2014 Acura MDX luxury crossover Drive Review and Road Test

You'd be forgiven for thinking little has changed by just glancing at the MDX, and that's the way Acura shoppers like it we're told. That statement makes me scratch my head just a little because the 2014 model still sports the Acura "beak," the most controversial style decision Acura has ever made. Admittedly Acura has toned down the proboscis just a little from last year with less chrome and a more upright hood that accentuates the toothy smile a little less. We do have to keep this in perspective however: nothing about the MDX is overdone, the only reason anyone complained about the beak in the first place is that Acura has long been known for conservative design cues. This love for conservative, evolutionary design is why the MDX is instantly identifiable as an Acura despite riding on an all-new MDX-exclusive platform and sharing little beyond some transmission parts with the outgoing model. Yep, you heard that right, the MDX is no longer platform buddies with the Accord, et al., although it still builds off of Honda's structural design portfolio.
Bringing the MDX's signature shape up-to-date we have standard full-LED headlamps which (if I am not mistaken) will make the MDX the least expensive vehicle on the road with the snazzy beams. Since we only had a limited time with the car in the day I can't say how they perform at night, but the color temperature of the lamps is a pleasing neutral color rather than the harsh blue light some LED lamps are known for. While Acura is gettin' jiggy with the LEDs up front, the rear continues to use regular old incandescent lamps. Probably leaving Acura something to swap for a mid-cycle refresh.
Acura continues to stick to their formula of traditional injection molded dashboards and plenty of convincing fake wood. I would be interested to hear your opinions on this choice, so be sure to sound off in the comment section below. While i like the look and the materials are premium in feel, it can't match the visual impact or feel of a stitched leather/pleather dash, something that the refreshed Buick Enclave does incredibly well. The MDX continues to do have a very uniform feel with perfect seams and gaps and a consistent quality level throughout, something that Buick's CUV continues to struggle with (the lower dash and door plastics in the Enclave are still a bit cheap.)
The MDX's front and middle thrones still sport the Acura hallmark "Lady Gaga horny shoulders," a design cue frequently imitated but never duplicated to the same effect. Like Lexus and Infiniti, Acura still hasn't discovered seats that more in more than the same basic 8-10 ways as any $25,000 family sedan. Despite having only half the "ways" as BMW's sport seats, I find the MDX's redesigned thrones to be among the most comfortable in the segment for my body shape. The flip side of that is that I'm a statistical "average American male" at six-feet and 185, so if you deviate from the "norm" you may find the seats less to your tastes due to the lack of adjustibility.
For 2014 Acura has swapped out the tried-and-true 3.7L V6 for their latest V6. The 3.5L "Earth Dreams" V6 trades displacement for direct-injection and "Variable Cylinder Management" which allow the V6 to drop to a 3-cylinder mode on the highway. To quell the inevitable 3-cylinder vibrations, the MDX score's Honda's unique active engine mounts which generate vibrations opposite to what the engine produces to cancel them out. (Think Bose noise cancelling headphones.) Despite the DI treatment, power is down from 300HP to 290 and torque takes a small drop from 270 to 267 lb-ft as well. The power reduction is all in the name of efficiency however since this is the same engine that Acura drops under the hood of the 310 horse RLX sedan. To counter the power loss, Acura spent considerable time shedding weight with the MDX dropping a significant 275lbs in the redesign. The weight loss and improved low end torque (thanks to the direct-injection) mean that performance is up even with the power down. We weren't able to verify this however since we didn't have an appropriate track to perform 0-60 testing, so be sure to check back when we get our hands on an MDX for a week.
Music by Kevin MacLeod
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[@orbit2375]

Best 2014 MDX review. I like how you talk fast to keep the review short, but clear and informative. Thanks!!!

[@poma9878]

This is an excellent review and I have seen a lot of reviews of 2014 Acura MDX. Keep up the good work :)

[@marinoint]

Another thorough review by TTAC, thank you very much. Please keep up the great work.

[@nature10879]

You are so Knowledgeable about cars, I never see reviews like these anywhere else, Even from those magazine guys from M..(finish). Others just compare 0 to 60 run times. TTAC gives very detailed informative review that covers everything from the completion and what you are getting in the car. You guys should stand out like c&d and Mt. even edmunds. Lots of consumers looking to buy cars will learn a lot from you before they make a choice on what to buy. Keep it up, Thanks guys.

[@kkmingming]

This is the best car review I ever seen so far. Great work!

