When describing MDX, most people would add "sporty." For those who own the car, do you think it's "hardy?" No, I'm not saying you would take your MDX off-roading like a Jeep.


Are MDX parts or components any way more heavy duty then the typical Honda-Acura? Examples, are the shocks stronger, the coil springs thicker, the control arms beefier, etc?


Do you consider your MDX a SUV? or more of a tall TL? (Yes, I know the MDX is not based on the TL).


So the question is both about actual parts and owner's perspective?


TIA

 

This is an interesting question. I look forward to the answer from owners. Not speaking for the MDX or RDX, it seems like most SUVs are minivans with bigger wheels.

 

The 3G MDX drives and feels exactly like a SUV, and has no resemblance to a taller 4G TL.

 

Most people regardless of which vehicle they buy rarely take that for off road riding. For my wife and I that aspect of the car was not something we were measuring at all. However in the rare situation where that may be needed I do believe MDX would handle it much better than any sedan or minivan out there.

I think most people say SUV like MDX is minivan with bigger wheels because they see most people use it like minivan to haul people and cargo but if you go beyond that there isn't much more in common. I would think SUV like MDX has better looks, styling, handling, sportiness and fun to drive factor you would not find in typical minivan.

You need to look at my thread titled "Nice MDX Review?". In that video you'll see race driver really push the MDX and also towards the end of the video there are some off road scenes.

 

For that post I refer to was on another forum.

http://www.mdxers.org/forums/94-new-...eview-mdx.html

 

Hardy, yes. I just purchased a 2014 MDX after having my 2004 MDX for 10 years. I live in the Northeast and ski a lot and the 2004 never let me down in the most treacherous snow conditions. I did have to drive down dirt roads everyday, so did have more wear and tear due to the dirt and bumps on the 2004, but all my neighbors experienced that, no matter what type of car they had. The 2014 MDX still feels to new to test it for hardiness, but it feels as tight as well designed as I remember the new 2004, and it is definitely smoother, sturdier and quieter than the Subaru Outback I test drove several times.

 

It is what it is. Its an AWD vehicle that handles better than any minivan, is more powerful, and has fancier accommodations with more technology. However it has less space than a minivan. It is not meant for anything further off-road than improved dirt roads. Classify it as you wish if that makes you happy.

 

For city driving and enduring all seasons, I think the MDX is pretty "rugged". Some mild off-roading, I'd say it's not bad too...same goes for it's close "cousin" the Honda Pilot.

I mean, I'd for sure put the MDX above say, the FX50 I drive.


However, is it a pure, wilderness-tackling vehicle like say, the Land Rover Defender or Toyota FJ...? I'd say no...

 

The current 3G MDX is almost one full inch lower in ground clearance than the outgoing 2G model.

So Acura has decided to put more emphasis on handling performance and highway stability, rather than off-road capability for this latest iteration MDX.

 

It is also much lower than the 350 RX as well.

 

I have taken all of our MDX's (2001,2007,2014) off road on jeep trails and dirt back roads, in the sand and have driven in snow. I have also towed two different boats with total weights up to 5000 lb. No issues with any or any conditions. The AWD system is very good in ice and snow. There is no true 4x4 low range and it is definitely not a true off roader like a Jeep, but it is surprisingly capable.