August 18, 2010

2011 Acura MDX Press Kit

2011 Acura MDX - Overview

OVERVIEW

Since its debut in 2001 (when it promptly won Motor Trend Magazine's coveted Sport Utility of the Year award), the Acura MDX continues to be one of the best selling mid-sized SUVs— and one of the most benchmarked SUVs by its competitors. However, without resting on its laurels, Acura engineers have continually upgraded the MDX to include more features that better satisfy market desires. For 2010, the MDX got notably better in the form of a new engine and transmission, a revised chassis, more comfort, improved technology and a fresh new exterior look.

The 2011 MDX maintains the core elements that have made it a winner in the eyes of automotive journalists. Still present is strong (yet efficient) V-6 power, Nürburgring tuned suspension, Acura's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, ACE™ body structure, a luxury interior with room for seven passengers and a cache of advanced features including: Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ and a spectacular 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System. While competitors often charge for every luxury upgrade, the 2011MDX delivers numerous items as standard equipment— such as a power operated tailgate and rearview camera.

The 2011 MDX uses a 3.7L V-6 engine that has a wide power curve, good fuel efficiency and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The MDX delivers a luxury ride combined with outstanding wet and dry weather handling. Ride and handling are even better when the MDX is optioned with the Advance Package that includes (among many items) the Active Damper System.

Externally, the 2011 MDX has a well-tailored look thanks to Acura's signature front grille design, a bold front fascia with integrated fog lights, stylish side sills, a rear fascia matched with rolled edge polished stainless-steel exhaust finishers, high-tech taillights with LED lights and available 19-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels.

Inside, the 2011 MDX treats occupants with leather-trimmed seats, a thick sport-style steering wheel with racing-inspired paddle shifters, bold design gauges and available ventilated front seats. In addition, a host of driver relevant technology is available including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. Other available features include a full VGA 8-inch navigation screen, a rear view camera with three unique view choices, rear entertainment system with a full VGA color screen, an audio system with 15 gigabytes of hard disk drive (HDD) space and USB port connectivity.

In keeping with Acura's leadership in the application of advanced, customer-relevant features, the 2011 MDX is available with an array of technologies including Acura's unique Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and a blind spot information system (BSI).

POWERTRAIN FEATURES

3.7-liter SOHC, aluminum V-6 engine
300 hp at 6,300 rpm and 270 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm
11.2:1 compression ratio
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) for intake valves
Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium alloy intake manifold
Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Direct ignition system
Detonation/knock control system
High-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with dual stainless-steel outlets
EPA TIER 2—BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions
100,000-mile tune-up intervals*
Estimated 16/21/18 mpg** (city/highway/combined)
Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)

*Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

BODY & CHASSIS FEATURES

Unit body structure with extensive use of high-strength steel
Fully independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and stabilizer bar
Fully independent rear suspension with multi-link control arms and stabilizer bar
Torque-sensing, power-assist rack-and-pinion steering
4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
Vehicle Stability Assist™(VSA®) with traction control and Trailer Stability Assist
18x8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX)
19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX with Advance Package)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
5,000-pound tow rating
Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) low-beam front headlights
LED tail lamps and Center High Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL)
Heated outside mirrors with Reverse gear tilt-down and integrated LED directional turn signals

INTERIOR FEATURES

7 passenger seating
Driver-oriented cockpit
Power actuated 10-way adjustable driver seat (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support)
Two-driver custom memory system
Power actuated 8-way front passenger seat
Heated front seats with available ventilated front seats
Steering wheel with racing-inspired transmission paddle shifters, audio controls and MID controls
Tri-Zone automatic climate control system with air filtration and humidity control
253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA changer, AM/FM radio tuner, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, AUX jack connectivity and 8 speakers including an 8-inch subwoofer
HomeLink® remote control
Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions
Maintenance Minder™
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface
Auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated rear view video screen
Electric tilt and telescoping steering column
Power operated rear tailgate
Loop pile carpeted floor mats
LED interior lighting

Technology Package

Milano premium leather seating surfaces
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™
8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display with LED backlighting
Multi-view rear camera
AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System
AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™
AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps
Interface dial (for quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio and other features)
Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker audio system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio, 15 GB of hard disk drive (HDD) media storage space, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, Song By Voice™(SBV), Dolby Pro Logic II and a 410-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier
GPS-linked, solar-sensing, tri-zone, automatic climate control system with air filtration and humidity control

Advance Package (in addition to the Technology Package features)

Blind spot information system (BSI)
Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Exclusive design19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels
Active Damper System (ADS)
Perforated Milano premium full-grain leather front seating surfaces with high-damping front-seat cushion foam and contrasting stitching
Ventilated front seats (in addition to heat)
Steering wheel with unique colored paddle shifters
Auto-leveling headlights

Entertainment Package (available with Technology or Advance Package)

Rear Entertainment System (RES) with motorized full VGA color screen, DVD player, wireless headphones, remote control and AUX jack connectivity
115-volt power outlet located in the center console
Heated second-row seats (for outboard seating positions)

SAFETY FEATURES

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure
Impact-absorbing crumple zones (front/rear)
Side impact door beams
Driver and front passenger dual-stage, multiple-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Driver and front passenger side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
Side curtain airbags for all three rows (outboard seats) with rollover sensor
Driver and front passenger knee bolsters
Active head restraints for front seats
3-point adjustable-height front seat belts with Emergency Locking Retractors
Automatic Locking Retractor for all seating positions except driver seat
3-point seat belts for all seating positions
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child-seat mounting system for the second-row seats

MARKET SUMMARY

MDX has been very important to Acura, accounting for about 33-percent of the division's overall sales. The original MDX attracted buyers from competitive luxury makes including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, who started new relationships for Acura. The 2011 MDX competes at the top of its class that is defined as the Mid Premium CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) segment.

TARGET CUSTOMER

Focus groups with customers shopping in the luxury market were conducted around the United States with an increased focus in Seattle, Detroit, Chicago and Los Angeles. These cities were carefully chosen to explore how customers use their SUVs in cold climates, in areas that are traditional domestic-vehicle strongholds and in areas known for their trend-setting character.

Early in the study process Acura also benchmarked performance SUVs such as the BMW X5 - and polled X5 owners - to ensure that the MDX would exceed the performance of its competitors. Satisfying these highly discriminating customers means that the MDX would be well positioned to attract a wider group of potential buyers.

With the MDX, added performance and handling capabilities boost its appeal for performance enthusiasts, while the luxurious and functional interior continues to satisfy the needs of traditional luxury customers.

ENGINE & POWERTRAIN

The 2011 MDX uses a 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 engine that continues Acura's longstanding mission to provide V-8 level horsepower and torque while retaining the size and fuel efficiency of a V-6. The MDX's 3.7L engine develops 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque along with providing immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and exciting high-rpm power. To widen the powerband while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency, the 3.7-liter engine has a 2-rocker arm design VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system applied to the intake valves, a computer controlled dual-stage intake manifold and an electronic Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system.

EPA estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 16/21/18 mpg and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity mean the MDX has a long cruising range. The MDX complies with the latest EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards. Performance and fuel economy benefit from the MDX's 6-speed automatic transmission, and the transmission's quick-response Sequential SportShift function is designed to satisfy the most discerning enthusiast drivers.

Originally tuned on the famed Nürburgring circuit in Germany, the MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system provides handling precision that sets a benchmark for SUVs. SH-AWD® uses torque vectoring to actively vary the distribution of power between the front and rear axles (as well as between the left and right rear wheels) to provide maximum power delivery under all driving circumstances. In addition to the torque vectoring, SH-AWD® overdrives the outside rear wheel up to 1.7 percent faster than the front wheels to create a "yaw moment" that helps the MDX to better rotate around a corner— thus minimizing understeer.

BODY & CHASSIS

The 2011 MDX sets high standards for SUV styling, engineering, handling and safety standpoints. Its dramatic exterior styling utilizes large surface areas, sweeping curves and decisive angles. Aggressive front and rear fascias, Acura's signature front grille, tastefully integrated side sills, rolled edge polished stainless-steel exhaust finishers and taillights with bright LED lights further increase the MDX's visual attitude.

In an effort to keep mass out of the vehicle, the MDX features widespread use of light weight materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium. In addition, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure delivers outstanding levels of front crash safety for the MDX.

The MDX is equipped with numerous high end appointments such as Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) low-beam front headlights, a dramatic array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in the rear tail lamps and center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL) and exterior mirror-mounted turn signals. Careful aerodynamic tailoring reduces aerodynamic drag noise and high speed dynamic stability.

The 2011 MDX features a track-tuned chassis to complement its 3.7L V-6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). Engineers targeted the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne when developing the MDX chassis, and then tested and refined it at Germany's famed Nürburgring road course. The available Active Damper System features real-time shock adjustments (in less than five milliseconds) ¬to continually adjust for varying road conditions. The Active Damper System uses highly sophisticated Magneto-Rheological design dampers and specific computer algorithms to quickly and continuously adapt to changes in the road surface. The MDX is also at home off-road where its SH-AWD®, responsive suspension and generous ground clearance enable it to traverse through rough terrain.

For family recreation, the MDX tows as well as it goes. With a 5,000-pound tow rating, standard trailer pre-wiring, high-capacity radiator with twin cooling fans, transmission fluid cooler and Trailer Stability Assist, the 2011 MDX needs only a dealer-installed hitch and wiring harness to tow a trailer. In addition to offering a Class III tow hitch assembly, Acura Genuine Accessories offers dozens of other useful items for those who regularly tow, haul, or travel.

INTERIOR

The MDX features a luxurious yet functional interior. The cockpit environment is focused on the driver, and features a host of technologies to make driving simultaneously rewarding and relaxing. The interior styling and functionality perfectly coexist with a driver's cockpit that features a power actuated 10-way seat including power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver, electronic tilt and telescoping steering column, a custom preset memory system for two different drivers, and a Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions.

The interior design is as dynamic and contemporary as the exterior, with a "4+3 seating" concept that luxuriously hosts four passengers in the first and second row seats, while also offering comfortable accommodations for three additional passengers (one in the second row and two in the third row). The front passenger enjoys a power actuated 8-way power seat, while everyone on board will appreciate the MDX's Tri-Zone automatic climate control system.

MDX occupants will enjoy the standard 253-watt, 8-speaker Acura Premium Audio System with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA changer, AM/FM tuner and XM® Radio. An auxiliary jack for the connection of personal audio devices is also included. Standard convenience features include HomeLink®, Maintenance Minder™ and adaptive and flexible cargo space with six configurations.

All 2011 MDX models come standard with a rearview camera. The MDX displays the rearview image within the auto-dimming rearview mirror via an integrated video screen, while an MDX with available Technology Package and/or Advance Package displays multi-view camera information on the instrument panel-mounted full VGA Navigation screen. When equipped with the Advance Package, a blind spot information system (BSI) can detect other vehicles when they are located in the blind spot of the MDX driver.

SAFETY

The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, along with several passive safety technologies, helps the 2011 MDX to deliver excellent crash protection. ACE™ more evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. Thanks to ACE™, the MDX is also less intrusive to smaller vehicles in a head-on collision due to a special frame member located below the front bumper that is designed to engage the front bumper of smaller vehicles.

The MDX front seats are equipped with active-style head restraints and knee bolsters are standard for the driver and front passenger. The driver and front passenger are also protected by dual-stage, multiple-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) along with side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). Side curtain airbags help reduce the likelihood of injury to the occupants in all three rows of outboard seats.
The 2011 MDX furthers Acura's commitment to "Safety Through Innovation" with numerous pedestrian injury mitigation features such as a deformable aluminum hood and hood hinges, along with breakaway windshield-wiper pivots.

MANUFACTURING & ENVIRONMENT

Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, is the assembly plant for the MDX. A special dynamic quality-control process is employed to ensure the highest possible level of attention to detail for every MDX produced. After assembly is completed, each MDX enters a special Acura Quality line. The ability to immediately respond to the smallest issue allows the MDX to excel in quality and excel in customer satisfaction.

Acura's commitment to preserving the environment continues with the MDX via reduction of the use of metals such as chromium and lead, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polyvinyl chlorides (PVC). In the MDX manufacturing facility, a dedicated line separates different manufacturing scrap materials for recycling. In addition, the MDX is the first Acura vehicle to use a mercury-free navigation system display screen.

2011 Acura MDX - Powertrain

OVERVIEW

To deliver a seamless blend of power, refinement and efficiency, the MDX features the latest-generation Acura 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 engine. The all-aluminum powerplant has single overhead camshaft (SOHC) cylinder heads and 24 valves, with the intake valves actuated by Acura's acclaimed Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control® (VTEC®) system. The compact and efficient 3.7L engine produces 300 horsepower and 270 lbs-ft of torque, with special emphasis on mid-range torque output for outstanding overall driving character.

The MDX's evolved 3.7L V-6 uses a more rigid cylinder block, high-strength crankshaft, heavy-duty connecting rods, high compression-ratio pistons, cylinder heads with improved cooling, exclusive camshaft specs, a 2-rocker arm design VTEC® valvetrain system, heavy-duty intake valve springs, a unique EGR system, special long-reach spark plugs, a large throttle body among other features.

The engine reflects Acura's unwavering commitment to the environment with excellent fuel efficiency given its power output. The MDX achieves an EPA rated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 16/21/18 mpg*— which give it an excellent combination of fuel economy and power. For all its performance, the MDX's V-6 is also very clean as it meets EPA TIER 2—BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emission standards, and it has close-coupled catalytic converters to ensure efficient cold-start emissions control.

The 3.7L V-6 is coupled with a Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission along with a special multi-clutch lock-up torque converter. With comparatively "short" gearing in the first five forward gears, acceleration is enhanced— while fuel economy and quiet cruising are optimized with a relaxed Sixth gear ratio. The transmission offers two automatic shift modes, or can be operated manually via racing-inspired steering wheel paddle shifters. Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control and Cornering G Shift Control help make the 6-speed the most advanced automatic transmission ever offered by Acura.

The 2011 MDX features Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), Acura's advanced drivetrain system that delivers quick, precise all-wheel-drive response. SH-AWD® distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's unique "torque vectoring" direct yaw control feature helps make the MDX exceptionally neutral handling under power, for greater vehicle control. Along with its dry-pavement handling advantages, the MDX's SH-AWD® system also offers excellent all-season capability and requires no driver intervention to operate.

	2011 MDX
Engine	SOHC 60-degree V-6
Displacement	3.7-liter (3664 cc)
Compression ratio	11.2:1
Fuel type	Premium Unleaded, 91 octane
Horsepower @ rpm	300 @ 6,300
Torque @ rpm (lbs-ft)	270 @ 4,500
Transmission	6-speed automatic
EPA estimated mileage (city/highway/combined)	16/21/18 mpg*
Emissions certification	EPA TIER 2—BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV

Engine at a Glance

3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine
300 hp at 6,300 rpm and 270 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm
11.2:1 compression ratio
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®)
Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium alloy intake manifold
Integrated exhaust manifolds cast directly into the cylinder heads
High-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with dual stainless-steel outlets
Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Direct ignition system
Detonation/knock control system
High-capacity 32-bit RISC Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Maintenance Minder™ system
100,000+/- mile tune-up intervals*

*Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions.

Powertrain at a Glance

Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter
SH-AWD® drivetrain for performance handling and all-season capability

Emissions

High-flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under-floor catalytic converter

Meets EPA TIER 2—BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards

Fuel Economy

EPA estimated 16/21/18 mpg* (city/highway/combined)

*Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) control

60-degree cylinder V-angle for smooth running
Automatically tensioned serpentine-type accessory drive belt
Electronically controlled hydraulic engine mount to reduce vibration

Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission

Six forward gear ratios for improved acceleration and fuel economy
Quick-response Sequential SportShift allows semi-manual transmission operation
Intuitive straight-gate style console-mounted transmission shifter
Racing-inspired, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters
Paddle shifters that function in both Drive and Sport modes
Coordination between Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and transmission for quick, smooth shifts
Advanced Shift Hold Control minimizes unwanted shifting during spirited driving
Grade Logic Control system reduces gear "hunting" when climbing hills
Cornering G Shift Control reduces unwanted shifting when cornering
Hill Start Assist

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)

Fully automatic, full-time traction and handling system
Distributes torque between front and rear axles
Distributes torque between left and right rear wheels
Provides torque-vectoring to control the yaw moment of the vehicle
Capable of "overdriving" rear wheels to enhance handling
Increases overall cornering power deliver in dry or inclement weather

ENGINE ARCHITECTURE

The MDX's 3.7-liter V-6 engine employs an inherently smooth-running 60-degree V-angle. The cylinder block is constructed of aluminum and has high-silicon aluminum cylinder liners for added weight savings and excellent cooling. The cylinder heads are cast of lightweight aluminum and feature four valves per cylinder along with a VTEC® variable valve timing system with variable lift and timing for the intake valves. Power is achieved as a result of a 11.2:1 compression ratio, high-output port designs, careful intake airflow optimization and a sport-tuned exhaust system. In addition to a high power output, the 3.7-liter V-6 delivers good fuel economy and low emissions.

