Hey all,

Here is the official word on the 2003 MDX. Does it apply to 2003 Honda Pilot?? I do NOT think so. Maybe the 2004 Pilot will have these upgrades.

No side curtain airbags, no HID lights, no change in wheel size, no full size spare, but other than that, pretty much everything else has come true, like 260HP (3.5L engine), VSA, enhanced Nav, etc.:

More Powerful V-6 Powertrain Delivers V-8-like Performance

Torrance, Calif. 09/18/2002 -- The 2003 Acura MDX luxury sport utility vehicle receives a number of performance improvements and additional features designed to enhance its position as the benchmark in the luxury SUV category. Engine modifications including a new free-flowing exhaust system, boost horsepower from 240 to 260. An all-new, more compact 5-speed automatic transmission is quieter, and provides even smoother shifts. Suspension and chassis refinements, the addition of Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and a drive-by-wire throttle system derived from the system on the NSX supercar combine for a smooth ride and ultra responsive handling. Inside, the available Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System receives several important new features, including voice recognition and a rear view camera. A DVD Entertainment System is now available as a factory-installed option.
"The MDX continues to be the most sought after luxury SUV on the market and the changes we've made for 2003 make it even more desirable," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, auto sales. "With performance better than most V-8s, retuned suspension and the addition of VSA, the MDX's power, handling and ride quality will be tough for any SUV to match."

The 2003 MDX's 3.5 liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum, VTEC V-6 engine benefits from a retooled exhaust system that includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters, a secondary underfloor catalytic converter, and larger diameter exhaust pipes. These refinements increase exhaust flow by 40 percent and, when combined with new integrated cylinder heads and a shorter intake manifold port, boost horsepower from 240 to 260 and torque from 242 lb-ft to 250 lb-ft. Combined with new, orifice-type fuel injectors, the new exhaust system makes the MDX the first SUV to meet stringent ULEV-2 emissions standards. With estimated city/highway ratings of 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway, it delivers better combined fuel economy than any of its luxury competitors.

To handle the increased engine power, the 2003 MDX receives an all-new, compact 5-speed automatic transmission. This new 4-shaft gearbox is 60 millimeters shorter than the previous transmission and features increased torque capacity. A unique shaft center design not only reduces size, but also reduces gear noise, clutch drag and hydraulic friction.

The 2003 MDX also features a new drive-by-wire throttle system, evolved from the drive-by-wire system in the NSX supercar that has been custom tailored to meet the unique demands of a SUV. This innovative system eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine, and controls the throttle during transmission shifts for improved smoothness. It also allows for throttle control to be incorporated into the MDX's VSA logic and controls the vehicle's cruise control function.

The 2003 MDX's standard VTM-4 four-wheel drive system has been recalibrated to improve performance, especially on low friction surfaces. Torque distribution to the rear wheels has been increased by up to 30 percent, providing a significant improvement in the MDX's prowess in snow or other slippery road conditions.

In addition to ample power, the 2003 MDX delivers sport sedan-like handling and a smooth, compliant ride. The suspension has been retuned to deliver an even smoother ride while maintaining the vehicle's precise handling. To accomplish this, rear spring rates were increased while damping rates in both the front and the rear where reduced. New rear damper valves were adopted to enable more precise control of damping throughout the suspension movement. At the same time, dynamic torsional rigidity of the body was increased 35 percent by reinforcing the rear wheel house, tailgate and rear subframe.

Handling is further enhanced through the application of a new Vehicle Stability Assist system (VSA) that works in concert with the VTM-4 and drive-by-wire throttle systems to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This 4-channel system orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle's four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, Anti-lock braking, and stability enhancement for increased driver control during acceleration, braking and cornering.

The MDX features 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, dual piston calipers in the front, standard 17-inch alloy wheels and specially designed P235/65R-17 all-season tires to provide stability and responsiveness. Front and rear stabilizer bars, a wide track and a low center of gravity give the MDX predictable cornering response and help maximize cornering capabilities.

