Produced from 2001 to 2006 model years, the original Acura broke new ground in the emerging luxury SUV segment. Taking its predecessor’s best qualities and radically expanding them, the all-new 2007 MDX pushes performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment to new levels. Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the new MDX clearly establishes itself as a driver’s SUV. Outfitted with Acura’s tenacious Super-Handling All-wheel Drive system and an available sport package with Active Damper System, the MDX yields a combination of handling and comfort that is truly on the cutting edge.

2007 Acura MDX

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2007 Acura MDX
  • Engine/Motor: 3.7 liter V6
  • Horsepower: 300
  • Torque: 275
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

 OVERVIEW


The original Acura® MDX®, produced from 2001 to 2006 model years, broke new ground in the emerging luxury SUV segment. Now, the all-new 2007 MDX takes its predecessor's best qualities and radically expands them, pushing performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment to new levels. Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the new MDX clearly establishes itself as a driver's SUV. Outfitted with Acura's tenacious Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system and an available sport package with Active Damper System, the MDX yields a combination of handling and comfort that is truly on the cutting edge.


The 2007 MDX is equally daring in its styling and thorough in its safety and environmental responsibilities. Included as standard equipment is the largest array of passive safety features in Acura history. The MDX's class-leading 300-hp VTEC™ V-6 makes as much power as some competitive V-8s, yet delivers ultra-low emissions and excellent fuel economy. Inside the 7-passenger interior, the MDX offers thoughtful luxury and an unmatched range of advanced available technologies, including the Acura Navigation System and AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic and a spectacular 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround™ Premium Sound System.


Altogether, the all-new 2007 MDX embodies Acura's commitment to performance, luxury, quality and style, together with parent company Honda's global mandate for safety and environmental care. The 2007 MDX is the sixth Acura project to be designed and engineered in the United States, including the 1997 CL, 1999 TL, 2001 CL, 2001 MDX, and 2004 TL, and several award-winning Honda products.



TARGET CUSTOMER


Focus groups with luxury customers were conducted 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 their owners, typically successful professional families with school-age children - to ensure that the new MDX would meet and exceed its performance. Satisfying these highly discriminating customers means that the 2007 MDX would be well positioned to attract a wider group of potential buyers.


The original MDX appealed to luxury customers. In the new 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


With a displacement of 3.7 liters, the 2007 MDX features Acura's largest and most powerful V-6 engine. Developing 300 horsepower and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque, the MDX's output is competitive with many V-8 engines - without the fuel-economy penalty that some V-8 engines suffer. To widen the powerband and improve emissions and fuel economy the engine has VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), a dual-stage intake manifold, and an electronic Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™. EPA estimated mileage of 17/22 mpg (City/Highway) and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity mean the MDX also has a greater cruising range. The MDX is also designed to meet the latest CARB-Certified LEV-2 ULEV emissions certification.


A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is designed to satisfy the most performance-oriented drivers. Tuned on the challenging Nurburgring circuit in Germany, the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system likewise provides handling precision that sets a new benchmark for SUVs. SH-AWD™ "actively" varies the torque distribution between front and rear axles - then between the left and right rear wheels - to provide the maximum grip under all driving circumstances. Operating seamlessly and automatically, SH-AWD™ overdrives the outside rear wheel up to 1.7% faster than the front wheels to help the vehicle "rotate" around a corner.


BODY & CHASSIS


The 2007 MDX sets new standards for Acura from styling, engineering, handling and safety standpoints. Its dramatic styling utilizes large surface areas, sweeping curves and decisive angles. Longer, wider and lower (and with a longer wheelbase) than the original MDX, the new dimensions create a more athletic appearance.


The 2007 MDX maintains the same weight as the 2006 MDX, proof of the hard work that engineers invested to keep mass out of the new vehicle in spite of added feature content. Contributing to this is widespread use of high-strength steel, as well as aluminum and magnesium. In addition, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) unit body structure is intended to bring new levels of front crash safety to the MDX.


