Acura: MDX News
#602
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
Looks like the front wheel arches from the TL will be carried into the MDX.
#603
Senior Moderator
I'm very pleased to see that Acura is using the BMW E70 as the benchmark for the next generation MDX.
#604
My first Avatar....
a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
#605
אני עומד עם ישראל
^ from ACK no less...
#606
My first Avatar....
#607
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
#608
Safety Car
Video
Acura is out testing its next-generation MDX luxury crossover on public roads and we’ve managed to scoop a prototype running around the Nürburgring and on some of the German race track’s surrounding streets.
The new MDX is expected to land in showrooms in the second half of 2013, which would make it a 2014 model.
It will bring with it a vast array of new technologies and what appears to be a more streamlined shape to help fend of rivals like the BMW X5, Buick Enclave and Lexus RX.
Though camouflaged, it appears the MDX will be sharing a number of styling cues previewed by the recent 2013 RLX Concept, which it itself previews the upcoming replacement for the Acura RL flagship sedan. We can make out what appears to be a sharper bumper on this MDX prototype as well as a typical shield-shaped grille.
Styling cues won’t be the only thing shared between the 2013 RLX and the 2014 MDX, as both vehicles should share a powertrain lineup as well.
This means the 2014 MDX may offer 2 powertrain options--a base version powered by a regular V-6 and a new hybrid model featuring the Acura Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system destined for the next-generation NSX supercar.
The base model is tipped to feature a direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 matched to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Output should eclipse the 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque found in the outgoing MDX.
The hybrid range-topper, if built, will feature the same V-6 engine matched to an electric motor and dual-clutch transmission, with both power sources driving a single axle.
The alternate axle will be powered by another 2 electric motors working independently and directing torque as required to benefit handling. The setup would allow multiple driving modes, including electric- or gas-only modes, plus a hybrid mode calling on both electric and gas power and offering all-wheel drive capability.
Look out for the reveal of the 2014 Acura MDX at a major American auto show early next year.
#613
In Search Of Sunrise....
I've seen the video clips of this thing on the track (w/heavy camo)... but I'm surprised that there have been no other leaks by now!!! Patiently waiting....
#615
Senior Moderator
The 3G MDX looks to be an evolutionary step.
...and I suspect that a hybrid V6 with the Acura Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system (if so equipped) could push the new MDX to the $60k mark.
...and I suspect that a hybrid V6 with the Acura Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system (if so equipped) could push the new MDX to the $60k mark.
#617
Safety Car
C&d
What It Is: A next-generation Acura MDX prototype being tested in the desert while towing a trailer. Setting aside the fact that the mule in these spy photos is the 1st MDX this author has ever seen towing anything, the covered-up crossover does reveal what to expect when the redesigned model hits the market—besides its towing capability.
Why It Matters: The MDX in its current form was introduced for 2007 and has only received a single major refresh, which updated it for 2010. Despite its age, the MDX managed to place 3rd in a recent 5-crossover comparison test, and we still think it’s one of the better-driving offerings in its segment. Acura is in the throes of overhauling its entire lineup, having recently introduced the new RDX crossover and ILX compact sedan, as well as previewing the upcoming, range-topping RLX sedan in lightly disguised “concept” form. This MDX would be nearly the final piece in Acura’s mainstream lineup puzzle. (We’re not counting the highly anticipated NSX sports car revival here for obvious reasons.) Once this new MDX is squared away, pretty much all that’s left for Acura to do is figure out which sedan to place between the ILX and RLX—the TL or the TSX.
Platform: Expect the 2014 MDX to continue to offer 3-row seating, some form of all-wheel drive, and crisp exterior styling. It’s also clear from these spy photos that there’s a size increase in store for the next MDX, chiefly in length. The wheelbase doesn’t look hugely different, but this tester has a lot more rear overhang than the current model. We expect the added length will free up more space in the way back of the MDX’s cabin, possibly allowing real-world adults to sit in the third row.