The styling of the MDX strikes a balance between muscularity and elegance. Acura's signature family grille and bright, clean headlight treatment highlight the sharply chiseled front fascia while a wide stance communicates a message of strength and stability. For 2003, the MDX is available in three new colors: Midnight Blue Pearl, Sage Brush Pearl and Sandstone Metallic. In addition, it receives redesigned alloy wheels, standard rear mudguards, auto-on/off headlights and rain sensing windshield wipers (w/touring package).

The MDX's interior emphasizes the vehicle's versatile yet refined character with standard-setting levels of luxury and functionality. For 2003 a variety of enhancements have been made to ensure that all materials and accessories reflect the highest level of craftsmanship and refinement. Three uniquely transformable rows of seats allow the MDX to comfortably seat up to seven passengers. Second and third row seats split and fold flat into the floor providing 82 cubic feet of cargo room. Even with all three rows in use, the MDX still offers 14.8 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row seats.

The comprehensively equipped MDX comes standard with a host of luxury features, including a seven-speaker AM/FM/Cassette stereo with in-dash CD player, a multi-function digital trip computer and a synchronized climate control system. Standard safety features include dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger front airbags. The driver's side airbag adjusts deployment force to one of two rates according to input from sensors, which monitor the severity of the impact, seatbelt usage and, new for 2003, the position of the driver's seat. Front passenger's airbag deployment takes into account the severity of the crash and the passenger's weight. The MDX also offers driver's and front passenger's side airbags with exclusive occupant position sensors in the passenger's seat; and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system on the second row of outboard seats to simplify child seat attachment.

While the MDX is already one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its class, an optional Touring Package adds a variety of premium features. These features include a roof rack; exclusive alloy wheels; an upgraded 200-watt, eight speaker Acura/Bose Music System with 6-disc, in-dash CD changer; driver's and front passenger's 8-way power seats, and outside door mirror memory system.

For 2003, the optional Acura Navigation System gets a variety of new features and greatly enhanced capabilities including a newly developed voice recognition system, upgraded graphics and an expanded database with more than seven million points of interest. A rearview camera has been incorporated into the tailgate, which transmits a rearview picture to the navigation screen when the MDX is in reverse gear.

A new Acura DVD Entertainment System can now be ordered as a factory installed option. The DVD player mounts below the standard audio system and plays over the MDX's sound system or through a pair of cordless infrared headphones. The 7-inch LCD screen is mounted to the headliner, just behind the front seats for use by rear seat passengers. The system can be controlled either by using the MDX's audio controls or from the rear seats through the use of a remote control or the screen's control panel.

Like all Acura vehicles, the MDX comes equipped with a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty that includes Acura's TLC (Total Luxury Care) customer service package.

For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go to www.acuranews.com.

Thanks.

2003 Acura MDX Specifications

POWERTRAIN
MDX

Engine Type
3.5-liter, SOHC VTEC 60-degree V-6
Horsepower, SAE Net
260 hp @ 5,750 rpm
Torque
250 lbs-ft @ 3,500-5,000 rpm
Redline
6,300 rpm
Bore and Stroke
3.5 in x 3.66 in (89mm x 93 mm)
Displacement
212 cu in (3471 cc)
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Induction System
Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Valvetrain
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC'), 4 valves per cylinder, belt-driven, single overhead camshaft
Engine Block
Aluminum alloy
Emission Control
Electronic ULEV-2 emission control
Ignition System
Direct ignition system with knock control
Alternator
130 amp. max
Battery
12V, maintenance free

Recommended Fuel
Premium Unleaded

Layout
Transverse mounted, front engine, four wheel drive
Drivetrain
VTM-4(TM) Variable Torque Management(TM) 4-wheel drive
Transmission
Electronically controlled, 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control
Ratios (:1)
1st / 2.693
2nd / 1.566
3rd / 1.023
4th / 0.729
5th / 0.531
Reverse / 1.889
Final / 4.375

