2007 Acura MDX: In Depth

2007 Acura MDX

Dynamic Styling, Advanced Technology

By Text & Photos edited by F. de Leeuw van Weenen
September 12, 2006 5:01 AM
Filed Under: Acura, Japanese

Press Release

INTERIOR

The core MDX themes of driving enthusiasm, intelligent functionality, technology and luxury are clearly in evidence in the all-new interior. Acura's flagship SUV blends sport sedan intensity with the best elements of SUV utility. And in perfect keeping with Acura tradition, the MDX integrates the latest technology into a seamlessly intuitive package that puts the emphasis on driving.

New attention to detail and luxury distinguish the MDX interior. Softer leather seating, highly supportive front bucket seats and a driver-oriented cockpit make it clear that the new MDX is focused on the driver - but not at the expense of passenger comfort. The power driver's seat adjusts 10 ways for optimum comfort, and the front passenger seat is 8-way power adjustable. The outboard second-row seats mirror the style and lateral support of the front seats, giving the MDX interior a unique 4+3 feel that highlights its blend of sport and utility. Convenience and cargo features abound, including under-floor storage in the cargo compartment and an available power-operated rear tailgate.

As Acura's flagship SUV, the MDX offers a formidable list of standard equipment. A leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel provides the driver with fingertip control of key functions in an interior environment that's maintained by a Tri-Zone climate control system with humidity control. Precise backlit LED instrumentation with spun metal appearance and Acura's legendary attention to control function and feel make the MDX driver's seat the place to be. A standard 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System plays nearly every type of current audio format, and includes standard XM(R) Satellite Radio and an auxiliary jack for the easy connection of a personal audio player. The Acura Music Link system is available as an accessory for seamlessly integrated control of an Apple iPod(C). With the HandsFreeLink(R) wireless telephone interface that's compatible with many Bluetooth mobile phones, staying connected on the road is no problem.

The available Technology Package adds even more capability, and integrates perfectly into the MDX's performance-oriented driving environment. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) with rearview camera, has a brilliant 8-inch screen and includes the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real-Time traffic, which can help the MDX driver navigate around congested freeways. The Technology Package's spectacular 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc DVD-AUDIO changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM(R) Satellite Radio provides a state-of-the-art soundtrack. For each of up to six compatible phones on all trim levels the system can store up to 50 numbers with voice tags, while the technology-package equipped MDX can import up to 1000 names into the Navigation system phonebook.

For even more luxury, the available Sport Package includes extra-soft premium perforated leather seating surface inserts. The optional Entertainment Package includes a DVD Rear Entertainment System complete with a flip-down 9-inch TFT screen, dual wireless headphones, a wireless illuminated remote control, and 115-volt plug in the center console.

Interior Features

  • 4+3 seating concept
  • Driver-oriented cockpit
  • Dynamic and layered styling theme
  • Driver's 10-way power seat including power adjustable lumbar support
  • Electronic tilt and telescoping steering column
  • 2-driver custom memory system
  • Front passenger 8-way power seat
  • Tri-Zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and filtration
  • 253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA changer and 8 speakers, including 8-inch subwoofer
  • Auxiliary jack for personal audio devices
  • HomeLink(R)
  • Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions
  • Adaptive and flexible cargo space with six configurations
  • HandsFreeLink(R) wireless telephone interface is compatible with many Bluetooth mobile phones

Technology Package

  • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) and rear view camera
  • AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real-time traffic
  • 410-watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc in-dash CD/DVD-AUDIO changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM(R) Satellite Radio
  • GPS-linked, solar-sensing, Tri-Zone, automatic climate control system with humidity control and filtration

Sport Package

  • Active Damper System
  • Perforated premium full-grain leather seating surfaces with high-damping front-seat cushion foam
  • Exclusive alloy wheel design
  • Auto-leveling Xenon HID headlights
  • Textured metallic accents on radio, cupholder and shifter escutcheon

Entertainment Package (available with Technology or Sport Package)

  • DVD Rear Entertainment System with wireless headphones and remote control
  • 115-volt power outlet in center consol
  • Second-row heated outboard seats
  • Remote power-operated tailgate

CONCEPT AND STYLING

The interior styling of the MDX is based on three key concepts: "4+3" seating, a driver's oriented cockpit and a dynamic and layered overall interior look.

4+3 Seating

The concept of 4+3 seating emphasizes the comfort, luxury and style of the front seats and the outboard second-row positions. These seats share the same styling theme, and have substantial side bolsters to provide secure lateral support when the MDX is cornering. The second-row center position and the two seating positions in the third row are used less frequently, and as such styled more stealthily. Nested headrests in these positions provide a clean appearance, and in the third row, allow the seat to be folded flat without the need to remove the headrests.

Driver-Oriented Cockpit

To put the MDX's various systems under the clear control of the driver, a "Driver-Oriented Cockpit" theme guided the design of the cockpit. Analog central instrumentation is supplemented with digital and graphic displays. The interface with the MDX's many advanced systems is simple and intuitive. Sight lines are clear with important items placed within easy view.

Frequently used systems, like the audio system and cruise control, have switches positioned on the steering wheel. The multifunction Interface Dial, which operates navigation system functions, is positioned just ahead of the shifter lever within easy reach.

Dynamic Styling

The MDX envelops its passengers with dramatic shapes that sweep from the center console, across the instrument panel and then into the door panels. Sculptural and warm wood-patterned trim creates a zone of luxury for the front passenger. Rich textures interplay with sleekly technical metallic accents in the MDX interior to create an atmosphere of luxury and advanced technology.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The MDX's driver-focused control layout is clearly in evidence in the steering wheel. Audio system controls are positioned on the left spoke, and cruise control switches are on the right spoke.

The five o'clock position on the wheel has switches that operate the Multi-Information Display (MID). The seven o'clock position is reserved for HandsFreeLink(R) and Technology Package navigation system controls, including a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system, which provides voice control over a wide range of features.

INTERIOR MATERIALS AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

The MDX pushes interior luxury to a new level with a range of thoughtful touches. Special care has been taken to create surfaces with a pleasing tactile feel. Door grab handles have a soft-touch grip, the instrument panel has a soft feel and a seamless passenger airbag cover, and passenger grab handles have a dampened motion. Quality is further revealed in the soft, low-gloss instrument panel top, detailed door panels, door sash garnishes, and flush seatbelt upper anchors.

Source: Source: Honda Motor Corporation
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