During the 2016 New York auto show, Acura unveiled the updated 2017 MDX, which inherits many design cues from the Acura Precision Concept that was shown in Detroit earlier this year. The production model shows off a new front end, displaying the brand’s new design language. The new Acura MDX will benefit from a new Sport Hybrid model, added standard features, and a revised exterior. Can these additions help the 2017 Acura MDX better compete in the luxury crossover segment?
The new diamond pentagon grille is the first noticeable change compared to the outgoing model, as it gets rid of the chrome strip running through the grille. Now, the Acura badge floats in the center of the new grille, giving the model a more refined appearance. The headlights have been tweaked, with the lights themselves sitting more in a straight line with a smaller, vertical turn signal, compared to the larger, squared-off turn signal with a slight diagonal upturn on the pre-refresh crossover. Acura has added LED foglights on the 2017 MDX, along with revised front fenders to give the new model a more performance-oriented look.
From the side, not much has changed from the outgoing model, but the new MDX offers sharper lines running the length of the vehicle, and a more angled rear side window design. At the rear, the 2017 Acura MDX features a revised bumper with a body-color skid garnish and twin tailpipes. The reflectors on the new model are now vertical on the outside of the rear bumper, just above the tailpipes, while the taillight design remains virtually unchanged.
Taking a look behind the wheel, not much has changed. The dual-screen center stack design carries over, as does the tiered look of the dashboard. The center console features either a traditional gear select knob with the six-speed automatic, or a set of buttons with the optional nine-speed auto. Acura has added new interior trims, including Olive Ash Burl and Black Limba wood, along with the optional second-row captain’s chairs with a center console.
The 2017 Acura MDX showcases the new design language for the brand. With the addition of a new Sport Hybrid model, revised front and rear fascia, and host of new standard features, is the new 2017 MDX better able to compete in the luxury crossover segment? Let us know in the comments below.
Last week’s Styling Size-up pitted the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime against the standard 2016 Toyota Prius, and not many are happy with the look of either vehicle.
“I can’t believe that these things are even real. They both look absolutely terrible,” said Lou_313.
“I mean, they’re both very very ugly, but the prime is less ugly. Now, I would never own a Prius ever, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Toyota were to make the standard Prius look like the Prime in a few years time,” said Samuel Abraham.
“The prime looks like an ugly sport version of the Honda Insight, still the better looking of the two, if you’re drunk and horny and there’s only two other people at the bar to make out with at last call, it would be the winner, but not by much,” said damaje199.
“Both cars deserve a place amongst ugliest cars ever produced, somewhere between Fiat Multipla abomination and profoundly ugly Aztec,” said MidnightSx4.
The post Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Acura MDX appeared first on Motor Trend.
Car News Magazine – Source: Motor Trend