And if you're shopping in this popular automotive segment, you know the competition is fierce. So what does this SUV do to make a name for itself? We'll get into that below. But first, we'll get into some details about the brand behind this name. Acura has been around for a while and built this model on the strength of that experience. Keep reading to find out what makes the Acura MDX so special -- and perennially popular.

This popular SUV might look familiar. After all, the 2019 model is largely identical to the Acura MDX dating all the way back to 2014. You might think that makes it a little long in the tooth. But we think the design was modern to begin with and has aged well over the past five years. 

Plus, there are numerous upgrades and refinements that make this the best version yet. Keep readin to find out all of the features and benefits of owning this SUV. But first, we'll take a look at the brand that brings you this competent and upscale vehicle. 

Acura made a name for itself more than 30 years ago as Honda's upscale alternative. And thought it initially consisted only of sedans and coupes, now the SUV is dominant. And the Acura MDX is one of the most competent three row luxury models on the market. 

You can count on this Japanese luxury car maker to focus on things that make sense. There's tech everywhere, but it is intuitive and simple to master. Safety features abound and everyone inside can count on being chauffeured in style. For those in the driver's seat, advanced transmissions and powerful engines provide plenty of thrill.

Anyone looking for a spacious and comfortable way to transport people and stuff will find this SUV attractive. It's got good looks and substance, providing plenty of functionality for on and off road travel. But in the end, it's all about creature comforts.

If you want a powerful and nimble luxury SUV that doesn't skimp on style, give this one a closer look. Keep reading for a more detailed review of what this vehicle does well. If those are the items on your checklist, the Acura MDX might be just right for you.

Any SUV promises a competent vehicle on the road that can go off roading if needed. But not every one can deliver a posh, athletic ride to go along with it. Safety features abound and this is a reliable performer on all types of surfaces. 

Plus, there's the cargo capabilities. This vehicle offers loads of space and it's really easy to move the seats out of the way. If you have large or awkwardly shaped items to carry, chances are you'll fit them in here.

Now we'll get to the important part. Here's where you'll find several areas where we think the Acura MDX shines. From passenger comfort to the basics of performance, there's a lot to recommend. Here's what we found to be the high points of purchasing this luxury SUV.

Let's face it, most SUV owners are buying people haulers. But the best luxury brands offer more than a posh ride for you and the family. And the Acura MDX provides a number of clever options to expand the amount you're able to carry. Got a lot of cargo to tote inside? Just fold down all the seats and take advantage of cavernous space. Plus, it's really easy to get the seats stored in the floor. It's a lot simpler to use this option than in some of this SUV's competitors. 

You'll find more cargo room than in most of the other three row SUV brands. And even with the seats folded, you'll have the benefit of a flat floor. There's even a useful storage area accessible to better organize everything. 

With the seats up, you can easily attach child safety seats wherever is most convenient. Find convenient latches including anchors and tethers. Even in the third row, you can find two tethers to safely and secure a seat.

There are also thoughtful options for keeping smaller items secured on -- or off -- the road. Find a range of clever cup holders and storage bins designed for most of the stuff motorists carry. Arrange these features in a number of ways to accommodate electronic devices, bags and other items.

So you've found a place for all your stuff and every passenger. Now you've got to get down the road. And that's where a powerful V6 engine comes into the picture. Opt for a 3.5 liter engine paired to a nine speed automatic transmission for a smooth ride. And its 290 horsepower is more than enough to launch you into traffic.

Of course, it's far from a performance vehicle. But for everyday around town driving, you'll find it sufficiently peppy. First of all, acceleration is strong for the class. Reach 60 miles per hour in under seven seconds. And you'll easily keep the big Acura MDX on track with responsive steering controls. 

Choose from normal, sport or comfort settings. Normal, as you might imagine, is a traditional and balanced steering wheel feel. Get more feedback and a tight feel by switching to sport. And if you prefer a super luxury, soft steering experience, check out the comfort setting. 

