2017 Acura MDX: A New Look and a New Drivetrain
NEW YORK, NY – Acura’s best-selling model is the MDX. It’s the company’s flagship SUV, and it receives a mid-cycle refresh for 2017. The new MDX was revealed at the New York International Auto Show.
A fresh new look
According to Acura, it is has been the company’s biggest seller for seven consecutive years. The changes for 2017 are not revolutionary, at least not on the exterior, where you will find an all-new fascia that includes a the “diamond pentagon grille” first seen earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show on Acura’s Precision Concept car. The MDX is the first model in the company’s line-up to include this new grille, which also boasts new LED headlights and a new, more streamlined hood.
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The refreshed appearance extends to the sides with new body panels, and to a new rear end that includes dual exhaust outlets integrated into the bumper.
Upscale interior
The interior has also been revised, with a sharper focus on luxury. New materials will include real wood trim. Some technological improvements include SiriusXM 2.0 satellite radio, an electric handbrake, automatic high beams, and automatic brake hold.
Two powertrains
The MDX will now have two powertrain options. Returning is the 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 mated to a nine-speed automatic. However, new for 2017 is a hybrid drivetrain, a first for the MDX.
This Sport Hybrid’s new powerplant includes a 3.0-litre V6 with variable cylinder management, as well as three electric motors. One electric motor will power the front wheels, while twin electric motors will power the rear wheels. The combined output of the gasoline engine and electric motors is 325 horsepower, a 35-hp increase over the 3.5-litre V6.
The new engine delivers power to the wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The new powertrain also boasts an improvement in fuel economy of 7 U.S. mpg. Initial fuel numbers claim 26 U.S. combined city/highway mpg.
The electric motors will also provide torque vectoring, to enhance steering. The Sport Hybrid will also have Active Sport Suspension, with selectable modes including Comfort, Normal, Sport, and exclusively on the Sport Hybrid will be a Sport+ mode.
These changes should assure the MDX retains the top spot within Acura’s line up.
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