| noel |
Hello to all owners of a 2007 MDX. Well, I've had my MDX for four months now, enough time to revisit some of my initial complaints so, here they are.
1. Disappointing fit and assembly of interior trim. Been back to the dealer and some of the issues have been corrected but, I continue to find more. The backing of the lift up third row seats is broken on one side and has come loose on the other. The molded cover, to hide the wiring on the DVD player, located under the drivers seat, fits so poorly it will not attach as it's supposed to.
2. After several thousand miles I still consider the performance (acceleration) very poor, especially at highway speeds. When merging onto a freeway, with other vehicles traveling at 70mph+, you better give yourself a very long distance for merging into traffic since the acceleration at high speeds is so poor. Am I the only one on this forum that feels this way?
I have a dear friend who writes for the Detroit News and after a week of testing, his feelings were the same as mine so I know I'm not totally alone in my conclusions. The comment in his report is as follows: "On the downside, the 3.7-liter V6 motor just doesn't have the muscle needed to justify its MDX's 'Sport' image. Time, it seems, for Honda to step up and build a V8 engine, or at least throw a turbocharger or two on its V6". Am I alone in agreement with his findings or am I alone? How about the rest of you?
On the plus side, I'm very happy with the handling and feel it's outstanding for a crossover and think the ride quality is fine, firm, but never harsh. |
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| Activator |
I totally disagree with your comments. The fit and finish on my X is amazing. After seeing a few posts about poor fit, I took a conscious and careful look at the interior and exterior of my X and I found NO ill-fitting parts. All seams are straight and tight. Interior parts fit tight and straight as well.
As for the engine power... I just returned from a 3,500 mile round trip from NY to Florida with 4 adult-sized passengers and a fully-loaded trunk. I was actually amazed at the fact that I could merge into 90mph trafffic on I-95 with no trouble whatsoever! And I got an average 21.5+ mpg for the trip and a few highway tanks of close to 25mpg!
Coming from an 01 MDX, as well as many high-end luxury cars (Volvo, Audi, BMW, etc.) I think the 07 X is the finest car/suv I've ever owned!
(Maybe you got a "Friday afternoon" assembly? I don't doubt that there are some X's which are not as well put together...) |
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| noel |
I'm glad to hear your MDX satisfies you as it should. My MDX was one of the early production units and perhaps, it was built on a "Friday" as you indicated. Believe me, the interior fit on my MDX would probably shock you if you saw it for yourself!. As far as performance is concerned, I can only assume we have a major difference of opinion regarding performance or, I've got an engine problem that's affecting it's output. You can rest assured I will bring it up when the car goes in for it's next service.
quote:
Originally posted by Activator
I totally disagree with your comments. The fit and finish on my X is amazing. After seeing a few posts about poor fit, I took a conscious and careful look at the interior and exterior of my X and I found NO ill-fitting parts. All seams are straight and tight. Interior parts fit tight and straight as well.
As for the engine power... I just returned from a 3,500 mile round trip from NY to Florida with 4 adult-sized passengers and a fully-loaded trunk. I was actually amazed at the fact that I could merge into 90mph trafffic on I-95 with no trouble whatsoever! And I got an average 21.5+ mpg for the trip and a few highway tanks of close to 25mpg!
Coming from an 01 MDX, as well as many high-end luxury cars (Volvo, Audi, BMW, etc.) I think the 07 X is the finest car/suv I've ever owned!
(Maybe you got a "Friday afternoon" assembly? I don't doubt that there are some X's which are not as well put together...)
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| Mike_TX |
I think the fit & finish issues may have been with the very early production units and has been addressed in later ones. Mine is, IIRC, a June '07 build, and it has good f&f.
My only (nit-oicky) observations are a little plastic panel on the end of the driver's side dash (hidden when door is closed) that is warped and gaps open a little, and a piece of trim around the inside rear window that doesn't lay down well. I'll have both of these things addressed at my first oil change.