It appears the MDX will ditch its angular, techno-Transformer look for softer, less-exciting duds. An RDX-like face is visible through this prototype’s camouflage, and the roofline has more curvature than the current greenhouse. In profile, the new Acura doesn’t look too different from Infiniti’s new JX crossover, a vehicle targeted directly at the strong-selling Acura. We’ll reserve final judgment on the MDX’s cosmetics until we can see more of it, but we think the outgoing model wore Acura’s (now-last-gen) styling language the best.
Powertrain: The current MDX is motivated by a 300-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 driving all four wheels through Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system. We don’t anticipate this basic formula to change much, although there’s a chance that the heavy and expensive SH-AWD setup could be ditched, like it was for the latest RDX, for a non-super system. There’s also a chance of the MDX switching to a hybridized AWD system like the RLX’s. It remains to be seen whether such a powertrain could handle the kind of towing duties undertaken in these photos.
Competition: BMW X5, Infiniti JX, Lexus RX350, Land Rover LR4, Mercedes-Benz ML-class.
Estimated Arrival Time: The new MDX could appear at an auto show as soon as early next year, although, in typical Acura fashion, we’ll likely get a look at a near-production-ready “concept” version 1st. Look for the production MDX to go on sale sometime next year as a 2014 model.
#618
Burning Brakes
Hmm, too much front and back overhang. The current generation MDX is the best looking SUV in its size class, IMHO. The RDX got a bump in size so I guess the 14 MDX will also. It is looking more like a full sized SUV rather than mid.
#619
Moderator
For the last four years, I keep hoping the next Acura to be unveiled will ditch the stupid shield grill. Every time, I am disappointed.
#620
The sizzle in the Steak
I learned quite a while ago to stop hoping for a new corporate face.
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civicdrivr (08-17-2012)
#621
Moderator
#622
Safety Car
Click to TOV for Pics
Chris Doane Automotive snagged this set of photos of the 2014 Acura MDX, in a considerably lesser state of camouflage than previously seen before. Here we can see a bit more of the vehicle's shape as well as get a peek at the (expected) LED headlights and other details. From these photos, it appears that Acura has (wisely) decided not to mess too much with the MDX's proven styling formula. Mechanically, we're expecting the new MDX to benefit from Honda's new Earth Dreams V6 engine family with Direct Injection and though we haven't heard anything definitive, it seems natural and logical to bet that Acura's Sport Hybrid AWD system will find its way into a version of the upcoming MDX as well.
Quoted below is CDA's text that accompanied this photo set.
SPIED: '14 Acura MDX Drops Its Camo!
The last time we saw the next-gen, 2014 Acura MDX, the entire prototype was covered in thick, padded vinyl. Today, thankfully, Acura engineers have stripped all that off, giving us a much better idea of what the new MDX will look like.
Up front, no one will be surprised to see Acura's "shield" grille. We can also see what look to be a pair of very thin headlights. These units look as though they could be similar to the LED units we've seen on the RLX sedan. LED daytime running lights are also visible along the top of the headlight cluster.
Additionally, the sculpting of the sheet metal is also much easier to see now, along with a set of jeweled tail lights at the rear.
Under the hood, we hear the MDX will gain Acura's new direct injection V6, and possibly a version of Acura's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system.
The last time we saw the next-gen, 2014 Acura MDX, the entire prototype was covered in thick, padded vinyl. Today, thankfully, Acura engineers have stripped all that off, giving us a much better idea of what the new MDX will look like.
Up front, no one will be surprised to see Acura's "shield" grille. We can also see what look to be a pair of very thin headlights. These units look as though they could be similar to the LED units we've seen on the RLX sedan. LED daytime running lights are also visible along the top of the headlight cluster.
Additionally, the sculpting of the sheet metal is also much easier to see now, along with a set of jeweled tail lights at the rear.
Under the hood, we hear the MDX will gain Acura's new direct injection V6, and possibly a version of Acura's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system.
#623
In Search Of Sunrise....
wow! i dont know about you guys, but really digging the exterior lines from the new spyshots!
The only thing that i dont agree with is the oddly shaped 3rd window which is still masked. I have a feeling it will look like the honda CRV which in my opinion is just horrible!
The only thing that i dont agree with is the oddly shaped 3rd window which is still masked. I have a feeling it will look like the honda CRV which in my opinion is just horrible!
