Acura's 2014 MDX -- the real one, really – is uncovered at the New
York auto show, replacing in your memory the "concept" version exhibited
at the Detroit show in January. It's a lot like Honda, Acura's
parent: Show a barely disguised version of an imminent model, call it a
"concept," then show the real thing at a later show. That way the
vehicle gets two media hoorahs.
The 2014 MDX goes on sale this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to on-sale date.
There
is a front-wheel-drive version of the seven-passenger SUV for the first
time, helps the brand meet tougher government mileage standards, and
provides a lower-price model to sell.
The mpg ratings are 20 mpg
in the city, 28 on the highway and 23 in city/highway mix for the
front-drive model. All-wheel drive is 18/27/21.
To help reach the
third row of seats, a power-assist feature folds and slides the second
row seats to their most-forward position with the push of a button. And
the walk-in aisle is wider for easier access. Console is big enough for two iPads, showing how up-to-date Acura is. No word on how many Kindles that equals.
Wheelbase
is stretched 2.8 inches to 111 in., opening more interior space.
Overall dimensions are 193.6 in. long, 77.2 in. wide, 67.6 in. tall. Power is from a 3.5-liter V-6 that Acura says is new, rated 290 horsepower and 267 pounds-feet of torque. Acura
points out that the 2014 MDX was designed and developed in the U.S. and
will be manufactured at Honda's Lincoln, Ala., factory.
Courtesy of USA Today
