Acura has given its MDX three-row crossover a heavy refresh for the 2017 model year. Things inside haven’t changed much, but the MDX still sports a rather attractive interior that is also extremely functional. Case in point: the rear seats.

The 2017 MDX is parked in my driveway this week and I’ve fallen in love with how simple and user friendly the rear seat area is. Not only is there a ton of space for five people in the second and third rows, but getting into and out of them is extremely simple. Much of that is thanks to Acura’s electronic push-button fold and slide feature for the second row. Two buttons are given for the purpose – one down low within easy reach for kids and one up high near the shoulder support. Just press the button and the electronic latches disengage and the 60/40-split bench tilts and slides forward.

This gives ample access to the third row’s two-person seating. A gentile push moves the second row seat back into place, locking firmly into its floor tracks. What’s more, the action even works with a child seat attached to the LATCH system. Just be sure to take the baby out first. When it comes time to disembark, the passengers in the third row can easily push the high-mounted button on the second row’s seatback.

Comfort for second row passengers ranks high on the scale. The seatbacks can recline a good ways with the pull of manual lever mounted on the outboard of the seat base. Pull the lever with an empty seat, and the seat back folds forward to a flat loading area.

The third row also folds flat with a simple lever action. Even moms and dads who skip the gym can effortlessly raise the third row via the same grab handles. When flat, the MDX offers roughly 90 cubic feet of cargo room. Behind the third row, there is still slightly more than 15 cubic feet of room. A covered storage bin resides under the rear load floor and is the perfect place for random odds and ends. Acura did a really great job designing an easy to use seating arrangement and cargo area.

Also noteworthy, 2017 brings four 2.5-amp USB ports for quick charging of portable devices. Two reside below the second row’s HVAC controls on the rear of the center console. The other two are located inside the center console and next to a 1.5-amp USB port that connects to the infotainment system. There are five USB ports in total. It seems Acura understands the modern, connected customer.

Stay tuned for more spotlight reviews and a full driven review of the 2017 Acura MDX.

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