2010 BMW 1 Series Review

2010 BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1-Series is a much bigger deal in Europe than it is here in the States. In the US, we can choose among the 128 and 135, and both options come standard with a six-cylinder engine. Overseas, you can pick up the 1 with two, three, four or five doors, and with a wide variety of four cylinder gasoline and diesel powertrains. 

To keep the good times rolling, team Bimmer is again expanding the 1-Series lineup for 2010. Two new models, the Lifestyle and Sport models, will offer RWD performance in a three- or five-door package beginning this September. The Lifestyle model offers special edition Marrakesh Brown Metallic paint, unique brown body color interior components, chrome-tipped exhaust and 17-inch light aluminum rims. The Sport model includes the M Sports Package, with a sports tuned suspension, unique dual spoke aluminum rims, stainless steel pedals, and an M steering wheel and gearshift lever. 

On the engine front, a pair of 2.0-liter engines find their way under the bonnet of a 1-Series. The petrol engine utilizes direct injection tech and packs 170 ponies to go along with 155 lb-ft. With the gas-powered 2.0-liter engine, the 1-Series can hit 60 in 7.8 seconds, and it carries a top speed of 149 mph. 

The diesel variant packs 143 hp and 221 lb-ft, helping to propel the 118d to 60 in nine seconds. The story of merit is fuel economy and CO2 emissions, where where it achieves 4.5 liters/100 kilometers (about 52 mpg US) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometer. Hit the jump for more info from BMW's painfully detailed press release.

2010 BMW 1 Series

PRESS RELEASE:

Munich. Entering the 2010 model year, the BMW 1 Series as the guarantee for the broad-scale impact of BMW EfficientDynamics and as the epitome of Sheer Driving Pleasure in the compact segment is gaining even greater significance. Two additional, extra-economical low-emission engine variants are enhancing the model range of the BMW 1 Series Coupé as of September 2009: In the guise of the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé there will then be two further models with the EU5 emission rating.

Following the successful launch of the new entry-level three-door and five-door models, the BMW 116i and the BMW 116d, in spring 2009, the BMW 1 Series is once again proving its value as the pacemaker for efficient mobility combined with outstanding driving pleasure in the compact class. Other new models as of September 2009 are the Lifestyle and Sport Editions of the BMW 1 Series three- and five-door.

Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in the compact segment, the BMW 1 Series offers a unique blend of sporting driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency. Particularly the BMW 1 Series Coupé brings out this character so typical of the brand in truly convincing style, with two new entry-level versions of the two-door featuring a gasoline and a diesel engine coming into the market in September 2009: The new BMW 120i Coupé is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with BMW High Precision Injection (direct gasoline injection) developing 125 kW/170 hp at 6, 700 rpm and peak torque of 210 Newton-metres/155 lb-ft at 4, 250 rpm, accelerating the BMW 120i Coupé from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and offering a top speed of 224 km/h or 149 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 6.6 litres/ 100 kilometres, the CO2 emission rating is 153 grams per kilometre.

An award-winning four-cylinder diesel makes the new BMW 118d Coupé the most efficient car of its kind, the diesel engine with its aluminium crankcase, turbocharging and common-rail fuel injection helping the three-door BMW 118d win the World Green Car of the Year 2008 Award. Displacing 2.0 litres, this high-tech power unit develops 105 kW/143 hp at 4, 000 rpm and delivers maximum torque of 300 Newton-metres/221 lb-ft between 1, 750 and 2, 500 rpm.

2010 BMW 1 Series

2010 BMW 1 Series

2010 BMW 1 Series

2010 BMW 1 Series

This outstanding power unit offers an unbeatable combination of performance and fuel economy also in the Coupé, the BMW 118d Coupé accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 210 km/h or 130 mph. Offering average fuel consumption according to the EU standard of 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 62.8 mpg imp) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometre, this compact athlete clearly proves its outstanding talent in terms of both all-round economy and clean emissions.
The BMW 1 Series – the pacemaker in reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Both new variants of the BMW 1 Series Coupé come as standard with a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, an Auto Start Stop function, a gearshift point indicator and ancillary units with on-demand management and control. Both the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard, meaning that the BMW 1 Series alone now comes with 21 models complying with this requirement. A further important point is that five models in the BMW 1 Series already offer a CO2 emission rating of less than 120 grams per kilometre, with the BMW 116d standing out as the absolute leader in terms of fuel economy and emission management. The four-cylinder diesel engine featured in this particular version of the BMW 1 Series delivers maximum torque of 260 Newton-metres or 192 lb-ft and, in combination with BMW EfficientDynamics also featured as standard in this model, allows average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 4.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 64.2 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 118 grams per kilometre.

2010 BMW 1 Series

2010 BMW 1 Series

                                              

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

Acura has spiffed up its entry level sedan, the TSX, to give us the 2012 Special Edition TSX. Though Acura will stick to its tried and true 2.4-liter inline-four VTEC power plant with no additional power increases, there are upgrades inside and out.

The exterior features a more aggressive front spoiler giving it a sporty look, reminiscent of their old sports coupe, the RSX. Other cosmetic upgrades include a rear bumper fascia, side sills, and a fancy "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid.

In the cabin, Acura has made "sport-minded appointments" including suede seat inserts with red backing. There is red stitching abound—on the shift knob, seats, and steering wheel—that compliment nicely with the red ambient lighting featured on the gauge cluster, overhead lighting, and footwell lighting. The pedals have also been upgraded to aluminum.

Acura has also released pricing options for the entire TSX range, with the base model starting at $29,810. The Special Edition starts at $30,810 and comes with either a five-speed auto or six-speed manual tranmission. Opt for the Technology Package—upgraded sound system and navigation—and the price jumps to $32,910.

If you want a 280-horsepower V6 model, MSRP climbs to $35,350, or $38,450 with the Technology Package. Wagon models are also available for $31,160, or $34,810 with the tech upgrades.

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

Exterior and Interior Upgrades Make for an Even Sportier TSX

Continuing the celebration of its 25th anniversary, Acura today announced the availability of a new version of the popular TSX sports sedan for the 2012 model year. Designed to evoke the fun-to-drive 4-cylinder Acuras of the past, the TSX Special Edition will add even more sportiness to the TSX lineup thanks to numerous exterior and interior upgrades for Acura’s entry-level sedan.

"The Acura TSX has long been known for its high-revving 4-cylinder engines and sporty driving nature," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the new Special Edition, the TSX becomes even more youthful and sporty in character, furthering its appeal to performance-minded buyers."

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

The 2012 TSX Special Edition package consists of numerous upgrades to the exterior including a more aggressive front spoiler, a new rear bumper fascia, unique side sills and an exclusive "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid. Finally, the TSX’s 17x7.5-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels will feature a polished finish with dark grey background, unique to the Special Edition model.

Inside, the TSX Special Edition makes use of sport-minded appointments including exclusive seating surfaces with perforated black Lux Suede inserts with red backing. Unique red stitching, used for the seats, steering wheel and the shift knob, combines with red lighting for the instrument cluster gauges, overhead lighting and footwell lighting. Adding more appeal to the driver’s footwell are aluminum pedal covers with a race-inspired look. Rounding out the Special Edition’s interior upgrades is the use of bright silver plating for the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters along with black headliner material (standard TSX have grey headliner material).

The TSX Special Edition package makes use of Acura’s acclaimed K24 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and will be available with either the close-ratio 6-speed manual or Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmissions. The TSX Special Edition will go on sale in late September and will make its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show on September 22nd.

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

                                            

2011 Acura TSX Review

2011 Acura TSX

Acura’s enthusiast sedan gets a mild face lift.

The favorite Acura of enthusiasts, the TSX, gets a very minor face lift for 2011, including a few mechanical enhancements to help fuel economy plus a Sport Wagon variation that will arrive in early 2011.

A new front fascia breaks up the lower grille with a smaller, sportier mouth, while the upper grille shrinks ever so slightly; Acura says the reshaped chin spoiler and new underbody aero panels aid slipperiness. The taillamps have been reworked, and new 17-inch wheels have been fitted to the 2.4-liter four-cylinder model.

