2008 Acura MDX - Performance Review

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This 2008 Acura may look like a thoroughbred, but it has the power of a draft horse.

The Auto Channel reports that with the MDX, Acura's new 3.7-liter V-6 is "the largest and most powerful ever in an Acura," not only beating the previous model, but with 300 hp, it's the most powerful six-cylinder SUV on today's market. This is borne out by the vehicle's 2.5-ton towing capacity (a 1,500-pound improvement over the previous model), which is more than adequate for a large house or camping trailer, wooden sailing vessel, or horse trailer.

Despite its power, Acura's 2008 MDX does remarkably well in terms of emissions, earning a ULEV rating by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It suffers a bit in the mileage department, averaging only about 15.5 mpg according to testing performed by ConsumerGuide Automotive, but less-than-stellar fuel economy is to be expected with a vehicle of this type--and for what this vehicle is, the 2008 MDX's mileage is actually not too bad. It should be pointed out that EPA estimates according to Forbes Autos is actually 17 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the open road.

This 2008 Acura's five-speed automatic transmission works like a charm when it comes to acceleration and passing, and is the perfect mate for the workhorse powerplant. Although a strictly manual transmission is not available, drivers who absolutely have to shift their own gears will be glad to know that the transmission can be shifted manually, if you prefer to do so. In addition, the Acura's SH-AWD system does a fine job of distributing torque among all four wheels, according to Forbes Auto.