I was pleased to see I don't have the dash-to-door misalignment that many have reported, nor any other obvious mis-fits.
As for acceleration, everything is relative. When I go from my MDX to my RL, the RL feels like a lively little sports car, and it accelerates better than the X (duh). OTOH, I had an '07 Nissan Altima (4-cyl) rent car for a week, and while it was amazingly spunky, the X felt strong by comparison.
But I haven't had any butt-pucker moments getting onto freeways or highways in dense, fast-moving traffic, nor have I had any fears passing big trucks on two-lanes at 80mph. For a 2-1/4 ton box, I think the X accelerates pretty darn well. Do I wish it were quicker? Sure. I like quick. ;) But it's no slug, either, and to get more rush out of a similar-sized SUV, you pretty much have to go to high-dollar V-8 imports or accept lots of compromises and go with a big-engine GM or Dodge.
In the meantime, take solace knowing the X outruns V-6 Porsche Cayennes and M-B ML350's and BMW X5 3.0's. :D
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| mesalum |
Same here Mike about the end caps you mentioned. Mine are warped too. I've not had to take the X in yet for any service. Mine is a Jan 2007 build. But I do have the door to door mis alignment but it's not a big deal for me. I do wish that Acura would of put a power outlet in the center console along with the AUX port (I have the Tech package). I'll just have to install my own.
One month ago I completed a 1900+ mile trip and I really think the power in the X is adequate. |
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| gmc74 |
quote:
Originally posted by noel
Hello to all owners of a 2007 MDX. Well, I've had my MDX for four months now, enough time to revisit some of my initial complaints so, here they are.
1. Disappointing fit and assembly of interior trim. Been back to the dealer and some of the issues have been corrected but, I continue to find more. The backing of the lift up third row seats is broken on one side and has come loose on the other. The molded cover, to hide the wiring on the DVD player, located under the drivers seat, fits so poorly it will not attach as it's supposed to.
2. After several thousand miles I still consider the performance (acceleration) very poor, especially at highway speeds. When merging onto a freeway, with other vehicles traveling at 70mph+, you better give yourself a very long distance for merging into traffic since the acceleration at high speeds is so poor. Am I the only one on this forum that feels this way?
I have a dear friend who writes for the Detroit News and after a week of testing, his feelings were the same as mine so I know I'm not totally alone in my conclusions. The comment in his report is as follows: "On the downside, the 3.7-liter V6 motor just doesn't have the muscle needed to justify its MDX's 'Sport' image. Time, it seems, for Honda to step up and build a V8 engine, or at least throw a turbocharger or two on its V6". Am I alone in agreement with his findings or am I alone? How about the rest of you?
On the plus side, I'm very happy with the handling and feel it's outstanding for a crossover and think the ride quality is fine, firm, but never harsh.
I agree with Mike, you probably got one of the earlier models which (based on other posts here) were prone to fit and finish issues.
As far as the power, I think the 3.7 is adequate, it isn't fast by any means, but 300 HP is definitely good and it allows it to maintain relatively good gas mileage. That being said, I wouldn't be opposed to a turbo charger :) |
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| noel |
Sure their's always fit problems in start up with any new model. I guess I'm just disappointed that Acura, a company I thought was noted for high quality, let these cars out of the factory this way. I know this car's rated at 300hp but, it's seriously lacking in low end torque, something a turbo charger would really help remedy. Unfortunately, no such item is available at this time. I've driven V8 powered Jeep Grand Cherokees for the past ten years, the last one being the 4.7 L high output version and, while I'll openly admit they were somewhat less refined than the MDX, they had great bottom end torque and I surely miss it.
quote:
Originally posted by gmc74
I agree with Mike, you probably got one of the earlier models which (based on other posts here) were prone to fit and finish issues.
As far as the power, I think the 3.7 is adequate, it isn't fast by any means, but 300 HP is definitely good and it allows it to maintain relatively good gas mileage. That being said, I wouldn't' be opposed to a turbo charger :)
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| hipcheck |
Not sure what you are getting at with the acceleration, perhaps you are not used to Honda engines?