CHASSIS
MDX

Body Type
Steel unit body
Front Suspension
Independent strut with "L" arm
Rear Suspension
Independent multi-link with trailing arm
Shock Absorbers
Gas-pressurized
Stabilizer Bars
Front
23 mm diameter
Rear
20 mm diameter
Steering Type
Variable power-assisted, rack-and-pinion
Steering Ratio
16.9 : 1
Steering Wheel Turns (lock to lock)
3.22
Turning Circle (curb to curb)
37.2 ft (11.34 m)
Wheels
17 x 6.5 JJ cast-aluminum alloy
Tires
P235/65R17 all-season
Braking System
4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Front Discs
Ventilated 11.8 in (300 mm) diameter; 1.1 in (28 mm) rotor thickness
Rear Discs
Solid 12.3 in (313 mm) diameter; 0.4 in (11 mm) rotor thickness
Total Swept Area
Front: 63.5 sq in (409.6 cm2)
Rear: 35.0 sq in (225.9 cm2)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
4-channel system with 4 wheel speed sensors and electric/hydraulic control

CAPACITIES
MDX

Crankcase
4.2 US qt (4.0 L)
Cooling System
9.5 US qt (9.0 L)
Fuel tank
19.2 US gallons (72.7 L)
Volumes
Passenger
161.5 cu ft
Cargo with 2nd and 3rd row seats down
81.5 cu ft
Cargo with 3rd row seats down
49.6 cu ft
Cargo behind 3rd row seats
14.8 cu ft

FUEL ECONOMY
MDX

EPA Fuel Mileage - City / Highway
17 / 23 MPG

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
MDX

Wheelbase
106.3 in (2,700 mm)
Track, front
66.3 in (1,685 mm)
Track, rear
66.5 in (1,690 mm)
Overall Length
188.5 in (4,789 mm)
Overall Width
77.0 in (1,955 mm)
Overall Height
68.7 in (1,744 mm)
Minimum Ground Clearance
8.0 in (203 mm)
Approach / Departure Angle
Approach - 28

Please go to this link for features:

http://www.acuranews.com./Forms/acu...t?2002091853997

MDX

The 2003 MDX receives a variety of substantial powertrain, styling, comfort and convenience updates. The new 260 horsepower engine and all-new transmission provide outstanding power in a state-of-the-art V-6 package. In addition, the MDX receives Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) to help enhance control during acceleration, cornering and accident avoidance maneuvers.

Enhancements for 2003 include:

Next generation engine increases horsepower from 240 to 260
All-new compact 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-wire throttle
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Revised suspension settings
35 percent increase in dynamic torsional body rigidity for a smoother ride
Refined steering system for enhanced feel and reduced kickback
Available Acura DVD Entertainment System with headphones and remote control
Improvements to the optional Acura Navigation System including:
o Voice recognition
o Enhanced graphics.
o Rearview camera
o Expanded US data base coverage
Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
Additional front airbag sensors and new system control logic
New alloy wheel design
Auto-up driver's side window with auto-reverse (similar to CRV)
Rain sensing windshield wipers (Touring Package)
Auto on/off headlights
New exterior colors:
o Midnight Blue Pearl
o Sage Brush Pearl
o Sandstone Metallic
New interior color-Quartz
Rear splash guards

Hey all,

Over at ACURAMDX.org, there are scans of the new 2003 MDX brochure:

http://acuramdx.org/forums/showthread.php?threadid=7644

Thanks.

Honda/Acura Transmission Problem from Acuramdx.org forum

Premise:

As you may have heard, Acura/Honda has recently experienced a major problem with it's automatic tranny. The two problematic transmissions are the FIVE-speed used in V-6-equipped Acuras since the 2000 model year and in Honda Odysseys since the 2002 model year; and the FOUR-speed automatic used in V-6 Honda Accords since 2000 and in 2000 and 2001 Odysseys.
Honda has replaced the transmissions in about 16,000, or 1.6%.

Hey all,

As you can read, the Acura MDX is supposedly NOT affected by this faulty transmission problem. However, the MDX is relatively new (only 2 years on the market)...only a few MDX out there have over 50,000 miles (thus, that stat is a bit misleading). In addition, most MDX drivers don't "gun" their SUV down the road, and also they don't off-road that much. Most of the tranny failures are seen in high-stressed vehicles, aka Acura TL Type S. So, the MDX may not have a problem after 10,000 miles...but how about after 50,000 miles??? or 80,000 miles?? Or just when the warranty expires??? The '02 Odyssey is also beginning to have this problem...the '02 Odyssey has a 5-speed auto tranny like MDX (and Pilot) too.

