Fully redesigned in the 2014 model year, the Acura MDX superbly combines performance and comfort. That’s no small feat for a utility vehicle with three rows of seating. This reviewer found plenty to like during a one-week test drive. While the power and driving dynamics were rave- worthy, the route to taking a back seat was an uncomplicated task via the One-Touch Walk-In technology. Push a second-row seat button, and the seat bottom moves forward/seat-back tilts forward for easy third row access. While the third-row is a snug-ride for adults, kids found the ride comfortable and liked the easy-to-reach third-row cupholders.

Powering the Acura MDX is a 3.5-liter, Variable Cylinder Management V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 267 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine mates to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 111-inch wheelbase MDX is sold in two-wheel drive and the Super Handling all-wheel-drive (SH-AWD). Cargo volume is 14.8 cubic feet with third row upright, 38.4 cubic feet with third row folded, and 68.4 cubic feet with second row and third row seating folded. MDX with SH-AWD has estimated mpg of 18 city and 27 highway. MSRP of MDX with SH-AWD is $44,565.