I previously owned a BMW X5 3.0 and the very new Saturn Outlook 3.6. The MDX is much quicker than both of them.
For me, Honda engines require higher RPMs to really appreciate them while the German/American engines have more torque at lower RPMs.
Toss in the excellent ride and I love the drive of the MDX. 0-60 is around 7.5 seconds which is more than adequate. Yes there are V8s which will beat that, but that will cost you some huge dollars in the luxury SUVs.
One tip for new car buyers. Always inspect your new car before signing the final documents. I always look the car over very carefully, that has prevented problems with poor fit and finish. I once refused a BMW that had obvious issues. |
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| kph3 |
The early build MDX's did have problems and I saw those at the dealership. I test drove a silver sport model and it had the dash alignment problem, the steering column plastic misfit, the thump in the rear suspension, and other misalignments in trim pieces......after the drive I got out and checked the drivers door sticker.......build date was 11/06. When I ordered my black/taupe, I told them I wouldn't accept one unless the build date was after 05/07 with what I read on this thread.....they checked and got one that was sheduled the end of July. Acura must have gotten these things worked out as my 07/07 build doesn't have any of these issues. Also, I don't notice the slow backup camera issues mentioned elsewhere either........when I put it into reverse, it immediately beeps and the screen changes to the camera. I think I got lucky.
As far as the power, for this big of an SUV, I am pleased. My RL seemed a little quicker, but this feels like it has more torque. I had an early production RL and had a few issues at first, but got them all worked out with the dealer in the first few months.....after that.....no issues. Hopefully you will have as much luck once you resolve your X issues. |
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| gmc74 |
quote:
Originally posted by noel
Sure their's always fit problems in start up with any new model. I guess I'm just disappointed that Acura, a company I thought was noted for high quality, let these cars out of the factory this way. I know this car's rated at 300hp but, it's seriously lacking in low end torque, something a turbo charger would really help remedy. Unfortunately, no such item is available at this time. I've driven V8 powered Jeep Grand Cherokees for the past ten years, the last one being the 4.7 L high output version and, while I'll openly admit they were somewhat less refined than the MDX, they had great bottom end torque and I surely miss it.
I looked at the Jeep with the HEMI... you may have something wrong with your engine if the 235 HP 4.7L V8 was faster, in a heavier truck. I know the Jeep has more torque, but if it really feels faster, you may want to have it looked at.
I looked at the SRT Cherokee, it was fast, but the mpg and cheesey interior made me look elsewhere |
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| noel |
quote:
Originally posted by gmc74
I looked at the Jeep with the HEMI... you may have something wrong with your engine if the 235 HP 4.7L V8 was faster, in a heavier truck. I know the Jeep has more torque, but if it really feels faster, you may want to have it looked at.
I looked at the SRT Cherokee, it was fast, but the mpg and cheesey interior made me look elsewhere
OK, first of all the 4.7 liter high output engine in my Grand Cherokee was rated at 265hp@5200rpm and 325ft. lbs. of torque@3600rpm as opposed to the 3.7 liter MDX engine rated at 300hp@6000rpm and 275ft. lbs. of torque@5000rpm. Surprisingly, the MDX also outweighs my last Grand Cherokee, a 2002, by apprx. 200lbs. Would guess that an additional 50ft. lbs. of torque at almost 1500 rpm and a couple of hundred pounds less weight would certainly give the feeling of much more power down low, would you not agree? No argument regarding the interior, the Jeep interior is absolutely no match for the fine interior of the MDX. That's a big part of what attracted me to the MDX in the first place.