2011 Acura TSX

Inside, Acura has revised the center console styling by replacing a few trim pieces for bits that look darker and slightly more expensive, and also added contrasting stitching on the seats. LEDs take over some interior lighting functions, too. The optional navigation system now depends on a 60-gigabyte hard drive with the ability to accept 15 gigs of personal music and photos. Cabin noise is turned down thanks to a new acoustic-glass windshield, thicker side glass, and more underfloor sound-deadening material.

2011 Acura TSX

An Uptick in Economy

Engineers attacked friction in the engines and managed to eke out a 1-mpg improvement from both the 2.4-liter four and 3.5-liter V-6 in both the city and highway cycles. The five-speed automatic’s shift mapping has been updated for better economy, as well, and that transmission also gets a fluid warmer to improve cold-weather shift quality and longevity. The fuel-economy figures now look like this: 22/31 for the 2.4 automatic and 21/29 for the 2.4 with the six-speed manual, and 19/28 for the auto-only 3.5-liter.

2011 Acura TSX

2011 Acura TSX

In early 2011, the TSX Sport Wagon arrives with just one powertrain option: the 2.4-liter four and five-speed automatic, with a 30-mpg highway rating. The six-speed manual may become available later, but not at launch, says Acura. The wagon will be available with the sedan’s interior and comfort options, including the hard-drive navigation and entertainment system.

Prices for the 2011 sedan rise by $300 across the board, to $30,470 for the manual 2.4-liter and $36,010 for the 3.5-liter V-6. Acura says wagon prices will be announced closer to its on-sale date. Whatever they end up charging, we’re just glad to see another wagon on the market.

2011 Acura TSX

2011 Acura TSX 

2011 Acura TSX 

2011 Acura TSX 

2011 Acura TSX 

2011 Acura TSX 

2011 Acura TSX 

                                                             

2010 Acura TSX V6

Acura has a good thing going in the luxury segment. Unlike Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi – but like Lexus – Acura's best selling car is not its entry-level model: Acura moves more TLs than anything else in its line-up. And unlike those other brands, Lexus included, all of Acura's offerings carry five-star safety ratings from NHTSA, are rated as top safety picks by the IIHS, and the Automotive Lease Guide has declared that Acura offerings have the best resale value among luxury brands. Now, Honda's premium division has grown by one with the addition of the TSX V6, and Autoblog was invited to find out if the new, more powerful sedan could keep the brand's good thing going. Follow the jump to find out.

2010 Acura TSX V6

2010 Acura TSX V6

The TSX V6 was engineered to fill the gap between the four-cylinder TSX and the relatively new TL With the latest TL having gone upmarket in several areas, Acura felt there was enough space between its entry and mid-market lines to offer a stepping stone between the two. But this wasn't strictly about plopping a V6 into a TSX and adding some bigger digits after the dollar sign. According to officials, this car is about creating a more comprehensively sporting version of the TSX, yet one that wouldn't trod on the bumper of the TL. f you're familiar with the 2009 TSX that was introduced last year, then you're up-to-speed on the TSX V6's exterior; there were essentially no changes made to the car beyond larger wheels, a V6 badge on the trunk and a different compound on the rear brakes. Even the dual tailpipes are the same size on both cars, and there are no interior changes – not one – to differentiate the four-pot from the sixer. Acura decided the V6's buyers were looking for sport package identity, they simply wanted more power.

2010 Acura TSX V6

. So, as with the bionic man, this is an operation to be felt, not seen. But in Acura's estimation, this is also a car meant to truly compete with the A4, 3 Series, and C-Class. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder in the base TSX has 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, leaving it ten horses and 88 lb-ft down versus Audi's 2.0-liter four. The 3.5-liter V6 in the TSX boosts its numbers to 280 hp and 254 lb-ft, giving it better outputs than the sixers in the Mercedes C350 and Audi A4 3.2, figures bested only by the BMW 335i – and it shades all of them by a hair in the fuel consumption stakes.

