This is a world where practicality is important. As far as cars are concerned, style no longer precedes comfort, cost no longer precedes suitability, and design no longer precedes performance. Nowadays, it’s all about suitability and functionality.

When we speak of suitability, we take into consideration the spaciousness, the cargo capacity, the longevity, and the endurance of both the car’s exterior and interior. When we talk about functionality, we mean the mileage, the performance, and the engine capabilities. When we talk about suitability and functionality, we can only have one thing in mind: the Sports Utility Vehicle, commonly known as the SUV.

The SUV is a cross between a light truck and a minivan. It has a towing capacity similar to that of a light truck but has the passenger capacity similar to that of a minivan. SUVs are built for off road and are usually equipped with four-wheel drive. They have a sporty look but have the functionality of a family car.

Here are a few reasons why SUVs have made a mark in society:

Space – SUVs are equipped with more than enough seating capacity. They also have extra luggage and carrying space in the back. This concept was created with the notion that owners may want to store different types of sporting equipment, gear, or any type of luggage for that matter. Despite their sporty look, the interior of an SUV is roomy enough for any family. They operate like a family car but definitely do not look like one. The Cadillac Escalade gives proof to this, having the best interior known to SUVs.

Four-wheel drive – SUVs are also equipped with the four-wheel drive feature that gives you better control of your vehicle in extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. Better control means less chance of accidents. The Nissan Xterra is one SUV that is praised for its off-road capabilities.

Structure – They say size adds strength and gives you power. This is proven true by SUVs, with the Chevrolet Tahoe as an example. Due to its massive size and high frame, buyers are drawn to this car. It presents a much safer ride due to its size and the metal surrounding it, which will help protect the occupants in cases of collisions. Its high frame gives drivers a better view of the road and the other cars. The driver feels safer and less vulnerable driving this than driving a smaller vehicle.

If you’re looking for a vehicle that provides style, seats a good number of passengers, and performs impressively, you need not look farther. There is a vehicle that can deliver all of these: the SUV. They’ve made a mark in society and they’re definitely here to stay.

The Acura MDX is one of the most recommended luxury SUVs on the market.

Quick Snapshot
A true crossover pioneer, the Acura MDX entered the market in the 2001 model year back during a time when the term “crossover” had yet to be introduced. It started out as a luxury SUV designed to cater to the suburban family that could take advantage of its seven-seater capacity by using the third row seating in lieu of cargo space. The first-generation MDX offered a pleasurable drive on-road and was competent to handle bad weather conditions. However, it lacked the power and design to take on rough mountain trails the way sporty vehicles were expected to. Acura was able to remedy this in the succeeding model years while still maintaining its crossover comfort and utility. The MDX, which stands for “Multi-Dimensional luXury”, gets better each year and continues to be recognized by car experts as one of the best luxury SUVs around.

The current MDX has a total market value that falls under the $36,000 to $43,000 price range. It offers three packages – Technology, Sport, and Entertainment – which all increase the vehicle’s market price. Loaded with modern features and state-of-the-art gadgets, the 2008 Acura MDX offers the latest in automobile technology.

Strengths
(+) Stylish and roomy interior – Everything about the interior speaks of richness and comfort. The plush leather seats with reclining ability offer enough legroom. Hi-tech features abound guaranteeing a ride in this vehicle a fascinating experience.
(+) Plenty of cargo space (provided the third row is folded down) – The MDX has multiple storage compartments besides the spacious cargo bay. Some nooks and crevices also offer tiny cupboards, making clever use of most of the cabin space.
(+) Superb safety scores – Its NHTSA Crash-Test Results are 5 stars for front impact (driver and passenger) and side impact (driver and rear passenger), and 4 stars for 4WD rollover.
(+) Great handling and power – The engine pulls strongly, smoothly, and carefully. Handling is very comfortable.
(+) Firm suspension – The base suspension provides a controlled and easy ride. The Sport package offers driver-adjustable suspension allowing Sport and Comfort modes.
(+) Substantial resale value – This is a foregone conclusion, assuming the vehicle is maintained well. Honda and Acura top the list of car brands with the best resale value.

Weaknesses
(-) Confined third row seating – This is only suitable for occasional use or for small persons.
(-) Heavy body – This trait results in another weakness, which is poor fuel economy.
(-) Too edgy exterior design – The design definitely needs some getting used to. The grille really does look like something King Leonidas would have used in battle.
(-) Poor fuel economy – SUVs, in general, simply are not known for fuel efficient performance.

Driving Experience
The MDX has great performance ratings. Many find that it drives more like a sports sedan than an SUV. The combination of its 300-horsepower engine and all-wheel-drive system offers a fun driving experience that gets to 60 mph in high six/low seven seconds. It also offers both Sports and Comfort modes for either brisk handling or smooth driving.

Exterior and Interior
Based on the design of a luxury yacht, the outward appearance of the MDX inspires mixed feelings among reviewers. Some find the chiseled aerodynamic curves dashing, athletic, and capable while others find the futuristic edges and gargantuan grille offensively aggressive like a Spartan shield. The current model has a more driver-focused design. It is roomy and ergonomically sensible. The third row accommodates children and smaller adults comfortably and with the seat folded down, it offers ample cargo space with a capacity of 43 cubic feet. The plush leather seats have armrests, adjustable backrest angle, and heaters. Some appreciate the abundance of technological features, but others find the central stack too confusing. Nevertheless, the Acura MDX’s navigation system that provides real-time traffic information, its climate control system, six-channel Surround Sound system, and Bluetooth connectivity are perks that most consumers welcome.

Safety
The MDX has earned five stars for driver and passenger safety in frontal and side crash tests conducted by the federal government. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the highest possible score in the frontal and side crash tests as well and has named it a “Top Safety Pick.” The MDX has a safety package as complete as there could be in an automobile these days. It features stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, and a bevy of airbags.

Gas Mileage
With regards to fuel economy, the MDX should achieve 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway according to the EPA.

Main Competitors
Nissan Murano
Toyota Highlander
Lexus RX350
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Kia Sorento
BMW X5

Bottom Line
When it comes to performance and features, the 2008 Acura MDX has clearly outdone itself. It has been accorded first place honors in the Luxury SUV class by “Cars and Drivers” and many agree that it is indeed good value for your money. If you are looking for a crossover that exudes strength in performance and in appearance, the 2008 Acura MDX is the car for you.