ENGINE BLOCK

The engine block of the 3.7-liter MDX is constructed of lightweight die-cast aluminum. The cylinder liners are made of high-silicon aluminum (rather than traditional cast-iron) and are cast directly into the aluminum block. The hard piston ring sealing surface of the liners is created during manufacturing via a mechanical etching process that exposes silicon particles embedded in the sleeves. The aluminum sleeves provide better cooling, thus allowing closer piston-to-cylinder clearance than iron liners afford.

The cylinder block is heat-treated for strength and has a deep-skirt design with four bolts per main bearing cap (providing excellent structural support for the crankshaft), thus minimizing engine noise and vibration. The MDX uses the latest version of the 3.7L V-6 that features improved cylinder-block rigidity and stronger/stiffer mounting points that team to further reduce NVH. Adding further rigidity and improving reliability is a new cast-aluminum oil pan that works with a heavy-duty oil pump assembly.

CRANKSHAFT/CONNECTING RODS/PISTONS

The MDX's 3.7L V-6 engine is a new design (differing from the 2009-older 3.7L) that employs a crankshaft featuring higher quality (and subsequently stronger) forged steel for improved strength. New 11.2:1 compression ratio forged aluminum pistons replace the previous 3.7L's 11.0:1 pistons, and the pistons are cooled with oil spray directed to the underside of the piston crowns— helping make possible the high compression ratio with premium unleaded fuel. In addition, the pistons feature a new 2-piece oil ring assembly that improves durability. Just as with the previous 3.7L, the connecting rods are steel forgings for high strength, but the latest version of the rods feature a wider beam width for improved strength. A unique "crack separated" build process (in which the bearing caps are broken away from the rod rather than machined separately) allows for a lighter, stronger connecting rod with perfect mating surfaces.

CYLINDER HEADS/VALVES

The 3.7-liter engine has lightweight aluminum cylinder heads that are pressure cast for high accuracy and low porosity. Each cylinder head uses a single camshaft, turned by an Aramid-fiber reinforced toothed belt drive for long service life. To save weight and reduce parts count, the cylinder heads have integrated exhaust-port castings that provide optimal positioning of the close-coupled catalytic converters— one used on each cylinder bank. This design results in more rapid "light off" of the catalytic converters during cold start-up for reduced emissions. Unique long-reach spark plugs are used in the cylinder heads that promote improved combustion for lower emissions and improved mid-range torque.

The cylinder head castings feature port flow optimization for improved performance, while an upgraded water pump teams with revised cylinder head coolant flow for improved cooling performance. Upgraded intake valve springs are used to match the revised camshaft specs for the intake valves during VTEC® operation. The cylinder heads are sealed against the block with a 3-layer, shim-type head gasket.

VTEC® (VARIABLE VALVE TIMING AND LIFT ELECTRONIC CONTROL)

The MDX engine uses the Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) system, providing strong low-speed torque, crisp throttle response and enhanced high-rpm power. This is achieved by providing reduced intake valve lift and duration at low engine speeds for good torque, with increased intake valve lift and duration at higher rpm for optimum power.

The MDX features a 2-arm version of the Acura VTEC® rocker arm system that provides 2-mode control of the intake valves. Variable operation of the engine's intake valves are controlled for optimal volumetric efficiency, air/fuel mixing, burn rate and exhaust flow. The 2-arm VTEC® rocker arm itself is smaller and has less mass than the previous design.

At 4,800 rpm, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) electronically triggers the opening of a spool valve that routes pressurized oil to small pistons within the intake valve rocker arms. Moved by this pressurized oil, the pistons lock each cylinder's pair of intake rocker arms together. The linked intake rockers then follow a single high-lift, long-duration camshaft lobe— an intake lobe with more lift and duration than used with the previous 3.7L V-6. The VTEC® high-lift mode increases intake valve lift by 28-percent and valve opening duration by 35-percent.

To maintain the MDX's refined operating characteristics, careful intake and exhaust timing helps to make the VTEC® changeover smoother and quieter for a seamless driving experience that's nearly undetectable to the driver and passengers.

DRIVE-BY-WIRE™ THROTTLE SYSTEM

The MDX does not use a conventional mechanical throttle linkage, but instead employs sophisticated electronics to provide the connection between the throttle pedal and the engine's throttle-body. The result is more accurate and precise throttle control, along with less under-hood clutter and reduced weight. By programming such factors as "gain" and "tip-in" into the throttle actuation, engine response and drivability can be tailored to suit specific driving conditions.

Acura's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system monitors pedal position, percentage of throttle-body opening, engine rpm and road speed to establish driving conditions in real time.
This data is used to define the throttle control sensitivity necessary to provide the predictable and responsive feel corresponding to driver expectations.

The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system also helps integrate engine functions with the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and traction control system. To smooth downshifts, the system is programmed to "blip" the throttle to help match engine speed to gear speed within the Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission.

PROGRAMMED FUEL INJECTION (PGM-FI)

The Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system continuously tracks many engine parameters including crankshaft and camshaft positions, throttle position, intake air temperature and mass flow rate, engine coolant temperature and manifold pressure. Afterwards, the PGM-FI system adjusts fuel delivery accordingly to deliver the best combination of power, fuel economy and low emissions.

MULTI-HOLE FUEL INJECTORS

Special multi-hole fuel injectors mounted in the lower intake manifold spray directly toward the intake ports. The multi-hole injector design means that fuel droplet size is reduced for better fuel atomization, resulting in improved cold weather start-up, better fuel economy, lower emissions and higher horsepower.

2-PIECE DUAL-STAGE INTAKE MANIFOLD

The MDX features a dual-stage intake manifold made from lightweight magnesium-alloy. The manifold works together with VTEC® to improve low-speed torque with no sacrifice in high-rpm power. Divided into two banks feeding three cylinders per bank, the manifold has two Powertrain Control Module-controlled butterfly valves located between each bank. These closed valves separate bank-to-bank plenum chamber and improves the resonance charge effect. The result is an amplification of pressure waves within each half of the manifold at lower engine speeds, improving low rpm torque. The open ends of the intake runners are flared into a "trumpet" shape (as used on racing engines) to further improve airflow.

The butterfly valves open above 4,050 rpm, connecting the two halves of the intake manifold, increasing its effective volume. The manifold's two modes further complement the changes in low and high rpm running made possible by the VTEC® valvetrain system.

DIRECT IGNITION AND DETONATION-KNOCK CONTROL

Because accurate ignition spark timing is crucial for best power and torque output as well as reduced emissions, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continually monitors several engine parameters to determine optimum spark timing for all driving conditions.

A strong ignition spark is critical to improve power and reduce emissions. Thus, the 3.7L V-6 employs coil-on-plug design ignition coils and special long-reach spark plugs. Additionally, a block-mounted acoustic detonation (knock) sensor "listens" to the engine, sending information about potentially damaging detonation to the PCM, which then can incrementally retard ignition timing to help prevent damage. Individual coil units positioned directly above each iridium alloy-tipped spark plug compliment the ignition system. The spark plugs require no scheduled service prior to 100,000 miles of use. To help improve misfire detection, the 3.7L V-6 uses a high-resolution crankshaft pulser that generates more accurate timing information.

HIGH-FLOW EXHAUST SYSTEM WITH CLOSE-COUPLED CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

The MDX's 3.7-liter engine has exhaust manifolds that are cast directly into the cylinder heads for lighter weight, reduced parts count and less bulk. Attached directly to the cylinder heads are high-efficiency, free-flowing 600-cell-per-inch catalytic converters. Due to closer-than-normal proximity to the exhaust ports, the catalytic converters "light off" very quickly after the engine starts, better reducing emissions in the critical start-up mode. To ensure optimum flow and low backpressure, a hydroformed two-into-one collector connects the close-coupled catalytic converters to a 350-cell-per-inch under-floor catalytic converter.

The MDX's high-flow exhaust system splits just past the under-floor catalytic converter. To provide clearance for the all-wheel-drive system's rear-mounted differential, one exhaust pipe is routed on each side of the driveshaft and feeds into a high-flow silencer located on each side of the MDX. Dual exhaust outlets, one on each side, are integrated into polished stainless-steel (laser welded) finishers positioned in the rear fascia. For corrosion resistance, the entire exhaust system (including pipes, silencers, chambers and hanger rods) is constructed of stainless steel.

EMISSIONS CONTROL

The MDX meets EPA TIER 2—BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emission standards, and is certified to this stringent standard for 120,000 miles of service.

Acura's advanced technologies contributing to this emissions performance are the close-coupled catalytic converters (which light-off quickly on engine start-up) and a high amount of EGR gas recirculated into the engine.

The 3.7L engine features Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) that continually adjusts fuel delivery to achieve the best combination of power, fuel mileage and low emissions. Particularly in the critical post-startup mode, the high-efficiency multi-hole fuel injectors deliver excellent fuel atomization for lower emissions.

ONE-TOUCH STARTER SYSTEM WITH HIGH-POWERED STARTER

The MDX engine features a high-powered starter to crank the engine. In addition, it employs a one-touch system that automatically maintains starter engagement until the engine has started. The driver simply turns the key, and without having to hold the key for any extended time, the one-touch system engages the starter until the engine fires up— and then disengages the starter automatically.

NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) CONTROL

The MDX powertrain is designed to effectively control Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). Cylinder bores with a 60-degree V-angle, a high-rigidity die-cast engine block, forged-steel crankshaft, die-cast accessory mounts and stiff cast aluminum engine oil pan, all work together to ensure low engine NVH. Electronically Controlled Mounts (ECM) used at the front of the transversely oriented engine block have two firmness settings—softer (for improved comfort) at low speeds and firmer (for improved performance) as engine speed rises.

100,000-MILE TUNE-UP INTERVAL

The MDX is an exceptionally low-maintenance vehicle. With features like Iridium alloy-tipped spark plugs and a space-saving, self-tensioning serpentine accessory drive belt, the engine requires no scheduled maintenance until 100,000 miles— with the exception of periodic inspections and normal replacement of fluids and filters. The first scheduled tune-up at 100,000 miles includes valve adjustment, timing belt replacement and water-pump inspection. Exact mileage for service is determined by actual driving conditions.

MAINTENANCE MINDER™

The MDX has a Maintenance Minder™ system to monitor operating conditions and to alert the driver should maintenance be required. When the ignition is first turned on, the Multi-Information Display (MID) located between the tachometer and speedometer shows maintenance information, if required. To avoid driver distraction, the display is not shown while driving. The MID indicates the remaining percentage of engine oil life, and indicates when service is due by displaying a "wrench" icon. A percentage-based countdown to the next service is displayed when the car is within 15-percent of the end of the service interval. The type of service required is shown in an alphanumeric code, and if a service is missed, the MID indicates its urgency by showing past-due mileage.

The owner-resettable Maintenance Minder™ system monitors the service life of normal service parts and systems including oil, oil filter, tire rotation, air cleaner, automatic transmission fluid, rear differential fluid (on SH-AWD® model), spark plugs, timing belt, and coolant. In addition, Maintenance Minder™ is designed to eliminate unnecessary maintenance, reduce environmental impact and expenses, and help ensure long component and vehicle life.

BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (BMS)

The MDX has a unique Battery Management System (BMS) that is designed to increase the overall service life of the battery, reduce the chance of a dead battery and help deliver improved fuel economy.

Should a MDX owner accidentally leave on the headlights or not close a door causing an interior light to remain on, after a set period of time the BMS will automatically terminate power delivery to prevent the battery from going dead. Moreover, the BMS continually monitors battery condition and will provide a warning message while automatically turning off the interior lights when battery condition or cranking capability drops too low. As a result of the discharge protection afforded by the BMS, the battery should always have enough reserve capacity left to start the engine.

The MDX 3.7L engine makes use of a powerful 130 amp alternator that charges in two different ranges— a low 12-volt range and a high 14-volt range. By closely controlling the alternator charge voltage range, BMS works to keep the battery in a specific charge range which can extend the service life of the battery by more than 25 percent. With BMS keeping the battery in a specific charge range, the alternator can run more often in the low range which generates less drag on the engine resulting in improved fuel economy.

Application of numerous electrical power reducing items (such as the use of efficient LED lighting and a special humidity control system that has an automatic air conditioning "off" function) allows the BMS to operate the alternator even more frequently in the more efficient low charge mode.

Should a battery or charging system issue occur, the Multi Information Display (MID) will alert the driver with a text prompt such as, "BATTERY CHARGE LOW. Switch Off All Lights and Electrical Devices".

SEQUENTIAL SPORTSHIFT 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

To maximize driver control, acceleration and fuel economy, the MDX (starting with the 2010 model) is equipped with an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Sequential SportShift with racing-inspired steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and two automatic shift modes.

Though comparable in size and weight to Acura's existing 5-speed automatic transmissions for V-6 engines, careful engineering of the layout and power flow minimizes size, parts count and overall weight.

The Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic improves launch-feel, acceleration performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 5-speed transmissions used with other V-6 engines in the Acura line, the MDX has lower gear ratios (higher numerically) in First through Fifth gears and in Reverse. The lower gear ratios improve acceleration and pulling power. The Sixth gear ratio is taller (lower numerically) than the top gear in Acura's 5-speed V-6 automatic transmissions. The taller final gear allows for a relaxed cruising rpm and enhanced highway fuel economy.

Transmission Gear Ratio Comparison
Transmission Gear	5-speed AT	6-speed AT	Percentage change
First	12.228:1	14.277:1	17% lower
Second	7.281:1	8.903:1	22% lower
Third	4.857:1	6.311:1	30% lower
Fourth	3.472:1	4.527:1	30% lower
Fifth	2.441:1	3.207:1	31% lower
Sixth	-	2.361:1	3% higher (vs. 5th gear)
Reverse	8.563:1	9.645:1	13% lower

The 6-speed automatic transmission also includes engineering enhancements aimed at improved performance and fuel economy. Expanded control of the multi-disc lock-up assembly within the torque converter improves the efficiency of power delivery and works with the new gear ratios to provide a 1.0 mpg improvement in fuel economy on the highway, and a 0.8 mpg improvement in city driving.

The 6-speed transmission can be controlled by a straight-gate console-mounted shifter or a steering wheel paddle shifter system that works whenever the transmission is in either of its two automatic modes. In addition to Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold control, the MDX also has Cornering G Shift Control. All of the transmission logic systems work together to automatically alter shift timing based on driving conditions.

Automatic Modes

The Sequential SportShift 6-speed transmission can be operated in two different fully automatic modes with the console-mounted straight-gate shifter. The D (or "Drive") mode is ideal for most driving situations, and combines fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed. The S (or "Sport") mode is for more performance-oriented driving, and features more aggressive shift mapping to keep engine rpm higher for greater acceleration and response. In Sport mode the transmission typically operates in the four lowest gears, and won't shift to Fifth gear unless the vehicle reaches very high speed. In Sport mode, the economy-oriented Sixth gear is locked out.
When in the D mode (that is optimized for normal driving), the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control System, Shift Hold Control and Cornering G Shift Control— all of which reduce unwanted shifting and gear hunting. The result is smart transmission operation that optimizes fuel efficiency and keeps the transmission in the appropriate gear for the specific driving conditions, thus generating excellent performance and smooth operation.

