I'm looking for an SUV with 3rd row and have considered the MDX and Highlander. I am looking at 2007-2009 models as they are now affordable at around $10k.

For 2nd gen owners, what are 3 pros and 3 cons.

Few questions I have
How is the acceleration of the 300hp 3.7L?
Real world mpg?
Cargo space? I read some posts you can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood with both rows folded down.
Comfortable ride with minimal road noise?

 

2007 -09 is the best generation, if you stay away from the Sport model. Those electronic shocks are $4,500 to replace and that would be almost 1/2 of what you will pay for the mdx.

On a good day 16 mpg city and 19 highway.
check www dot fuelly dot com for more mpg details.

 

If fuel efficiency is your concern, don't buy the MDX, I avg anywhere between 10 to 12 mpg in city(rarely 13/14). Highways 14-17 (very rarely 19)

Pilot/Highlander are better and have slightly more space too.

 

1.- Acceleration is GOOD if you can compare it to similar SUV, You can expect around mid 7s to high 7s if you WOT at a stop light and around high 6s if you Brake Launch it.
2.- Yeah fuel concerns do not go hand in hand with a 300HP 4500lbs SUV....
My real world numbers are:
(Bear in mind I am in México so Average Speed is lower) 13mpg city driving like I want to, 15 hypermiling.
Around 22mpgs at 75mph and maximum of 32mpgs at 60-65 hypermiling.

3.- Cargo Space... Well:

Lets just say it depends on what you want to haul...

 

Do you use 87 gasoline?

 

Nope, 91 always. 93 when its available.

 

I've had my 2008 Base MDX for a couple of months now. Purchased it with 56,000 miles and it is now at 58,500. It replaced a 2004 Nissan Murano SE AWD. It isn't as nimble or as fun to drive as the Murano, as it feels bigger, heavier and bulkier (probably because it is), but otherwise I am very happy with it. It is smooth, quiet, has a very refined and well appointed interior, very good pickup and acceleration, and tons of room. I've resisted letting my wife drive it because I'm afraid that if she does, I'll lose it and end up being stuck with her 2009 Dodge Journey. I like the MDX well enough that I am keeping my eyes open for another low mileage second generation MDX to replace the Journey (I can't remember another car I have owned that I have disliked as much as that Journey). I drive enthusiastically and I am seeing between 20-22 mpg, which is actually slightly better than what I was getting with the Murano with a 3.5 V-6. I am retired so I do not sit in commuter traffic. Will be taking the MDX on a 2000+ mile road trip next month and am eager to see what kind of mpg #s it will generate on the open road. I alternate between premium unleaded and mid-grade (93 and 91 octane respectively). I see no difference in performance or mileage between the two....