Overview & Reviews

The Acura MDX is a midsize luxury SUV with a carlike unibody platform and three rows of seats. The original MDX bowed in 2001, at a time when most competitors still featured body-on-frame construction and the term "crossover" was but a glimmer in some marketer's eye. Since then, Acura has maintained the MDX's family-friendly packaging, including standard seven-passenger seating, while spicing up the recipe with various styling, performance and handling enhancements. In typical Acura fashion, every MDX comes well equipped, with options generally limited to a few choice features bundled into packages.

New or used, the Acura MDX stands out for its comfort, versatility and refinement. It's one of our top recommendations for a family-oriented luxury crossover SUV. In reviews, we've found the MDX to be a polished performer, as it remains one of the more engaging luxury crossovers to drive and also provides a commendably supple ride. Weak points include cramped third-row accommodations for adults and less sumptuous interior appointments than in some rivals, though the MDX's strong resale value offers ample compensation.

User Reviews:

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  Transmission Gone at 7400 miles - 2016 Acura MDX
  By Darrin Mangiacarne DO - August 12 - 8:02 am

  My car was making a loud squeak sound while shifting gears. I was told that there is a leak of coolant into the transmission. They need to replace the transmission already. What a piece of junk. Cant believe that I bought this car. Going to go after the Lemon Law for assistance.

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  Satisfied on Cape Cod - 2004 Acura MDX
  By kj on cape cod - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Very pleased with purchase of Acura MDX. Decided to trade-in a 4 door BMW due to lifestyle (18 month old)and am very happy I did so. She is so much happier now that she can see everything when we drive. Of course, love the spaciousness, esp. of the back when shopping. Truly enjoy the ride, the interior design and all the features. Test drove many SUVs before we bought and have no second thoughts on purchase.Almost bought a Honda Pilot, but felt for a few more dollars, the MDX gave you alot more. Other SUVs (X5, Toureg, Land Rover) much more overpriced for what you get.

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  Disappointment - 2007 Acura MDX
  By ralph frank - August 11 - 5:56 pm

  After purchasing I realized this vehicle is very overpriced for the quality you receive. Options such as rain sensitive wipers which were on my 06 MDX are no longer available. Very poor fit and finish, not to mention orange peel paint which the dealer assures me is normal. The vehicle is tight and confining. I think I will trade it in before I lose too much in depreciation. I would have to sum up to say that this vehicle is a very big disappointment.

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  2005 MDX Premium - 2005 Acura MDX
  By RedSox18 - August 7 - 10:26 am

  I have had Hondas for 15 years and have owned two CRVs during that time. This Acura was a bit of a splurge for me, but I felt it was a step above the Honda Pilot, offering a solid, quality vehicle with a little more luxury, comfort and style. I spend a couple of hours per day in my car, so I am pleased with the purchase so far. I have two kids, and the MDX comes standard with side curtain airbags, which the Pilot does not. So far, I am impressed with the MDX and the smooth ride and responsive handling. It handles well in rain and snow, and hugs dry pavement much better than my small SUVs. Highly recommend this quality vehicle. Loads of room, too!

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  MDXcellant - 2001 Acura MDX
  By dec - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my MDX for 30,0000 miles and 23 months. I am completely satisfied with my decision to purchase it. I disagree with Pete, above. I think the interior is simple and elegant. There is nothing "cheap" about it. The workmanship is equal the Lexus and better than the German competition.

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  Best SUV Available - 2001 Acura MDX
  By Acura enthusiast - August 3 - 2:00 am

  I shopped the RX300 and X5 along with the MDX (excluded the ML320 because of reported reliability horrors). For the price, the other two couldnt compare. Although I heard stories about price- gouging and rude dealer behavior, my experience at Jeffrey Acura in Roseville, Michigan was perfect. Since obtaining it, I have gone on several road trips, endured two winters, and moved to a new state. The MDX performed perfectly in all conditions and can really haul a load of stuff! This is my 7th Acura, but not my last.

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  The Perfect Vehicle - 2001 Acura MDX
  By David OBrien - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has it all. While it is technically a SUV, it handles and is as comfortable as a car. I call it the perfect vehicle because it suits all. It seats 7 very comfortably without being too big, it has plenty of power with excellent gas mileage. Plus, it is an Acura which will have excellent reliability and resale.

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  2017 MDX - 2017 Acura MDX
  By John L Sipe - July 24 - 9:33 pm

  Love the car except for the transmission. Poor performance for a quality vehicle.

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  Best New SUV Under $50K - 2007 Acura MDX
  By KC - July 19 - 8:36 pm

  As expected, Acuras attention to detail, outstanding quality and impeccable ergonomics live on. The overall interior quality is terrific. Love the handling prowess. Takes curves like a sports sedan - well, almost. Very good power once over 30 mph. Very smooth suspension compliance but so much that wallowing and pitch/rolls dominate; spot on blend of comfort and handling. Additionally, the navigation system is terrific and easy to use. The upgraded stereo system is awesome, and the rear view camera is great. Leather, sunroof and all the bells and whistles I could want. Comparably equipped X5 was $14K higher - no budging. Bottom line - best SUV available under $50K!

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  Drives itself - 2008 Acura MDX
  By martin Harris - July 19 - 8:04 pm

  Only weakness large blind spots