Motortrend
With Acura focused on launching its redesigned TL, TSX, and a refreshed RL, it should come as no surprise that the 2009 Acura MDX receives minimal changes for the third year of its second-generation run. Given the recent controversy surrounding the styling of the three aforementioned cars, that’s probably a good thing. In 2007, the freshly redesigned MDX finished a respectable second to the Mazda CX-9 (which went on to become our 2008 Sport/Utility of the Year) in a three-way comparison, where it was dubbed the “driving enthusiast’s CUV.”
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As before, the 2009 MDX is powered by a 3.7L V-6 with 300 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque on tap, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The combination nets the MDX a fuel-economy rating of 15/20 mpg city/highway—not exactly class-leading. The MDX is equipped with Acura’s high-tech SH-AWD system, which is capable of sending as much as 100% of the total power to just one wheel. The MDX’s handling prowess is due in large part to what Acura calls a “Nrburgring-tuned” four-wheel independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multilink rear setup. Stopping power comes from 13-in. vented discs front and 13.2-in. solid discs rear sitting behind 18-in. wheels with four-wheel ABS and Brake Assist, an active safety system designed to apply full brake pressure more quickly in rapid braking situations.
The MDX has a laundry list of safety features, including standard dual front airbags, driver and front passenger side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, active headrests, and seatbelt pretensioners. The result is a “top safety pick” rating from the IIHS, five-star ratings in all four of the NHTSA crash-test ratings, plus a four-star rollover rating.
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2009 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.