[@UFvckingloser]

thank you buddy. i just started at an acura dealership. learning the car a lot from your video. thanks again.

[@TheLoanGiants]

what a fantastic and comprehensive review. I found it to be very informative and accurate. keep up the good work.

[@robwattonguam1960]

Agreed!!

[@krisrocks121]

Some of the first full reviews of the mdx. Thanks

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for the tip, we will be sure to look at that when we borrow a FWD model in the coming months.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The MDX scored top marks in the IIHS and the NHTSA crash tests and Acura has a very good safety reputation. The Q7 has not been fully tested by the IIHS so I can't comment but I would expect it to perform similarly since most Audis typically get top marks as well.

[@plor1261]

Awesome review. All other ones had hosts that are way too car salesman like or too excited when talking. Plus, you get into some of the technical details which is appreciated!

[@globalbotboy]

Thanks for the otherwise terrific review. Its the best new MDX driving review so far.

[@TripleMachine]

Had a blast watching some of your review videos and of course i subscribed. Wish you guys could make a 2014 bmw x5 review :)

[@juliaaslattery]

Looking forward to seeing your carseat addition of this 14 mdx. i am trading in my van, at least that's the plan :) thanks

[@TinkuAbraham]

Very thorough review! Well done!

[@PenguinPillowPet]

Fantastic review! As Shin Ken said, I found it unusual that you forgot to mention how much legroom you had in the second row, since you usually do that in other videos. But I understand, as you had the complex Q nomenclature thing going through your head. Acura seriously has a key player in the crossover class now. They did before, but it's even better now. Oh, and that wide TV! :D

[@thames33]

Leguna Seca all day!!!!! Awesome shirt! Using the Dodge Viper on that map on GT2 was the hardest thing ever

[@harrytej]

the dude knows what he's talking unlike some other reviewers out there !

[@mikesderic]

My dad just got it today. It is AWESOME.

[@juliawolfgangmulson2474]

Better than the previous ones and has good looks for customers who would like to buy it. Love it. The 2014 Acura MDX is truly spectacular.

[@siic]

I love your review so much

[@Jaylee549]

One of the top best reviews ever!!!!!

[@raidfaisal1979]

thanks a lot Alex for the great videos you are producing, they helped me a lot in buying my latest MDX.

[@-Ash_on_paws]

Your review is very comprehensive with lots of good information helping potential buyers making good decision. Please review Cadillac SRX. It is a 5 seater but I am interested to see how it compares to the MDX and if it is a good option for buyers don't really need the third row seat. Thanks you.

[@GearWave]

great review my friend

[@greghouse3434]

Will definitely be looking for one of these in the near future on the pre owned market. Will be hard saying goodbye to my 2010 Acura TL 6 speed though :(

[@polievets1]

Thanks very professional review!

[@cesarruiz2012]

That was a brilliant review.

[@posvibration21]

I remember driving one of these in snowy weather. Didnt complain at all! Also sounded mean as hell.

[@Meekiuwa]

Good comprehensive review. Thank yoy

[@Herman-em8of]

Like you review format. Could you review the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid?

[@ceebeel]

Great review! Very thorough. Alex, what is the noise level of MDX?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I haven't had one for a full review yet but I should soon and will do the usual battery of speed and sound tests. The MDX is very quiet however, easily the equal of the other luxury 7-seat crossovers.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I actually do when the systems are the same. So in Lexus reviews I always mention that it is the same system used in Lexus and Toyota models where applicable and Infinifi/Nissan, BMW/Mini, Cadillac/Chevy, Ford/Lincoln, etc. This system was first released in the 2013 Honda Accord and the Acura uses the same software, controls and screen. I don't see this as a problem, everyone does it and it usually means a more polished product because of higher volume.

[@marinoint]

Hi, if you fast forward to 07:04 you'll see the Heat & Cool function for the front seats. Yeah, I personally think it's one of the most important functions of a car; cooling seats do noticeably increase the driving comfort. I wonder why so many cars don't have it while many budget Kia models do.

[@globalbotboy]

In my opinion the biggest advance in the new MDX is the lane center tracking of the new steer by wire Lane Keeping Assist (which you completely ignored in your driving part of the review). With adaptive cruise control to a full stop, and lane center tracking: self driving cars are sneaking in the back door. Lane center tracking is a big deal. How well does it work? How about giving a good test to the new advanced features?