As I mentioned earlier, I will have the engine checked the next time I go in for service and if I find out their is a problem affecting it's power output, I'll certainly be pleased to let everyone know. |
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| Fabvsix |
| I drove the RDX this morning for the first time in a long time. It now has 15,000 miles. I've changed the oil twice now......This think hauls butt ! I had it in paddle shift mode, holy snizt, TURBO TERROR !!!!! It had a nice acceleration force and held the curve well, but not as planted as the MDX but the X is not as nibble as the RDX.......I'd love to drive it off road (dirt road etc...that would be a blast)! Or how about the desert? :cool: :cool: :2: |
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| m500 |
Noel,
I know what you mean by not enough power on freeway merger or when passing at 70 + MPH. Coming from my last SUV a ML500 V8 with plenty of torque. I initially feel exactly the same as you're right now. With 50+ less torque on MDX does makes MDX feel very poor if I drive it the same way as I did with my ML500. I find that I need to adjust my driving style according to how MDX engine/trans works. After all its a VTEC and they love to Rev high. On my Second 600+ miles trip down to Las Vegas From Ventura couty, I've discover if I step it down hard and MDX will down shift to the correct gear and power over any vehicle that is blocking my way even on those crazy up hills. Now a full month later, I have adjust to my MDX and drive it the way it is meant to be driven. Its now as sporty as G35 and as powerful as my ML500. |
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| Fabvsix |
| yep yep, you need to keep those RPM's high....Honda is a MOTOR company as in "Honda Motor Company" stamped on my RL engine head.......They like to REV HIGH! If you want to get the idea, google RDX and their is a web site VTEC something or other and they have mini movies as this driver heads down the winding road.....He never got out of 2nd gear in most cases......I drove the MDX quite aggressive up to Clear Lake West of Sacramento, North of Bay area. My passenger was a heavy gal. Her family members are big folks, so they drive 7 series BMW, large MB sedans and she was beyond impressed how well the MDX was planted, held the road like on rails and she LOVED the sound of the engine which I had in sequential mode and kept it in 2nd most of the time too but not nearly as aggressive as in that movie. I never heard the tires screeching and I was getting on it.....Very nice, esp when in Sport mode....A NO BRAINIER.....:cool: |
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| gmc74 |
quote:
Originally posted by noel
OK, first of all the 4.7 liter high output engine in my Grand Cherokee was rated at 265hp@5200rpm and 325ft. lbs. of torque@3600rpm as opposed to the 3.7 liter MDX engine rated at 300hp@6000rpm and 275ft. lbs. of torque@5000rpm. Surprisingly, the MDX also outweighs my last Grand Cherokee, a 2002, by apprx. 200lbs. Would guess that an additional 50ft. lbs. of torque at almost 1500 rpm and a couple of hundred pounds less weight would certainly give the feeling of much more power down low, would you not agree? No argument regarding the interior, the Jeep interior is absolutely no match for the fine interior of the MDX. That's a big part of what attracted me to the MDX in the first place.
As I mentioned earlier, I will have the engine checked the next time I go in for service and if I find out their is a problem affecting it's power output, I'll certainly be pleased to let everyone know.
I was looking at the 2007 Grand Cherokee, which has a 4.7
Standard Engine4.7L V8
Horsepower @ RPM - 235@4500
Torque @ RPM - 305@3600 (foot-lbs)
4691 lbs
vs the MDX
3.7L V6
Horsepower @ RPM - 300@6000
Torque @ RPM - 275@5000 (foot-lbs)
4554 lbs
I could understand how the difference in torque, mostly the RPM that it is hitting the max, would be noticable, but I am still shocked that it felt faster, I am guessing your current engine has issues. I hope it does, and they fix it and it makes your experience better
Good Luck |
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| mdx007 |
quote:
Originally posted by noel
Hello to all owners of a 2007 MDX. Well, I've had my MDX for four months now, enough time to revisit some of my initial complaints so, here they are.
1. Disappointing fit and assembly of interior trim. Been back to the dealer and some of the issues have been corrected but, I continue to find more. The backing of the lift up third row seats is broken on one side and has come loose on the other. The molded cover, to hide the wiring on the DVD player, located under the drivers seat, fits so poorly it will not attach as it's supposed to.
