The extensive overhauling of Acura’s North American lineup will continue with the next generation of the MDX three-row crossover, which was spied here in prototype form with less intrusive camouflage than before.
Instead of the previous prototype’s heavy cladding, this test car was covered in a white skin wrap with some funky black schemes affording us a better view of the new MDX’s exterior redesign.
From what we can tell, the body will have softer lines while the styling of the front end of the new MDX appears to be less prominent, but will continue to use Acura’s polarizing signature “beak”. Overall, it looks like Acura has chosen to evolve rather than revolutionize the current model’s design.
The profile pictures suggest that the new MDX will grow in size, not so much in terms of the wheelbase length but the rear overhang that looks longer than the current version, which has been in production since 2006 receiving a mild refresh at the end of 2009.
Acura isn’t saying much about the next MDX’s powertrain, but it is likely to be offered with the brand’s updated V6 delivering 310hp and quite possibly, a hybrid variant using the upcoming RLX sedan’s setup that connects a 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC V6 to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and three electric motors.
Look for the new MDX to hit the market in late 2013 badged as a 2014 model.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoop
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