“The 2017 Acura MDX derives ample power from its V6 engine. Fuel economy is great for the class, even in models with all-wheel drive. The suspension delivers both a cushioned ride and stable handling around corners. You'll be able to drive the MDX around small areas without breaking a sweat despite its large size.” – cars.usnews
Engine and Transmission of the 2017 Acura MDX
The 2017 Acura MDX is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine, that is capable of generating 290 hp, it is paired to a 9-speed automatic system that is responsible for its seamless transmission. For its asking MSRP of just $44,050, the output of 267 lb-ft of torque is close to class-leading and worth the money.
Models |
2017 Acura MDX |
2017 Infiniti QX60 |
2017 Lexus RX 350 |
2017 Toyota Highlander |
MSRP |
$44,050 |
$43,100 |
$43,220 |
$40,000 |
Engine |
3.5L 6cyl |
3.5L 6cyl |
3.5L V-6 |
3.5L V-6 |
Transmission |
9-Speed Automatic |
CVT automatic |
Automatic |
8-speed automatic |
Horsepower (hp@RPM) |
290 hp @6200 RPM |
295 hp @6400 RPM |
295 hp @ 6300 RPM |
295 hp @ NA RPM |
Torque (lb-ft@RPM) |
267 lb-ft @4700 RPM |
270 lb-ft @4700 RPM |
267 lb-ft @ 4700 RPM |
263 lb-ft @ NA RPM |
In comparison to its rivals, the MDX is the least powered vehicle in the segment with a power output of 290 hp. All the other cars in comparison deliver a small but significant 5 hp more than that of the 2017 Acura MDX. However, in terms of torque, it outperforms the 2017 Toyota Highlander by a small margin.
Acceleration of the 2017 Acura MDX
Despite it having the lowest power generated in its segment, the 2017 Acura MDX proves its prowess by going from 0-60 mph in just under 6.2 seconds. It continues to maintain its premier position even in the quarter-mile dash by completing the same in 14.7 seconds.
Models |
2017 Acura MDX |
2017 Infiniti QX60 |
2017 Lexus RX 350 |
2017 Toyota Highlander |
0-60 MPH (seconds) |
6.2 sec |
7.1 sec |
6.8 sec |
7.2 sec |
Quarter mile (seconds) |
14.7 sec |
15.5 sec |
15.1 sec |
15.5 sec |
Up against its competition, we have the 2017 Lexus RX 350 that comes closest to the Acura MDX by clocking the 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds. The 2017 Infiniti Qx 60 and the 2017 Toyota Highlander get into a close fight with regard to performance, sparing just a millisecond to victory, the 2017 Infiniti grabs the third spot.
Ride and Handling of the 2017 Acura MDX
The 2017 Acura MDX has an average drive experience to offer. It gets precise steering which is responsive to drive and lively experience. Backed by its 290hp V6 engine, it gets some punchy acceleration and overall offers an enjoyable drive. However, we would really appreciate it if it would get a better suspension in place as it fails to cover for all the bad roads which in turn translates to discomfort in the cabin.
Braking capacity of the 2017 Acura MDX
The 2017 Acura MDX features above-average brakes in terms of their size. It features 12.6-inch rotors for the front wheels and 13-inch rotors for the rear. However, it weighs a lot, measuring 4000 pounds, and just takes 123 feet to come to a standstill from a speed of 60 mph.
Models |
2017 Acura MDX |
2017 Infiniti QX60 |
2017 Lexus RX 350 |
2017 Toyota Highlander |
Brake Front (in.) |
12.6 |
12.6 |
12.9 |
12.9 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
13.0 |
12.1 |
13.3 |
12.2 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
4,001 |
4,390 |
4222 |
4551 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
123 |
122 |
NA |
126 |
In terms of braking prowess, the 2017 Infiniti sees a similar battle, but this time with a different opponent. The 2017 Acura falls back into the second position by just afoot, leaving the Infiniti with the cake. The Toyota Highlander sees a slump in its brake performance and sure does lose some credibility for it. Lexus features the largest rotors in class, but its brake performance is unknown.