Befitting its position as Acura's flagship SUV, the MDX is equipped with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) low-beam headlights, a dramatic array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in the tail lamps and center high-mounted stoplight, and exterior mirror-mounted turn signals. The new grille also reflects a fresh look for the MDX. Careful aerodynamic tailoring reduces drag noise and high speed dynamic stability.


The 2007 MDX has an all-new chassis to complement its 300-horsepower VTEC® 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 the Nurburgring circuit. The Active Damper System, available in the Sport Package, has proprietary fully active dampers that adjust to road conditions on a real-time basis - in less than five milliseconds (0.005 sec.). The MDX is also at home off-road, where its excellent engine torque, responsive suspension, and generous ground clearance enable it to cross-step through rough terrain with aplomb.


For family recreation, the new MDX tows as well as it goes. With its 5000-pound towing rating, standard trailer pre-wiring, high-capacity radiator with twin cooling fans, ATF cooler and Trailer Stability Assist, the MDX needs only a dealer-installed hitch and wiring to tow a substantial trailer.


INTERIOR


Acura reinvented the MDX's luxurious interior for 2007 while adding to its appeal as a "Driver's SUV." The cockpit environment is focused on the driver, and features a host of technologies to make driving simultaneously more rewarding and relaxing. The interior styling and functionality perfectly coexist with a driver's cockpit that features a 10-way power seat including power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver, electronic tilt and telescoping steering column, a 2-position custom memory system, 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 an 8-way power seat of their own, while everyone on board will appreciate the MDX's Tri-Zone automatic climate control system and new 253-watt, 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM® Satellite Radio. An auxiliary jack for personal audio devices is also included. Standard convenience features include HomeLink®, Smart Maintenance, and adaptive and flexible cargo space with six configurations. Included in the available Entertainment Package is a power tailgate, the first on an Acura SUV.


SAFETY


A new Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) unit body structure, plus several new passive-safety technologies, help bring the 2007 MDX to the next level of safety. ACE™ more evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. The MDX is also less intrusive to smaller vehicles in a head-on collision thanks to a special frame member located below the front bumper that's designed to engage the front bumper of smaller vehicles. The 2007 MDX meets two newly upgraded federal safety regulations, FMVSS 208 and FMVSS 301, which will begin to be required for the 2007 model year.


Also new are active head restraints and dual-stage knee bolsters for the driver and front passenger. The driver and front passenger are protected by dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). Occupants in all three rows of outboard seats are protected by side curtain airbags. A rollover sensor adds a further level of protection.


The 2007 Acura MDX continues its "Safety Through Innovation" with pedestrian protection features such as a deformable aluminum hood and hood hinges, and breakaway windshield-wiper pivots.

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Interior


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


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


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


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


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



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Body & Chassis


The first generation MDX® provided a strong blend of adaptable space, functionality, and "anytime, anywhere" mobility, together with a high level of safety and environmental responsibility. This made it perfect for families. Now the new 2007 model retains all of these traditional MDX virtues, while providing an even more exciting visual presence, and far more accomplished handling and ride comfort.


Customers in the luxury SUV arena demand distinctive style. The 2007 MDX provides it with standard 18-inch tires and wheels, standard High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights and a signature Acura grille. Driving excitement is equally embraced with a chassis tuned and proven at the Nurburgring circuit and autobahns in Germany.


The exterior has bold, clean and advanced styling details with European cache, and was styled to connect with enthusiast drivers from the moment they first see it. Sitting in the vehicle - and then experiencing it - makes the desire even more intense. Besides featuring a 300 horsepower V-6, the MDX includes Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), an available Active Damper System, and lightweight aluminum components used in the suspension and body. Convenience features like a power tailgate, available with the Entertainment Package, further improve functionality and luxury.


EXTERIOR DESIGN GOALS


One of the primary goals in designing the MDX was to keep its traditional 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 completely reengineered vehicle. Though the grille retains Acura's trademark pentagon shape, it is 30% larger than that of the previous MDX. It is free of molding breaks for a cleaner look, and features dark silver satin plating.



