and a set of reworked headlamps that, like the updated RDX, retain their shape but benefit from a few tweaks to the interior elements. Out back, the changes are noticeably more subtle, with a splash of chrome trim and re-shaped exhaust pipes that tie the exterior elements together.

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX

The basic design of the interior carries over from 2009, although Acura set out to make some improvements on the functionality front. If the factory navigation system isn't fitted, Acura now offers a rear-view camera with a display embedded in the inside mirror. Option up for the technology package and the MDX benefits from an enhanced multi-mode rear camera that, in addition to the regular 90-degree view, includes a 180-degree wide-angle camera allowing you to see vehicles approaching from the sides -- particularly handy while navigating parking lots. A third mode provides a bird's-eye view of the rear, providing a clear view of the hitch when hooking up a trailer. The DVD-based navigation system has been replaced by the hard-drive system from the TL, increasing functionality and allowing for easier upgrades. Like other modern systems, the new nav can now automatically re-route around traffic congestion based on data downloaded over the satellite radio system, along with displaying real-time weather information. All of the information is displayed on a new, higher resolution eight-inch VGA screen -- a nice improvement over the outgoing MDX, but the interface is still a bit clunky compared to the competition.

2010 Acura MDX

The MDX also receives adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking systems that were formerly available on the RL. The CMBS works like any other radar-based system, using the sensors to detect when you're closing in on the vehicle in front and then automatically applying the brakes without involving the driverStyling and technology upgrades aside, the biggest change to the MDX is the addition of Honda's new six-speed automatic transmission. This is the first gearbox of its type offered by Honda or Acura, and it's sure to proliferate throughout the automaker's line-up as production increases. The upcoming ZDX will be the second model to get the new cog-swapper, and expect the TL and TSX to benefit from the new 'box soon. The transmission provides quick, smooth, seamless shifts and the total ratio is spread wider than before, but the gaps in between are smaller. 

2010 Acura MDX

The first five ratios are shorter than the previous five-speed gearbox, while sixth is slightly taller than the outgoing model's fifth gear. Off the line performance feels a bit snappier, and like the five-speed, paddle shifters allow temporary manual shifting when in Drive or full manual control when set to Sport. Another benefit of the new transmission is the double down-shift capability. While the five-speed required down-shifts to be executed one gear at a time, on the new unit a double tap of the left hand paddle induces a double gear change in a single step. It's a handy feature for hefty crossover when you need to a make a quick pass down a country road.

The other major mechanical upgrade is the new adaptive damping system. Acura has adopted the magneto-rheological dampers found on cars like the Corvette ZR1 and Ferrari 599, providing quicker responses to road conditions and a wider range of control. The Comfort and Sport modes offer distinctly different suspension setups, with the Comfort mode feeling a bit too soft, while the Sport mode making the MDX noticeably tighter.

For a big crossover, the MDX has a surprisingly sporting feel combined with a high level of luxury. Our drive time was fairly short, but expect a full review about the same time the MDX goes on sale with its yet-to-be-announced price this fall.

Developed by Acura designers and engineers in California and Ohio, and tested in the company's advanced safety laboratories in Raymond, Ohio, the MDX is assembled in Alliston, Ontario, Canada.

Like all 2009 Acura models, the 2010 MDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care® (TLC®), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX

2010 Acura MDX