The 2020 Acura MDX is a practical SUV with a luxurious touch, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike. It seats up to seven passengers comfortably, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel for everyone on board. This model's ability to tow up to 5000 pounds is one of its most notable qualities, implying that no trip is ever too huge. Under the hood is a dependable V-6 engine, with the option of upgrading to the high-tech hybrid powertrain in the Sport Hybrid variant, which provides an appealing blend of power and efficiency. Nevertheless, the MDX isn't only about practicality and performance; it's also about luxury, with plush upholstery and a slew of appealing extras. Despite minor setbacks like a somewhat compact third row and a dual-touchscreen infotainment system that demands a learning curve, the 2020 Acura MDX remains an excellent choice for families and adventurers seeking a reliable, capable, and comfortable vehicle.
The interior design of the 2020 Acura MDX is a blend of comfort and convenience, albeit with room for improvement in terms of upscale feel, especially when compared to competitors like the Audi Q7 or the Volvo XC90. The MDX is equipped with a generous list of standard features, ensuring a comfortable ride for all. However, it's worth noting that the legroom in each row is slightly less than some of its competitors. This is somewhat mitigated by the second-row bench seat, which can be slid back and reclined for added comfort. However, the third row may feel cramped for some passengers. When it comes to cargo space, the MDX falls behind the XC90 and Q7, but it excels in practical storage tests, making it a competitive choice for families and travelers. Overall, while there are areas where the 2020 Acura MDX's interior could be refined, its functional design and thoughtful features make it a solid choice in its class.
The 2020 Acura MDX exudes an alluring blend of power and style when it comes to its exterior design. The diamond pentagon grille adds an assertive look to the front end, while the brilliantly designed LED headlights not only improve visibility but also enhance the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. The SUV's lines flow seamlessly from front to back, evoking a sense of dynamism and cohesion in its design. The MDX is also equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels, further augmenting its robust and athletic stance. Despite its size, the SUV manages to remain agile and elegant, a testament to the thoughtful design that went into its making. The 2020 Acura MDX's exterior design may appear somewhat generic compared to its more uniquely styled rivals, but its combination of utility and style makes it a standout performer in its class. This is one of the significant factors attracting buyers to this model.
The heart of the 2020 Acura MDX is a robust 290-hp V-6 engine that delivers reliable performance and makes this three-row crossover a strong workhorse. Paired with a nine-speed transmission, the power delivery is smooth and the ride quality is sure-footed. However, the transmission can occasionally be slow to downshift when quick acceleration is required. The MDX also offers a hybrid variant that is surprisingly quick. The transitions between the gasoline engine and electric motors in this model are seamless, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive. One thing to note for potential buyers is that while the gasoline version can tow up to 5000 pounds, Acura does not recommend towing with the hybrid version. Despite this minor setback, both versions of the MDX provide an engaging drive, with the optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhancing agility on the road. Be aware that both models give up a bit of their edge in braking performance, with some noticeable decrease in braking power after successive hard stops. Despite this, the 2020 Acura MDX's engine options make it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle to drive, whether on city streets or country highways.
The EPA has given similar ratings to the 2020 Acura MDX as its competitors, but in real-world tests, it outperforms those expectations. The all-wheel-drive non-hybrid MDX model achieved an impressive 28 mpg, outshining many rivals in its category. While the hybrid MDX, despite being 244 pounds heavier and less efficient at high speeds, returned a 25 mpg, it shines in city driving conditions. The EPA rates the hybrid version's city fuel economy at 26 mpg, a noticeable improvement over the all-wheel-drive non-hybrid's rating of 19 mpg. The MDX's fuel efficiency can be ascribed to its well-engineered powertrain and its Idle-Stop feature, which shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and then quickly restarts it when you lift off the brake pedal. This ensures you're not wasting fuel when you're stuck in traffic or waiting at a stoplight. With these features, the 2020 Acura MDX strikes an appealing balance between power and economy, making it an excellent choice for both city driving and long road trips.
Safety is a critical aspect of any vehicle, and the 2020 Acura MDX does not fall short in this department. It comes with a suite of standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automated emergency braking. More advanced options like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available, enhancing the overall safety profile of this SUV. The MDX ensures maximum protection for its occupants with its advanced airbag system and robust body structure designed to absorb and distribute crash energy in the event of an accident.
In terms of safety ratings, this model has received excellent scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the MDX a 5-star overall safety rating, its highest rating, while the IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" designation, testifying to its superior crashworthiness. These accolades help to set the 2020 Acura MDX apart, even in the safety-conscious class of luxury midsize SUVs. With its strong safety features and commendable safety ratings, the 2020 Acura MDX provides peace of mind for families and travelers alike.
There you have it! The 2020 Acura MDX is a fantastic pick in the luxury midsize SUV category. It nails the perfect blend of performance and luxury, while offering a roomy and practical interior for families and travelers. Plus, its powerful V-6 engine combines efficiency with a thrilling driving experience. The car's fuel efficiency surpasses expectations, making it perfect for city driving and long road trips. Despite minor setbacks in legroom and towing capacity for the hybrid version, these competitive drawbacks are overshadowed by its commendable safety ratings, making it a safe and reliable choice.
While the MDX may not be the flashiest option in its class, it is a solid performer that combines utility, performance, and safety in a subtle yet attractive package. Thus, the 2020 Acura MDX comes highly recommended for those seeking a well-rounded vehicle that delivers on all fronts.
