New 2009 Acura MDX

Many manufacturers try to bring luxury, sophistication and practicality to their SUVs at a low price, but few succeed. The 2009 Acura MDX combines all of those and then some, making it the luxury SUV to beat in 2009.

The MDX keeps things simple with one trim and one engine. A 3.7-liter, 300-horsepower V-6 engine is mated to a five-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission and Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive. That is more power than than most of the competition’s base models. Speaking of competition, the MDX is up against the BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The MDX’s base price ($40,790) and fuel economy (15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway) is on par with the previously mentioned SUVs.When it comes to the “U” in SUV, the MDX has plenty. Offering seating up to seven with 2nd and 3d-row folding seats, the MDX boasts 15 cubic feet of storage space behind the 3d row. If you fold the 60/40 2nd-row seats and the 50/50 3d-row, you can get 83 cubic feet of storage. The MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds and features standard 18-inch wheels and high-intensity-discharge low-beam headlights.

Saying that the interior of the MDX is luxurious is an understatement.   Leather seating, tri-zone climate control, power windows, moonroof, steering wheel controls, Bluetooth connectivity, XM Satellite radio and a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer seven speaker, 253 watt audio system with auxiliary input jack are just some of the refinements the MDX has to offer. Acura’s ELS Surround Premium Sound System is optional, but well worth it with 10-speakers and 415 watts, while the Rear Entertainment System keeps the kids occupied with a 9-inch flip-down DVD screen. IF you opt for the Technology Package, Acura’s Navigation center will make driving to new or remote locations a breeze. An 8-inch screen located at the top of the center dash console provides precise mapping, Zagat Survey restaurant reviews, AcuraLink real-Time traffic and weather information.

Safety features abound with standard dual-stage front airbags, side-impact and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all three rows of seats. All-disc antilock brakes, active head restraints and an electronic stability system with traction control also come standard.

Take your next SUV to the next level of sophistication, utility and power at a non-luxurious price with the 2009 Acura MDX.