Flash Drive

2017 Acura MDX Hybrid

December 21, 2017 - Featured, Flash Drive - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid AWD Advance

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid features the new grille design and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Engine: 3.0-liter VTEC V-6 + 3 electric motors, 321 horsepower 289 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 7-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 26-mpg city/27-mpg highway/27-mpg combined

Base Price: $58,000

As Tested: $58,975

Performance:

Strong acceleration and power

Seamless power mode transitions

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid rear 3/4 view is equally handsome, although the triangular third row window hampers visibility.

Can drive on just battery power

Fuel and battery consumption gauges

Blind spot monitor

Lane departure warning

Unique push button gear selector on console

Comfort:

Very comfortable heated and ventilated front seats

Stretch-out driver legroom

Great front passenger legroom

Ample headroom throughout

The powertrain and chassis layout demonstrates how compactly the hybrid elements are packaged.

Thick, heated steering wheel, quite hot

Very good auxiliary controls

Power tilt/telescopic column

Driver power lumbar adjustment

Two captains chairs in second row

Ample knee and shoe room

Heated second row seats

Second row seats power slide for 3rd row access

Pull-up second row sunshades

Flat floors second and third rows

Third row seats a little snug, but better than many competitors

Utility:

High-opening liftgate

Flat cargo deck

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid’s front seat room and comfort are excellent.

Large storage bin under deck behind 3rd row

Good package space behind 3rd row seats

Medium size locking glovebox

Large front door bins

Huge, very deep front console storage bin with sliding cover

Similar, large console bin in second row, but not as deep

Large seat back storage pouches

Seats fold flat for cargo, but there’s a

The rear seats fold flat for a large cargo area.

gap between rows

Top of second row console isn’t protected

WOW Factors:

Great safety features

Good fuel economy for such a large SUV

Excellent interior storage

High quality, comfy interior

Whines:

Not crazy about push button gear

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid’s transmission controls are a little odd, but they work well.

selector, but it works fine

Triangular 3rd row window hampers passenger visibility

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid is a handsome, high quality three-row SUV that has the added benefit of battery power. The hybrid features don’t encroach on passenger or cargo space.