2. After several thousand miles I still consider the performance (acceleration) very poor, especially at highway speeds. When merging onto a freeway, with other vehicles traveling at 70mph+, you better give yourself a very long distance for merging into traffic since the acceleration at high speeds is so poor. Am I the only one on this forum that feels this way?
I have a dear friend who writes for the Detroit News and after a week of testing, his feelings were the same as mine so I know I'm not totally alone in my conclusions. The comment in his report is as follows: "On the downside, the 3.7-liter V6 motor just doesn't have the muscle needed to justify its MDX's 'Sport' image. Time, it seems, for Honda to step up and build a V8 engine, or at least throw a turbocharger or two on its V6". Am I alone in agreement with his findings or am I alone? How about the rest of you?
On the plus side, I'm very happy with the handling and feel it's outstanding for a crossover and think the ride quality is fine, firm, but never harsh.
1) I have the same fit and finish interior issue as you and others do. My dealership and even the Acura district rep took a look at my interior and said it was normal. They said it was built that way, eventough it was acknowledge that the driver side did have a larger gap then the passenger side and the trim pieces don't exactly line up. I haven't been able to get anything fixed after multiple visits to the dealership. To make matter worse since the Acura district rep said it was normal Acura has closed the case.
2) The power for me is okay, not great but okay. Unless I'm traveling up a hill, then I can really feel the strain. I mean my Ridgeline with the 3.5 V6 feels more powerful going up a steep incline such as the freeways around here.
I've been a life long Honda owner and currently own the S2000, Ridgeline, Accord, CBR954RR, and MDX. I find the build quality and especially treatment from Acura unacceptable. When it comes time to replace my vechiles I'll be searching elsewhere. Overall I've been disappointed with Acura the MDX. |
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| noel |
quote:
Originally posted by mdx007
1) I have the same fit and finish interior issue as you and others do. My dealership and even the Acura district rep took a look at my interior and said it was normal. They said it was built that way, eventough it was acknowledge that the driver side did have a larger gap then the passenger side and the trim pieces don't exactly line up. I haven't been able to get anything fixed after multiple visits to the dealership. To make matter worse since the Acura district rep said it was normal Acura has closed the case.
2) The power for me is okay, not great but okay. Unless I'm traveling up a hill, then I can really feel the strain. I mean my Ridgeline with the 3.5 V6 feels more powerful going up a steep incline such as the freeways around here.
I've been a life long Honda owner and currently own the S2000, Ridgeline, Accord, CBR954RR, and MDX. I find the build quality and especially treatment from Acura unacceptable. When it comes time to replace my vechiles I'll be searching elsewhere. Overall I've been disappointed with Acura the MDX.
Wow, you are a big Honda fan! I can certainly understand your disappointment at the way Acura has refused to acknowledge your complaint about the door / instrument panel gaps. I have the same problem and because it's not real severe, I did't even bring it up when I took my car in last time.
I'll agree with your comment about the power being "OK". We just got back from a trip and my wife, who was driving my MDX for the first time, commented on it feeling strained when going up hills just like you did.
The jury is still out on wether I'll ever buy another Acura. I mentioned earlier that I was going to have my dealer check my engine after many of the other forum members claimed that their cars performed very well at high speeds! Between you and me, I just think it's too small an engine with insufficient low end torque but, I'm really hoping I'm wrong. |
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| deanking |
| I have no complaints about the fit and finish. If this thing had a V8 or a turbo then I would not have bought it because the MPG would not have been good. Other posts suggest that is one of the primary issues with the RDX (good power, bad MPG). From a power perspective it sounds like the MDX was not the right vehicle for you. |
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| m500 |
Noel,
Have you try driving using tip tronic? Keep it above 4500 RPM and see if your MDX behave better then decide maybe its the car or driving style. |
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| noel |
quote:
Originally posted by deanking
I have no complaints about the fit and finish. If this thing had a V8 or a turbo then I would not have bought it because the MPG would not have been good. Other posts suggest that is one of the primary issues with the RDX (good power, bad MPG). From a power perspective it sounds like the MDX was not the right vehicle for you.