In additiion, if you read the article closer, this defect ALSO affects the older 4-speed automatic tranny in Honda Accords!! That tranny has been around since 1998. Does this mean that the defect is a FUNDAMENTAL problem among ALL Honda automatic transmission??? As VICPAI noted, it seems to be a "wear problem" with the 3 gear clutch pack .....in other words a durability issue".

However, I had my '97 CRV until 99,700 miles without any problems. These miles also included many off-roading trips and towing. Of course, i changed the automatic tranny fluid on schedule.

Thanks.

Honda To Extend Warranty on Some Vehicles' Transmissions

Earle Eldridge

Honda said Thursday that it will extend the warranty on vehicles with a problem transmission to seven years/100,000 miles.

The company also said it will reimburse those owners who paid to have transmissions replaced.

The moves came after angry owners swamped online forums and appealed to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for a safety recall because of a transmission that could slip out of gear, not go into gear, abruptly downshift or refuse to shift.

The extended warranty applies to 2000-01 Honda Odyssey minivans; 2000-01 Honda Accord cars with automatic transmissions; 2000-01 Prelude; and 2000-03 Acura CL and TL cars.

Honda says the extended warranty, which covers the transmission only, affects about 1 million vehicles. It says 1.6% of those vehicles have had to have transmissions replaced.

''We wanted to make sure our customers still believe in Honda, and we didn't want them to have any lingering doubts about our quality,'' says Kurt Antonius, a Honda spokesman.

Honda will send letters in the next few weeks to owners of the vehicles, notifying them of the extended warranty and offering reimbursement.

For vehicles still under the three-year/36,000-mile warranty given when the vehicle was purchased, Honda had been replacing the transmissions. But owners with problems after the warranty expired were required to pay for the new transmission.

The problem varies with each model, but Antonius says the culprit is a bearing inside the transmission that could break apart or premature wear of a third-gear clutch part that could scatter metal bits inside the transmission case.

Some owners said their transmission had to be replaced with as little as 1,200 miles on the vehicle.

David Champion, director of Consumer Reports magazine's Auto Test Division, says owners should reasonably expect a transmission to last for 120,000 miles.

Broken Tie-rod Link or Stabilizer Link on MDX forum

These two stories from Acuramdx.org clearly show the weakness in the Acura's transmission:

#1:
Sand anecdote
My MDX does quite well in the deep, soft sand on our barrier beaches. I was out on a blistering 95+ degree day this past summer. Who knows how hot the sand was? The transmission overheated but I was on a one-way, rutted path with no place to pull over so I had to continue a ways to a wide spot with the A/T Overheat light on. That hurt, mentally. But the X cooled itself off after a few minutes of idling. Just do as the manual states: stop someplace safe, put it in Park, and wait until the light goes out. It is then safe to continue. The tranny smelled a bit, but I've been watching and sniffing the tranny fluid and it's been fine since that episode, with the fluid being as pink as new.

#2:
1st real off-road - tranny overheats!
I took my MDX on it's first "real" off-road adventure this weekend and climbed up the Sierra Buttes just north of Lake Tahoe. Most of the climb was on a mild dirt-road, but the last two miles were very steep and technical with a lot of big rocks and switchbacks. The MDX did amazingly well, and the 4-wheel drive worked flawlessly. One tire would often begin to spin but then the others would kick-in and take over.

At about the 1.8 miles I noticed that the ATM TEMP light had come on and I quickly stopped and shut off the engine. (BTW, the outside temp was about 80 degrees). I let it sit for about 20 minutes and still the light stayed on when I started the engine. (The electric fan stayed on for the entire 20 minutes, and yet the engine temp was fine). Then I dug the manual out and read that you should leave the engine running when this happens, so I started the engine and after about another 25 minutes the light went off and I was back on my way.

The only other problem was on the way down there was a really steep section where the truck started sliding (straight forward)and thanks to the anti-lock brakes there was nothing I could do about it. (Can you tell that I'm usually not a big of antilock brakes ;-). I maintained firm constant pressure on the brakes and the car just kept sliding (and accelerating!) down the hill. Although my wife came very close to cardiac arrest, no damage was done. I don't fault the MDX or it's braking system - just antilock brakes in general. In situations like this I think that a trained human being can modulate the brakes better than a computer chip.

