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The Acura MDX is a mid-sized SUV manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda. The first generation of the MDX appeared in 2001 and shares the Honda Global mid-size platform with the Honda Accord, Acura TL, Acura TSX and Honda Odyssey. The 2010 Acura MDX is available in a range of five trim packages: Base, Technology, Technology and Entertainment, Advanced, Advanced and Entertainment. The MSRP ranges from $42,230 for the base model and $53,755 for a fully loaded MDX.

The second generation of the MDX debuted on April 11, 2006 at the New York International Auto Show labeled as the MDX Concept. The production model was launched on October 17, 2006. This generation MDX is built a new platform, which is also used by the Honda Odyssey, Pilot and Ridgeline.

Acura only offers only one engine for the MDX; an upgraded version of the first generation's 3.5 liter SOHC V6, which generates 300 hp at 6,000 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. The power and the torque have been considerably improved compared to the older model due to a 0.2 liter increase in displacement. The new model offers a 3.7 liter V6 with an extra 60 hp and 10 lb-ft torque.

The engine is mated to a SportShift automatic gearbox, outfitted with wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The transmission maneuvers quietly and fairly smooth through its six gears. The fuel consumption is reasonable for an SUV, achieving approximately 16 mpg around town and 21 mpg on the highway.

The performance of the MDX is competitive within its class requiring only 7 seconds to reach 60 mph, and 16.3 seconds for the quarter mile. Highway overtaking is nearly effortless as the MDX accelerates from 45 to 65 mph in 4.8 seconds on its way to an electronically-limited, maximum speed of 120 mph.

The cabin of the MDX is well appointed with textured plastic and wood trim. Interior room is abundant with generous head and leg room. The driver seat can accommodate most drivers in a comfortable manner thanks to the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Entering the second row is simple while accessing the third row requires some maneuvering through the narrow opening with the middle seat folded. Generally visibility is good, although there is one sizable blind spot due to rather large C-Pillars and a small rear quarter.

The 2010 MDX had scored very well in federal government safety tests, receiving a top mark of five stars for passenger and driver safety in frontal and side simulated crashes. The IIHS rated the car with the top rating of "Good." The standard features in terms of safety are anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, and High-Intensity Discharge headlights (XENON). As for passive safety, Acura outfitted the MDX with six airbags (two front, two front-side, and two curtain) with coverage for all three rows of seats.

The top of the line Advanced package, which bumps up the price a hefty $9000, includes the Collision Mitigation Braking System, which alerts the driver of a possible frontal collision and will automatically apply the brakes if a collision becomes unavoidable. Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a set distance from vehicles ahead and applies braking when necessary, and a Blind Spot Information System, useful when changing lanes.

In terms of design, the Acura MDX is an attractive SUV, and the 2010 models received a mild facelift including a fresh exterior look that accentuates the Japanese company’s controversial front shield. It features the new Acura corporate grille, new front and rear bumper, restyled head and taillights with brighter LED's, and new exhaust tips.

More content on the Acura MDX:

Video: 2007 Acura MDX Review by Roadfly.com

Video: 2008 Acura MDX Exhaust and Review

Video: Stock Acura MDX 0-100mph