2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Acura MDX, despite being crowded by all the well-established competitors like the Lexus, Toyota and Infiniti manage to create a space for itself in the segment primarily due to a niggle free ownership, a fiery character, and strong resale value. It is offered in three trims and is priced in an MSRP range of $44,050-$56,500.

It is equipped with a 3.5L 6-Cylinder engine that comes across the line-up as a basic configuration. It generates 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The interiors and creature comforts are about average, but the safety offering is bespoke and outstanding in its segment. The exteriors see an upgrade for the 2017 model year but the changes are not significant much.

The 2017 Acura MDX offers superb value, with top-notch safety scores and tons of standard features." - Cars.USnews

The 2017 Acura MDX offers three trims all with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine. All trims are available in FWD and AWD drivetrain configurations. The base trim is priced at $44,050, and for this MY it comes with an added host of safety features.

The second offering is the Technology package trim, priced at $48,460. The high-end trim, the Advance package trim is priced at $54,500 and includes several creature comforts such as auto engine start-stop and rear parking sensors.

Trim	Base	Technology Package trim	Advance Package trim
MSRP (FWD)	$44,050	$48,460	$54,500
MSRP (AWD)	$46,050	$50,460	$56,500
Key Features	Package includes 18-inch wheels	Adds niceties such as 20-inch wheels, automatic wipers	Turns on the charm with front and rear parking sensors
	automatic LED headlights with auto high beams	Remote engine start	LED foglights, automatic engine stop-start
	heated side mirrors, an electronic parking brake, a power liftgate	power-folding side mirrors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert	Surround-view camera system
	Sunroof and keyless entry and ignition	Navigation system	Heated steering wheel
	Eight-way power-adjustable front seats (with power lumbar adjustment for the driver)	Color driver information display	Sports seats with premium leather and trim
	Driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery	10-speaker premium audio system with HD radio	Power lumbar adjustment for the front passenger
	Tri-zone automatic climate control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror		Front-seat ventilation, natural wood trim heated second-row captain's chairs
	Technology highlights include dual dashboard displays (a lower		Second-row sunshades and two additional USB ports for the third row
	The 7-inch touchscreen and an upper 8-inch regular screen)
	Bluetooth, five USB ports, Siri Eyes Free, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, Pandora and Aha compatibility, and satellite radio

We Recommend

Offering sheer value for money and a host of advanced technological features that would not only ease your driving experience but also add a lot of value for its asking price of $50,460, we would recommend you to go in for the technology pack.

“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.

"The MDX gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is slightly above average for a luxury midsize SUV." - Cars.USnews

For a price of $44,000 and onward, and a fine six-cylinder engine, one can expect an average gas mileage from a mid-size SUV. The 2017 Acura delivers 19 miles to a gallon for city drives, 27 miles for highway cruises and 22 miles to a gallon as its combined reading.

Models	2017 Acura MDX	2017 Infiniti QX60	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Toyota Highlander
MPG (city)	19	20	20	20
MPG (highway)	27	27	27	26
MPG (combined)	22	22	22	22

In comparison to its rivals, the 2017 MDX offers a similar level of fuel efficiency and thus stands shoulder to shoulder with them in the competition. It performs better on highway that on city roads, when compared against the competition considered.

“The MDX is spacious and versatile for the midsize luxury segment, and though its third row is tight, it's more usable than most. Still, mainstream models such as the mechanically related Honda Pilot are even more practical.” – Edmunds

Seating and Comfort of the 2017 Acura MDX

The interiors of the 2017 Acura MDX offer a homely and comfortable atmosphere and also features several technological inputs. It is capable of accommodating 7 passengers, just like its competitors can. However, the 2017 Lexus RX 350 is limited to only 5 passenger capacity.

The base variants come with seats wrapped in cloth while the top-end trims get you leather seats along with heating and ventilation. You can also avail of features such as tri-automatic climate control, proximity key, advanced safety systems, and several USB ports.

Models	2017 Acura MDX	2017 Infiniti QX60	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Toyota Highlander
Passenger capacity	7	7	5	7
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.1/61.1/41.4	40.7/60.3/42.3	39.4/57.8/44.1	40.7/59.3/44.2
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.3/59.1/38.5	38.3/60.4/41.7	39.1/57.6/38	39.9/59/38.4
Third (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	35.6/54.7/28.1	36.5/57.1/30.8	NA	35.9/55/26.7

With regard to the interior dimensions, the 2017 Infiniti QX60 proves to be the largest passenger room, provider. Right up to the third row it does not compromise on the legroom, shoulder room, and headroom. The smallest interiors dimension in class is of the Acura MDX. However, the Toyota Highlander offers an even smaller 3rd row when compared with the Acura.

The infotainment system of the 2017 Acura MDX

The Acura MDX sports a dual-screen setup with one of them mounted to the dashtop and another one inside the center console. There is a huge room for improvement in this department as the entire MMI is infuriatingly downmarket. The response times are something that you’ll just have to live by while the rivals like the Audi Q7 offer a lot more advanced and user-friendly interface. Some major interior features of the Acura MDX are -

• Dashtop screen
• In-dash screen
• Multifunctional steering wheel
• Up to 5 USB ports

The cargo space of the 2017 Acura MDX

In terms of cargo space offered, the 2017 Acura MDX offers just about average. It offers 14.9 cubic feet of space with all three rows of seating up and functional. On the other hand, it offers 90.9 cubic feet of cargo room with the third and second row of seats folded down.

Models	2017 Acura MDX	2017 Infiniti QX60	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Toyota Highlander
Cargo room (cubic feet)	14.9	15.8	18.4	13.8

Up against its competition, it is the 2017 Lexus RX 350 that offers the most cargo room with all the seats up and functional, measuring 18.4 cubic feet. The next best offering is the 2017 Infiniti QX60, it provides 15.8 cubic feet of space. The 2017 Acura MDX ranks third and the 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks in fourth place.

“The 2017 MDX is the first production model to sport Acura's new face, a diamond pentagon grille that replaces the former model's snout. It looks stronger and more cohesive. This 3-row luxury SUV's hood, front fenders and "Jewel Eye" headlights have been refreshed, as has the rear bumper. The sporty, dual exhaust outlets now feature a bright exterior finish.” – Kelley Blue Book

2017 Acura MDX - Dimensions and Weight

The Acura MDX is a full-size 3-row family SUV with the curb weight tipping the scales at 4001 lbs. It is also one of the longest vehicles in the segment with a length of 196.2 inches. To accommodate the three rows, it sports a modest wheelbase of 111.0 inches. Just like its grand and luxurious interiors, the exteriors of the 2017 MDX look well sculpted and elegant and offer the car a masculine look.

Models	2017 Acura MDX	2017 Infiniti QX60	2017 Lexus RX 350	2017 Toyota Highlander
Curb weight (lbs.)	4001	4,390	4222	4551
Length(in)	196.2	200.1	192.5	192.5
Width(in)	77.8	77.2	74.6	75.8
Height(in)	67.4	68.6	67.7	68.1
Ground clearance (in)	5.6	6.5	8.2	8.0
Wheelbase (in)	111.0	114.2	109.8	109.8
Track width (in) F/R	66.3/66.3	65.7/65.7	NA	NA

In comparison to its competition, it is the 2017 Toyota Highlander that comes with the most weight, measuring 4551 lbs. The Infiniti QX60 is the longest with a length of 200.1 inches, this also translates to the longest wheelbase, measuring 114.2 inches. Infiniti QX60 is also the highest car in this comparison. 

Exterior Features of the 2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Acura MDX comes with a host of exterior features a few of which has been mentioned below for your reference: - 

• 20 inch or 18-inch alloy wheels
• Pentagonal grille
• LED DRLs
• LED headlights
   

"The 2017 MDX earned Top Safety Pick+ (the highest designation) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. " - Cars.USnews

Acura MDX offers one of the best safety features, not only in its segment but even otherwise. It has a comprehensive list of active and passive safety features that are present to cater to passenger and vehicle safety measures,  

Moreover, the car has been allotted a 5-star safety rating in almost all the segments when tested by major crash-testing agencies. Safety and reliability are never going to be a concern for the 2017 Acura MDX. Following are some of the safety features that come with the new MDX SUV -

• Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS)
• Driver's Knee Airbag Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)
•  Traction Control and Motion Adaptive Steering 4-Wheel
• Brake Assist LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Location & Pressure Indicators
• Theft-Deterrent System

2017 Infiniti QX60 Vs 2017 Acura MDX

Priced at $43,100, which is 1000 dollars less than the Acura MDX, the Infiniti QX60 offers a bit more power and torque, in spite of having a similar 3.5L 6-cylinder engine. In terms of performance, it is the Acura MDX that is better. When it comes to interiors the Infiniti offers more space and better features. In terms of value for money, we would recommend Infiniti.

2017 Toyota Highlander vs the 2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Toyota Highlander proves to be better in terms of reliability, durability, and performance. On the other hand, the 2017 Acura MDX delivers in terms of gas mileage interiors exteriors and a spectacular list of safety features. Despite a slight hike and its price, we would recommend the Acura MDX. 

2017 Lexus RX 350 vs 2017 Acura MDX

Even the Lexus RX 350, at $43,220, offers more power and similar torque. However, it is the Acura MDX that performs better, delivers even on fuel efficiency and safety. Hands down, the interiors and exteriors styling, design, and comfort offered by the Lexus go unmatched. Completely worth the money in terms of luxury delivered. But overall it is the Acura that satisfies with an average performance in all aspects.

 

The 2017 Acura MDX is here to give a tough fight to its competition as it outperforms them in major aspects such as performance, gas mileage, safety offering, and more. The interiors of the competitors may prove to be better but the Acura offers a decent cabin that is well spaced and technologically equipped. Moreover, it is a fine deal that Acura offers for just $40,000.

 

Also read:

• Read about the 2022 Acura MDX: Expected release date, prices, MPG, performance
• Read about the 2022 Acura NSX: Release date, price, MPG Ratings

2017 Acura MDX FAQs

What powers the 2017 Acura MDX?

The 2017 Acura MDX is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine.

How much does the 2017 Acura MDX weigh?

The 2017 Acura MDX weighs 4001 lbs.

What is the cargo space offering of the 2017 Acura MDX?

The 2017 Acura MDX offers 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space as standard.

How is the fuel efficiency of the 2017 Acura MDX?

The 2017 Acura MDX offers 19/27/22 mpg for city/highway/combined respectively.

Can the 2017 Acura MDX tow?

Yes, the 2017 Acura MDX can tow up to 3500lbs.