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2006 Acura MDX


by
Martha Hindes

Acura MDX
Acura MDX  Interior

Acura is one of those vehicle names that seems to go on forever without a hassle. That's the reputation that its parent company, Honda, has built up for years among buyers. So it might be surprising that Acura's big news for its MDX crossover for 2006 is an extended warranty addition. Just something to make sure the bounces of life don't intrude on the MDX's luxurious interior. This year, the sporty, seven passenger MDX gets a six-year, or 70,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, as the company again emphasizes longevity as part of its track record. It also continues a standard four-year, or 50,000-mile limited bumper-to-bumper coverage, all part of its $37 K to $44 K range of prices.

Acura has tended to refine rather than redevelop the MDX periodically with major changes. But those tweaks add up, resulting in a wealth of consumer-coddling amenities, plus industry-standard safety and low emissions features. Among '06 updates are interior trim refinements and Amazon Green Metallic as a new exterior color. The upmarket Touring versions get an ebony-toned Zebra wood pattern and satin chrome accents.

Don't look for lots of options for the MDX. Standard features tend to be the rule. Among them are recently added XM Satellite radio on all models. Upmarket Touring versions get Acura's "HandsFreeLink," with industry standard Bluetooth technology and optional Nav system with voice recognition so the driver keeps both hands on the wheel while making phone calls. Other standard luxury items on all MDXs include power moonroof, multi-function digital trip computer, leather trimmed seats for two rows, premium sound and synchronized climate control. Among Touring package-only features are roof rack, alloy wheels and upgraded 225-watt, eight-speaker Bose sound.

While it appears Acura has changed its engine capabilities for the front-drive/all-wheel-drive MDX, it hasn't. Rather, for 2006, it has adjusted horsepower ratings to meet recently revised SAE engineering standards. The MDX's 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 now rates at 253-horsepower and 250-lb.ft of tow-worthy torque.

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