Last month, we were excited to see Acura roll out an updated version of its best-selling MDX crossover. The revised model debuted alongside an updated RDX at the Chicago Auto Show.
Outwardly, Acura’s volume-seller looks pretty much the same, but a lot is happening underneath. The MDX retains its 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 and gains a brand new nine-speed transmission. This new gearbox will save weight and be linked to a push-button electronic shifter. There will also be a tuned up version of SH-AWD available on the 2016 model, complete with a torque-vectoring rear differential.
A variety of packages will be available that can bestow such advanced safety features as Road Departure Mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, forward collision warning, a multiview rear camera, and more to the MDX. Perhaps the best part of this announcement, though, is that the 2016 MDX is available now at our dealership. Call or visit Leith Acura of Cary if you would like us to arrange a test-drive for you.
That’s not the only news, though. You know we love to check in on the rumor mill, and lately we’re hearing that Acura might be getting a smaller crossover notched in below the RDX. Said to be based on Honda’s new HR-V, a car that size gels with the current market trend for premium-segment compact crossovers. Think about cars like the Buick Encore, the Audi Q3, or the Mercedes-Benz GLA and you’ll have an idea of the cars that have establish this segment.
What’s the source for this rumor? John Mendel, executive vice president for Honda America told WardsAuto that Acura was “looking at” the HR-V pretty closely. That makes it sound less like a rumor and more like something with a high probability of being true.
Acura previously had a third crossover called the ZDX which was on sale from 2009 to 2013. That car was based on the Honda Pilot architecture. Perhaps going smaller on the frame (and the price tag) with a luxed-up HR-V will bring Acura greater success. We’ll just have to wait and see.
Source: Car and Driver