There are also lots of technological advancements allowing you to steer precisely and effortlessly. And an all wheel drive system is capable of keeping you grounded even when you head off the beaten track. There are fewer off road features than in some vehicles, but it's on par with many luxury models. Bringing the SUV to a halt again is the job of a stable braking system. 

And since the Acura MDX is a luxury vehicle, there's no question that it has to be comfortable. Even on long trips, you'll find plenty of support in the seats. Of course, those up front have a few extra bells and whistles. But even in the rear rows, you have surprising amounts of room. 

Up front, the driver and front seat passenger get lots of options including heating and ventilation. The second row gives good legroom, even if taller passengers might wish for more headroom. Like most three row SUV models, the seats in the far back are signficantly more cramped. 

Its suspension gives you a sufficiently stable ride. But you'll feel a few more bumps along the way than in some of its more expensive competitors. As far as stability, you can't ask for much more than what the Acura MDX delivers. Wind noise and other sounds are kept at a minimum. And the engine stays quiet even when its rotating near its peak.

Finally, you'll stay comfortable no matter what the weather is outside. Front and rear passengers have access to gauges and can create their perfect climate. Some of the buttons and controls might take a little while to master. But when you get the hang of it, you'll find out how responsive the system truly is.

Almost any luxury vehicle these days will also come with a bevy of high tech functions. And the Acura MDX is no exception. There are two screens available in the front cabin. They have standard capabilities, but it can take a while to remember which controls what. 

Even though the touch screen system isn't a class leader, it is competent. And you can use them to manage a very advanced sound system. There's also an available voice control system. It allows you to operate numerous systems throughout the vehicle with just a vocal command.

You can also hook up your own devices through the Apple and Android built in adapters. Charge and connect your phones or other items with a host of plugs. There are a total of five USB ports throughout the vehicle. 

Other options can further enhance what your Acura MDX is capable of doing. Some are safety based, including adaptive cruise control and lane assist. There are better cameras on the market, but you'll get sufficient coverage. And the view, though far from high definition, is good enough to help you navigate. 

We think you'll agree that this SUV remains a contender even though it's an aging design. But of course, no vehicle will be right for every consumer. To further determine where it ranks, we considered a range of reviews from those who actually drive it. Here are some of the top pros and cons we found in our search.

Still not sold on the Acura MDX? Keep reading for our review of a few other luxury SUV brands. We think they all deserve consideration if you're considering a vehicle in this segment.

Here are three other auto makers producing great vehicles. They might not all be direct competitors to the Acura MDX. But they each have features we believe place them near the head of the pack.

This German brand has always put an emphasis on the driving experience. And that's still the big draw for its venerable X5 model. This was one of the first luxury SUV brands to catch on with a wide audience. And even though BMW now offers other sizes and designs, this one remains among the most popular. 

The latest version is all new and introduced in 2019. Along with a completely different look, it also includes some innovative and clever functions. There's an optional V8 engine that will supply more power than most of its competitors. And it is packed with screens and technology meant to enhance the experience no matter what you're doing.

It might have shocked you when Porsche first came out with its Cayenne. An SUV from a leader in the sports car market? But it worked, and it continues to be among the most popular vehicles in the class.

Now you can equip it with a hybrid engine for better fuel economy and less environmental impact. Plus, it's actually got room to tote stuff and carry passengers in unparalleled style. If you're looking for real performance from your SUV, this one should be on your list. Of course, all of these features don't come cheap, making this one of the more expensive options.

The Audi Q7 is a lot more than a dressed up Volkswagen. It's roomy and comfortable with a clear emphasis on opulence and luxury. In fact, as a passenger you might actually forget you're riding in a large SUV. It behaves in many ways like the finely tuned cars the brand is known for producing. 

Below average reliability might be a strike against it. But drivers also list many pros in recommending this vehicle to those in the market for a new SUV. For many motorists, this vehicle offers everything on their wish list -- and more.

But these specialized vehicles are not interchangeable. Some are geared toward the rugged off roading drivers. Others are tuned for maximum comfort. Still others pledge to offer the most performance under the hood.

We hope our guide has helped clear up the confusion a bit. If so, share this article with the upscale motorists in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions. 

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