2008 Acura MDX Review

July 28, 2008

STYLING | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

The MDX goes for a techno-futuristic look
Car and Driver

a more integrated look
Cars.com

metallic grille looks as if it could be wielded by a Spartan in battle
Edmunds.com

a big, ugly grille that is supposed to convey aggressiveness
Washington Post

Generally, TheCarConnection.com found that when it came to the 2008 Acura MDX, reviewers were pleased with the overall appearance.

Kelley Blue Book reports that "...the characteristics that made the original MDX appealing have carried over intact, if not improved," with few changes from 2007. Car and Driver describes the new MDX Acura as "a little sleeker and a little less boxy without excessive compromise of interior," which has "a sporty ambience."

There are a few aspects of this 2008 Acura's styling to dislike, however. Edmunds.com and the Washington Post agreed that the large aluminum grille is more suited to Wagnerian opera than the front of a contemporary luxury sport-utility vehicle, with Edmunds.com adding that it "lacked a little in terms of personality and prestige." Nonetheless, it remains a top recommendation at that Web site, which feels that the MDX Acura compares very favorably with its chief competitors, the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. Other adjectives used for this SUV were "athletic," "hunkered down," and "aggressive."

Forbes Auto had a slightly different take on the 2008 Acura MDX styling, calling it "bolder and richer-looking" with "chiseled lines" that are less conservative than its predecessor.

The Auto Channel expressed great admiration for its "bold lines and well-defined fenders," which take their inspiration from "car, not truck styling cues." Regarding the five-sided, medieval-looking grille, this source was quick to point out that it has been a virtual corporate logo for the past several years. Chances are, if you really dislike it, there are aftermarket customizations available.


Conclusion

You’ll either love the MDX, Acura's big crossover, or hate it--but you will not be able to ignore it. Those who like an edgy, high-tech-looking vehicle will embrace the 2008 Acura MDX; traditionalists will want to try elsewhere.

STYLING | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:The MDX goes for a techno-futuristic lookCar and Drivera more integrated lookCars.commetallic grille looks as if it could be wielded by a Spartan in battleEdmunds.coma big, ugly grille that is supposed to convey aggressivenessWashington Post Generally, TheCarConnection.com found that when it came to the 2008 Acura MDX, reviewers were pleased with the overall appearance. Kelley Blue Book reports that "...the characteristics that made the original MDX appealing have carried over intact, if not improved," with few changes from 2007. Car and Driver describes the new MDX Acura as "a little sleeker and a little less boxy without excessive compromise of interior," which has "a sporty ambience." There are a few aspects of this 2008 Acura's styling to dislike, however. Edmunds.com and the Washington Post agreed that the large aluminum grille is more suited to Wagnerian opera than the front of a contemporary luxury sport-utility vehicle, with Edmunds.com adding that it "lacked a little in terms of personality and prestige." Nonetheless, it remains a top recommendation at that Web site, which feels that the MDX Acura compares very favorably with its chief competitors, the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. Other adjectives used for this SUV were "athletic," "hunkered down," and "aggressive." Forbes Auto had a slightly different take on the 2008 Acura MDX styling, calling it "bolder and richer-looking" with "chiseled lines" that are less conservative than its predecessor. The Auto Channel expressed great admiration for its "bold lines and well-defined fenders," which take their inspiration from "car, not truck styling cues." Regarding the five-sided, medieval-looking grille, this source was quick to point out that it has been a virtual corporate logo for the past several years. Chances are, if you really dislike it, there are aftermarket customizations available. ConclusionYou’ll either love the MDX, Acura's big crossover, or hate it--but you will not be able to ignore it. Those who like an edgy, high-tech-looking vehicle will embrace the 2008 Acura MDX; traditionalists will want to try elsewhere. 2008 ACURA MDX STYLING | 9 out of 10 Car and Driver: "The MDX goes for a techno-futuristic look" Cars.com: "a more integrated look" Edmunds.com: "metallic grille looks as if it could be wielded by a Spartan in battle" Washington Post: "a big, ugly grille that is supposed to ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

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.

Next Steps:

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2008 Acura MDX

Check Financing Rates

for the 2008 Acura MDX

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2008 Acura MDX near you

See the Acura MDX in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001

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