2010 Acura TSX V6

As stated, Acura didn't do anything to the interior, but it still deserves mention. Overall, the inside offers a placid view and the designers have done a good job of providing visual variety. There are plenty of contrasting curves, overlaid with four different plastics treatments throughout and perforated leather inserts in the doors. It won't grab you by the heart when you take a seat, but it ought to age well – a trait that seems too rare in the luxury segment. (something that would go some way toward explaining that resale value...) The seats remain wide and comfy. Strikingly, compared to the skinny seatbacks becoming au courantamong smaller luxury cars, the side of the seat is thicker than a brick wall. Rear legroom doesn't appear to be compromised since it's only the bolsters that create the bulk, but it did come as a surprise.

2010 Acura TSX V6

As for another detail of the interior: we appear to be alone in this, but the dash feels awash in buttons. The steering wheel has 11 buttons on it, seven of them multi-function. The center stack is a button convention with two multi-function knobs as special guests. We're sure it wouldn't take much to adapt and find our go-to buttons, but the initial cockpit survey leads us to think Airbus, not Acura.

Still, none of that is any deterrent to enjoying the car. Besides, in this league, it's the driving that counts. Acura's assertion that this wasn't just about more power but about creating a sportier car is backed up in every way. In our review of the four-cylinder TSX, the engine was said to be "sufficient, but still lacks real grunt," and the car was described as doing "its job without much fuss, but never gets your adrenaline pumping."

2010 Acura TSX V6

Not so in the TSX V6. Although the V6 model gains an additional 194 pounds, the additional horsepower and torque offsets the extra poundage. Lay on the gas from a stop in the base TSX and the car aspires to action. In the V6, you only get the action. The new coil springs and damper settings fore and aft do a terrific job of keeping road harshness away from cabin occupants. They're aided in the quest for cabin quietude by electronically controlled engine mounts and a feature only available on the V6: Active Sound Control (ASC), a noise cancellation system that filters out certain frequencies.

2010 Acura TSX V6

If you tell a group of automotive scribes that you've engineered a sedan for sporty performance and let them loose in twisties, they will, without fail, beat the bejeezus out of it to redline, smoking brakes and beyond, then compare it to the platonic ideal of a rear-drive BMW. Put through that tried-and-true test, the front-drive Acura fares well. Going hot and heavy into a hairpin will get you a serving of understeer and a flashing yellow triangle while the traction control works to keep the ship righted. But we were delighted to find that the flashing yellow light was the most intrusive part of the TC – no piercing whistles, no dominatrix-like clampdown on the brakes, no sudden wondering "Where did the power go?" It was always just enough to keep you going over the road and not over the cliff.

2010 Acura TSX V6

2010 Acura TSX V6

2010 Acura TSX V6

2010 Acura TSX V6

                                         

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

                                             

2009 Acura MDX

The 2009 Acura MDX might not drive just like a sport sedan, but this seven-passenger luxury SUV comes very close.

What's New for 2009

There are no significant changes for the 2009 Acura MDX.

Introduction

Has that Escalade or Suburban got you down? Perhaps you bought way more SUV than you really need, and now something smaller and sportier is in order.

Or maybe your spouse is nagging you to sell that luxury sport sedan for something more practical. If so, perhaps you're on the hunt for something bigger (but still sporty).

In both cases, the solution to these infomercial-like dilemmas could very well be the 2009 Acura MDX. Although it's not as spacious as seven-passenger crossovers from Ford, GM and Mazda, the three-row MDX does provide more space for passengers and their stuff than any other midsize luxury-branded utility vehicle. At the same time, thanks to a trick all-wheel-drive system and an available adjustable suspension, the MDX delivers impressive handling for those who are being dragged kicking and screaming out of their fun-to-drive sedans and into a family-friendly rig. Fuel economy's not bad either, given its 300-horsepower V6.

2009 Acura MDX 

If high-tech toys are your game, the MDX is sure to please. Even the base model gets loads of standard equipment, including xenon headlights, tri-zone climate control, Bluetooth and satellite radio. Stepping up to the options packages brings such goodies as voice-activated controls, rear-seat DVD entertainment and an excellent navigation system with Zagat restaurant ratings and real-time traffic. Audiophiles will find the Panasonic/ELS surround-sound system that comes with the Technology and Sport packages a must-buy -- it's one of the best around.