While traveling up or down hills, Grade Logic Control alters the transmission's shift schedule to reduce shift frequency and improve speed control. A shift map in the transmission computer continually measures throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration, and then determines when the vehicle is on a hill. The shift schedule is then adjusted to hold the transmission in lower gears to boost climbing power or to provide engine braking when traveling downhill.

Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) gear ratio when aggressive driving is detected, as in the case of decelerating at a corner entry. Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by excess shifting and ensures that power will be immediately available (without a downshift) at the corner exit.

Cornering G Shift Control is a transmission feature that first debuted on the Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Cornering G Shift Control monitors the speed of each rear wheel independently to determine when the MDX is turning. When the system detects a sufficient speed differential between the rear wheels, it will suppress an unwanted upshift. This prevents the transmission from upshifting during a corner, which could upset the chassis balance and would then require downshifting again at the corner exit when the throttle is applied.

Temporary Manual Operation in "Drive"
Whether in Drive or Sport mode, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. When the driver operates the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters while in Drive, the transmission responds to the driver's shift command and then returns to its normal fully automatic Drive mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a short time. This special logic makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the comfort of Drive mode. When in Sport mode, use of the paddle shifters puts the transmission into full manual mode that remains until another mode of operation is selected with the console-mounted shifter.

Manual Mode
By moving the center console-mounted gear selector lever rearward to the detent labeled "S," the transmission is shifted into Sport mode. This mode offers automatic operation with more aggressive shift mapping. A pull on the racing-inspired paddle shifters (mounted on the steering wheel) places the transmission in fully manual mode. A digital display in the tachometer face indicates which gear the transmission is in.

A new double-kick-down feature lets the driver command a sport-minded double downshift— such as from Fifth to Third gear. By pulling on the left downshift paddle twice in rapid succession, the transmission will drop directly to the chosen lower gear ratio. The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system also creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.

To prevent harm to the powertrain when the transmission is paddle shifted by the driver (including during double-kick-down shifts), the system will inhibit potentially damaging shifts. As an added safety measure, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can also cut off engine fuel flow to prevent over-revving.

If fuel cut-off is insufficient to prevent engine over-revving, as may be possible when the vehicle is on a steep downhill, the transmission will automatically upshift to prevent damage. On downshifts, the transmission will not execute a driver command that will over-rev the engine.

For improved stop-and-go performance and to prevent "lugging" the engine, the Sequential SportShift transmission will automatically downshift to First gear even though the transmission has been left in a higher gear, (except in Second gear) as the vehicle comes to a stop. In Manual Mode, when coming to a stop in Second gear, the vehicle will start in Second gear as well.

MULTI-CLUTCH LOCK-UP TORQUE CONVERTER

The Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission teams with a special torque converter that not only has a higher maximum torque rating, but also has a unique converter lock-up assembly. The lock-up assembly uses multiple lock-up disks that generate nearly double the facing area of a typical torque converter. The lock-up assembly not only reduces heat build-up during operation, but also features improved overall lubrication that generates better cooling. The torque converter allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of driving conditions that helps improve fuel economy.

STRAIGHT-GATE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY

The straight-gate shifter is an intuitive and easy-to-use design that takes up little space in the center console. The shifter allows the driver to choose D (using First through Sixth gears) or S, which activates the performance-oriented Sport mode, which has more aggressive shift programming and locks out the use of Sixth gear when operating automatically. When in Sport mode, gear selection via racing-inspired paddle shifters (mounted on the steering wheel) automatically puts the transmission into manual mode, and the driver can select among all six forward gear ratios.

COOPERATION BETWEEN TRANSMISSION AND DRIVE-BY-WIRE™ THROTTLE SYSTEM

Shift speed and smoothness are enhanced as a result of cooperation between the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and the electronically-controlled Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission. During upshifts and downshifts, the engine can be throttled by the engine management system, reducing peak forces (shift shock) on transmission components, thus improving component reliability and decreasing driveline harshness.

SUPER HANDLING ALL-WHEEL DRIVE™ (SH-AWD®)

The MDX features Acura's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), which progressively distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The benefits of the SH-AWD® system are superior all-weather handling and neutral, accurate steering under power that is unmatched by front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive systems. The 2011 MDX SH-AWD® system is similar to the systems used in the RDX and ZDX SUVs as well as the TL SH-AWD® performance luxury sedan.

By rotating the outside rear wheel faster than the front axle speed while cornering, SH-AWD® uses the torque vectoring to create a yaw moment to help turn the vehicle through the corner— thus reducing understeer and improving controllability. With cornering forces more evenly distributed between front and rear tires, overall cornering power is increased— regardless if driving on wet or dry roads.

Vehicles with high power ratings using conventional front or rear drive systems often employ a limited-slip differential to help maintain traction when under power. By linking inside and outside drive wheels, these systems tend to resist turning and can increase understeer. Conventional AWD systems similarly work to link the inboard and outboard tires as well as the front and rear axles— which can create resistance to turning. Using torque vectoring to help turn the vehicle, SH-AWD® creates a more responsive, neutral and predictable platform while retaining the usual benefits of all-wheel drive.

Electronic Controls and Parameters
The SH-AWD® system works in cooperation with the MDX's Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) system to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction utilization. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) provides information on engine rpm, airflow and transmission gear-ratio selection, while the VSA® ECU provides wheel-speed data. The SH-AWD® ECU also monitors steering angle, lateral G-forces, vehicle yaw rate and electromagnetic clutch engagement for the right and left rear axle shafts. Drive torque is calculated from PCM information, and then the acceleration situation, wheel spin, lateral G-force and steering angle are used to determine the front-to-rear torque distribution and the torque split between right and left rear wheels.

SH-AWD® operating parameters include:

Up to 90-percent of available torque can be transferred to the front wheels during normal cruising
In hard cornering and under acceleration, up to 70-percent of available torque can be directed to the rear wheels to enhance vehicle dynamics
Up to 100-percent of the torque sent to the rear axle can be applied to either rear wheel, depending on conditions

SH-AWD® System Layout
The MDX SH-AWD® is a full-time all-wheel-drive system that requires no driver interaction or monitoring, thanks to a torque-transfer unit that is bolted directly to the front-mounted transaxle. The torque-transfer unit receives torque from a helical gear that is attached to the front differential's ring gear, and a short horizontal shaft and hypoid gear set within the torque-transfer unit's case send power to the rear propeller shaft, which in turn transfers power to the rear drive unit.

The MDX SH-AWD® rear drive unit is constantly overdriven by 1.7-percent and the resulting overdrive effect is regulated by left- and right-side electromagnetic clutch packs within the rear differential that independently control the power delivered to each rear wheel.

Direct Electromagnetic Clutch Systems
Direct electromagnetic clutch systems mounted on either side of the hypoid gear that drives the rear axles control the amount of torque sent to each rear wheel and provide a limited-slip differential function when needed. The clutches can be controlled as a pair to alter front/rear torque split or they can be controlled independently to allow 100-percent of available rear axle torque to go to just one rear wheel.

An electromagnetic coil modulates the pressure controlling each clutch pack, which changes the speed of the sun gear within the rear differential's planetary gear set to control the amount of torque sent to each wheel. Electromagnetic control of the clutches permits the torque delivery to each rear wheel to be proportioned in an exceptionally quick and precise manner, which reduces wheel-slip in low-traction conditions.

The clutch packs and their friction material are carefully designed to withstand the small amount of continuous slip between front and rear axles created by the 1.7-percent speed differential— all while delivering the durability expected of an Acura product. Through an oil-temperature sensor, the SH-AWD® Control Unit monitors the rear differential's clutch-plate coefficient of friction (that changes with temperature) in each clutch pack and then adjusts the voltage to each electromagnetic coil to compensate. As total vehicle miles accumulate, the SH-AWD® Control Unit uses data from a feedback loop to adjust the voltage supplied to the electromagnetic coils to compensate for any clutch wear, ensuring optimal and consistent transmission of torque.

2011 Acura MDX - Body

OVERVIEW

The 2011 MDX fuses the model's traditional virtues of generous space, functionality, safety and environmental responsibility with an exciting visual presence along with excellent handling and ride comfort.

Customers in the luxury SUV arena demand distinctive style. The 2011 MDX is at the top of the class with items such as standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and tires, standard Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights and very distinctive front end styling. Driving excitement is equally embraced with a chassis tuned at the Nürburgring circuit and on the autobahn highways of Germany.

The MDX exterior has bold, clean and advanced styling details with European caché, and it was styled to connect with enthusiast drivers from the moment they first see it. Sitting in the vehicle - and then experiencing it - makes the ownership desire even more intense. Besides featuring a 300 horsepower V-6 engine, the MDX includes Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), an available Active Damper System along with lightweight aluminum components used in the suspension and body. An additional list of build elements earmarks the MDX as top shelf. These include the wide use of LED lighting (including the taillights), plentiful use of high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium in the vehicle, and convenience features like a standard power rear tailgate. An available Technology Package and Advance Package further enhance functionality and luxury.

EXTERIOR DESIGN GOALS

One of the primary goals in designing the second generation MDX was to keep its previous strengths, but advance its performance and image. The clear direction for the MDX was to create a bold and innovative look that clearly conveyed the "Driver's SUV" nature of the vehicle.

STYLING DEVELOPMENT

The original MDX provided an excellent blend of utility, luxury and style. The 2011 Acura MDX has powerful, dynamic styling that is a continuation of the themes that have been embodied in recent Acura products. Designers found inspiration in a high-powered mega yacht, which features an exceptionally bold, lean and contemporary design. The challenge was to apply the useful elements of the yacht design to an SUV, and designers found their answer in the adoption of large areas of clean surfaces and the addition of decisive line breaks and dynamic surface curvature. Large 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels with performance tires not only benefit handling, but also create a muscular look. In front, the 2011 MDX has a distinctive, advanced Acura look. The platform is long, low and wide to enhance cornering and high-speed stability.

COMPETITIVE COMPARISON

The MDX has a significantly wider track than its primary market competitors. As a result it offers dramatic appearance, packaging and utility advantages.

	2011 Acura MDX	2010 BMW X5 35i	2010 Lexus RX 350	2010 Audi Q7	2010 Volvo XC90 3.2
Overall length, in.	191.6	191.1	187.8	200.3	189.3
Overall width, in.	78.5	76.1	74.2	85.7	74.7
Overall height, in.	66.2	69.9	67.7	68.4	70.2
Wheelbase, in.	108.3	115.5	107.9	118.2	112.6
Track, F/R, in.	67.7/67.5	64.7/65.0	64.2./63.8	65.0/65.9	64.3/63.9

BODY STRUCTURE

The 2011 MDX utilizes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which helps distribute collision forces through the entire structure during a frontal collision while helping to retain the integrity of the passenger compartment. The MDX uses a large amount of high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle weight while simultaneously increasing strength. Alternative materials including aluminum and magnesium alloys are also used throughout the vehicle, further reducing vehicle mass, which helps improve fuel economy and increase performance.

Attaining a high level of dynamic body rigidity is essential for precise handling, ride quality and quietness inside the cabin. By researching the body's dynamic response to chassis loads resulting from everyday driving events, MDX engineers considered the unit body's "dynamic stiffness" as an entire system— not just as a single component. Thus, body rigidity is not an end to itself, but rather it is an enabler for enhanced vehicle dynamics, riding comfort and driving quietness.

Instrumented testing revealed that the "tailgate ring" (the open area surrounding the tailgate) is particularly important for handling, stability and ride. In the second generation MDX, this area has been markedly stiffened, providing the rear suspension with a more solid mounting and netting an improvement in handling precision. In addition, the MDX's floor frames are wider than before for improved packaging and rigidity.

HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL

The use of high-strength steel contributes to improved rigidity, excellent crashworthiness and light weight. High-strength steel is specified in different grades for use in different parts of the vehicle. Some unit body areas using this material include the roof arches, floor cross members, tailgate opening, front rails and body sides.

LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM

About 4.1-percent of the 2011 MDX body components are constructed of aluminum. This material is ideal for certain components such as the hood and instrument panel support, where light weight is preferred and the strength of steel is not imperative.

The hood on the first-generation MDX was constructed of steel, and the weight savings of using aluminum instead of steel (for the 2011 MDX hood) is 15.5 pounds. Aside from using a unique metal conditioner and phosphate dip prior to painting, there are no unique production challenges to using an aluminum hood - and no ownership compromises either. To improve environmental efficiency, a factory separation line isolates different scrap materials (including aluminum) for recycling during the manufacturing process.

The aluminum instrument panel support saves an additional 10.5 pounds versus if constructed of traditional steel. This support structure, which connects the A-pillars to the front floor crossmember, is a structural element consisting of die cast parts, extrusions and sheet aluminum.

AERODYNAMICS

Acura MDX prototypes spent a total of seven weeks in the wind tunnel to test and develop its aerodynamic properties. The attention to detail in aerodynamic efficiency resulted in the development of body side sills that help keep air from moving underneath the vehicle which can cause turbulence. Coefficient of lift and lift balance were also addressed to help keep the MDX stable at high speeds. In this area, internal testing revealed that the MDX exceeds the aerodynamic performance of the BMW X5.

WIND NOISE

Careful attention was paid to reducing wind noise heard inside the MDX cabin. An acoustic wind tunnel was used to identify and correct noise issues, and an added benefit of wind tunnel testing was the ability to rotate the MDX sideways into the airflow. This allowed engineers to approximate even the most severe gusting side winds and solve unexpected and unwanted wind noise that could accompany such severe conditions.

The MDX's moonroof is the widest of any direct competitor. A specially tuned air deflector ensures that the moonroof does not add objectionable wind noise when in the open position— even at highway speeds. Attention to detail in the sealing of the doors and tailgate also heighten the performance of the MDX's overall wind noise level.

INSULATION

Engineers attacked noise from virtually every source inside and outside of the MDX. Their primary goal was to reduce noise at its source. One creative noise-reduction technique is the use of composite seals in the exterior door panels. These composite seals actually serve two purposes - to reduce the transmission of noise through the doors and to shield the interior components from dirt and water while driving through rain or puddles. The new door insulators provide a substantial reduction in objectionable sound— up to five decibels on some roads.

DOORS

The MDX's door handles are sized for comfort as well as ease of use, regardless whether the user is bare handed or wearing winter gloves. There are three door checker positions (the detent mechanism that holds the door partially open) instead of the usual two, thus providing a convenient "in between" position useful during tight parking situations. The door openings are finished with an attractive composite garnish that hides the doorsill when the door is open, and door striker covers are used to improve looks.

GLASS

Normally only sports cars use windshields with high compound curves. Deeply contoured glass is more complex and costly to make, thus it is usually reserved for low-production vehicles. Designers specified deeply curved glass for the MDX for its styling appeal as well as to improve aerodynamic efficiency and quietness. The 2011 MDX uses an acoustic glass front windshield that incorporates a unique PVB film to help quell wind and windshield wiper noise from entering the cabin. The rear glass is also a deep wrap-around design— the deepest in the Acura product range.

The MDX has 3.5mm thick side windows that are regulated by an auto up/down feature for the driver and front passenger windows. The 2011 MDX offers 273-degrees of outward visibility compared to 266-degrees of visibility for the BMW X5.

All glass from the B-pillar rearward has a gray tint to reduce eyestrain and to deter heat buildup inside the cabin. In addition, the outside rearview mirrors use a special blue glass that provides bright imaging along with excellent glare resistance.

XENON HID HEADLIGHTS

All 2011 Acura MDX models include as standard equipment Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) low beam front headlights with halogen high beams. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-color light balance and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers.

The 2011 MDX features as standard Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which automatically turn on with the activation of the ignition. An MDX fit with the available Advance Package features an auto-leveling feature that keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers and/or cargo.

Halogen fog lamps are also included as standard equipment on all MDX trim levels.

LED TAILLAMPS

Two Light-Emitting Diode (LED) arrays, comprised of 12 LEDs apiece, are used for the taillamps of the 2011 MDX. Similarly, the Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) features a single array of 16 LEDs. Advantages of the LED taillights include an elegant contemporary appearance, much quicker turn-on time (compared to conventional incandescent bulbs), reduced power consumption and significantly greater service life. LED lights are also brighter, smaller, lighter and produce less heat than incandescent lights.

