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HomeCars & MotorsportsUsed Cars2001 Acura MDX
Opinion Summary
MDX: Exhilarating performance from Acura in an SUV?
by mkaresh | Jan 27 '01
Pros: Three rows of seats, cargo space, versatility, lots of stuff for the price
Cons: Fake wood everywhere, performance and luxury though OK are less than promised

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OVERALL RATING
Product Rating: 4.0



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Comments on MDX: Exhilarating performance from Acura in an SUV? " (3 total)  
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Re: Another VERY detailed and LONG review. (Reply to this comment)
by mkaresh, mkaresh is a Lead on Epinions in Cars & Motorsports
I wrote this long ago when I had only seen and sat in the Highlander at the Autoshow. My limited exposure seems to have been inadequate. That there were so few of this type of vehicle then might have also affected my perception--compared to truck-based SUVs they are similar in proportions, but that's about it, as you note. Frankly, I'd forgotten that I ever made this comparison. I wouldn't today. It has been deleted from the review.

As for the fake wood, I stand by my assessment that it looks pretty fake. I prefer the metallic trims that are currently fashionable. In general, I prefer the interior of the Honda Pilot to this one.

I haven't driven either the Sequoia or an MDX in a while. I think I had a positive evaluation of the Sequoia's handling myself because my expectations were high. With the MDX, Acura encouraged very high expectations, and the vehicle does not meet them. It handles about as well as a good minivan, which though better than a truck-based SUV (such as the much clumsier Sequoia) is no match for an average sedan, much less a sports sedan.

Power, well, it's just adequate. The 2003 gains 20 horses, which might make a small difference. I plan to test drive one soon.
Oct 20 '02
5:08 am PDT

Another VERY detailed and LONG review. (Reply to this comment)
by bg357
Although this is a well thought out review, I have to disagree on a couple of points.

The MDX looks NOTHING like the Toyota Highlander, absolutely nothing!! I don't know where that came from.

I think you're very hard on Acura's phony wood. I too hate phony wood accents and really prefer the real thing or nothing at all, BUT as far as phony wood goes, I don't think it's that bad. The plastic crap GM & Chrysler use is bad, think of those when you look at the Acura variety. I think the phony wood in the '03 Accords looks pretty good, for being plastic.

I don't agree with your assessment of the performance and handling of the MDX. I've driven two different samples and found them to be quite powerful, maybe not in comparison to a TL but certainly more than respectable for it's class.
As for handling, I think the MDX and the Toyota Sequoia set a standard for large SUV handling while still providing a comfortable ride.
Oct 18 '02
1:08 pm PDT

great (Reply to this comment)
by rachelcaron
hi,

Just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed your review. you included lots of valuable information.

thanks,
rachelcaron
Feb 02 '01
3:54 pm PST
   

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