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A
perennial winner in the crossover derby for its smooth,
commanding road presence is the Acura MDX, a full-size,
just-right luxury-side victor that's become a spoiler in
comparison with many other brands. While 2005 doesn't bring
any dramatic changes (no revamped exterior profile this
time around); there are loads of fine-tuning touches instead
meant to pique its car-based driving comfort.
Tops
on the list is the addition of XM Satellite Radio, that
can smooth out an otherwise knotty listening drive into
miles of uninterrupted tunes, comedy skits or chatter from
a favorite pontificator of opinions. All upmarket Touring
trim level MDX's also get a connector Acura calls "HandsFreeLink."
The system lets phones equipped with advanced Bluetooth
wireless technology connect through voice recognition and
audio interfaces. (It's got to be easier -- and safer --
to connect with a preset number by spoken command than trying
to punch it into a keypad while driving at highway speeds.)
As
the ultimate division of Japan's Honda auto company, Acura
is charged with setting a benchmark for luxury amenities
(drive-by-wire throttle for smoothness, rearview camera
for safety, and more) while including the kinds of flexibilities
crossovers are known for. Among those: "Transformable"
fold-flat seating that adjusts to hold seven, and curbside,
walk-in second row access. Acura's navigation system is
upgraded for '05, and adds more places to visit plus access
to Zagat's prestigious restaurant guide that gives new meaning
to the term travel food. Its standard vehicle stability
assist is improved, and the 3.5-liter all-aluminum V6 is
tweaked for extra fuel economy and added driving range,
plus lower emissions. (Not bad for a vehicle in the high
$30 K starting range.)
Acura
hasn't left the exterior totally untouched. It adds some
shimmer with three new metallic colors, Desert Rock, Billet
Silver and Steel Blue.
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