Glad to hear your MDX has no fit and finish issues, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. Back a while ago, I would have agreed with you about MPG but, with new technology like Chrysler is using, shutting down 4 cylinders of their V8 ( which works invisibly according to my friends that own them) they are getting highway mileage in the low 20's and around town, 16 to 17MPG. I'm currently getting around 17 to 18MPG around town and got 23-24MPG on my last trip so, I'd still go for a V8 if one was ever made available. If not, you may be right, I made the wrong choice. |
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| noel |
quote:
Originally posted by m500
Noel,
Have you try driving using tip tronic? Keep it above 4500 RPM and see if your MDX behave better then decide maybe its the car or driving style.
Good suggestion and I do shift manually on a regular basis at around 5000RPM and your correct, it does help acceleration but I still find this engine lacking in low-end grunt! |
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| m500 |
Looks like MDX is not the right car for your prefer driving style. It is hard to adjust from a V8 to V6 and thats why I initially wanted nothing to do with MDX. My 1st choice was the 08 Pathfinder with that V8 5.6
I have to make my woman happy as Pathfinder is too barbaric for her liking and I wanted a more Fuel efficient car with at least 300hp. Therefore MDX was my only choice.
quote:
Originally posted by noel
Good suggestion and I do shift manually on a regular basis at around 5000RPM and your correct, it does help acceleration but I still find this engine lacking in low-end grunt!
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| Activator |
| All you guys asking for a Turbo on the MDX... look at an RDX forum sometime. (I owned one for two weeks and couldn't stand it!) If you "enjoy" the admittedly thrilling turbo boost, you can expect and exponential degradation in gas mileage! In the two weeks I drove the RDX I averaged about 16MPG in mixed driving. That's in a 4 cylinder engine, folks. And I didn't even hit the gas that hard since it wasn't broken in yet. And turbo lag? Yes, the RDX has a pretty noticeable lag. Annoying at times and almost dangerous at others. Did I say I hated the RDX? I could go on. :rolleyes: |
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| Parker |
Your talking about a different 4.7 than Noel is talking about. The version you are talking about is the standard 4.7, Noel is talking about the 4.7 HO, which originally came out in the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Edition a few years back.
I used to have the Jeep Overland, lots of low end torque and noise to match, especially the road noise above 70.
Also had lousy gas mileage. It is the torque of that engine that caused it to get 0-60 times between 6.7 and 7.0, if I remember correctly. So it is quicker, but that doesn't mean the MDX is slow. 7.6 to 60 ought to be good enough. You probably aren't getting on it enough. I also notice that I am going much faster than I think I am.
quote:
Originally posted by gmc74
I was looking at the 2007 Grand Cherokee, which has a 4.7
Standard Engine4.7L V8
Horsepower @ RPM - 235@4500
Torque @ RPM - 305@3600 (foot-lbs)
4691 lbs
vs the MDX
3.7L V6
Horsepower @ RPM - 300@6000
Torque @ RPM - 275@5000 (foot-lbs)
4554 lbs
I could understand how the difference in torque, mostly the RPM that it is hitting the max, would be noticable, but I am still shocked that it felt faster, I am guessing your current engine has issues. I hope it does, and they fix it and it makes your experience better
Good Luck
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| gmc74 |
quote:
Originally posted by Activator
All you guys asking for a Turbo on the MDX... look at an RDX forum sometime. (I owned one for two weeks and couldn't stand it!) If you "enjoy" the admittedly thrilling turbo boost, you can expect and exponential degradation in gas mileage! In the two weeks I drove the RDX I averaged about 16MPG in mixed driving. That's in a 4 cylinder engine, folks. And I didn't even hit the gas that hard since it wasn't broken in yet. And turbo lag? Yes, the RDX has a pretty noticeable lag. Annoying at times and almost dangerous at others. Did I say I hated the RDX? I could go on. :rolleyes:
Since we are just dreaming, I was thinking more along the lines of the BMW 335 twin turbo system that has no turbo lag and no jarring kick... it is just smooth as silk. |
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| Fabvsix |
| Let's hope for a Type S MDX with 6 speed manual and all the type s goodies........I'd trade up in a heart beat! :1: |
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| gmc74 |
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
Let's hope for a Type S MDX with 6 speed manual and all the type s goodies........I'd trade up in a heart beat! :1:
my wife will kick my ass if I trade up... they didn't do a type s in the old one did they? |
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| Fabvsix |
No they have never produced a Type S X but who knows........drool........(I think the Sport model is the test mule.....)
