2008 Acura MDX

Entering its second generation as a 2007 model after being launched in 2001, the Acura MDX is a new crossover designed to take on luxury utility vehicles like Audi Q7, Lexus RX, Cadillac SRX, and Infiniti FX, with a decidedly biased sporty on-road behavior. How many other SUVs have you heard of being developed and tested on Germany's Nurburgring? Its Super Handling AWD system is tuned to tear up the asphalt, not the dirt, and you won't find a low-range transfer case on the options list of the MDX.

The car features a new 3.7-liter SOHC VTEC V6 with 300 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, channeling it to the ground through a five-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy is an estimated 17/22 mpg for city/highway driving.

Option packages include active dampers, leather, sporty wheels, DVD navigation, a rear-view camera, automatic climate control, a 410-watt speaker system, power tailgate, and heated second row seats. Voice control for audio, ventilation and navigation systems is optional, as is a Bluetooth hands-free phone link. The optional navigation system sports Zagat Survey restaurant reviews as well as real time traffic information.

A new suspension geometry with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link configuration in the back aims to give the MDX car-like handling. Off-road, the MDX is designed to ford 19 inches of standing water. For those who are apprehensive about towing, the MDX has a special algorithm programmed into its Vehicle Stability Assist system that detects oscillations or wag and takes measures to quell it.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist ensure emergency stops are as controlled as possible. HID headlights as well as a tire pressure monitoring system are standard equipment.

Like many of its competitors, the new MDX has a third row of seating. Both the second and third row will fold flat to provide 83.5 cubic feet of storage. All three rows of seats get their own HVAC controls.