Base Price: $40,955
Price as Tested: $48,755
Why We Drove It: The Acura MDX is a Top Safety Pick according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and also receives top-notch crash-test scores from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration.In surveys that J.D. Power and Associates has conducted with verified owners of the 2008 Acura MDX, the people that actually own and drive one told us:


 The automated rear hatch was not offered independently but only as part of the rear entertainment system. 


 I love the handling of the MDX and the turn radius. It drives like a smaller car even though it s an SUV. 


 I am not happy that it doesn t have an MP3 player in front. You can access from the rear but it doesn t play well. 


 The side windows opposite the third row have [an] obstructed view and are smaller than on previous models. 


 The MDX is easy to drive and provides an excellent ride with adequate mileage, performance, [and it is] very quiet! 


 The navigation screen is not real clear in daylight; too much reflection. 


 I love everything about the car, every surprise is pleasant. [The Acura MDX is] above and beyond what I expected. 


 [The amount of] noise over bumps is unacceptable for a vehicle in this price category. 


 Bluetooth has poor and inconsistent quality for [a] new vehicle [paired with a] new phone. 


 The interior moldings [have a] very sloppy fit for a vehicle of this price and quality! 


 The third-row seating has minimal leg room and is hard to get into. 


Top 3 Things Owners Like About the Acura MDX:
1. Effectiveness of headlights
2. Braking responsiveness/effort
3. Appearance of exterior paint


Top 3 Owner-Reported Problems with the Acura MDX:
1. Hands-Free Communication   Doesn't recognize command
2. Navigation System   Map/Wrong directions/Poor location
3. Hands-Free Communication   Won t connect