As it has with other models in its lineup, Acura made no significant changes to the MDX for the 2013 model year. That said, the MDX is a sound choice for buyers looking for a moderately priced luxury midsize SUV. The all-wheel-drive MDX offers decent fuel economy compared to other similar vehicles as well as numerous standard amenities that cost extra with some other carmakers.

All 2013 Acura MDX trims, which include the Base, Advance Package, Advance and Entertainment Package, Technology Package and Technology and Entertainment Package, roll off the assembly line in Alliston, Ontario, Canada, with a 3.7-liter VTEC V6 engine that delivers 300 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. The AWD V6 engine is mated to a 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters and is estimated by the EPA to get 16 mpg city/21 highway. The MDX, which seats 7 passengers, has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Standard features found on all 2013 Acura TSX trims include automatic tri-zone climate control, cruise control, dual-level heated front-row seats, 8-way power driver’s seat with 2-way adjustable lumbar, tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, keyless remote access, an 8-speaker 360-watt premium audio system with AM/FM/XM, 6-CD changer, MP3/WMA player and 8-inch subwoofer, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with rear-view camera display, heated exterior mirrors, moonroof, power liftgate, Xenon HID headlights, fog lights and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

Buyers opting for the Advance Package or Technology Package trims receive numerous upgrades. Both packages include upgraded leather seating surfaces, a 10-speaker 410-watt premium sound system with AM/FM/XM, 6-CD changer, MP3/WMA player, hard disc drive media storage and an 8-inch subwoofer, navigation system with 8-inch monitor, and multiview rear camera. Advance Package buyers also receive adaptive cruise control, a sport steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and 19-inch, 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. Buyers opting for the Entertainment Package also receive a DVD rear-seat entertainment system and dual-level heated second-row seats.

The 2013 Acura TSX also comes well equipped with safety and security features as well. Standard features include Acura’s 6-airbag system, which features 2 front airbags, 2 front-side airbags and 2 side curtain airbags. Additionally, all trims have 4-wheel disc brakes with antilock braking system, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, along with vehicle stability assist, a tire pressure monitoring system and an ignition-disabling security system. Available package upgrades include a blind-spot monitoring system and collision mitigation braking system.

Buyers of the 2013 Acura MDX have noted that they are pleased with the handling that the vehicle provides, as drivers notice little body roll when cornering and equal power distributed to all 4 wheels when driving over rough terrain. Although lacking a luxurious feel, buyers noted that the interior feels solid and there is ample room for cargo or 7 full-size adult passengers.

Even though Acura has not made any wholesale changes to the MDX during the last couple of years, it still remains a top choice for those seeking to buy a large luxury vehicle without paying the price commanded by the top European imports. The MDX capably stands on its own against the likes of the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GL Class and is a solid all-around option for luxury SUV buyers.