The LED CHMSL was selected for its appearance and ability to produce the required lighting brightness while retaining slender physical dimensions. LEDs are also used in the MDX's outside mirror housing-mounted turn signals, improving visibility during lane changes or turns.

POWER TAILGATE

Acura's power-actuated tailgate is standard on all MDX models. The power tailgate can be operated via the remote key fob, from a button located on the driver's door panel, or from a button located inside the tailgate. The location of the motor in the MDX's D-pillar (instead of in the roof) allows excellent headroom for the third-row seats. The tailgate can also be operated manually.

FUEL FILLER DOOR

The MDX fuel filler door is operated remotely from inside the vehicle via a switch located on the driver's door panel. The fuel-filler door is made of a composite resin material that is lightweight, dent resistant and corrosion proof. For a better appearance, the inside of the door features a flangeless resin design.

BUMPERS

The front and rear bumpers are constructed of a large structural beam covered with a plastic fascia rated to withstand impacts of up to five mph without sustaining significant damage. An attachment point for a tow hook is located under a small cover on each bumper fascia. Removing the cover allows access to a threaded boss that accepts a steel eyebolt located in the jack storage area.
The rear bumper fascia cohesively wraps around and joins with the rear wheel arch trim for a well integrated look. In the front, the bumper fascia incorporates unique lower side scoops for improved radiator cooling along with stylish looks.

EXTERIOR PAINT

Inspired by the smooth finishes on fine pianos, Acura set out to achieve a mirror-smooth paint finish with a wet, glossy look. To advance the surface smoothness, "orange peel" (the finely undulating surface found on some paints resulting from the evaporation of the paint solvents) had to be all but eliminated.

Eight environmentally responsible waterborne exterior colors are available, and each uses a durable clear-coat finish that resists scratching and airborne pollutants.

	Interior Color
Exterior Color	Ebony	Taupe	Parchment	Umber
Aspen White Pearl		-		-
Bali Blue Pearl		-
Crystal Black Pearl	-	-		-
Dark Cherry Pearl		-
Grigio Metallic	-	-
Ionized Bronze Metallic			-	-
Palladium Metallic	-	-
Polished Metal Metallic	-	-

2011 MDX EXTERIOR ACCESSORIES

A line of Acura Genuine Accessories was developed simultaneously with the MDX to provide personalization for the Acura owner. Like all Acura Genuine Accessories, the MDX accessories are covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty if installed at the time of vehicle purchase.

2011 Acura MDX exterior accessories include:

Engine block heater
Remote engine starter
Back-up sensors
Body side molding
Door edge protection film
Door edge guards
Fender trim
Full nose mask
Hood air deflector
Front lower trim
Rear lower trim
Moonroof visor
Rear bumper appliqué
Trailer hitch and hitch ball
Bike attachment (hitch mount)
Roof rails (black or silver)
Roof rail cross bars (black or silver)
Exterior bike attachment
Kayak attachment
Luggage basket
Ski attachment
Snowboard attachment
Surfboard attachment
Advance running boards
Sport running boards
Chrome side steps
19-inch diameter aluminum wheels (chrome look)
19-inch diameter aluminum wheels (Sparkle Silver)
Wheel locks

2011 Acura MDX - Chassis

CHASSIS DEVELOPMENT

From its inception the MDX targeted the dynamics and driving feel of its strongest European competitors. The essential elements of this engineering goal included steering, suspension, braking and overall dynamic performance, as well as excellent noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control.

In the early stages of MDX development, engineers tested European luxury SUV competitors including the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML, Porsche Cayenne and Volvo XC90. These experiences provided real-world understanding of how these luxury SUVs functioned in everyday driving on their "home turf." Although later development testing was conducted in the United States, the DNA of the MDX was largely formed in Europe.

One essential tool that Acura used was the famed Nürburgring Nördschleife road circuit in Germany. This 13-mile course contains over 170 corners, numerous altitude changes and is considered the toughest natural road course in the world. Engineers used the Nürburgring as a "weakness finder" as it quickly exposes problems with a vehicle's dynamics, making them easier to identify and fix.

In order to build in a combination of increased handling agility, increased stability and comfort, the current MDX's wheelbase, tread width and suspension technology were changed from the first-generation MDX. Engineers changed the lift and squat characteristics of the suspension to provide a flatter handling. Thanks to the combination of its wheelbase and SH-AWD®, the 2011 MDX offers both exceptional high-speed stability and responsive handling.

FRONT SUSPENSION

The MDX's entire front chassis was tuned to provide the best balance of handling precision, road isolation and impact aftershake damping. MacPherson struts team with coil-over springs and lower control arms constructed of forged aluminum to reduce unsprung weight. The front subframe "floats" on rubber mounts to provide road and engine isolation, and the subframe assembly is affixed to the main body structure with heavy-duty braces. The front suspension also uses hydro-compliance bushings to provide excellent ride isolation as well as excellent chassis vibration control. Suspension and engine mounts are specifically tuned to provide minimum vibration transfer to the occupants, and the front struts employ internal rebound springs to improve ride and handling. Anti-dive properties were specially tuned to reduce impact harshness and improve ride comfort.

REAR SUSPENSION

The MDX's rear suspension is a multi-link design mounted on a separate steel subframe. Squeeze-cast aluminum uprights reduce unsprung weight, while precise trailing-arm mounting points reduce body squat during hard acceleration. Constant rate coil springs, gas-charged dampers and a stabilizer bar are tuned for the optimum combination of ride and handling. Rear subframe mounts and lateral control link bushing rates create a discrete level of lateral force steer at the rear axle. Since the SH-AWD™ system constantly varies drive torque at the rear axle, the longitudinal and lateral forcesteer properties were carefully developed for optimum response, stability and consistency.

ACTIVE DAMPER SYSTEM

Many luxury vehicles offer some type of body motion control system using air suspension, electronically controlled dampers or automatically adjustable stabilizer bars. Acura considered all of the available technologies before choosing electronically-controlled "semi active" Magneto-Rheological fluid-filled dampers as the ideal technology to maximize ride comfort and handling— all in one integrated system. Included within the available Advance Package, the Active Damper System gives the 2011 MDX an elevated level of handling precision designed to satisfy the most discriminating drivers, while maintaining a smooth and controlled ride.

The overall goal of the Active Damper System is to achieve an outstanding level of handling response while maintaining a refined level of ride comfort. This allows the driver intuitive vehicle control in a relaxed environment— free from a jarring ride, neck straining head toss and other sudden vehicle motions. This is made possible by the quick response of the dampers as controlled by computer algorithms that keep the dampers a step ahead of actual body movements.

Advantages of the Active Damper System include:

Flat cornering feel with a reduced body roll— even during spirited driving
Responsive, precise and secure steering feel
Elimination of unwanted under-damped body heave, roll and pitch motions
Improved tire adhesion, vehicle stability and road isolation

Real-Time Damper Control

The secret to the MDX's Active Damper System is its fast-acting "semi active" Magneto-Rheological fluid-filled shock absorbers. These dampers are built and tuned specifically for the MDX and offer the ability to individually adjust from minimum to maximum damping force in as little as five milliseconds (0.005 sec.). The ability to significantly change damping rate hinges on the principle of electromagnetic induction.

Each damper carries a field coil—a collar containing many windings of magnetic wire—that generates an electromagnetic field when current is passed through it. Special damper fluid contains microscopic (about 10 microns in diameter) ferric spheres that align when surrounded by an electromagnetic field, dramatically and instantly changing the effective fluid viscosity. Not only is the overall range of damping force significantly more than that of a conventional damper, but there are also hundreds of small steps available within that range.

An electronic control unit (ECU) determines the amount of electrical current that passes through the field coils via special algorithms which determine the best setting for the road conditions. The continually variable oil viscosity, combined with nearly instantaneous reaction time of the dampers, allows damping control to occur before the MDX's tires or body experience any extraneous motion.

The Active Damper System will deliver low damping when the road is smooth and the vehicle is being driven at a constant speed. Less damping reduces the amount of vibration and harshness that passes from the suspension to the body, quieting and improving the overall vehicle ride quality.

Using the dampers' 5-millisecond response time, the Active Damper System reacts to sudden changes in driver or road inputs. A high damping force achieved in this short time allows the dampers to quickly aid the coil springs and stabilizer bars in roll and pitch control, greatly improving the handling of the MDX.

The result of the improved transient handling, road isolation and body control afforded by the MDX's Active Damper System is a noticeable reduction in the driver's workload. In short, the system is able to achieve the benefits of a sport-tuned suspension without the traditional ride comfort trade-off. The overall benefit is more driving enjoyment, better vehicle control and less passenger fatigue over a long drive.

The computer algorithms that control the Active Damper System were specially created for the MDX and offer a substantial difference between Comfort and Sport modes. Thus, drivers whose primary interest is comfort will be coddled over most road conditions, while those interested in a sport-driving experience will find the MDX ready to tackle challenging roads.

The Active Damper System does not require any special maintenance, has no scheduled replacement interval and maintains the same quality, durability and performance as all other Acura components.

POWER RACK & PINION STEERING

Of the luxury SUVs that Acura targeted in developing the MDX, the BMW X5 offered the best steering quality. Acura set out to exceed the BMW's combination of linearity, precise feel and security at high speed by using torque-sensing, power-assist rack-and-pinion steering.

Acura engineers spent considerable time studying steering "on-center" feel in an effort to elevate the quality of steering feedback the driver receives. Beyond offering the correct steering effort level, the MDX provides subtle transient steering feedback that is an integral part of its subjective handling quality. Notable geometry changes include increasing the rake and trail over the previous MDX to provide a stronger steering feel.

WHEELS AND TIRES

The 2011 Acura MDX has standard 18x8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels finished in luxurious silver with a bright-machined face and a chromed Acura center cap. With the standard MDX, fitted to the 18-inch wheels are Bridgestone Dueler H/L 400 P255/55R18 104H M+S all-season tires that were specially developed by Bridgestone for the MDX. These tires offer a significant traction improvement in dry and wet conditions, while maintaining the previous MDX's level of snow/ice traction. The MDX with Technology Package uses the same 18x8-inch wheels, but makes use of Michelin Latitude Tour HP P255/55R18 M+S tires.

Available with the Advance Package are 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels with Michelin Latitude Tour HP P255/50R19 all-season tires that were specially developed for the MDX by Michelin engineers. The tires offer outstanding traction in dry and wet conditions, while maintaining a high level of snow/ice traction. Of particular interest, the MDX's tires have been specially designed to deliver a 5-percent reduction in rolling resistance— thus helping to improve fuel economy.

4-WHEEL DISC BRAKES

The 4-wheel disc brakes on the 2011 MDX are the largest brake system ever featured on a production Acura vehicle, an honor shared with the ZDX. The brake system is engineered to provide best-in-class braking performance in dry conditions, as well as while driving in rain, snow or icy conditions.

Engineers benchmarked the Acura MDX against top competitors including the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5 for braking performance and overall pedal feel. As a result, the MDX has minimal pedal travel and a firm pedal feel, in keeping with the sport-minded direct feel that enthusiast drivers desire. The ventilated front brake rotors measure 13.0-inches in diameter with a thickness of 1.1 inches, while the rear rotors are a 13.1-inch diameter solid design with a thickness of 0.43 inch. The front brake calipers are dual-piston design while single-piston calipers are used in the rear.

The MDX has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist as standard equipment. In addition, a Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™) is available as part of the Advance Package.

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST™ (VSA®) WITH TRACTION CONTROL

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is included as standard equipment on the MDX. By continually monitoring the vehicle's operating parameters (such as road speed, throttle position, steering wheel angle, accelerating/braking/cornering loads), VSA® detects if the vehicle is experiencing oversteer or understeer. To help correct either of these situations, VSA® automatically reduces engine power output as needed, and applies one or more brakes individually to help stabilize the chassis. The VSA® response is so quick that the instability may be corrected even before the driver knows that it is occurring. Traction Control is integrated into VSA® and helps the MDX accelerate smoothly on low traction surfaces. As described in detail within the SH-AWD™ section, VSA® works with SH-AWD™ to adjust engine torque distribution— thus allowing Direct Yaw Control of the MDX to maximize stability under all driving conditions.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)

An onboard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warns the driver if the air pressure decreases significantly in any tire. The system helps reduce the chance of damaging a tire or losing control of the vehicle due to low air pressure. Such pressure monitoring is important because a slow leak (such as one that might be caused by a nail or road debris) might not be easily detectable— but over time could cause significant air loss, reduction of grip and potentially a blowout.

TPMS uses a small sensor mounted on each wheel that continually monitors tire pressure and sends a coded signal to the TPMS electronic control unit (ECU). The process begins with a signal initiator located inboard of each tire on the chassis that sends a unique signal for each TPMS sensor. The TPMS sensor then sends tire pressure data to the TPMS ECU, which compares the values for each tire's pressure against an acceptable range of pressures.

When a tire's pressure drops significantly below the proper level, a "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE" alert will appear on the Multi-Information Display (MID) screen. The TPMS system can display the air pressure in all four tires simultaneously via the MID, making it simple to locate a specific low-pressure tire. If there is a fault in the system, a "CHECK TPMS SYSTEM" alert appears.

At the driver's preference, the Multi-Information Display can continually show the air pressure in all four tires as the vehicle is driven. Regardless of whether the driver chooses to monitor the pressures, a warning will still occur if a tire drops a specified level.

OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY

Acura took thorough measures to ensure that off-road enthusiasts would be satisfied with the MDX. The 2011 MDX meets design criteria developed for the original MDX, which was based on research at different off-road areas across the country. This research was the foundation for specific minimum performance criteria for the MDX, including travel through standing water nearly 19-inches deep, generous approach and departure angles (22.2-degrees front and 23.8-degrees rear), and the ability to ascend off road and paved grades up to 60-percent. Components located underneath the MDX are tucked away to help avoid damage in off-highway driving, and the evaporative canister is protected by a high-strength steel guard.

The high-torque 3.7L V-6 engine, SH-AWD® system with hill logic and computer-controlled traction control capabilities help the MDX meet typical off-road challenges without the need for a low-range transfer case or special gears. Moreover, the 2011 MDX outperforms the first generation MDX without the need for a driver-selected 4WD "lock" mode.

SNOW AND ICE CAPABILITY

The same technologies that make the MDX capable off-road also enhance its performance in snow and ice. SH-AWD® with Grade Logic Control and computer-controlled traction control work together with the M+S tires to maximize power delivered to the road surface (and thus driver control) during winter driving conditions.

NOISE, VIBRATION & HARSHNESS (NVH)

The MDX uses an array of technologies to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) within the passenger cabin. Acura began by attacking vibration in the body during the engineering phase instead of simply adding materials to the body to damp it out later. Two examples of this process are the rear suspension mounting points (which are now attached to the unit body for greater rigidity and reduced vibration) and the stiffening of the front and rear subframes, which allow the mounting bushings to be made softer.

Engineers paid strict attention to addressing two specific issues - concrete road noise and drumming - neither of which is acceptable to luxury customers. By nature SUVs are susceptible to drumming noises in the cabin interior because of their large open area. Where necessary, meltsheets are used in critical areas on the front bulkhead and floor, and lighter insulators are used on the bodysides, doors and roof. A hybrid carpet and padding system further reduces noise intrusion by balancing the transmission loss and absorption properties of the carpet.

To verify that the results were on target, engineers shook the MDX body and measured vibration by scanning the floor with lasers to find any "hot spots". This scanning process provided exact information on where to focus efforts. As a result, the MDX is 20-percent stiffer and quieter than the previous version, registering just 64 dBA at 60 mph.

TOWING

With a rated towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the MDX can pull a boat or camper trailer with confidence. Standard towing equipment includes a high-capacity radiator with twin 160-watt electric cooling fans, an automatic transmission fluid cooler, a heavy-duty power-steering cooler and pre-wiring for an electric brake controller. A Towing Package is available as dealer-installed accessory and includes a Class III receiver assembly, hitch, ball and wiring harness.

One of Acura's durability tests involved towing a 5,000-pound trailer in Death Valley National Park during summer, including repeated climbs up Townes Pass and Daylight Pass with outside air temperatures between 113- and 120-degrees F. Testers also targeted the toughest boat ramp they could find - at Shasta Lake in Northern California - where the launch ramp is extremely steep, and its length varies depending on the lake level. They also proved the MDX trailer-pulling skills elsewhere in California as well as in Kentucky and West Virginia.

