Following the release of the 2014 Acura MDX Prototype (pictured above) in Detroit earlier this year, Honda’s luxury division has announced the debut of the production version of its mid-size SUV at the New York International Auto Show on March 27.
The three-row, seven-seater luxury SUV will ride on a new platform, with Honda promising an enhanced ride comfort, a more versatile cabin, increased fuel efficiency and improved dynamic performance.
Although Acura didn’t reveal any specs related to fuel economy and performance, the company said the 2014 MDX will be powered by a 3.5-liter gasoline i-VTEC V6 (the same unit develops 310 hp on the RLX), fitted with direct-injection and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) – with the latter meaning the engine will use three of its cylinders when not needed to save fuel.
Compared with previous generations, the 2014 Acura MDX will be offered for the first time with 2-wheel-drive variants, in addition to Honda’s SH-AWD system. The new model also has a longer wheelbase that allegedly increases second-row legroom and improves access to third-row seats. It also contributes to a better ride quality, according to Honda.
The 2014 MDX will feature the next-generation of the AcuraLink Connectivity System and Jewel Eye LED headlamps, just like those seen on the pre-production concept. Expect the production-version to look almost identical to the concept, sans the flashy wheels, bumper trims and possibly the headlights’ intricate interior structure.
As for active safety features, the new MDX will be available with an array of technologies for driver assistance and visibility, including the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the optional Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Blind Spot Information (BSI), Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
Honda expects the 2014 MDX to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star overall score from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, thanks to the SUV’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering II body structure and its safety systems.
By Dan Mihalascu
2014 ACURA MDX CONCEPT