[@ashman0071]

Really hope you encourage your clients to get the AWD version. Make sure you stock enough of them so test drivers can sample both back-to-back. SH-AWD is one of the MDX's features that makes it THE best buy in it's class. The more useable 3rd row along with the 2nd row, push button, spring-action access makes buying this 'tall car' a no-brainer.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The LED headlamps are full LED lights, rather than some systems where the high beam is a traditional halogen bulb. The light pattern is very focused and while we didn't have a great deal of time to compare it with the old MDX they claim they offer a 33% larger lit area. One thing to note is that they do not steer. My personal preference is toward steering lamps.

[@nayeemmohd5819]

Keep up the good work.

[@andrewakery]

Could you provide any feedback on the quality and/or usability of those jewel-eye headlamps if you had a chance to use them while night driving....Also, any info on DRL? Thanks for the great review...

[@evidencebased1]

Very nice review. I prefer driving dynamics to real wood so will probably like the MDX. Not sure if you said anything about acceleration noise. My current G37 is LOUD on acceleration and would much prefer the MDX to not be if I trade for one.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We should have our hands on one around the second week of December. Stay tuned.

[@danitzauriasnavarro3570]

Good review

[@killabandit]

Overall great review. But correction. The 2nd gen MDX does have reclining 2nd row seats. Our 2013 has that. It also has traffic for streets (if your city supports it).

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It is certainly nicer than anything in the Honda stable right now, but that would be expected from Acura. The rear legroom has improved vs other competitors, but keep in mind that the MDX is still not a terribly large crossover so it will have less room than something like a larger Q7 or Infiniti QX. The smaller size makes the MDX easier to park and more maneuverable but there are trade-offs.

[@Wised1000]

Great review but just one mistake as most reviewers you are a little confused about SHAWD. The acceleration device makes one, not both of the rear wheels turn faster. The idea is to create yaw. What is proportioned front to back is torque, up to 70% of engine power can be sent to the rear, of that 70%, 100%can go to the left or right wheel. The acceleration device is in effect an extra gear inside both sides that makes the selected side accelerate faster than the other .

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The MDX models Acura had on hand were pre-production models and they did not have the LKA or radar cruise control on them to test. We will however have a RLX very soon with these features so we will be able to comment on them. I prefer to not comment on a feature I have not tested myself.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for the correction. Acura listed those as new features, I wonder why?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Actually the JX35 and QX60 use a CVT as well, just not the same CVT as the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder uses a new chain-drive unit while the JX/QX use Nissan's older CVT shared with the Quest and Murano.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We will get the SRX on our list!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'll add that to our list.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I challenged them with your info and they just got back to me that it is a Canadian market option with the "Elite" package and was a late to market option. Odd that they haven't made this available in the US yet. My apologies on that.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

For some reason Acura didn't think Mercedes shoppers would cross-shop the MDX, something I think *is* a more appropriate cross than the X5. The Mercedes is more expensive. Depending on the options you select on the ML you can get an ML that handles and accelerates faster than the MDX, but in base form the MDX is my preference. The 2WD MDX also has better mileage than the 2WD ML. Rainsense wipers are included on the Technology Package.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

As to the slalom and emergency handling tests, both consumer reports, myself and a number of other publications tested both vehicles and found the new X5 to be superior to the MDX. I'm not sure what numbers you're looking at, but I have yet to see anyone compare the 2014 models and have the Acura come out on top in that area.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes, the Q7 does have a bit more room, but it's not a huge amount.

[@gentrynunu1]

I just subscribed to you recently u do a good job. I've been thinking about picking up a new Accord or TL & a MDX OR Pilot for a SUV I know Acura is a step up from the Honda but both are made by Honda America is only country I have a Honda and Acura the other countries only have Honda I would love to get your opinion on the matter! :-$

[@polievets1]

Just done a test drive of MDX at my local Acura dealership in NJ car is quite nice however it is the shame that Acura decided not to offer some features for USA market for example for Canada and Europe markets Acura is offering real wood inserts(ash tree from Spain looks fantastic), all around view camera system, heated steering, headlight washers And that is strange considering many competitors offering those options for free or at least for the money ? Fog lights is a dealer installed option for around $500 that is bad ...

[@adityapd999]

Great review Alex ! With the recently launched Highlander I am facing the $45K question MDX with tech package or highlander limited platinum with dynamic cruise, cooled seats, etc. Since you've driven both the vehicles, your feedback would help ~A

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Toyota's dynamic cruise control is a smoother operator than Acura's at this time. The two cars try to target different shoppers. Acura gives their car a longer warranty, you have a more premium brand experience and dealer experience. The MDX is the better handling and performing car, especially when equipped with their SH-AWD system. The Highlander comes off as a more mass market vehicle in terms of fit and finish, parts quality, etc. When it comes to value however the Highlander is the winner because if offers many of the same features as the MDX for less. The wild card is the Highlander Hybrid which would probably be my choice because of teh economy and the value with the MDX AWD a close second.