#626
Safety Car
MotorTrend
Despite its age, the Acura MDX continues to dominate the luxury brand’s sales charts, and the next-generation model isn’t likely to be any different. A prototype of the new 7-passenger Acura MDX crossover has been spotted again but, this time, with less camouflage to disguise its shape. The 2013 Acura RDX has found success by migrating to the center of the market, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see similar changes made to the upcoming Acura MDX, which will debut in 2013 as a 2014 model.
The current Acura MDX debuted with a controversial grille, but expect a more straight-forward and toned-down power plenum grille on the upcoming MDX. The Acura prototype’s side view doesn’t appear drastically different from that of the current model, but appears to mimic the punched-out sheetmetal design on the lower door panels of the 2013 RDX. As with the 2014 Acura RLX, the new MDX may make available specially designed LED headlights as well as regular HIDs.
2014 Acura MDX prototype rear side view 300x187 imageFrom behind, the next-generation Acura MDX prototype sports LED taillights and a rear windshield wiper that’s exposed, like the Infiniti JX35 and Buick Enclave but unlike the Lexus RX. The 2013 Acura MDX is powered by a 300-hp 3.7-liter V-6 that produces 270 lb-ft of torque. Using a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 2013 MDX is EPA-rated at just 16/21 mpg city/highway. With lighter weight materials, engine tweaks, and even the possibility of a 9-speed automatic transmission, the 2014 MDX should easily approach others in the class when it comes to efficiency. The 2014 Acura MDX volume model will likely use a version of the 310-hp direct-injection 3.5-liter V-6 coming to the 2014 Acura RLX.
In a 2010 Acura MDX 1st Test, we appreciated the way the crossover was tuned: “With MDX’s flat stance, quick pickup of cornering grip turning off-center, snap-your-fingers-quick paddle shifts, and extraordinary SH-AWD system, the MDX simply handles better than crossover within multiples of its price.”
Since the 2013 Acura RDX left behind the brand’s so-called super-handling all-wheel-drive system, it’s not clear whether the technology will still be standard equipment on the 2014 model. As with the 2014 RLX sedan, the 2014 MDX may also offer a hybrid model as a flagship SUV. With 2014 Acura MDX production set to begin early next year at Honda’s plant in Lincoln, Alabama, we’ll definitely be hearing more about the 2014 Acura MDX before long.
#627
Not looking good, seems like a bigger RDX, which IMO is such a yawn.
#628
2G TLX-S
Can some Photoshop experts here photoshop away the camouflage on the new MDX ?
#629
The sizzle in the Steak
Looks like an evolution versus a revolution in design.
#631
Senior Moderator
We love our 12 MDX Tech. It's only real shortcomings are fuel economy and an intelligent key type system. (...and personally, I wish it had an additional 30lb-ft) Hopefully, the 3G will address this. (9AT tranny? )
#632
Three Wheelin'
I made a couple tweaks to my render: updated the mirrors, front fascia openings (I'm fairly certain that horizontal bar will remain), and it looks like those wheels are hear to stay.
So here's the latest...
So here's the latest...
Last edited by Type34; 10-17-2012 at 05:54 PM.
#633
Senior Moderator
Looks like a different lower fascia on the camo model.
Interesting that MDX is following the 2G RDX example with the hidden exhaust. Not that it matters much but it does lend itself to aesthetic appeal.
Interesting that MDX is following the 2G RDX example with the hidden exhaust. Not that it matters much but it does lend itself to aesthetic appeal.
#634
Midnight Marauder
If I'm not mistaken, the headlights are probably wrong, the ones in the mule appear to be the led lights from the RLX concept.
#635
Three Wheelin'
Looks like a different lower fascia on the camo model.
This is the best view of the lower fascia (look on the right side of the pic for the opening with the horizontal line).
And this pic also shows a better view of the headlamps (on)...I think the latest camo shot shows a unique mask job on the lamps; I'm not sure there's much to look into there and I don't see proof they are the RLX prototype LEDs.
Either way, it's just fun to guess what it'll look like...if anyone else sees stuff I missed, post away...
#638
Safety Car
Vid