Acura put the MDX, a mid-size luxury SUV, into production in 2001 in response to the newly emerging segment of crossover SUVs. The fact that the MDX is smaller and mounted on a non-truck infrastructure meant a more civilized ride for those who were not that interested in serious off-road travel. The Acura MDX is a practical compromise between the mega-SUV and a less than-hip minivan.

As the luxury division of Honda, Acura enjoyed tremendous success with its initial offering of the MDX; it realized by 2006 that an upgrade was necessary to preserve the affection that the car buying public had bestowed on the mid-size SUV. The interior of the MDX has undergone styling enhancements, including the use of rare woods, and imitation leather for a more coordinated look. The 2007 Acura MDX stepped forth with a completely redesigned exterior and advanced interior features and segment-leading performance that captivated its audience and reignited their interest more than any other event in Acura's 20-year history.

With its imposing chevron-shaped grille and lower stance, the new vehicle is more aggressively styled. Accomplished by using a unitary truck body rather than its former minivan chassis, the MDX's handling is agile, especially with the optional Performance Package. The optional Technology Package brings a rear-facing video camera to the safety table, among a myriad of other sensors and telemetrics, including a navigation system. Endowed with a 300hp V6, the Acura MDX has loads of torque (275 ft-lb) and passing power.

Originally introduced to represent Acura in the mid-size SUV segment, the Acura MDX is now recognized as the flagship of the segment. It will dominate its league for years, while everyone else tries to catch up. If the 17mpg city and 22mpg highway fuel economy were up to the standards of the rest of the vehicle, and premium gas was not preferred, you'd really have something. Acura is penciling in a 2009 introduction date for a V6 diesel engine for the MDX, but no hybrid is rumored to emerge. A cylinder-deactivation technology may be employed in the the vehicle in the future as a fuel-saving measure.