Thats all - mostly a very positive experience!

Car & Driver Review:

http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caran...er.xml?&page=1

Third Place
Acura MDX

Add 20 horsepower to an already hauntingly appealing package, and the MDX, now at 260 hp, remains a contender, even in the face of big-time hitters from Lexus and Volkswagen. We have favored this Acura in other SUV evaluations, and this newest iteration is no exception.

THE VERDICT
Acura MDX

Highs: Broad-based performance with no noticeable flaws.

Lows: Suddenly a quart low in the luxury department.

The Verdict: One of our favorites gets some serious competition.

Honda's aged commitment to "keep it simple" is expressed in spades with this Acura. While others in this class demanded manual shifting of their automatics to run quickly in the Ohio hills, the MDX was perfectly content to whistle through the tight stuff with its five-speed stuck in drive. Steering was precise, the brakes unfailingly predictable (if long to stop, at 200 feet from 70 mph), and the suspension remained supple and levelheaded at all times. In raw numbers, the MDX is a third- or fourth-place finisher in the categories that count.

Off-road behavior was again a no-brainer, with the Acura chugging through the wilderness with aplomb, although it too lacks a low range, hill-descent control, an adjustable load-leveling suspension, and a center differential. Add to that its modest 3500-pound towing capacity, and you have a light-duty all-wheel-driver best suited for basic seven-passenger highway operation.
Despite the overall approval registered by our test crew with the Acura's performance, reservations were expressed about the rather elemental interior accommodations as compared with the Lexus and the Volkswagen, both of which offered more comfort and amenities with equal or better performance. But at $41,000, the second least expensive of the bunch, and offering dazzling handling and lightness of touch, the Acura MDX remains a major player in the upscale-SUV world.

Third place is hardly a defeat in this elite collection, and one can only puzzle as to how long it will take Honda to respond to the new challenges being posed by Lexus, VW, and Porsche in a contest for top-dog sport-utility vehicle.

Link:

NCTD.com Review of 2003 MDX

Summary

Acura MDX combines most of the virtues of the SUV genre and diminishes or eliminates most of its vices. Anyone seeking comfort, performance, spaciousness, flexibility, proven safety features, environmental awareness and driving pleasure in a value-loaded package must have a look at the MDX.

Edmunds Follow-up Review of '03 MDX

Follow-Up Test: 2003 Acura MDX
An SUV for All Seasons

They called it a snow track — but it was really more like a skating rink.

High in the mountains near Vail, Colo., Acura workers flooded a golf course driving range with water and let it freeze so journalists could test the new Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system (Acura's terminology for stability control) the company has added to the 2003 MDX. VSA is one of a number of upgrades made to the three-year-old SUV, along with a boost in horsepower, a new transmission, bigger front brakes and a rear-mounted video camera integrated into the navigation system for easier parking lot maneuvers.

The MDX's Variable Torque Management (VTM) system, which works in concert with VSA, provided remarkably sure-footed grip on the treacherous course. Take the dreaded "Turn Seven," for example. The sharp, uphill left turn, became polished to a high gloss by lead-footed auto journalists whose response to every situation is more power. When traction was lost and the skidding started, four-channel VSA began redistributing power to other wheels — and even selectively braking — to gain a purchase on the slippery slope.

Amazingly, the MDX pulled its way up and around the turn. Not every time. But it worked well enough, under bad enough circumstances, demonstrating that this wasn't just another bells-and-whistles improvement. This was the kind of feature that could keep you from sliding into a snow bank. It could even save your life.

One driving instructor brought in by Acura explained it this way: "VSA isn't looking out the windshield and seeing what you see. VSA isn't going to panic like most drivers will. VSA is always ready — and it reacts immediately."

Picture this: You're driving along a winding road in some Northern state, daydreaming about what happened at work that day, when you hit an icy patch on a tight curve. You turn the steering wheel but nothing happens. You have a millisecond to react, but your thoughts are back in the office. When you finally wake up to what is happening, you are in full panic mode. You either jump on the brakes or hammer the gas — both bad reactions.

