2007 Acura MDX

Acura MDX: Stylish and smooth

Mon, Dec 3rd 2007

You know you’re driving something special when professional race car drivers are impressed.

Such was the case at a recent teen safe driving event I attended with my 16-year-old son. As we were getting into the 2007 Acura MDX to leave, one of the professional drivers from the Jim Russell Racing School came up to us to inquire about the MDX.

“So, this is the new MDX?” he said. “It sure looks nice. How is it to drive?”

I proceeded to tell the guy – who has worked as a stunt driver in several movies and raced in several Formula One series events -- that the MDX is a joy to drive. It is smooth and powerful, utilizing every bit of its 300 horsepower, V-6 engine to provide plenty of bite without much bark.

However, for dog transporting purposes, the MDX gets lower marks because the second row seats don't fold down completely flat -- an absolute must for dog cars. This leaves a slightly elevated cargo floor up to the backs of the front seats. On the plus side, the rear styling of the MDX doesn’t hinder its rear cargo entry space as it has with some of the vehicle’s competitors. The power tailgate opens wide and tall, providing ample space for crates and other canine-related cargo. And the color backup camera and monitor system is very handy when negotiating tight parking situations.

On the open road, the MDX moves well. In fact, according to Acura, the MDX was tuned on the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany with the goal of establishing itself as a driver's SUV. But the racetrack isn’t the only place for the MDX. The all-wheel-drive system developed by Acura will keep the MDX steady and comfortable in most field-training situations as well.

By the end of our conversation, I think the pro was ready to buy an MDX for his everyday use. However, if he dares to take it on the race course, he’ll be happy to know that the MDX has received top safety rating from both the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

So I wouldn’t bet on seeing the MDX doing any movie stunt rollovers. In spite of its tuning ground heritage, this one’s better for the road than the track.

-- Keith Turner

Carguy says: The 2007 MDX is Acura’s top-selling model, just ahead of its smaller, RDX sibling. The 3.7-liter, VTEC V-6 engine produces 300 horsepower and towing capacity is listed at 5,000 pound when properly equipped. The model tested rated at 17/22 miles per gallon, based on 2007 EPA calculations, whereas the 2008 version is rated at 15/20 mpg under the newly revised EPA standards.

Acura MDX: Race car in SUV clothing

Barking Lot Banter: The 2007 Acura MDX sport utility vehicle gets plenty of second looks from many people, including a professional stunt/race car driver. The sporty styling and wide rear end makes it a good choice as a potential dogcar for those seeking a luxurious ride.

-- Keith Turner, The Family Car