Trailer STABILITY Assist

Every 2011 MDX comes standard with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) that includes special Trailer Stability Assist algorithms. Trailer Stability Assist interprets oscillation (or wag) in the vehicle/trailer combination while driving. Such oscillation may occur if the trailer is not loaded correctly, or during certain speed and road conditions. Using a combination of torque reduction and individual brake application, Trailer Stability Assist activates to stabilize the vehicle after sensing oscillations of the vehicle and trailer system.

MANUFACTURING

The 2011 Acura MDX is assembled at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. A special dynamic quality-control process is employed to ensure the highest possible level of attention to detail for every MDX produced. After assembly is completed, each MDX enters a special Acura Quality line. The ability to immediately respond to the smallest issue allows the MDX to excel in quality— and in customer satisfaction.

ENVIRONMENT

For years, Acura vehicles have successfully met ever more stringent guidelines to reduce the content of harmful metals (such as chromium and lead) used, along with reducing volatile organic compounds (VOC) and polyvinyl chlorides (PVC). To reduce environmental impact at the factory, a special separation line isolates different manufacturing scrap materials for recycling. The latest MDX marks the first Acura to use a mercury-free Navigation display screen, which features LED backlighting instead of traditional cold cathode backlighting.

2011 Acura MDX - Interior

OVERVIEW

The core themes of driving enthusiasm, intelligent functionality, top technology and luxury are clearly evidenced in the MDX interior. The MDX blends sport sedan intensity with the best elements of SUV utility. In keeping with Acura tradition, the MDX integrates the latest technology into a seamlessly intuitive package that puts the emphasis on driving.

The power actuated driver seat adjusts 10 ways (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) for optimum comfort, and the front passenger seat is 8-way power adjustable. The 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 rear cargo compartment and a standard power-operated rear tailgate.

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. Widespread use of LED lighting for the interior and instrumentation combine with Acura's legendary attention to function and feel to make the MDX driver seat the place to be.

Standard with MDX is an 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio and Bluetooth® Audio. Also standard is an auxiliary jack interface (for portable MP3 music players). The standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface makes it easy to send and receive telephone calls on a compatible cellular phone without the driver needing to remove hands from the steering wheel or look away from the road. Also standard is an auto-dimming rearview mirror that includes an integrated rearview camera display.

The Technology Package adds a range of advanced features designed to offer drivers increased connectivity to the world around them along with added driving enjoyment. Inside, luxurious full-grain Milano premium leather covers the seating surfaces. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ system uses an 8-inch full VGA, LED-backlit, high-resolution color display positioned high up in the center of the instrument panel where it is close to the driver's line of sight while remaining shrouded from glare. With navigation data stored on a built-in hard disk drive (HDD) media storage device, the navigation system boots up and operates with impressive speed.

The navigation system includes AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ along with the AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ including weather radar image maps. For the ultimate in connectivity, the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System allows direct communication between the MDX and Acura, including the ability to make automated appointments for vehicle service.

Acura's renowned Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system is part of the Technology Package, featuring a 410-watt Digital Sound Processor amplifier, a 10-speaker surround sound array, along with 15-gigabytes of dedicated hard disk drive (HDD) space that allows the MDX owner to download and store about 3,500 songs* for later playback. The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers DVD-Audio, CD player, DTS™, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio and AUX jack connectivity.

The available Entertainment Package includes a DVD Rear Entertainment System complete with a motorized 9-inch full VGA color screen (with 400-percent improved resolution versus traditional screens), dual wireless headphones, wireless illuminated remote control and 115-volt plug located in the center console.

The available Advance Package interior includes everything in the Technology Package, and adds perforated Milano premium leather front seating surface inserts, ventilated front seats and a steering wheel with unique design racing-inspired paddle shifters. The Advance Package also includes the Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Active Damper System and blind spot information system (BSI).

*Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.0 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

Interior at a Glance

Rich and engaging cockpit designed for performance driving features high-quality surface finishes and materials
4+3 seating design
Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls
and racing-inspired paddle shifters
LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
High-resolution Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
Auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated rearview camera display
10-way adjustable power-activated driver seat
8-way adjustable power-activated front passenger seat
Heated front seats
Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system
Automatic humidity control system
Power tilt and telescoping steering column
Electronic cruise control
253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with 8-speakers, 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio, Bluetooth® Audio and AUX jack connectivity
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface
2-position memory function (for seating position, mirror adjustments, radio presets, climate control settings, MID presets, and more)
LED interior illumination and map lights

Technology Package

Full-grain Milano leather seating surfaces
Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™
8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display with LED backlighting
Multi-view rear camera
AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System
AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™
AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps
Interface dial provides quick, intuitive access to navigation and audio features
Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker audio system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD/MP3/WMA player, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio, 15 GB of hard disk drive (HDD) media storage space, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, Song By Voice™(SBV), Dolby Pro Logic II and a 410-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier
GPS-linked, solar-sensing, tri-zone, automatic climate control system with air filtration and humidity control

Advance Package (includes all of the features of the Technology Package)

Blind spot information system (BSI)
Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Exclusive 19x8.5-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels
Active Damper System (ADS)
Integrated Dynamics System (IDS)
Perforated Milano premium full-grain leather front seating surfaces with high-damping front-seat cushion foam with contrasting stitching
Ventilated front seats (in addition to heat)
Steering wheel with unique color paddle shifters
Auto-leveling front headlights

Entertainment Package (available with Technology and/or Advance Package)

Rear Entertainment System (RES) with motorized full VGA color screen, DVD player, wireless headphones, remote control and AUX jacks
115-volt power outlet located in the center console
Heated second-row outboard seats

CONCEPT AND STYLING

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

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. The MDX's console-mounted straight gate transmission shifter is intuitive to operate and racing-inspired paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel provide fingertip control of the 6-speed automatic transmission.

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

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 stealthfully. Nested headrests in the second row seats provide a clean appearance and, in the third row, allow the seat to be folded flat without the need to remove the headrests.

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 creaetes a zone of luxury for the front passenger. Rich textures interplay with sleek metallic accents in the MDX interior to create an atmosphere of luxury and advanced technology.

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.

SEATING

In keeping with its 4+3 seating design, the MDX offers two types of seating design. To provide a blend of sporting support and comfort for four passengers, the MDX has deeply-bolstered sport sedan seating in front and in the outboard second-row positions. The front bucket seats and outboard rear seats have pronounced side bolsters to provide lateral support for cornering, along with abundant comfort for long drives.

On the Advance Package, the front seats feature a specific type of seat base foam that improves damping of small vibrations for improved comfort.

The driver seat is 10-way power adjustable (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) and is part of a 2-driver automatic memory system that includes settings for the exterior mirrors, climate control and electronic presets. The front passenger seat is 8-way power adjustable. Both front seats are heated and, with the MDX's Entertainment Package, the second row outboard seats are heated as well.

For easy access to the third row of seats, the passenger-side second-row seat slides forward and the seatbacks flip forward.

SEATING SURFACES

The available Technology Package features the use of Milano premium leather seating surfaces for the first and second row seats that utilize a soft and flexible tanning system, solid embossing and color coating. The result is a softer, richer feel coupled with excellent durability.

For an even sportier look and feel, the Advance Package features breathable, perforated Milano premium leather in the front seats, which also assist the ventilated seat function. In addition, contrasting color French seams on the center armrest, door armrest, and seats are part of the Advance Package trims.

The Milano premium leather included in the Technology and Advance Package is the softest leather ever offered in an Acura. This full grain leather has not been corrected or altered and shows the natural leather grain. A soft, flexible coating system provides maximum softness while retaining excellent abrasion resistance.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The MDX's power-adjustable tilt/telescope steering wheel is wrapped in premium smooth-grain leather with Lancia-style stitching. Within fingertip reach are a pair of LED illuminated, racing-inspired paddle shifters that upshift and downshift the Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission.

The steering wheel incorporates the most commonly used controls, allowing the driver to keep hands on the wheel a larger percentage of time. Audio system controls are positioned on the left spoke, along with a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system that provides voice control of navigation, climate control and audio system features. Also on the left are controls for Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system. Located on the right spoke are controls for the MID and cruise control.

The Advance Package includes a steering wheel with larger shift paddles with grippy elastomer rubber backs and silver coloring. In addition, the steering wheel has an added Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) button on the lower right side and revised MID control buttons.

Straight-gate shifter assembly

The 2011 MDX employs a straight-gate transmission shifter assembly (located in the center console) that has an intuitive, easy-to-use design. The shifter allows the driver to choose D (Drive) or S (Sport), the latter of which activates more aggressive transmission shift programming.

INTERIOR CONVENIENCE and utility

Thoughtful features abound in the MDX interior. The front center console has individual armrests for driver and passenger to allow for storage access without disturbing the other armrest. In the second row, the flip-down padded center console features pullout dual cup holders. All four doors offer storage pockets, and storage for sunglasses is provided in the front overhead console. Storage pockets and cupholders add convenience to the third row seating area. Under-floor storage, grocery bag hooks and cargo tie-down points boost cargo area usefulness.

The MDX interior offers an array of storage and convenience features for the driver and passengers. The front center console is internally illuminated, includes a 12-volt power point and a USB port (as part of the Technology Package) that allows for easy connectivity of an iPod®, iPhone® or a removable mass storage device. The USB port is located alongside an analog AUX jack (that allows connectivity of MP3 music players) within the center console.

CARGO CARRYING VERSATILITY

The MDX easily adapts to a variety of missions. In all, there are six possible configurations for the MDX's three rows of seating. Behind the rear seats, there is 15 cubic feet of storage that is easily accessible though a rear hatch with a power-operated tailgate. With the 50/50 third row seats folded flat (the headrests can be left in place), the cargo capacity jumps to 42.9 cubic feet. For the maximum cargo volume of 83.5 cubic feet, the 60/40 split flat-folding second row seats can also be folded down, producing a flat load floor in the rear.

POWER TAILGATE

Acura's power tailgate system is included as standard on all MDX models. The power tailgate can be operated via the remote key fob, from a button on the driver's door panel, or from a button located inside the tailgate. The location of the lift motor in the MDX's D-pillar (instead of in the roof) allows excellent headroom for the third-row seats. The tailgate can also be operated manually.

interior lighting

Significant engineering went into the MDX's interior lighting to provide clear visibility, the right ambience and optimized illumination levels regardless of outside lighting. The analog instruments are LED backlit, with high-contrast markings and a subdued blue accent hue. Transparent illuminated pointers provide clarity and a high-end look. Auto Interior Dimming automatically and progressively adjusts the instrument and navigation system (if so equipped) illumination to suit the outside lighting conditions. The sensitivity is owner-adjustable to one of five different levels, or interior dimming may be switched off entirely.

The MDX has a progressive self-illuminating gauge package. When the door is first opened, the instrument lighting comes to life and then brightens progressively when the ignition is switched on. The illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights then come alive, indicating that the MDX is ready to drive. When the ignition key is switched off, the instrument lighting dims progressively.

For easy locating in the dark, all of the MDX's switches are illuminated, including those on all four doors and the steering wheel. Low-level blue LED ambient lighting in the ceiling and floors (for driver and front passenger) illuminates the front center console and LED map lights are provided for all three rows of seats. A dome light is provided above the third-row seats. All four doors have courtesy lights that are illuminated when the doors are open and the rear tailgate has two lights that illuminate the area immediately behind the vehicle for easier cargo loading. The MDX interior lights feature "theater dimming," which can be set via the MID by the driver to any of three dimming times.

TRI-ZONE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

To maximize passenger comfort, the MDX has standard tri-zone automatic climate control that allows the driver, front passenger and rear zone to be set to different temperatures. Rear zone controls are conveniently positioned at the rear of the center console. With the touch of a button, the driver can synchronize the rear temperature with that of the driver area at any time.

When equipped with the Technology Package, the climate control benefits from GPS-linked, solar-sensing actuation. Based on continuously updated vehicle position information, the navigation system determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger. When in AUTO mode, this information is combined with input from the solar sensor located on top of the instrument panel to automatically adjust the system output from side to side as needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar heating.

Humidity Control System
To help avoid window fogging, the MDX's automatic climate control system has a cabin humidity control system. This new control system provides greater passenger comfort and minimizes the time the air conditioning runs. When set to operate in AUTO mode, a temperature and humidity sensor located in the front of the passenger cabin monitors the interior climate. If the system determines that there is a low probability of window fogging, it maintains a comfortable humidity level of around 20-percent.

If the system determines that potential window fogging conditions exist, it changes the climate control parameters to help keep the windows clear. In these situations, the air conditioning system is set to MAX, the air outlet mode is switched to HEAT/DEF and the fan speed is gradually increased to reduce the chances of window fogging.

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY and Maintenance Minder™

Positioned between the tachometer and speedometer, a Multi-Information Display (MID) gives the MDX driver instant access to important information. Controls positioned on the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the MID display through multiple screens of information. With a large screen area, high resolution and the ability to display varying font sizes, the MID is clear and easy to interpret.

There are two individual trip computers built into the MID system, with easy tracking of overall mileage, individual trip mileage, average fuel economy, average speed, fuel range and elapsed time. The MID also displays outside air temperature as well as remaining percentage of engine oil life. The Maintenance Minder™ system alerts the MDX driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the MID and should a fault occur with the vehicle, specific warning information will appear. The MID also allows the driver to set a variety of preferences for different MDX systems.

REARVIEW CAMERA

When the MDX transmission is placed in Reverse gear, the view from a rear-mounted camera is displayed on a video screen built into the auto-dimming rearview mirror. To make it easier for the driver to judge distance and clearance, solid yellow on-screen guidelines indicate the vehicle's width, as well as distances of 1, 2 and 3 meters as measured from the rear of the MDX. In addition, a dotted yellow line marks off the distance required to open the rear hatch.

When equipped with the available Navigation system (as part of the Technology Package), a multi-view camera is standard and projects one of three different rear views on the in-dash 8-inch full VGA color navigation screen.

The primary view is "Normal View," which delivers 130-degrees of rearward visibility. For special conditions, there is the "Wide View," which delivers 175-degrees of rearward visibility. Finally, the "Top Down View" generates a straight-down look at the trailer hitch area or parking area— thus greatly easing alignment of the trailer or helping when maneuvering in tight parking spaces.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE

The overhead console incorporates a variety of useful features. Controls for the standard HomeLink® system are positioned here within easy reach. This latest generation of HomeLink® is simpler to program. Other overhead console features include sunglasses storage, controls for interior lighting and the power tilt/slide moonroof.

253-WATT ACURA PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEM

To give owners excellent sound quality along with the ability to enjoy a wide range of audio formats, the MDX comes standard with a 253-watt Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA changer and 8 speakers, including an 8-inch subwoofer.

Positioned just below the center instrument panel vents, the audio system has large-format controls that make the system easy to operate. The audio system sends a total of 253 watts of power through six channels and eight speakers. The instrument panel has a 1.5-inch soft-dome tweeter positioned on each side, with a 3-inch mid-range polypropylene cone speaker centered atop the dashboard. Mid/low-range is handled by 6.5-inch dual thickness polypropylene-cone speakers that are positioned in each door, and low bass is handled by an 8-inch subwoofer located in a tuned enclosure within the sidewall of the rear cargo compartment.

The CD player can play a variety of formats including traditional CD, CD-R/RW, CD-Text and MP3/WMA discs. Embedded text information on CDs can be seen on the audio system display. To make a high-quality audio connection simple for owners with personal music players, the MDX has an auxiliary input jack located nearby to a 12-volt power outlet. The AUX connection requires the portable music player to be controlled via the device's own interface (though the MDX's audio system can control volume). Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC) automatically adjusts as road speed increases to maintain a clear and comfortable sound level. The amount of volume compensation can be set to three different levels or turned off completely.

XM® Radio
The MDX audio system includes an XM® Radio receiver, which provides more than 130 channels of digital program material and near-CD quality sound. XM® Radio offers virtually uninterrupted coast-to-coast coverage within the 48 contiguous states and coverage to densely populated regions of Canada; service for Alaska and Hawaii is not available at this time. Three months of complimentary XM® service is provided, and when equipped with the Technology Package or Advance Package, the complimentary period also includes AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™. After the complimentary period, XM® Radio requires a monthly subscription.

