A little while back I had the pleasure of clocking miles in the new Acura RDX A-Spec. I was impressed by its distinctive good looks, smart interior and dynamic driving characteristics. Today, the fun continues with the plumped up version, the 2019 MDX A-Spec. While both models are technically considered midsize luxury SUV’s, the MDX is larger. It gives owners extra cargo space and a whole third row, featuring One-Touch smart slide walk-in access for three additional occupants to easily access.
The extra width, length and height of the MDX cause it to drive like a bigger vehicle. This especially manifests in the corners. Thankfully, it has a powerful V6 making 290 hp. This, combined with a refined transmission and continuously variable suspension dampers, help to tighten things up and keep the going more even-keeled.
In the looks department, like the RDX model, the MDX dazzles up front especially. This is accomplished with an attention-grabbing grille and aggressive sculpting. integrated fog lights in the cavernous side sills, and those distinctly Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights help brightly illuminate the road ahead. I loved the gloss black and dark chrome exterior accents scattered about. With dark detailing in the headlights and taillights even. Against big 20” Shark Gray split five-spoke wheels, the result is statement-making to say the least. Perhaps one of the best parts of the A-Spec package is that it grants you access to the exclusive and beautiful Apex Blue Pearl exterior paint option. A color that can’t help but be noticed, even from a great distance.
On the inside, just like the RDX, the MDX A-Spec continues to blend luxury and performance in an impressive cabin cocktail. In sound insulated comfort you’ll enjoy premium materials like metal trim, stainless steel sport pedals, an ebony headliner and soft Milano premium leather upholstery. All pulled together with sporty contrast stitching. To shuttle you along in perfect safety, each MDX model comes with AcuraWatch. A drivers-aide buffet of assistive technology from lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation, radar cruise control, collision avoidance braking and more. It’s nice to know that even when cutting corners on things like the dual screen fold down monitors or optional olive ash burl wood interior in the hopes of saving a buck or two, you’ll never need to sacrifice on safety.
Which Acura midsize SUV is right for you will depend almost exclusively on your families space needs. While you sacrifice some liveliness in the chassis for all those extra square inches, be assured that both models will delight with an impressive balance of luxury, performance, practicality and safety. Far from boring, and only a test drive away from proving it.
By: Brandon Randall