Remember the rule: Never say Never.........:rolleyes: |
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| Parker |
I hear eveyone talking about the turbo, wanting a turbo, I can see the first thread now for an MDX Turbo, "I can't believe how bad my gas mileage is." And then another 100 posts crabbing about the same thing.
Won't be any different than the RDX site. |
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| m500 |
We getting off the subject a little here now. Yes, turbo would be good but MPG will suffer. When MPG gets lower then one of the major selling point for MDX is lost and its now no better then the V8 competition out there.
This is more due to the prefer driving style and the engine power curve. If you like V8 then V6 just won't cut it. Me, I like V8 but this V6 will do for now.
quote:
Originally posted by Parker
I hear eveyone talking about the turbo, wanting a turbo, I can see the first thread now for an MDX Turbo, "I can't believe how bad my gas mileage is." And then another 100 posts crabbing about the same thing.
Won't be any different than the RDX site.
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| JL_SS |
quote:
Originally posted by m500
We getting off the subject a little here now. Yes, turbo would be good but MPG will suffer. When MPG gets lower then one of the major selling point for MDX is lost and its now no better then the V8 competition out there.
This is more due to the prefer driving style and the engine power curve. If you like V8 then V6 just won't cut it. Me, I like V8 but this V6 will do for now.
Mileage doesn't have to suffer with a V8. In fact real world mpg would probably not change much at all if geared properly. You get a larger engine with more low end torque that doesn't have to climb in rev's nearly as much every time you need power. My Silverado Crew Cab has a 5.3 liter V8 with lots of low end torque. It weighs 700lbs more than an MDX and I get the same hwy and city mpg as our 2003 MDX. A great comparison example using the same vehicle is the 4 cyl vs the V6 RAV4. They get about the same mpg but the V6 propels you to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Like the RAV4 V6, the RDX really should have had a V6 instead of the Turbo gas hog. |
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| Fabvsix |
| A V6 in the RDX would foook up the MDX sales big time, therefore they would have to "bump" all models up to not mess with sales figures.....you get what I mean.......? The TL is already knocking on the RL spec's (too close). Probably why the RL sales SUCK ! Why pay 10k more when you can get the TL that's just as fast if not faster? They are at the point of "Adapt or Die"...........................Bring on the V8, V10 HONDA MOTOR COMPANY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 10 pounds of dog shnizt will NOT fit in a 5 lb. bag!!!!!!! Step up to the plate!!!! :1: :1: :1: |
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| JL_SS |
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
A V6 in the RDX would foook up the MDX sales big time, therefore they would have to "bump" all models up to not mess with sales figures.....you get what I mean.......? The TL is already knocking on the RL spec's (too close). Probably why the RL sales SUCK ! Why pay 10k more when you can get the TL that's just as fast if not faster? They are at the point of "Adapt or Die"...........................Bring on the V8, V10 HONDA MOTOR COMPANY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 10 pounds of dog shnizt will NOT fit in a 5 lb. bag!!!!!!! Step up to the plate!!!! :1: :1: :1:
Most people buying an MDX are looking for a bigger vehicle so I don't think that a V6 RDX would impact MDX sales all that much. Is the RAV4 V6 stealing all the Highlander sales? I don't think so. Acura went with better handling due to the more equal weight distribution of the turbo 4 at the expense of mpg at a time when gas prices are high. Not to mention the fact that for most people buying an SUV, handling is usually secondary to utility and mpg - look at the huge sales success of the new CRV with only a 4 cyl. I think Acura needs to find the current head of product planning another position before he/she does any more damage..... |