STYLING DEVELOPMENT


The original MDX provided a fine blend of utility, luxury and style. Now the 2007 Acura MDX adds powerful dynamic styling that's a continuation of the themes that have been embodied in recent Acura products. Thanks to its mission to provide high-end dynamic capabilities as well as well-heeled luxury and contemporary design, Acura designers playfully dubbed it the "Driver Dad's SUV" - imagining it as a powerfully elegant SUV befitting a secret agent.


They found inspiration in a high-powered megayacht, 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 wheels and tires not only benefit handling, but also create a muscular look.


In front, the 2007 MDX has a distinctive, advanced Acura look. The platform is long, low and wide to enhance cornering and high-speed stability. Compared to its predecessor, the new MDX is over two inches longer overall, with a 2-inch longer wheelbase. The low-slung body also lowers step-in height, making ingress and egress easier.


 BODY STRUCTURE


The 2007 MDX is the first SUV developed at Honda Research of the Americas (HRA) to embody the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which distributes collision forces through the structure during a frontal collision while helping to retain the integrity of the passenger compartment. The MDX has a large amount of high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle weight while increasing strength. Alternative materials including aluminum and magnesium are also used throughout the vehicle, further reducing vehicle mass, which helps lower emissions and increase performance.


Attaining a high level of dynamic body rigidity is essential for precise handling, ride quality and quietness inside the cabin. Advances in unit body design allow the 2007 MDX to achieve nearly 20% greater dynamic rigidity than the first-generation MDX. 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 - 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 2007 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 2007 MDX uses dramatically more high-strength steel than the MDX it replaces. Now 56.3% of the steel used is high-strength steel vs. 13% for the previous-generation MDX. The high-strength steel contributes to 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 and front rails and body sides.


LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM


In addition, some 4.1% of the 2007 MDX body components are aluminum. This material is ideal for certain components such as the hood and instrument panel support, where light weight is required but the strength of steel is not imperative.


The hood on the first-generation MDX was steel, and the weight savings of using aluminum instead of steel for the 2007 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 for 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.


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


AERODYNAMICS


Prototypes of the 2007 Acura MDX spent a total of seven weeks in the wind tunnel to test and develop its aerodynamic properties. The attention to detail in aerodynamic efficiency included the development of body side sills that help keep air from moving underneath the car and causing turbulence. Lift balance and the coefficient of lift were also addressed to keep the MDX stable at high speeds. In this area, internal testing revealed that the MDX meets and exceeds the performance of the BMW X5.



WIND NOISE


Careful attention was paid to reducing wind noise inside the MDX cabin. An acoustic wind tunnel was used to identify and correct noise issues, resulting in the MDX's best-in-class wind noise performance (at the driver's ear point) according to Acura's internal measurements.


An added benefit of this wind tunnel 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 sunroof is larger than the one in the previous generation and is also the widest of any direct competitor. A finely tuned deflector ensures that the sunroof 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 heightened the performance of the MDX's overall wind noise level.



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Powertrain


Given the new MDX's performance goals, its powertrain and driveline were required to advance on multiple fronts. The result is the most powerful normally aspirated 6-cylinder SUV powerplant currently available in America. In addition, the MDX returns competitive estimated fuel economy, and meets tough CARB LEV-2 ULEV emissions standards. To put the newfound power to the ground and provide agile, responsive handling, the MDX has standard Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™).


The MDX's sophisticated 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 powerplant develops 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm. That gives it the highest horsepower and torque output of any engine in the Acura lineup. The MDX returns an EPA 17/22 City/Highway mpg, placing it among the leaders of its SUV class.