[@adityapd999]

Alex on Autos Thanks Alex however living in California I am strictly comparing the FWD models of both the vehicles. Don't really drive that much to justify the additional investment in a Hybrid but overall I feel the Highlander Limited FWD with a platinum package is a winner.

[@vibes700]

i like the review i had a 2015 TLX 4 cylinder its just remind me of my car when i saw inside the MDX ACURA ITS JUST A NICE CAR TO DRIVE WHATEVER MODEL mainly because of its value and its made by HONDA.

[@akshayd82]

I am actually shopping for a 7+ passenger SUV. I have test driven a bunch of them and am still confused. What is your recommendation in terms of value - handling, space, features, resale, reliability and mpg?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Since you value reliability and resale value, its hard to go wrong with the Highlander. MPGs would be best in the base 2.7L four-cylinder model but most trims have the V6. There are essentially no 7-passenger SUVs with objectively "good" fuel economy other than the Highlander Hybrid which is quite expensive. If you're looking in the mass market segment I suggest also looking at the new Kia Sorento and the Nissan Pathfinder.

[@killabandit]

I don't consider it catching up since they had the best selling SUV for Luxury in the market for many years now. Just refining it and making it better with the latest technology and things people complained about made it good.

[@wasaland]

we are on the market for a new car... I already watched ur review on 2014 MDX and 2013 Lexus RX F-Sport... which one will you recommend?

[@Gravitas37]

Excellent, first rate review.

[@tuansparrow363]

You mentioned the IDS control steering and throttle changes. I believe it is only the steering that it changes.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Not at all. Overdriving both rear wheels is the only way to give the SH-AWD cars a slight rear bias. Otherwise they would max out at 50/50 (excluding the torque vectoring rear axle). If you don't believe me, I suggest you contact Jim Keller or Ted Kause at Acura for more info.

[@xaustinx15]

Woah, you are very informative.

[@snlgaba]

Hey Alex, I am thinking of buying MDX. But i am confused between used 2014 MDX SH-AWD or new 2016 model which is 9-speed. Do you have any recommendations ?

[@snlgaba]

+sunil gaba FYI, Old one i am currently looking has low miles < 10k.

[@dgreer5537]

Avoid the 9 speed. Serious issues. 6 or 10 speed transmission

[@alexdykes]

We do have a conflict on this. Some of Acura's press materials implies that it is, and some says it is in the first option package up from the base model. We will know more closer to the on-sale date.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You haven't met my mother in law....

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The latest Swedish rumours have pushed the XC90 back yet again to 2015 now. I think it's a real pity because Volvo has some excellent designs going right now with the S60 and XC60.

[@canadiancissp]

Just FYI, I sat on a fully-loaded MDX a couple of days ago, and it is real wood. I am in Canada and that perhaps make a difference.

[@hatersdownthedrain]

How does it compare with Mercedez ML class with exception of third row seat. You did not explain about rain sensing wipers, is it there on all models.

[@hatersdownthedrain]

Please provide some details on road safety features such when there is a collision. I took test drive yesterday and felt like this is a toy car, everything feels very small-steering, seats, storage spaces, clearance from ceiling, everything looks little and small, though everything looks beautiful. That is concerning me for what will happen there is an impact on the road, will it topple down several times even with a little nudge.We took test drive for Audi Q7 right b4 this but felt good on thes

[@cjharris8]

You mentioned a few times that the Audi Q7 is a larger vehicle and I know that the Audi also has a 3rd row option but does the Audi actually have more room in the 2nd and 3rd rows?

[@Maxwell1989]

LED-illuminated taillights, side mirror-integrated directional signals, rear license and Center High Mount Stop Light

[@yelp1000]

I think I'm the only one amazed at the diesel like efficiency of this big box. I've read many of the 'first drives' released today and I can only think that Acura nailed this one. People will complain about the looks on Acurazine but look at the feat of engineering this represents. 275 pound weight loss, 28 mpg but .5 seconds quicker to 60, rides and handles better, quieter .. a few of the reviews think the handling will be at the top of the class - whats not to like?

