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Range in Motion - 2005 Crossover Buyer's Guide

2005 Acura MDX Review

by Martha Hindes

Acura MDX
2005 Acura MDX

A perennial winner in the crossover derby for its smooth, commanding road presence is the Acura MDX, a full-size, just-right luxury-side victor that's become a spoiler in comparison with many other brands. While 2005 doesn't bring any dramatic changes (no revamped exterior profile this time around); there are loads of fine-tuning touches instead meant to pique its car-based driving comfort.

Tops on the list is the addition of XM Satellite Radio, that can smooth out an otherwise knotty listening drive into miles of uninterrupted tunes, comedy skits or chatter from a favorite pontificator of opinions. All upmarket Touring trim level MDX's also get a connector Acura calls "HandsFreeLink." The system lets phones equipped with advanced Bluetooth wireless technology connect through voice recognition and audio interfaces. (It's got to be easier -- and safer -- to connect with a preset number by spoken command than trying to punch it into a keypad while driving at highway speeds.)

As the ultimate division of Japan's Honda auto company, Acura is charged with setting a benchmark for luxury amenities (drive-by-wire throttle for smoothness, rearview camera for safety, and more) while including the kinds of flexibilities crossovers are known for. Among those: "Transformable" fold-flat seating that adjusts to hold seven, and curbside, walk-in second row access. Acura's navigation system is upgraded for '05, and adds more places to visit plus access to Zagat's prestigious restaurant guide that gives new meaning to the term travel food. Its standard vehicle stability assist is improved, and the 3.5-liter all-aluminum V6 is tweaked for extra fuel economy and added driving range, plus lower emissions. (Not bad for a vehicle in the high $30 K starting range.)

Acura hasn't left the exterior totally untouched. It adds some shimmer with three new metallic colors, Desert Rock, Billet Silver and Steel Blue.

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