ACURA MDX 2006-2009 Photos, engines & full specs

Acura introduced the MDX in 2000 as its contender in the premium SUV segment but kept it on the market for only six years until it launched the second generation in 2006.

Honda's premium brand, Acura, considered that there was room for improvement in the already proven MDX lineup. It tried to make an SUV that could match a minivan's interior and the on-road performances of a sports sedan. The result was named MDX.

Its shape was far from any truck-like SUV on the market. It was miles away even from the Honda Pilot, which shared its platform with the MDX. The premium SUV showed an angular front fascia, with headlights that resembled a sumo-fighter. That's what Honda said. Also, the grille sported the new shield design that almost covered the entire cooling area, even though it didn't. The raked windshield looked more appropriate for a sports sedan from its sides, while the tall greenhouse was suitable for a minivan. At the back, the C-pillar was wider on its upper side than on the lower area, which was unusual for a car in that class.

Inside, the carmaker installed a leather-clad interior. Its front bucket seats were separated by a wide center console which sported a storage area under the twin-lid armrest. The car's instrument panel featured four individual clusters and a small, vertical display between the tachometer and speedometer. In the back, the MDX provided enough room for up to three adults on the split-folding bench. Even though the trunk wasn't the biggest in its class, it was good enough for a shopping spree.

Under the hood, Honda installed its 3.7-liter VTEC engine. It was the same unit that powered the Legend. Power went in all corners via a five-speed automatic transmission.