2001 Acura MDX

What is it?
2001 Acura MDX

What's special about it?
Acura may be late to the SUV party, but they've decided to come dressed to the nines with third-row seating, a five-star safety rating, 50-state ultra-low emissions and a uniquely transformable interior wrapped in a CL-like skin.

With its standard 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter VTEC V6 and electronically-controlled five-speed automatic transmission, the MDX delivers more performance than many of its direct competitors. With an estimated EPA rating of 17 city and 23 highway, the MDX is also one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class.

Power to the wheels comes from Acura's new Variable Torque Management four-wheel drive -- a full-time system -- which uses sensors to determine the vehicle's dynamic position, and transfers engine torque to the wheels with the most grip. Unlike conventional automatic 4WD systems, Acura's proactively distributes engine torque during acceleration before wheel slip occurs.

The MDX is distinctly Acura, with its signature pentagon grille, clean headlamp treatment and sharply chiseled front fascia, but with a muscular look unlike the CL.

Inside, the MDX features second-and third-row seats that split and fold flat into the floor, making an interior that can be easily reconfigured from seven-passenger hauler (though we wouldn't recommend adults trying to cram in the third row) to a flat-floor Costco runner in a matter of a few seconds. Large, flowing shapes dominate the instrument panel and center console, which is wrapped in leather with wood-grained trim.

The MDX comes with a comprehensive list of standard equipment, including leather seating surfaces (on first and second-row seating), wood trim, keyless entry, power moonroof, AM/FM/cassette/CD, heated front seats and a multi-function digital trip computer.

Opt for the Touring Package and the front seat positions become linked to the key fob remotes, plus you get a 200-watt Bose stereo with in-dash six-disc CD changer as well as a handy roof rack. An optional DVD navigation system is also available.

Coming this fall as a 2001 model, the MDX is projected to be priced in the mid to high- $30,000 range.

Why should you care?
Sure, Acura is late to the SUV party, but for a little more than a loaded Ford Explorer XLT, you can put an MDX in your garage with all the trimmings and have a far superior vehicle with excellent resale value.