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| Fabvsix |
| I bought HONDA's from 1984 to 2000. I had NEVER stepped foot on an Acura Dealership until the 2001 CL Type S debuted........so many HONDA loyal customers don't even consider looking at Acura which explains the strong sales of the current CRV. Its a great car for the price, but is it as nice as the RDX.....? Not even......It was a risk but what isn't these days?? I hear what your saying but come on! Give us that V8 we've been waiting for........ADAPT or DIE......... |
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| JL_SS |
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
I bought HONDA's from 1984 to 2000. I had NEVER stepped foot on an Acura Dealership until the 2001 CL Type S debuted........so many HONDA loyal customers don't even consider looking at Acura which explains the strong sales of the current CRV. Its a great car for the price, but is it as nice as the RDX.....? Not even......It was a risk but what isn't these days?? I hear what your saying but come on! Give us that V8 we've been waiting for........ADAPT or DIE.........
The strong sales of the CRV are because it is a good value and provides good mpg. An RDX is nicer but it is not a good value for it's size and provides horrible mpg. A V6 RDX would have handled a little worse but gotten much better mpg and probably better faster (like the RAV4 V6). Honda/Acura customers cross shop the Accord/TSX/TL and a lot of customers actually cross shopped the MDX with the Pilot so I don't agree with your comment that Honda owners don't go to Acura dealers. But the MDX/Pilot cross shopping stopped with the new MDX and the price jump. The MDX is still good value when cross shopped against it's competition, but now it is more expensive and doesn't have the prestige reputation of BMW/Merc/etc. Thus MDX sales stayed fairly flat with the redesign. I agree with you 100%, Acura needs a V8, and if it is properly implemented, it can get the same mpg as their V6 is getting now. |
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| Fabvsix |
| When I have gone back to my Honda dealership I've looked at the Pilot and my first impression is "less". Even my partner who knows little about cars, noticed right away how the doors "felt" hollow/less, the interior is typical "honda" "bargain"......I guess the saying is once you buy an acura, feel the comfort in the seats, enjoy the better quality interiors, and more sport appeal I could never go back that route........I considered the S2000 but that is another topic......The NSX was dated compared to the other Acura models (No navi ever offered)......just dated AND AND AND a V6 at 290 hp (the ultimate rice rocket)......As I said if they introduce a V8 it will effect their entire line up ($$$$$$$), so who is gonna pay for that? :1: I agree with most of what you said, just not the cross shopping....that started about in 2000 when the "younger" crowd started courting the used Acura's.......you've read their boards......An RL forum I frequent is full of young kids, buying used RL's and wanting to do all the after market routestuff........so yes there is more crossshopping these days which is EXACTLY who Acura designed the All new RL for, for yuppies, not that bunch between 50 and 65, they abandoned those folks who went where? Are they happier paying $20K more for a V8 6-7 speed auto Japanese car? They have to take the next step forward and continue to differ completely from HONDA vehicles......this is a shot of my first Acura.....it had a time bomb transmission, but again another entire topic.......yawn.... |
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| sr129 |
| I have only had my MDX for 1 week but I am totally happy with the fit and finish. I really have not pushed the engine yet( only 500 miles) I came from a Pontiac grand Prix GTP with a supercharger. That car had plenty of power at any speed. When I decided on the MDX it was not just about the power. I considered the ride the look and the all wheel drive. I ski alot and the hassel of putting chains on every time I head to the mountians gets old real quick. We will see how this car works out in that respect.:2: |
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