Reader Review of the Week: 2007 Acura MDX

Yes, yes we know: The new Acura MDX was just featured in our Suburban Dad vs. Urban DINK post a few weeks back, but the “Ski Family” from Lake Tahoe submitted an MDX review that was the best consumer review of the week. The family traded in a 2004 Acura MDX for the new model, so it may help persuade other previous MDX owners and fill them in on changes to the navigation system, the loss of the roof rack and other useful tidbits.

You can submit your own car review any time right here.

“I traded my fully loaded 2004 MDX (nav and DVD) for the 2007 MDX three months ago and have driven 3,000+ miles. The ‘07 MDX is a nice blend of the RL’s and MDX’s best features.

Some believe not having a touch-screen navigation system is a downgrade or worse than before. To me, this is absolutely not the case and more about people not understanding the system. Unlike center dash systems, the screen is on the top of the dash, which greatly minimizes taking your eyes off the road. Of course, in this position it cannot be easily touched (so no touch-screen). Once you get familiar with the control knob, it is quite easy to use.  Upon learning the voice commands, just tell the system what to do…so why would it need to be touched?

The stereo is awesome. I purchased the Tech and Sport model with a PLII mode for the XM radio which allows for 5.1 surround sound. The sound quality is absolutely amazing and I still find myself shaking my head and saying “wow.” All the functions on the radio are voice activated.  If you want to change the station, just tell it. Want to listen to channel 71 (jazz), just say “XM 71.”

Other advantages over the 2004 MDX included a 120-volt AC power outlet, auto closing the rear door (no blown-out eardrums from closing), and the Bluetooth system. Some have complained about there not being a luggage rack, but frankly, in my three years with my ‘04 MDX I never used it.  The luggage rack causes wind noise and reduces fuel efficiency, so why make it a standard option? If you use a rack, install it as an option just like a towing hitch.

The best part of the 2007 is the handling. Going around corners is a blast.  I read some people complaining about the ride (not soft enough), and I thought, my goodness they are nuts. Awesome ride; nothing that I tested was better.

Now, I do not know why Acura didn’t install the auto rearview mirror. But, honestly, with the rear tinted windows I have never had to change the mirror when cars were behind me so I do not miss this feature.

Here’s my final thought. My brother owns a Toyota Sequoia, my buddies drive a BMW X5, Lexus 330 and Chevy Tahoe, and my sister drives an ML Mercedes (always in the shop), and whenever we go anywhere, whose rig does everyone want to take? The MDX.”