Overall, the 2009 Acura MDX is a well-balanced midsize luxury SUV with solid sporting credentials. And since the MDX offers some of both worlds when it comes to performance and utility, alternatives can fall on both sides of the spectrum. If performance and handling are bigger priorities than family hauling, the BMW X5, Infiniti FX35 and Porsche Cayenne are worth taking a look at. Competitors on the family-friendly side of things include the Buick Enclave, Ford Flex Limited and Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring. The similarly priced Lexus RX 350 is also worth checking out, although it is smaller. But in our opinion, the MDX represents a pretty good middle ground among all these other choices. And -- in keeping with the infomercial theme -- it can be yours for a reasonable price.

2009 Acura MDX 

2009 Acura MDX 

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2009 Acura MDX is a midsize seven-passenger crossover SUV. Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, xenon HID headlights, a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, heated eight-way power front seats with driver lumbar adjustment, a 50/50-split-folding third-row seat, leather upholstery, a trip computer and Bluetooth. An eight-speaker stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack is also standard.

There are three options packages available (although Acura considers them trim levels). The Technology Package adds a power liftgate, a cell phone address book downloading feature that connects via Bluetooth, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, GPS-linked and solar-sensing climate control and a 10-speaker Panasonic/ELS surround-sound system. The Sport Package includes all the Technology Package items, plus an active sport suspension, auto-leveling headlights, different 18-inch wheels, perforated leather upholstery and metallic interior trim. The Entertainment Package can be ordered with either of the former packages and includes heated second-row seating, a 115-volt house-style power outlet and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

2009 Acura MDX 

2009 Acura MDX 

Powertrains and Performance

The 2009 MDX is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 300 hp and 275 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control is standard. The MDX features the same "Super Handling" AWD system (SH-AWD) found in Acura's RL and TL sport sedans, which is capable of transferring different levels of power to individual wheels to maximize traction and grip through turns and in inclement weather. In performance testing, we found that the MDX goes from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. Fuel economy is an estimated 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined. When properly equipped, the MDX's maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

2009 Acura MDX 

Safety

Standard safety equipment for the MDX includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, active front head restraints and stability control with a stabilizing feature for trailer towing. In government crash tests, the 2009 Acura MDX earned a top five-star rating in both frontal and side-impact tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the MDX a top score of "Good" for occupant protection in frontal offset and side-impact crashes. These crash-test performances are among the best in the MDX's class.

Interior Design and Special Features

The MDX's cabin is a high-tech parent's dream. Even the base model has its fair share of electronic toys, and the Technology and Sport Packages add even more goodies. The Panasonic/ELS surround-sound system is quite simply one of the best in the business, as is the navigation system. With all these items to control, however, the MDX's dash is cluttered with buttons. It can be overwhelming at first, but once you know where everything is, it becomes intuitive.

The MDX is one of the more spacious three-row midsize luxury crossover SUVs on the market. An adult could fit in the third row for a short journey, although the rearmost seats are better suited for kids. A total of 83.5 cubic feet of cargo space is available with the second and third rows folded, which is also above average for a midsize luxury crossover.

2009 Acura MDX 

Driving Impressions

For a three-row SUV, the 2009 Acura MDX does a fine job of driving as if it's not one. On curvy roads, the MDX is an eager partner thanks to the SH-AWD. There's a sensation of the torque shifting from wheel to wheel during hard cornering, cluing the driver into the magic behind the electronic curtain, but it all happens so effectively that it's encouraging rather than distracting. Equipped with the Sport Package, the MDX's two-mode dampers soak up the bumps when necessary and firm up when the pace quickens.

The 3.7-liter V6 isn't quite as smooth as we've come to expect from Acura's past V6s, but it's hard to argue about its power. Acceleration is a shade soft until the tach needle builds momentum, at which point the engine pulls with enthusiasm. The MDX's five-speed automatic transmission readily provides transparent and smooth upshifts and downshifts when the throttle is prodded

2009 Acura MDX 

2009 Acura MDX 

2009 Acura MDX