Compared to the previous generation MDX, the new powerplant gained 47 horsepower and 25 lbs.-ft. of torque. Of that horsepower gain, 20 horsepower came from an increase in displacement and a new 11.0:1 compression ratio and 15 more horsepower are due to new intake port shape, valve design and VTEC® tuning. The final 12 horsepower is credited to the new MDX's high-flow induction and exhaust systems. Although more powerful, the engine is actually 17.2 pounds or 3.7% lighter than the engine it replaces and offers six percent more displacement. Durability upgrades throughout the powertrain, including a high capacity radiator with twin cooling fans and a standard transmission cooler accommodate the MDX's new 5000-pound tow rating,


A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard, giving the driver the choice of fully automatic operation or manually shifted via a special shift gate. With the electronically controlled Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™ and transmission working together to execute shifts, the MDX delivers smoothly responsive acceleration.


The MDX has standard SH-AWD™, the exclusive all-wheel-drive system that actively distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. The result is reduced understeer, superior cornering accuracy and more total cornering performance. For the MDX, SH-AWD™ is enhanced with Hill Logic that automatically adjusts the front/rear torque split based on hill grade.



ENGINE ARCHITECTURE


The 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 in the MDX is the largest and most powerful production engine in Acura's history and incorporates many of the refinements and improvements that have been developed in other Acura powerplants. The MDX engine has a smooth-firing 60-degree V-angle, compact overall dimensions, and actually weighs 17.2 pounds less than the smaller displacement engine it replaces. Aluminum alloy construction including aluminum cylinder sleeves saves weight and improves cooling, while VTEC® cylinder heads operate four valves per cylinder for maximum power development.


A high flow intake system, high compression ratio, close-coupled catalytic converters and high flow exhaust make the MDX engine the most powerful normally aspirated 6-cylinder engine in its class.


ENGINE BLOCK


The MDX's lightweight, heat-treated die-cast aluminum-alloy block has cast-in-place aluminum cylinder liners. These high-silicon sleeves dissipate heat better than iron liners. The aluminum sleeves also allow a closer piston-to-cylinder clearance for less operating noise. A new mechanical etching process during manufacturing exposes silicone particles embedded in the aluminum sleeves, which provide a hard piston-ring sealing surface. The block also incorporates a deep-skirt design for rigid crankshaft support and minimized noise and vibration.


CRANKSHAFT/PISTONS/CONNECTING RODS


The MDX uses a forged steel crankshaft for high strength with minimum weight. With their raised crowns, the MDX pistons raise the compression ratio (relative to the previous MDX) from 10.0:1 to 11.0:1. This elevated compression ratio is possible due to an oil jet system that sprays cooling oil on the underside of the piston crowns to keep temperatures in check. New steel connecting rods are forged in one piece and then the crankshaft ends are "crack separated," creating a lighter and stronger rod with a perfectly fitted bearing cap.


CYLINDER HEADS / VALVETRAIN


Like other current Acura V-6 engines, the MDX powerplant uses overhead camshaft cylinder heads. These lightweight components are made of pressure-cast, low-porosity aluminum, and improve overall packaging, enhance exhaust flow and allow the optimal positioning of a primary close-coupled catalytic converter on each cylinder bank. To save weight and reduce parts count, an exhaust manifold is an integral part of each cylinder head casting. Magnesium cylinder head covers save a total of 2.6 pounds.


Special new camshafts are 25% lighter than the camshafts they replace. Assembled from tubular steel shafts with splined steel lobes and journals that are pressed in place, the MDX's camshafts are a first for Acura.


The MDX's new intake port design has an optimized shape that contributes seven horsepower (relative to the old design) to the MDX's 300 horsepower total. Intake valves in the new engine are 36mm in diameter (an increase of 1mm), yet weigh 13% less due to a reduction in material in the valve head. The exhaust valves measure 30mm in diameter, same as in the previous engine.


To ensure positive sealing, a 3-layer shim-type head gasket is used. A single Aramid-fiber reinforced belt drives the overhead camshafts.


VTEC® (VARIABLE VALVE TIMING AND LIFT ELECTRONIC CONTROL)


The MDX's VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) operates the 12 intake valves in two distinct modes. Operation of the intake valves changes to optimize both volumetric efficiency and combustion of the fuel-air mixture. At low engine speeds, the intake valves have low lift and are open a comparatively short period of time during cylinder filling. At high engine speeds where breathing is critical, the valves switch to high-lift, long duration mode to deliver the best volumetric efficiency. The VTEC® changeover point is virtually undetectable to the driver and occurs at approximately 4500 rpm.


