DYNAMIC LUXURY

4x4magazine | 26/01/2013 | 0 Comments

The 2014 Acura MDX Prototype made its world debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, offering a strong indication of the styling and design direction for the third generation of the popular, 7-passenger performance luxury SUV.

“Our goal is to advance on MDX’s already great dynamic performance while improving fuel economy and luxury comfort,” said Mike Accavitti, vice president of national marketing operations. The styling pursues the direction of a smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions; a clean, efficient and uncluttered design; and elegant, premium detailing, including the signature Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights. This “aero” image also reflects significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency, up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX. The 2014 model features a longer wheelbase that enhances ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access.
The exterior (not showcased yet) and arcing roofline (1.5-inches lower than the outgoing model) encase what will be an even more spacious and versatile cabin compared to the previous model. “While we aren’t showcasing the interior today, I can assure you it will further improve the already great functionality in the cabin and cargo area while really amping up luxury, comfort and quiet,” added Jon Ikeda, chief designer, Acura Design Studio.
The 2014 MDX will also feature an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis, including new front and rear suspension. An all-new, direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) will deliver improved torque and more spirited performance while realizing a significant increase in fuel efficiency. Special attention was also paid to improving cabin quietness, which is greatly enhanced by the vehicle’s all-new chassis and body design and new sound-deadening techniques.
In response to strong demand from consumers in warm weather markets Acura also will, for the first time, offer a front-wheel drive version of MDX in addition to the all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) model that has earned MDX a reputation as a leader in dynamic handling and all-weather performance for a luxury SUV.

The 2014 MDX is designed to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS. It will be equipped with a broad array of advanced safety technologies, including the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and the available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems, as well as visibility technologies such as the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow.