2014 Acura MDX

Our editors are split on whether Acura’s ‘beak’ front end works, but we think that it’s much more flattering on the brand’s utility vehicles—and this new MDX—than on its sedans. A relatively simple front airdam design, complemented by crisp matte-chrome details and ‘jewel-eye’ LED headlamps, altogether gives this model a streamlined, elegant look, and while in back the MDX runs the risk of being generic, with its integrated tailpipe and ‘lined’ LED lamps, it all fits in.

Inside, Acura has paid much more attention to properly coordinated materials and trims, and it shows. And from a design standpoint, the dash, with its sloping, tiered look and V-shaped center stack, is a step more in pace with those in Acura’s sedans. We’re not entirely in love with the center stack's functionality—see the Quality (Comfort) and Features sections for more on that—but we like the way the entire dash fits in with the rest of the cabin, from a design standpoint.

If we have a complaint about the interior styling, it’s that the interior is only offered in four interior hues—Parchment, Eucalyptus, Graystone, and Ebony. A few more are on the way, an Acura official told us, but it’s a surprisingly limited, conservative range of possibilities at a time when the Acura’s European rivals seem to be offering almost countless possibilities with various lines, trim packages, and accessories.

The so-called Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that’s available in the MDX (yes, front-wheel drive is now standard, if that’s all you need) provides more all-weather traction, and even a little more cornering control in some situations, and it can vary front-wheel torque distribution from 90 percent down to 30 percent (70 percent to the rear)—or up to a hundred percent to either the left or right wheels.

Acura has worked to mitigate torque steer by changing the geometry in front, reducing the driveshaft angles and the center offset. The powertrain itself has been lowered, too. Likewise, the former model's trailing-arm rear suspension setup has been dumped, in favor of a multi-link, coil-over-damper layout.

New amplitude-reactive dampers reduce the damping force for high-frequency inputs—jittery pavement surfaces, for example—while hydraulic sub-frame mount bushings help seal out road vibration. Acura claims that the new approach improves ride comfort with no trade-off to handling.

For the most part, they're right. Although the MDX's steering feel might not feel quite as crisp, or transmit as much feel of the road, as that of the previous version, the vehicle as a whole feels surprisingly capable and coordinated when driven near the limit.

Although the rear roofline of the 2014 Acura MDX looks more arched than before, that's deceptive; the rear cargo floor, behind the third row, is nearly three inches longer, while the horizontal distance from the top of the third-row seatback to the window is almost six inches longer. Making it even more useful for weekend projects, or hauling furniture items, the cargo area is now fully flat when the second-row seats are folded.

Acura has done away with the storage area that was beside the front footwell in the outgoing MDX, but it's done a great job in redesigning what most people frequently use: the center console area. With a multi-tiered setup, the main bin has enough space for a tablet computer, a small purse or handbag. Then just aft and above is a smaller, tray large enough to hold a smartphone and perhaps pen. Ahead of the console top, which doubles as an elbow rest, an attractive wood-toned tray pulls forward to cover everything. It has traction strips and is a good place to stow any other small personal items you need to keep an eye on while driving.

There's also a large underfloor storage area in back, with a lid that can be propped up in position when you're loading. There's enough space in it for a laptop or camera bag, or an extra pair of shoes.

The MDX has not only active cancellation inside the cabin but also an active engine mount system that helps quell low frequency vibrations from the powertrain. Full-on acoustic glass is used for the windshield and front windows, while thicker, noise-insulating glass is used elsewhere; and Acura has added a load of insulation elsewhere, while looking at cabin air leakage to help seal out residual noise.

In addition to the full roster of airbags, a driver knee airbag has been added for 2014. A Wide View Camera system is included on all models, and a Blind Spot Information system is included in all models but the base MDX. Our only wish is that Acura had reached into the Honda parts bin and also thrown in the excellent LaneWatch system from the Honda Accord.

Advance Entertainment models also have Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), which will provide a gentle, proactive nudge to the steering to help you stay in your intended lane.

Tech models add navigation, AcuraLink, ELS Studio audio, GPS-linked climate control, Blind Spot Information, rain-sensing wipers, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning, puddle lamps, HD Radio, a rear-door smart entry feature, a color TFT display in front of the driver, for turn-by-turn directions, and 19-inch alloys.

Step up to the Tech Entertainment model, and you get DVD Rear Entertainment, a 150-watt AC inverter, heated second-row seats, and second-row window shades.

At the top of the line, the Advance Entertainment gets Lane Keeping Assist, front and rear parking sensors, keyfob-integrated remote engine start, adaptive cruise control with a low-speed follow feature, collision mitigation braking, the wide-screen rear entertainment system with HDMI, the top 12-speaker ELS audio system, roof rails, and Milano premium perforated leather upholstery with ventilated front seats.

The Active Cruise Control system that's included in Advance Entertainment models now includes a low-speed follow feature that will maintain a set following distance and will come to a complete stop with slow-moving stop-and-go traffic. Side mirror positions, climate preferences, radio presets, and seat position can now all be tied in with individual key fobs, and one that comes with the Advance Entertainment model is of a new long-range bi-directional sort. You can remote-start the vehicle from up to 100 yards away (with a climate-control preconditioning mode for very cold or hot days), and the fob will give you a reminder, with a green light, when the engine is running.

The MDX’s AcuraLink system includes a complimentary three-year subscription to the ‘Standard Package’—with traffic info for surface streets and freeways, vehicle messaging, and integrated Aha and Pandora entertainment. A Connect Package adds Assist Services, Map Services, and MyVehicle (remote vehicle services and diagnostics). Full-on concierge services are available with a Premium Package.

Separate options include back-up sensors, an engine-block heater, a cargo cover, a cargo mat and tray, wooden steering-wheel and shift-knob trim, a first-aid kit, and a few appearance accessories (side molding, running boards, garnish trim, and mudguards).

While the base audio system includes eight speakers and 432 total watts, the premium Acura/ELS audio system now actually comes in three configurations. With the Technology Package, you get ten speakers and 501 watts. Step up to the Tech and Entertainment Package, with its DVD rear entertainment system, and there are eleven speakers and 529 watts. Then at the top of the line, with the Advance Package (and its 16.2-inch Ultra-Wide HDMI entertainment system), you get twelve speakers and 546 watts. Streaming apps are now available through Aha and Pandora.

The aerodynamics, as well as improvements like low-rolling-resistance tires, allow the 2014 MDX to coast for more than 1.5 miles from 70 mph, Acura says.