[@electricwonderbars1]

I drive a 2007 MDX and am looking to upgrade within the next year, but one thing that annoys me about my MDX is that the steering feels very heavy. This is fun for weekend trips but also quite a pain for everyday driving in the city. Besides, I have a 335i for the weekends anyways! So I was just wondering how the handling in the city compares to the outgoing models. Thanks

[@orbit2375]

Traded in a 2008 MDX Tech for a 2014 MDX Adv/Ent pkg. I know exactly what you are saying about the heavy steering in the 2008 mdl. 2014 MDX steering is much lighter. It only firms up, somewhat, in sport mode. All in all, 2014 model is significantly improved over the 2008 and feels faster, also is much quieter. 2008 model has slightly sportier handling however. Note: 2007-2009 2nd generation.

[@electricwonderbars1]

thanks for the advice. decided I'm just going to stick with the 07 MDX for a couple more years. Not that eager to upgrade.

[@polievets1]

I just did test drive MDX 2014 steering not heavy at all especially at comfort and normal mode however if you would like to make it little hazier just switch to sport and steering would become quite heavier

[@hcdero]

Looks awesome.

[@gentrynunu1]

Should I get a 2013 Acura TL SH-AWD & MDX SH-AWD & ask for a better deal?????? What your opinion?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You have that almost correct. I interviewed the Acura SH-AWD engineering team personally at the MDX launch event. The acceleration device is between the rear differential and the transaxle meaning that it is entirely capable of making both wheels spin faster. This is not the same as the torque vectoring rear axle which the MDX also has. The torque vectoring axle sends power left/right while SH-AWD over drives the rear wheels slightly to give a slight rear bias.

[@peguesemiles43]

I like this generation MDX. I did not like the previous one because of the cluttered infotainment system with all of the buttons and a tad bit of trouble getting into the 3rd row even though I am only 5 foot 4 with that small opening in the 2012 model on the passenger side and it is longer which makes entry into the 3rd row easier in my opinon

[@globalbotboy]

One of my local dealers said the new RLX would not have Lane Center Tracking on the LKA. I hope they are wrong about that. My understanding is that LKA will now be third generation. First generation was warnings only. Second generation left and right side brake application pulled the car back into the lane - resulting in the car "ping-ponging" from lane edge to opposite lane edge. Third generation, now, should have steer-by-wire to maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane.

[@toology55]

You sure navigation is standard, read a few places that said it was part of "Technology Package ($47,460) which adds an ELS stereo; a navigation system; 19-inch wheels; rain-sensing wipers and blind spot, forward collision and lane departure warning systems."

[@Ronaldo_Football-Cr7]

Excellent

[@marinoint]

I forgot to mention, in future if you could show us how much leg room you have as you sit in the 2nd row seat that would be even more helpful. And thanks again for telling the viewers your height.

[@metsfaninct]

Nav is standard? I received a call from the Acura dealership and they are doing test drives with two models to see I would like to preorder. She made me think that the NAV was another package.

[@edsi8641]

Own a 2008 mdx and its simply Great to have. The price, quality and reliability is unmatched. Maintenecne is not costly like other luxury models such as bmw, mercedes and lexus yet its luxury. It may not be german engineered but I'll save a hell of alot of money on service. Still enjoying leather sests heated, cooled and all the technology plus most important power at the wheel.

[@gnap19]

Will you please do a RDX review.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Around $57,400 in the US.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I would likely go for the MDX. The brand and the real wood mean less to me than the other attributes of the MDX.

[@luc7976]

They don't recline in different positions (not mine at least and I doubt this changed). But they do fold so maybe that's the misunderstanding.

[@rickslick730]

I like more of that chisel look of this current MDX(that made it stand out) compared to this new gen, but at the same time i also like the fuel milage of this new gen,the styling i'm sure will grow on me but for now na,is starting to look more like everything else out there, in this class,

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

In our tests the MDX was 1MPH slower.

[@MrDede2011]

looks better than at the auto show. is fog lights an optio

[@Wised1000]

Check the CR report again the MDX completed the emergency course 1.5 mph faster than the base X5, their comments are based on feel, not measurable parameters.

[@Wised1000]

Not at the same time that would defeat the purpose, the overdrive gear only engages when one of the rear wheels gets 100% of the torque.

[@SkinnyGirl125]

How does the rdx compare with mdx?

[@MrIpad2lover]

I'm getting this car with SH-AWD advance package, Acura is my type of brand

[@gentrynunu1]

Sorry about mess up!

[@siic]

Please do Honda Crosstour and Subaru forester XT

[@PaulyGuy1]

Very beautiful Mdx