2003 Acura MDX Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　Further honing its already quite capable MDX, Acura has made a number of key improvements for 2003. First up is a 20-horsepower boost, giving the MDX a total of 260. To support the increased power, there's a revised five-speed automatic transmission, a new stability control system, a strengthened chassis, a retuned suspension and stronger brakes. Inside, the optional navigation system has gained voice recognition capability, enhanced graphics and expanded database coverage. There's also a tailgate-mounted rearview camera this year that transmits its view to the display screen when the vehicle is put in reverse. Lastly, Acura will be offering an optional DVD-based entertainment system as a factory option.

　　

zzdcar says

　　A somewhat bland but otherwise utterly capable and perfectly useful crossover SUV.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Acura MDX AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$267/mo  for MDX Base

　　MDX Base

　　AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A) - $35,700 MSRPTouring AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A) (Most Popular) - $38,300 MSRPTouring AWD 4dr SUV w/Entertainment System (3.5L 6cyl 5A) - $39,800 MSRPTouring AWD 4dr SUV w/Nav (3.5L 6cyl 5A) - $40,500 MSRPTouring AWD 4dr SUV w/Nav and Entertainment System (3.5L 6cyl 5A) - $42,000 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

2003 MDX Highlights

Trim: BaseTouringBase

　　

Base MSRP	$35,700
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$267/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles