2008 Acura MDX Bottom Line

By  Bengt Halvorson, Editor

To assemble a comprehensive review on the new 2008 Acura MDX, the car pros at TheCarConnection.com consulted reviews from a wide range of reputable sources. TheCarConnection.com’s editors also drove 2008 Acura MDX and combined their impressions with all the available information to create this conclusive review.

The 2008 Acura MDX is a large luxury crossover vehicle. The design of the MDX emphasizes style, passenger and cargo utility, and on-the-road comfort and handling, rather than off-roading ability. The seven-passenger MDX crossover SUV was new for 2007 and carries into 2008 with few changes.

A 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 engine brings strong acceleration to the MDX and impressive passing power, thanks to the responsive yet smooth five-speed automatic transmission. The 2008 Acura MDX has impressive towing ability for such a vehicle, with a maximum rating of 5,000 pounds. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is standard; the full-time all-wheel-drive configuration distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels, to help maintain better stability and traction when cornering.

The 2008 Acura MDX is surprisingly entertaining to drive; along with the responsive powertrain, the suspension keeps the body from leaning too much in corners, even though the ride is quite supple, and the MDX can be hustled along a curvy road like a smaller, lighter vehicle. The steering is especially good, with an uncommon level of feedback that makes the MDX easier to drive than its peers under a range of conditions.

A very warm interior design, with a good mix of contrasting materials and matte-metallic surfaces make the interior of the 2008 Acura MDX feel sporty yet inviting. However, the controls could be simpler—for the audio system especially. Driver and front passenger seats are generously apportioned and good for even the tallest and largest folks, but the minuscule third-row seat is only for small kids. Families will find plenty of storage cubbies as well. All models come standard with leather upholstery, 18-inch wheels, three-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface, a six-disc in-dash changer, and XM satellite radio. A Sport Package with auto-damping suspension is available; it also includes a premium leather interior and a special wheel design. A navigation system including real-time traffic and a rearview camera is optional.

The Acura MDX is an all-star in safety, with top results in all U.S. crash tests, ranking as one of the most secure vehicles of any type. It’s also an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2008. The 2008 Acura MDX includes front side airbags and full-length side curtain bags, covering all three rows of seating. The standard electronic stability works in conjunction with the SH-AWD system.

Among these mid-size, road-oriented crossover SUVs, the Acura MDX has a ride that’s better than all but the RX 350, while offering straight-line performance that’s close to or better than all of them. On the other hand, most of these competitors outdo the MDX in available high-tech options, such as laser cruise control, adaptive (swiveling) headlamps, or lane-departure warning systems. The FX 35 lacks a third row, but it’s the only one in the group that handles as well or better than the MDX; the FX’s ride, however is not as good. The XC90 has a roomier third row, but it’s the least exciting to drive. The Audi Q7 has a beautiful interior and plenty of luxury features, however it’s surprisingly cumbersome, revealing of its especially hefty curb weight.