When the engine reaches the changeover point, the powertrain control module (PCM) triggers the opening of an electric spool valve that routes pressurized oil to small pistons in the intake valve rocker arms. These pistons slide into position to lock together the three intake rockers in a given cylinder, which then follow a single high-lift, long-duration cam lobe.


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SAFETY


The 2007 Acura MDX continues the MDX's commitment of advancing SUV passive safety. Standard features include dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, front active head restraints, side curtain airbags and driver dual-stage knee bolsters. In addition, the MDX features the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to manage and disperse frontal collision forces and improve car-to-car collision safety.


Acura terms this compendium of safety features as "Flagship 360 degree safety" - quite literally, passengers are completely surrounded with safety features. The 2007 MDX is targeted to meet and exceed the highest crash-test standards from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and is anticipated to earn top test scores in all categories.



FRONT ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINTS


The 2007 MDX has front active head restraints that help minimize the potential for the driver or front passenger to suffer a neck injury during a rear-end collision. During this type of collision, the occupant's body applies pressure to the seatback. This pressure activates a lumbar plate that pushes the head restraint upward and forward to help equalize forces acting on the head, neck and spine during a collision. This ability to manage rear collision forces directly contributes to a reduction in whiplash injuries.


PEDESTRIAN SAFETY


As part of Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative, the 2007 Acura MDX makes pedestrian safety a high priority. It adopts several pedestrian-safety measures that U.S. law does not require. The MDX hood is designed to help protect pedestrians by absorbing collision energy. In addition, the hood hinges are designed to bend in the event they are contacted by a pedestrian. The wiper pivots also feature a breakaway design to help reduce injury in the event of contact, and the front fender brackets are also designed to bend if a collision with a pedestrian should occur.



SEATBELT PRETENSIONERS AND LOAD LIMITERS


Both of the MDX front seat belts have pretensioners and load limiters to help protect the driver and front passenger in a collision. These components automatically work together in a 1-2 sequence. Research has shown that seat belts that are snugly secured around the occupants provide better protection, so in the first few milliseconds of a collision the pretensioners - powered by a pyrotechnic device - automatically tighten the front seat belts. Then if the deceleration forces rise above a predetermined threshold, the load limiter releases a small length of seatbelt webbing to reduce the pressure on the occupant in a controlled manner. This helps reduce the injuries that seatbelts can cause in a severe high-speed collision. In addition, the driver's seatbelt has a dual-stage load limiter. This provides a higher initial load, then steps down to a lower load after a certain amount of belt spools out. It is specially designed to prevent too much forward driver movement, given the close proximity of the steering wheel.



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


Dual-stage airbags are provided for the 2007 MDX driver and front passenger. These airbags are designed to maximize protection for the head and chest during a moderate to severe front collision. Each airbag inflator has two stages that can be deployed at different times instead of a traditional single inflation stage. Combining dual-stage and dual-threshold technology with technology that detects if the occupants are belted or unbelted, the airbags are deployed in a sequence based on crash severity.


Dual-Stage, Dual-Threshold Airbag Parameters


  •     * Airbag deployment characteristics are finely controlled depending on the severity of a collision
  •     * The dual-stage, dual-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 seat weight sensor to assess the weight of the front passenger. The front passenger airbag is shut off if the weight sensor indicates that a small child or a baby carrier is occupying the front seat. A seamless instrument panel cover fully conceals the passenger airbag. 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 any injury caused by the airbag itself. The driver's airbag is located in a small steering wheel mounted housing.





MDX      Pricing

  •      MDX      39,995    
  •      MDX  Technology Package     5AT     
  •      MDX  Sport Package (includes Tech. Pkg.)      45,595    
  •      MDX  Technology and Entertainment Packages      45,695    
  •      MDX  Sport and Entertainment Packages      47,795