Now picture this: You're driving a 2003 MDX when the above scenario unfolds. The system reacts by cutting power to the slipping tires and braking the two inside wheels to create drag and point the vehicle in your intended direction. You pull out of the skid and continue home thinking about office politics, unaware of the fate you have just escaped.

Before you conclude that danger on icy roads is now obsolete, Acura reminds you that its system is called Vehicle Stability Assist. In other words, it does not promise to overcome danger on the road. But it might well make the difference between restoring control of the vehicle to the driver, rather than surrendering to the elements.

VSA is a welcome addition to the already popular and very capable winner of our 2002 Luxury Crossover Comparison Test and our Most Wanted Luxury SUV for 2002. Introduced in 2001, the MDX became a hit not just because of the Honda/Acura name, but because of its lavish creature comforts, seven-passenger seating, navigation system, responsive engine and carlike handling. And, at a base price of $36,200 (including destination), the MDX gives buyers a lot for their money. (Check TMV pricing to see what other buyers in your region are paying for an MDX.)

Besides VSA, three other changes for the new model stand out: a boost from 240 to 260 horsepower, a smoother five-speed automatic transmission and suspension improvements designed to improve handling characteristics.

By modifying the exhaust system, revising the integrated cylinder heads and installing shorter intake manifold ports, the all-aluminum VTEC V6 goes from 240 to 260 horsepower. Torque is increased from 242 to 250 pound-feet while still meeting ULEV-2 emissions requirements. At 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway, the MDX is more fuel-efficient than many of its thirstier competitors in the SUV class.

An increase in horsepower begs for transmission changes, and Acura designers have responded with an all-new, more compact five-speed automatic. The gearbox is shorter than the earlier generation, and handles the increased torque while providing smoother, quieter shifts.

The four-wheel independent suspension was modified to provide a smooth, compliant ride while preserving what Acura very specifically describes as "sport sedanlike handling." Rear spring rates were increased, while the damping characteristics in the front and rear were improved. The torsional rigidity of the vehicle was increased by 35 percent by reinforcing key structural elements of the body and subframe.

And if that wasn't enough, a number of smaller mechanical changes were introduced, including drive-by-wire technology to more efficiently manage throttle changes, dual piston calipers for the front braking system and standard 17-inch alloy wheels shod with P235/65R17 all-season tires. The navigation system got a voice-activation feature, enhanced graphics and a video camera that automatically displays (on the navigation screen) what is behind the vehicle when it is put in reverse. With tall SUVs, and a high tailgate, the rearview camera is a much needed safety feature as it displays an area broader than just the width of the car.

Changes to the exterior styling of the MDX were minimal. Besides the redesigned alloy wheels, rear mudguards are now standard with the Touring Package, and three new colors have been added: Midnight Blue Pearl, Sage Brush Pearl and Sandstone Metallic. The new blue, in particular, nicely offsets the lines that are sometimes unkindly labeled "bland" — one of the few criticisms of this otherwise winning vehicle.

Following our hair-raising trips around the ice track, we had a chance to drive the '03 MDX on the winding mountain roads near Vail. The extra 20 horses were not overwhelming but, given that we were at altitudes between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, and the engine was sucking rarified air, the power felt more than adequate. The shifting of the new transmission was seamless; downshifts were immediate and made good use of the quiet and refined V6. The highly touted sedanlike handling was not overrated; while the suspension was just a touch soft, it seemed perfectly tuned for the average driving public that wants to believe all roads are smooth.

During our drive, the heated leather seats provided comfort and support, and we appreciated the handsome interior replete with Bose audio, a power moonroof and a full roster of convenience features. The test cars were equipped with the Touring Package that includes navigation and entertainment systems and have a sticker price of $42,500.

While the MDX will not be tackling the Rubicon Trail anytime soon, it will probably be a big hit with those who purchase it with an eye to family vacations and foul-weather commuting. It offers a pleasing combination of luxury and performance, and the standard third-row seat means it can equal the hauling capability of minivans. Throw in the all-wheel drive and VSA, and you have a vehicle that can safely tackle the most precarious roads in the worst weather.