In my 08 MDX I believe that the tips of the gauge needles were illuminated. In my 12 they are not and only the gauge dial numbers are lit up. Is it just me or are the indicator needles much more difficult to see on the 12 than before?

 

It is definitely just you. The needles on the 2010+ are illuminated in the same fashion as those on the 2007-2009. If the ends of your gauge needles aren't illuminated with red, you should take your vehicle into the dealership and have them fix it.

 

I think that the 07 - 09 have an illuminated blue hue background that they dropped for the MMC. I do not know anyone who prefers the look of the MMC guages.

 

Pics please of the new gauges in question

 

Sounds like you may want to get your dealership to look at that.