XM® programming includes channels devoted to music, sports, talk, traffic, weather, children's programming and entertainment. Of the 130 XM® channels, 69 are commercial-free. When the MDX's audio system plays XM®, the display screen shows the current station, song title, or artist's name.

The MDX's audio system can also play Bluetooth® Audio when paired with a compatible device. Bluetooth® Audio is a wireless music transfer format that is separate from Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, which is often used for telephone voice communication.

ACURA/ELS SURROUND® PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM

The MDX with Technology Package or Advance Package is equipped with a spectacular Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system with 10 speakers and an impressive 410 watts of power. In addition to providing exceptional audio performance, the Acura/ELS® audio system is designed to be simple to operate. Clear, large-format head-unit controls and convenient steering-wheel-mounted controls make operation intuitive. Select audio system functions can also be accomplished via voice commands.

The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers Song By Voice™ (SBV), which allows the driver to make music selections for music on an iPod® or on the HDD by simply speaking the artist name, song name or other selection categories. In addition, a phonetic modification feature allows the MDX owner to specially program phonetically challenging song artist name(s) to be more easily recognized.

The MDX audio system plays DVD-Audio discs, an advance in reproduction technology that delivers over 500-times higher resolution than traditional CD audio. DVD-Audio delivers smoother, fuller and far more accurate sound through six discrete channels. The DVD-Audio system will not play DVD-V or DVD movies. The system also includes Dolby ProLogic II to create a surrounding experience from a variety of music sources.

The Acura/ELS® audio system gets its name from multi-time Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner's recording industry-recognized moniker "ELS®." Scheiner's goal in the development of the MDX audio system was to capture and reproduce music the way it is heard in a professional recording studio. The sophisticated ELS® system Scheiner developed together with Panasonic is designed to provide true studio quality sound within the MDX.

The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system can play material from a wide variety of sources:

Single disc player:
- DVD-Audio
- CD audio
- DTS CD
- MP3 or WMA files (on CD or DVD)
3,500-song*, 15-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) media storage space (including audio track information provided by Gracenote®)
AM/FM radio with Radio Data System (RDS)
XM® Radio with Note function music reminder
Bluetooth® Audio
USB port connectivity for items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or removable USB mass storage device
Auxiliary jack connectivity for a portable MP3 player

*Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.0 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

The Acura/ELS® audio system's wide range of formats enables it to play audio material from most common sources. The addition of a hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system means that the MDX owner can download CDs directly to 15-GB of dedicated hard drive storage for later playback. Once the CDs are downloaded to the HDD, the MDX owner no longer needs to carry a bulky collection of CDs. Only original CDs and uncompressed CD-R files can be copied to the hard drive. Other formats such as DVD-Audio, MP3/WMA, DTS CD, USB, Bluetooth® audio and AUX inputs can not be recorded to the hard drive.

The audio system's AM/FM radio tuner includes the Radio Data System (RDS). RDS allows digital information sent in many FM radio broadcasts to display on the vehicle stereo items such as program information, artist/song name and time. XM® Radio with Note feature is integrated into the receiver and also provides informational text regarding the XM® program material.

Speakers/amplification
The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system's 10 speakers create an accurate and dynamic listening experience for all MDX seating positions. Compact 1.5-inch soft-dome tweeters are positioned in each A-pillar with a 3-inch Super Dynamic Range (SDR) driver centered in the top of the instrument panel. A 6.5-inch SDR driver is positioned low in each door panel. Two forward-firing 3-inch speakers are positioned in the rear roof pillars— one on each side. An 8-inch diameter subwoofer driven by a dedicated 100-watt amplifier is placed under the rear cargo floor and is mounted within a special 9-liter acoustic enclosure. The subwoofer provides powerful bass response and very low distortion over an extended frequency range. A 410-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier drives the speaker array.

Hard Disc Drive
The MDX has a total of 60-gigabytes of hard disk drive (HDD) media storage space with 15-gigabytes dedicated to music storage (enough to hold about 3,500 songs*), with the balance of the HDD's capacity used for the navigation system. The hard drive's fast file-access time speeds search and retrieval of audio tracks, and allows tracks to be shuffled by album, artist and genre. On-board information provided by Gracenote® (formerly CDDB®) allows the system to display the song artist, album name, track name, and genre for the program material that is stored on the hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. Gracenote® uses a multi-step recognition method to enable identification, categorization and organization of digital music. The Gracenote® database is updated quarterly to include new audio releases. The MDX owner can download Gracenote® updates at www.acura.com, and then load the updates onto a USB thumb drive or CD-R which, in turn, can be downloaded into the MDX's audio system. Without the Gracenote® update, new audio tracks will play on the Acura/ELS® system, but will play without accompanying text information on genre, artist, album name and track name.

*Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.0 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

Connectivity
The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers USB port connectivity for use of external items such as an iPod® or removable USB mass storage devices. Located within the center console, the USB port can charge a device while simultaneously transferring information to the audio system. Compatible USB-connected devices can be operated via the audio controls, with filenames and folders appearing on the audio system's text display. In addition, an AUX input jack (with a nearby 12-volt power source) allows for the connection of an external audio source such as an MP3 player.

Moreover, the Acura/ELS® audio system can play Bluetooth® audio when paired with a compatible device. (Bluetooth® audio is a music format that is separate from Bluetooth® used for telephone voice communication.) These devices can be operated and navigated via the audio system's controls.

Note Function for XM®
The MDX's audio system includes the Note function for XM® Radio which is designed to be a convenience for owners who want to make note of songs heard on XM®. With the touch of a button, the Note function for XM® Radio records the current song title and artist name in text form, along with a short audio excerpt of the song.

The Note function captures up to 10 seconds of each selected song and can store a total of 30 song excerpts for later playback. Thus, if the MDX driver likes a particular song or artist, it's easy to note (and refer back to it) for later consideration.

Song By Voice™
With so much audio content available with the MDX's hard drive and in a user's iPod®, Acura engineers set out to make it easy to choose audio content while driving. Song By Voice™ (SBV) lets the driver choose music by artist, album, track name, genre, playlist and even composer.
From most navigation screens, the driver simply presses the "TALK" button on the steering wheel and then says "iPod Search" or "HDD Search." A category screen appears, and the user can choose by voice among categories to select the content they want. Alternately, selections can also be made using the interface dial. To improve voice recognition performance with unique words, the system has a feature that accommodates phonetic adjustment for up to 2,000 names. These updated phonetic names then apply to Song By Voice™ use of the hard drive or a connected iPod®.

BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK® WIRELESS TELEPHONE INTERFACE

All Acura vehicles have a standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® telephone interface system that is designed to work with a wide variety of Bluetooth® enabled mobile telephones. Bluetooth® is a radio frequency-based technology that allows portable devices (such as cellular telephones, PDAs, laptops and other devices) to communicate wirelessly over a limited distance. The MDX's HandsFreeLink® system is compatible with Bluetooth®-enabled cellular phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). (Some early Bluetooth®-enabled phones do not have this communications protocol, but most newly released phones have HFP.) After the driver completes a one-time pairing process, the MDX can communicate wirelessly with the driver's cell phone when it is within approximately 10 feet of the vehicle. The telephone needs to be on (with Bluetooth connectivity enabled), but can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase, purse, or anywhere inside the MDX cabin.

With Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® the MDX driver can answer or make telephone calls without removing their hands from the steering wheel. When a call comes in, the incoming caller's telephone number is displayed on the Multi-Information Display (MID). In addition, a phone ring tone can be played over the audio system. If the driver chooses to answer the phone call, a press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the MDX's audio system speakers. On Technology Package models, a special overhead array microphone cancels "echo effect" and reduces background noise to improve the transmission quality of the driver's speech when using the HandsFreeLink® system.

By activating the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system using fingertip controls mounted on the steering wheel, the driver can dial a telephone number by voice. The driver also can store frequently called numbers in the system's memory using unique voice tags. Up to six different compatible mobile telephones (each with a unique "user profile") can be paired at one time with the MDX's Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system. Each phone profile has its own password-protected call history, phonebook, speed dials and voice tags. With a single paired phone and the proper password for each profile, a user can access any of the other profiles. This convenient feature means that a person who carries both a work cellular phone and personal cellular phone can easily access both profiles from either telephone.

When equipped with the available navigation system (Technology Package or Advance Package), some HandsFreeLink® functions are displayed on the high-resolution navigation system screen. This provides a versatile interface for HandsFreeLink® operation. The system can also import a compatible cellular telephone's phonebook (over 1,000 entries), allowing the data to be more easily searched via the 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color screen. Additional HandsFreeLink® information can be found at www.acura.com/handsfreelink.

ACURA NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH VOICE RECOGNITION™

MDX models equipped with the Technology Package or the Advance Package have the latest generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ which features a multi-view rear camera.

Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ features summary:

8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display with LED backlight
Ultra-fast 60 gigabyte hard-drive data storage
Coverage includes the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico
Fast Point Of Interest (POI) search time
AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ (powered by XM NavTraffic®)
AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ (powered by XM NavWeather®)
Voice recognition function with over 700 navigation commands minimizes the need for manual character entry
Voice recognition system recognizes city and street names as spoken words
Simple system operation with clear visual prompts to guide voice navigation
Interface dial simplifies control of the system and is accessible to driver and front seat passenger
Audio system automatically mutes for turn-by-turn voice guidance (voice guidance can be turned off at any time)
Voice Recognition™ operates common audio and climate control functions
Highly directional array microphone for precise Voice Command recognition
On-screen picture of highway interchanges indicates which lane(s) to use to stay on route
3 languages for all destinations (English, French and Spanish)
Destination memory recalls current trip addresses, previous destinations and user address books
Split-screen mode features a simultaneous "map view" and selective route visualization
Trip routing can avoid user-selected areas
Make telephone calls to on-screen points of interest with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
Trip routing can include up to five user-chosen way points
Ambient light sensing automatically adjusts screen brightness for the conditions
Multi-view rear camera provides rearward view with parking guidelines on navigation screen when transmission is in Reverse
Navigation system can be updated with available DVD
Store and display owner image files as wallpaper on navigation screen (store up to 10 images each for Driver 1 and Driver 2)

Enhanced database:

Point Of Interest (POI) database includes approximately 7 million locations
Fuzzy logic POI and address searching simplifies and speeds searches
Smart logic for restaurant POI simplifies searching
Business and recreation directory of virtually all of the continental United States complete with telephone numbers
ZIP code entry speeds address input
Directory categories include restaurants (searchable by type of cuisine), lodging, shopping, airports, hospitals, recreation areas and much more
Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide provides detailed information and reviews on restaurants in database, which can be read on-screen or heard on the audio system
Scenic Route drive route listings categorized by individual state
Exact addressing locates approximately 80-percent of addresses at their actual GPS coordinates (rather than estimating location based on linear street number)
Destinations are searchable by GPS coordinates

System Operation

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ tracks the MDX's position based on data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS). If GPS reception is blocked by a tall building, tunnel, or parking garage, an internal gyroscopic system with a speed sensor tracks the location of the MDX to keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored.

The MDX's navigation system stores its mapping data on an internal hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. The same drive is also partitioned and used by the audio system to store audio files. Much faster than the DVD drive used on many other systems, the MDX's hard drive is the key to the system's impressive search and routing speed. The system can be updated annually with the latest mapping information by inserting an update disc into the audio system's slot-loading CD/DVD drive. DVD update discs are available for purchase on an annual basis at www.acura.com or by calling 888-549-3798.

The navigation system can be controlled via the interface dial by choosing menu options or by spelling out a word (e.g., an address, business name or place). Characters on an on-screen keypad can be selected using the Interface Dial. For voice operation, the driver simply presses the "Talk" button on the steering wheel and says any of a number of preset command phrases. The system responds to over 700 command phrases, as well as to spoken city and street names. Voice recognition capability saves time and simplifies operation of the system.
The audio system is automatically muted when the "Talk" button is pressed, and an overhead array microphone receives the command from the driver. Commands can be given in plain English— such as "Display gas stations," "Find nearest hospital," or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." The MDX's voice recognition technology allows the owner to simply speak city and street names aloud, and the system responds by displaying matches available in the database. Points of interest on the map (such as restaurants or grocery stores) can be displayed or you can have the navigation system provide turn-by-turn navigation— all by voice command. The massive point-of-interest (POI) database includes telephone numbers, which can be dialed by using the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system or dialed with the driver's cellular telephone.

Wallpaper image display
To further customize the MDX's interior, the navigation system allows the storage of up to 10 images each for each driver (two drivers total) on the built-in hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. Any one of the stored images can be displayed as a full-screen image on the navigation display when the display is not otherwise in use. To avoid driver distraction, there is no "slide show" function. J-peg images can be loaded from a computer onto a USB storage device— such as a thumb drive. The thumb drive can then be connected to the MDX's USB port that is located within the center console. Using on-screen menus, the images can be transferred to the MDX's internal HDD. Each driver can then choose among their stored images for display, or set the system to not display wallpaper.

AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System

The Technology Package or Advance Packages include the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System (within the 48 contiguous United States). AcuraLink® allows two-way communication between Acura and the MDX, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.
Once the owner has enabled its data-transmission function, the owner's Bluetooth® telephone is used in cases where communication from the car to the Acura Telematics server is needed. In addition, while driving, the AcuraLink® system conveniently allows the MDX owner to make automated appointments for vehicle service. The data connection from the server to the vehicle is enabled even if the monthly XM® service package is not in effect.

Each AcuraLink® message is prioritized by importance, with high priority messages displayed immediately while normal messages trigger a message icon on the navigation display. To avoid distraction, some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up. The owner can choose to read or listen to a message immediately, or archive it to be retrieved at a later time. AcuraLink® messages consist of a limited amount of text plus expanded details via Text-To-Speech.

Messages that can be sent to the MDX include Maintenance Minder® (detailed information regarding the next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help maximize the benefit of MDX features), Feature Guide (supplements to the MDX Owner's Manual) and Diagnostic Info (detailed information and instructions should an onboard system issue arise). The MDX owner has complete control over the types of messages they receive. All AcuraLink® preferences can be set via the Owner Link™ website (www.ahm-ownerlink.com).

AcuraLink® can provide the owner with important information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if a warning light should appear on the MDX instrument panel, AcuraLink® can automatically send a trouble code along with the sensor data associated with the fault to the Acura Telematics Server. The code is analyzed, and a message is sent back to the MDX— such as "A software issue has been detected. It is OK to continue driving. The repair is currently being developed, so you do not need to visit your dealer at this time." A separate AcuraLink® message will be sent to the MDX when it is time to visit the dealer to have the system repaired. AcuraLink® can tell the MDX owner if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques.

ACURALINK REAL-TIME TRAFFIC™

With AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, the MDX's navigation screen can display regularly updated traffic information including traffic flow, incidents and construction on freeways in 109 major metropolitan areas within the United States and three metropolitan markets within Canada. The information is part of the XM NavTraffic® feature (aggregated by NAVTEQ™ from multiple sources including police and highway patrol incident reports and transportation departments). Information is transmitted by XM® satellites to the MDX where it is graphically displayed on the navigation system— with a zoom scale ranging between 1/20-mile to 5-mile increments.

To see details or select traffic incidents, the MDX owner can click on an icon on the map by pushing "Enter" on the interface dial. MDX drivers can avoid congestion en route and choose the fastest path to their destination with traffic information that is continuously updated. The system displays traffic incidents, determines average traffic speed and, if a destination is programmed into the navigation system, estimates travel time along the chosen route. It can automatically recalculate results as factors change. Plus, XM NavTraffic® alerts drivers of scheduled traffic incidents such as construction and road closures, plus unscheduled incidents such as incidents and disabled vehicles.
Traffic Rerouting™ can automatically recalculate a "detour" route and display a pop-up box signifying the route change, when traffic congestion or road incidents are detected along the selected drive route. Alternately, the driver can recalculate a route in manual mode simply by selecting "TRAFFIC INCIDENTS" from the Map Info menu followed by selecting the "AVOID" command relevant to an incident. (Note: Traffic Rerouting™ requires a monthly subscription to the XM NavTraffic® service).

AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Traffic Rerouting™ gives MDX owners a useful time saving tool on freeways. AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ is offered on a subscription basis following a 3-month free trial period. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, MDX owners who maintain their XM® Radio service also receive more general audio traffic information for 109 major metropolitan areas that runs on a 2-3 minute loop.

109 major metropolitan markets (Traffic flow data and incident reporting coverage vary by market)
Akron, OH Albany/Schenectady/Troy Albuquerque, NM Allentown/Bethlehem, PA Ann Arbor, MI Atlanta, GA Austin, TX Baltimore, MD Baton Rouge, LA Beaumont, TX Birmingham, AL Boston, MA Bridgeport/Stamford, CT Buffalo/Niagara Falls, NY Cape Coral/Ft. Myers, FL Charlotte, NC Chicago, IL Cincinnati, OH Cleveland, OH Colorado Springs, CO Columbus, OH Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX Dayton, OH Daytona Beach, FL Denver/Boulder, CO Detroit/Warren, MI Durham, NC Flint, MI Fresno, CA Grand Rapids, MI Greensboro/Winston Salem/High Point, NC Greenville/Spartanburg, SC Harrisburg/ Carlisle, PA Hartford, CT Houston, TX Indianapolis, IN	Jacksonville, FL Kansas City, KS Lakeland, FL Lancaster/York, PA Las Vegas, NV Lincoln, NE Little Rock, AR Los Angeles, CA Louisville, KY Manchester, NH Memphis, TN Merced, CA Miami/Ft. Lauderdale/ Hollywood, FL Milwaukee/Racine, WI Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN Mobile, AL Modesto, CA Napa, CA Naples/Ft. Myers, FL Nashville, TN New Haven/Milford, CT New Orleans, LA New York City, NY Norwich/New London, CT Ogden/Clearfield, UT Oklahoma City, OK Olympia, WA Omaha/Council Bluffs, NE Orlando/Kissimmee, FL Oxnard/Ventura, CA Palm Bay/Titusville, FL Philadelphia, PA Phoenix/Mesa, AZ Pittsburgh, PA Port St. Lucie, FL Portland, OR	Poughkeepsie/Middletown, NY Providence, RI Provo/Orem, UT Raleigh/Durham, NC Richmond, VA Riverside/Ontario, CA Rochester, NY Sacramento, CA Salinas, CA Salt Lake City, UT San Antonio, TX San Diego, CA San Francisco/Oakland, CA San Jose/Santa Clara, CA Santa Barbara, CA Santa Cruz/Watsonville, CA Santa Rosa/Petaluma, CA Sarasota/Bradenton, FL Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA Seattle/Tacoma, WA Spokane, WA Springfield, MA St Louis, MO Stockton, CA Syracuse, NY Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL Toledo, OH Trenton/Ewing, NJ Tucson, AZ Tulsa, OK Vallejo/Fairfield, CA Virginia Beach/Norfolk, VA Washington D.C. Winston/Salem, NC Worcester, MA York/Hanover, PA Youngstown, OH

ACURALINK REAL-TIME WEATHER™

The ideal complement to AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ is the MDX's integrated AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™. In difficult driving conditions, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ can provide an up-to-date weather picture.

Key features

Professional grade weather information provided by Baron Services, Inc.
Weather information continually updated to reflect rapidly occurring weather changes
AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ information for 21 specific metropolitan areas
Weather forecasts for the next 3 hours, 6 hours or over the next 1-day or 3-days
Severe weather alerts
Specific area weather information
Weather radar image maps

AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ was co-developed with XM NavWeather® to provide a weather tracking system for area specific, regularly updated weather conditions between your current location and a programmed final destination. The system focuses on the specific weather on your personal drive route, rather than just offering general weather conditions for a region. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ information is continuously updated and is delivered to the vehicle navigation system via the MDX's built-in XM® satellite receiver.

AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ technology is enhanced for specific travel conditions in 21 major metropolitan areas. The information focuses on identifying potential weather threats along with current and future forecast weather conditions. The navigation screen displays current weather conditions in an easy-to-read format. By moving the MDX's navigation system cursor to the desired location on the map you can obtain weather info for a specific location. Press the "Enter" button and information regarding your current location will return.

Unique Threat Matrix Technology within AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ generates prompts with specific icons (within 46 different categories) that inform the MDX driver if the vehicle is headed into oncoming severe weather— such as a developing snow storm, ice, wind shear or even a tornado warning. Based on this advance information, the MDX driver can choose to reroute before encountering the severe weather. When the display is zoomed out to reveal the entire United States, a radar image map shows current weather patterns across the entire country. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ offers 1- or 3-day weather forecasts for specific areas of the United States.

Weather data is provided by Baron Services, Inc., which deciphers a complex array of National Weather Service information to produce the weather information. MDX owners receive a complementary 3-month trial subscription that delivers AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ along with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ and XM® Radio. After the complementary subscription expires, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ is available on a monthly subscription basis individually, together with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ or XM® Radio, or as a combined package of all three features.

ACURALINK REAL-TIME WEATHER™ INFORMATION

Current Condition Weather Information

Clear
Partly Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
Cloudy
Light Rain
Moderate Rain
Heavy Rain
Freezing Rain
Heavy Freezing Rain/Ice
Snow
Heavy Snow
Fog

Present Threats

Hail Storm
Shear Storm (Potential Tornado)
Lightning
Winds (expressed as Low, Medium, or Heavy)
Visibility (expressed as Good, Patchy, Marginal, or Very Poor)

Potential Threats (5- to 15-minute advance warning)

Hail Storm
Shear Storm (Potential Tornado)

Precipitation Forecast (30-minute advance warning)

No Predicted Weather Issues
Rain
Snow

Current Road Conditions

Clear
Flooded
Slippery
Ice, Patchy Ice
Snow
Heavy Snow
Road Closed

National Weather Service (NWS) Warnings

Official NWS warnings for 46 threat categories

Current Conditions

Temperature
Wind (wind speed, wind gusts and wind direction)
Sky conditions (OK, haze, fog, dust/sand, drizzle/mist, smoke/ash, rain, heavy rain, thunderstorm, hail, freezing rain/ice, snow, heavy snow, tornado/funnel cloud)

Future Weather Forecasts

Current weather
1- or 3-day forecasts (with separate night and day forecasts for each day)
Daytime high and nighttime low temperatures
Precipitation type (rain, ice, rain or snow, snow)
Chance of thunderstorm (yes/no)
Sky condition (clear, mostly clear, partly cloudy, cloudy)
Wind

DVD ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

The MDX is available with an Entertainment Package that features a Rear Entertainment System (RES). The RES system includes a motorized 9-inch full VGA color screen (with 400-percent improved resolution) mounted in an overhead console, the system provides entertainment for the second and third row passengers. Audio plays through the MDX's speakers in Dolby Digital surround sound, via two wireless Personal Surround headphones, or through three audio jacks. An AUX input jack in rear of the center console is provided for video game play or other inputs. A 115-volt, 100-watt power outlet located inside the center console provides power for a video game console, laptop computer or other small electronic device. The system also plays the audio content available from the MDX audio system, complete with on-screen information.

The Rear Entertainment System can also operate independently, allowing the rear passengers to enjoy one type of programming, while the front passengers listen to another. The RES main controls and DVD player are built into the center section of the MDX instrument panel, just below the audio system. An illuminated and removable, wireless remote control is also positioned in the overhead console for easy operation by second- and third-row passengers.

KEYLESS ACCESS SYSTEM

MDX models with the Technology Package or Advance Package have the latest generation of Acura's Keyless Access System. The enhanced system identifies one of two drivers each time the driver's door is opened (even if it is already unlocked) then sets within the MDX's memory a multitude of features to a custom profile preset by that driver. The system sets the driver's seat, steering wheel, outside mirrors, climate control, audio system presets, select navigation system settings and the HandsFreeLink® Profile.

The Keyless Access System also features a unique "quick vent" feature (activated by pressing the Keyless Access Remote "unlock" button two times and then holding it) that automatically lowers all side windows as well as opens the moonroof to quickly vent built-up interior heat. In addition, turning the key in the driver's door key cylinder to the "lock" position twice (and then holding it the second time), simultaneously closes all open windows and the moonroof.

ADVANCE Package

The 2011 Acura MDX offers an Advance Package that includes all items in the Technology Package and adds:

Blind spot information system (BSI)
Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels with performance tires
Active Damper System (ADS)
Ventilated front seats (in addition to heat) with perforated Milano premium leather trim and contrast color French seam stitching
Steering wheel with unique paddle shifters

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC)

The MDX with the Advance Package includes the Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). ACC is a vehicle speed and distance control system that uses a grille-mounted millimeter-wave radar unit to monitor the distance between the MDX and the vehicle directly ahead. Like a conventional cruise control system, the MDX's ACC can maintain a pre-set speed. In addition, by combining radar data with data from speed sensors, ACC can regulate the MDX's speed to maintain a pre-set following distance interval between it and the vehicle directly ahead. The system is designed for use on open highways and works only when the MDX is traveling over 25 miles per hour.

Pressing the "ACC" button (located below the right-hand spoke of the steering wheel) activates the system. When this button is pushed, "ACC" will appear on the Multi-Information Display (located between the tachometer and speedometer) indicating that the ACC system has been turned on. To select the ACC cruising speed, the driver accelerates to a chosen speed and presses the "Decel/Set" button located on the right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. Once selected, the cruising speed is shown on the Multi-Information Display (MID).

The following distance interval is selected by pressing the "Distance" button on the lower right spoke of the steering wheel. Using this button, the driver can choose one of three following intervals: approximately 1 second, 1.5 seconds or 2 seconds that is based on the speed of the MDX along with the following distance the driver wants to maintain from the car directly ahead. Each time the button is pressed, a vehicle-shaped icon on the MID changes to reflect the chosen following interval:

One bar represents approximately a 1-second interval
Two bars represents approximately a 1.5-second interval
Three bars represents approximately a 2-second interval

Once ACC is activated, the system's electronic control unit (ECU) adjusts the throttle or applies light braking to maintain the chosen following distance interval between the MDX and the vehicle directly in front of it. If a vehicle from another lane cuts in front of the MDX (between the MDX and the vehicle the MDX has been following) the ACC system will beep and a "vehicle" icon will flash on the MID to alert the driver that a new vehicle has been detected. The ACC system then adjusts the throttle and/or applies braking to maintain the pre-set following interval between the MDX and the new vehicle. A vehicle icon will appear each time a vehicle moves into the ACC system's range. Conversely, when a vehicle moves out of the ACC system's range, the vehicle icon changes to an "outlined" image.

If the vehicle directly ahead of the MDX brakes suddenly, a series of beeps will sound and the word "BRAKE" will appear on the MID warning the driver to apply the brakes. If the vehicle directly in front of the MDX accelerates out of the radar's detection zone or moves to another lane, and another vehicle is not within the system's range, ACC will accelerate the MDX until the pre-set cruising speed is achieved.

When a vehicle moves out of range, the "vehicle icon" on the MID will change from solid to an outline. The driver can switch between ACC and conventional cruise control by holding down the "Distance" button located on the steering wheel for five seconds. Cruise control system status is displayed continuously on the MID.

Because rain, snow, fog and other types of inclement weather can affect the ACC system's millimeter-wave radar, the ACC system should not be used during these conditions.

BLIND SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM

As part of the available Advance Package, the blind spot information (BSI) system uses numerous radar sensors to continually monitor conditions around the MDX and then alert the driver if another vehicle is detected in close proximity to the MDX— especially when in the blind spot of the driver. The BSI system uses small indicators (mounted in the A-pillars) that illuminate to alert the driver when another vehicle is detected in close proximity to the MDX.

To prevent false alarms while maneuvering at low speed, the BSI system is disabled below approximately 6 mph. The system can also be manually switched off by the driver using a switch is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

2011 MDX INTERIOR ACCESSORIES

2011 Acura MDX interior accessory features include:

All-Season Floor Mats
Ashtray (Cup Holder Type)
Cargo liner
Cargo mat
Cargo net
Cargo organizer
Tri-fold cargo tray
Wood grain transmission gear select knob
Wood grain steering wheel

2011 Acura MDX - Safety

SAFETY

The 2011 Acura MDX continues the MDX's commitment of advancing SUV safety. Standard features include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, active head restraints for driver and front passenger, front seat belts with automatic tensioning system with load limiters, side curtain airbags and driver and front passenger knee bolsters. In addition, the MDX features the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to disperse frontal collision forces to better protect the passenger cabin and improve car-to-car collision safety.

Specific Safety Targets

Newly upgraded FMVSS 208 occupant crash protection (frontal collision) and FMVSS 301 fuel system integrity (rear collision) standards implemented by the federal government
GOOD ratings in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Frontal Offset, Side Impact and head restraint tests
Enhanced crash compatibility with smaller vehicles in a car-to-car collision compared to previous generation vehicles
Advanced protection for pedestrians in the event of a collision

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).

OFFSET REAR COLLISION

The new requirements for NHTSA's FMVSS 301 fuel system integrity standard include a more severe rear crash test. In the current test, a 3,015 pound deformable barrier sled strikes 70-percent of the vehicle's width at 50 mph. In contrast, the prior version of FMVSS 301 used a 4,000 pound flat rigid moving barrier that struck the full width of the vehicle at 30 mph. The new test requires that the vehicle absorb more crash energy than before.

ADVANCED COMPATIBILITY ENGINEERING™ (ACE™)

Like every other Acura vehicle, the 2011 MDX features Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) unit-body design. ACE™ is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE™ design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash.

If the MDX should collide head-on with a smaller and/or lighter vehicle, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ structure helps provide good engagement with the small vehicle's frame thanks to a special lower member that extends below the front bumper beam. This lower member helps ensure that if the MDX collides with a smaller vehicle, the lower front member will better engage the other vehicle's bumper system. This helps reduce the risk of intrusion while simultaneously helping to disperse the crash energy across a wider area at the front of the vehicle.

IIHS SIDE IMPACT CRASHWORTHINESS EVALUATION (SICE)

The 2011 Acura MDX achieves a “GOOD” rating in the rigorous IIHS Side Impact Crashworthiness Evaluation (SICE) evaluation, which measures how well a vehicle withstands intrusion from a large SUV in a side collision. The MDX's high-strength steel safety cage, along with the use of high-strength side door beams, help make it resistant to intrusion.

DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER DUAL-STAGE, MULTIPLE-THRESHOLD AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

Dual-stage, multiple threshold front airbags (SRS) are provided for the driver and front passenger. One or both of these airbags will be deployed only in the event of a sufficient frontal impact. If deployed, these airbags are capable of being inflated at different rates depending on crash severity, seatbelt usage and/or other factors. Frontal airbags are designed to supplement the seatbelts to help reduce the likelihood of head and upper body injuries in frontal crashes.

Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Airbag Parameters

Airbag deployment thresholds are controlled depending on the severity of a collision, driver seat position, passenger weight, and the seatbelt buckle status of both occupants.
The dual-stage, multiple-threshold strategy applies to front airbags only and does not affect operation of side airbags or side curtain airbags.

The MDX airbag system uses a sensor to assess the weight of the front seat passenger. The front passenger airbag is shut off if the weight sensor indicates that a child or small statured person is occupying the front seat. In addition, the driver's seat has a seat position sensor: if the seat is in a more forward position (where the occupant will be close to the airbag), the airbag is fired with a longer delay to reduce the chance of injury caused by the airbag itself. A laser-cut, seamless instrument panel cover fully conceals the instrument panel-mounted passenger airbag while the driver-side front airbag is housed within the steering wheel.

DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER KNEE BOLSTERS

To help reduce the likelihood of injuries to the driver or front passenger's legs in a frontal collision, the MDX has energy-absorbing knee bolsters. The bolsters are designed to help dissipate collision forces if the driver or front passenger's legs should contact the lower instrument panel during a frontal collision.

DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS WITH FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT POSITION DETECTION SYSTEM (OPDS)

Side airbags mounted in the outboard portion of each MDX front seatback are designed to provide torso and pelvis protection in the event of a severe side impact. In addition, the front passenger seat is equipped with Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), an innovative technology designed to deactivate the side airbag if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path of the side airbag. When the front passenger returns to an upright seating position, the side airbag reactivates so it can deploy to help protect the occupant in a side impact. The unique system utilizes sensors in the passenger seatback to determine the height and position of the occupant. The MDX's side airbags have a 2-chamber design featuring a stiffer lower chamber to load the pelvis area earlier in the collision, along with a softer upper chamber to help reduce the likelihood of a rib injury.

Side Curtain Airbags

In a severe side impact or rollover, the MDX's side curtain airbags deploy from roof-mounted modules to help provide head protection for front and outboard rear occupants. Side curtain airbags effectively cover the side window area from the front to rear seats in both vehicle rollover and side impact collisions. Tests show that the g forces acting upon an outboard occupant's head are far lower with side curtain airbags.

FRONT SEAT BELTS WITH AUTOMATIC TENSIONING SYSTEM

The MDX front seat belts have an automatic tensioning system with load limiters to help protect the driver and front passenger in a collision. Research has shown that seat belts that are snugly secured around the occupants provide better protection; thus, in the first few milliseconds of a collision a tensioning system—powered by a small pyrotechnic device—automatically tightens the front seat belts.

If deceleration forces rise above a predetermined threshold, a load limiter releases a small length of seat belt webbing to reduce the pressure applied to the occupant. The load limiter system helps reduce the injuries that seat belts can cause in a severe high-speed collision. In addition, the driver's seat belt has a dual-stage load limiter that provides a higher initial load, and then steps down to a lower load after a certain amount of the seat belt spools out. The dual-stage load limiter is specially designed to prevent too much forward movement of the driver, given the close proximity of the steering wheel.

All MDX seating positions feature 3-point seat belts, and adjustable shoulder belt height is available for front seat passengers. The rear center seat belt buckle stores in a recessed pocket when not in use.

LATCH (LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN)

The 2011 MDX includes a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child-seat mounting system for the outboard rear seating positions. LATCH features built-in lower anchors and ready-to-use tether attachment points that allow compatible child safety seats to be installed without using the vehicle's seat belt system. Additionally, the LATCH system simplifies child-seat installation when an owner installs a LATCH-compatible child seat. The rear seat center passenger position has upper tether anchors only.

ACTIVE FRONT HEAD RESTRAINTS

The MDX front seats are fitted with active front head restraints designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. The head restraint system is mechanically linked to a lumbar plate located inside of the front seatback. In a rear impact, the occupant's body pushes against the seatback, causing the head restraint to move forward and upwards in a carefully prescribed arc. This motion helps equalize the impact forces transmitted to the neck and spine during the collision. Effectively managing and dispersing this crash energy is critical to help minimize the potential for injuries.

VOLUNTARY SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

As the popularity soared for light trucks (including pickups, crossover vehicles and SUVs) in the last decade, so did the risk of such large vehicles colliding head-on with smaller ones. In light of this risk, engineers of the Acura MDX designed a front structure that helps minimize the likelihood of over-ride or submarining in frontal collisions between vehicles of disparate size.

Pedestrian Safety
The Acura MDX makes pedestrian injury mitigation a high priority, and adopts several pedestrian-injury mitigation measures that United States law does not require. For example, the MDX hood frame and aluminum hood panel are designed to help protect pedestrians by deforming over a broad area to absorb collision energy. In addition, the hood hinges are designed to bend and the windshield wiper pivots feature a breakaway design to help mitigate the likelihood of injury in the event that a collision with a pedestrian should occur.

Dynamic Rollover
Another target that Acura designers felt strongly about was the MDX's ability to withstand a rollover with the roof frame maintained, no fuel system damage, and no tailgate or tailgate door-opening damage. The use of a high-strength steel safety cage provides the stiffness that allows the MDX to better withstand rollover forces.

STANDARD VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST™ (VSA®)

Standard equipment on the Acura MDX is Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), an Electronic Stability Control system that enhances controllability while the vehicle is accelerating, braking, cornering, or when the driver makes a sudden maneuver. The VSA® works in conjunction with the vehicle's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and its 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) to help the vehicle maintain the driver's intended path of travel. VSA® functions by applying brake force to one or more wheels independently while also managing the throttle, ignition and fuel systems to reduce engine power output.

Vehicle Stability Assist™ constantly analyzes data from seven sensors that monitor wheel and vehicle speed, steering input, lateral G-forces and yaw rate— then compares the driver's control inputs with the vehicle's actual response. Whenever the vehicle's actual response falls outside of a predetermined acceptable range, VSA® intervenes with corrective action. If VSA® detects an oversteer condition, the system may apply braking force to the outside front and rear wheels to counteract the unintended yawing effect. Or in the event of understeer, VSA® may apply braking to the inside rear wheel while reducing engine power to help return the car to its intended course.

Vehicle Stability Assist™ is calibrated to work in a nearly transparent manner, meaning that drivers may not even be aware of its operation. Therefore, to keep the driver informed, an indicator light flashes on the instrument panel anytime the system is enhancing vehicle stability. While the driver may deactivate the VSA® and traction-control functions via a switch on the instrument panel, ABS and Brake Assist remain fully operational at all times.

ADVANCED 4-CHANNEL ABS WITH ELECTRONIC BRAKE DISTRIBUTION

The 2011 Acura MDX is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes and a sophisticated 4-channel/4-sensor anti-lock braking system. The system helps improve active safety by offering a firm brake-pedal feel and a short activation stroke, as well as Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) circuitry that automatically proportions braking force between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle's weight distribution. EBD helps maximize braking effectiveness whether the MDX is transporting only the driver, or is fully loaded with passengers and luggage.

BRAKE ASSIST

Brake Assist, which utilizes some of the VSA® system components, recognizes emergency braking situations and assists the driver to apply maximum braking force to slow the vehicle more quickly. This important system is controlled by special computer logic that determines when the speed and stroke of the brake pedal exceed a typical range— as they would in a panic stop. At this point the modulator pump increases braking pressure to ensure maximum stopping force and help shorten braking distance. Brake Assist functions only when the driver is pressing the brake pedal, and the additional braking force provided by the system ceases when the driver releases pressure on the brake pedal.

COLLISION MITIGATING BRAKING SYSTEM™ (CMBS™)

The MDX Advance Package includes a Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), the first application of this technology on an Acura SUV. This revolutionary safety technology monitors the likelihood of a rear-end collision, and uses audio, visual and tactile signals to alert drivers to the risk of collision. Should the system determine that a collision likely is unavoidable, it applies the MDX's brakes and tensions the front seat belts to help reduce impact force on occupants. Unlike pre-collision systems on competitive vehicles, in certain circumstances CMBS™ automatically applies the brakes to help mitigate the severity of a collision.

Using a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the front grille, the CMBS™ system monitors the distance between the MDX and the vehicle directly in front of it up to a distance of 300 feet, and tracks the rate of closure between the two vehicles. If the closing rate increases to a point where a collision is likely to occur (based on relative vehicle speeds and following distance), CMBS™ uses visual and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventative action.

Based on the driver's response, the system will disengage if it determines that the likelihood of a collision has decreased to an acceptable level. If the driver's response does not sufficiently reduce the risk of a collision, CMBS™ will issue a secondary warning consisting of audible, visual and tactile elements as well as light braking to alert the driver to take action. If the closing rate increases so much that a collision becomes seemingly unavoidable, CMBS™ can initiate hard braking to reduce the vehicle's speed as well as automatically tension the driver and front passenger seat belts to help reduce the severity of the crash. In some circumstance, CMBS will not give any or all warnings before applying the brakes.

The CMBS™ system used in the MDX's Advance Package uses special seat belt retractors that replace the standard automatic tensioning system found on the base MDX and the MDX with Technology Package.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)

The Acura MDX has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that alerts the driver whenever the air pressure in one or more of the tires decreases below a specified level. Using four sensors (one mounted in each tire), TPMS transmits information on tire air pressure to the vehicle's ECU. A low tire pressure indicator located on the instrument panel illuminates when tire pressure drops to a potentially critical level.

FUEL TANK SAFETY

The MDX's 21-gallon fuel tank is positioned in front of the rear body-deformation zone to minimize the risk of damage in a collision. Locating the fuel tank in this protected area optimizes vehicle balance by moving the weight of the fuel tank farther forward. Thus, handling characteristics are minimally affected whether the fuel tank is full or near empty.

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2011 Acura Pricing

RL	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	RL	6AT	17/24/20	47,200
	RL w/ Technology Package	6AT	17/24/20	51,350
	RL w/ Advance Package	6AT	17/24/20	55,150

TL	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	TL	5AT	18/26/21	35,305
	TL w/ Technology Package	5AT	18/26/21	39,035
	TL w/ Technology Package w/ 18-in wheel	5AT	18/26/21	40,035
	TL SH-AWD	5AT	17/25/20	38,855
	TL SH-AWD w/ Technology Package	5AT	17/25/20	42,585
	TL SH-AWD w/ Technology Package w/ 19-in wheel	5AT	17/25/20	43,585
	TL SH-AWD 6MT w/ Technology Package	6MT	17/25/20	42,585
	TL SH-AWD 6MT w/ Technology Package w/ 19-in wheel	6MT	17/25/20	43,585

TSX	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	TSX	5AT	22/31/26	29,610
	TSX	6MT	21/29/24	29,610
	TSX w/ Technology Package	5AT	22/31/26	32,710
	TSX w/ Technology Package	6MT	21/29/24	32,710
	TSX V-6	5AT	19/28/23	35,150
	TSX V-6 w/ Technology Package	5AT	19/28/23	38,250
	TSX Sport Wagon	5AT	22/30/25	30,960
	TSX Sport Wagon w/ Technology Package	5AT	22/30/25	34,610

RDX	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	RDX	5AT	19/24/21	32,895
	RDX w/ Technology Package	5AT	19/24/21	35,995
	RDX SH-AWD	5AT	17/22/19	34,895
	RDX SH-AWD w/ Technology Package	5AT	17/22/19	37,995

MDX	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	MDX	6AT	16/21/18	42,930
	MDX w/ Technology Package	6AT	16/21/18	46,605
	MDX w/ Technology Package and Entertainment Package	6AT	16/21/18	48,505
	MDX w/ Advance Package	6AT	16/21/18	52,555
	MDX w/ Advance Package and Entertainment Package	6AT	16/21/18	54,455

ZDX	Trim Name	Trans	EPA*	MSRP
	ZDX	6AT	16/23/19	46,020
	ZDX w/ Technology Package	6AT	16/23/19	50,520
	ZDX w/ Advance Package	6AT	16/23/19	56,570

D&H	Destination and handling charges for all Acura models			$885

	*Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

August 18, 2010

2011 Acura MDX - Specifications

POWERTRAIN
Engine Type	3.7-liter, SOHC, VTEC® V-6
Displacement	223 cu-in (3664 cc)
Horsepower, SAE net	300 hp at 6,300 rpm
Torque, SAE net	270 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm
Valvetrain	SOHC, 24-valve, Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®)
Compression Ratio	11.2:1
Redline	6,700 rpm
Induction System	Dual-stage magnesium-alloy intake manifold with Drive-By-Wire™ throttle system, PGM-FI multi-point fuel injection
Ignition System	Electronic direct ignition system
Emission Certification	EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV compliance
Bore and Stroke	3.54 x 3.78 inches (90 x 96 mm)
Engine Block	Die-cast aluminum alloy
Alternator	12V-130 Amperes
Battery	12V-65AH (550 Cold Cranking Amps)
Required Fuel	Premium Unleaded
Layout	Transverse-mounted, front-engine
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™(SH-AWD®)
Transmission	6-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, Grade Logic Control and Hill Start Assist
	Drive Gear	Gear Ratio	Final Drive Ratio
	First	3.359:1	14.277:1
	Second	2.095:1	8.903:1
	Third	1.485:1	6.311:1
	Fourth	1.065:1	4.527:1
	Fifth	0.754:1	3.207:1
	Sixth	0.556:1	2.361:1
	Reverse	2.269:1	9.645:1
	Final	4.250:1

CHASSIS	Base and Technology Package	Advance Package
Body Type	Unit-body design
Front Suspension	Fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts
Rear Suspension	Multi-link independent suspension with trailing arms
Shock Absorbers	Monotube dampers with internal blow-off valve	Magneto-Rheological monotube dampers
Stabilizer Bars	Front: 23.0 mm (solid) Rear: 24.2 mm (hollow)	24.0 mm diameter (solid) 27.2 mm diameter (hollow)
Steering Type	Variable power-assist rack-and-pinion
Steering Ratio	17.0:1
Steering Wheel Turns (lock-to-lock)	3.3
Turning Circle (curb-to-curb)	37.6 feet (11.4 meters)
Braking System	18x8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX) 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX w/ Advance Package)
Front Brakes	13.0-inch (330 mm) diameter ventilated rotors; dual-piston cast-iron brake calipers
Rear Discs	13.2-inch (334 mm) diameter solid disc rotors; single-piston cast-iron brake calipers
Wheels	18x8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX) 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels (MDX w/ Advance Package)
Tires MDX MDX w/ Tech Package MDX w/ Advance Package	Bridgestone Dueler H/L 400 P255/55R18 104H all-season Michelin Latitude P255/55R18 103H all-season Michelin Latitude P255/50R19 103H all-season
Spare wheel/tire	17x4-inch steel wheel with T165/80D17 tire
Stability Control	Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control System (TCS)

CAPACITIES
Cooling System	2.4 gallons	9.2 liters
Fuel Tank	21.0 gallons	79.5 liters
Engine Oil
Oil change w/filter	4.5 quarts	4.3 liters
Total oil volume	5.3 quarts	5.0 liters
Interior Volumes	EPA passenger volume	142.2 cu ft
	Max cargo with rear seats up	15.0 cu ft
	Max cargo with third row folded	42.9 cu ft
	Max cargo with rear seats down	83.5 cu ft

FUEL ECONOMY
EPA Fuel Mileage	16/21/18 mpg* (city/highway/combined)
*Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase	108.3 in	(2750 mm)
Track, front	67.7 in	(1720 mm)
Track, rear	67.5 in	(1715 mm)
Overall Length	191.6 in	(4867 mm)
Overall Width	78.5 in	(1994 mm)
Overall Height	68.2 in 66.2 in	(1733 mm) - unladen (1681 mm) - fully loaded
Ground Clearance	8.2 in 5.6 in	(207 mm) - unladen (143 mm) - fully loaded
Approach/Departure Angle	Approach - 22.2 degrees Departure - 23.8 degrees Breakover - 22.6 degrees
TOWING
Maximum Towing Capacity	5000 lbs (2269 kg)
WEIGHTS
Curb Weight	MDX	4,550 lbs (2064 kg)
	MDX with Technology Package	4,550 lbs (2064 kg)
	MDX with Technology and Entertainment Packages	4,568 lbs (2072 kg)
	MDX with Advance Package	4,601 lbs (2087 kg)
	MDX with Advance Package and Entertainment Package	4,627 lbs (2099 kg)
Weight Distribution	% front/rear	56/44
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Front
Head Room	39.2 in	(995 mm)
Leg Room	41.2 in	(1048 mm)
Hip Room	59.0 in	(1498 mm)
Shoulder Room	61.6 in	(1565 mm)
Second Row
Head Room	38.6 in	(980 mm)
Leg Room	38.7 in	(983 mm)
Hip Room	59.1 in	(1502 mm)
Shoulder Room	61.5 in	(1561 mm)
Third Row
Head Room	37.5 in	(906.4 mm)
Leg Room	29.1 in	(740.1 mm)
Hip Room	42.0 in	(1089.4 mm)
Shoulder Room	57.1 in	(1449.9 mm)
WARRANTY
Vehicle	4-year / 50,000-mile limited warranty
Powertrain	6-year / 70,000-mile limited warranty
Outer Body Rust-Through	5-year / Unlimited-mile limited warranty

2011 Acura MDX Press Kit

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Specific Documents

2011 Acura MDX Press Kit

2011 Acura MDX - Overview

2011 Acura MDX - Powertrain

2011 Acura MDX - Body

2011 Acura MDX - Chassis

2011 Acura MDX - Interior

2011 Acura MDX - Safety

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2011 Acura Pricing

2011 Acura MDX - Specifications