Typically midsized, and in the interest of ergonomics and all weather motoring, SUVs clearly support the theory of form following function. Two such functionally appealing options following last years well-received offerings, are the Acura MDX and the Lincoln MKX.
The Acura MDX was initially slated as a dire replacement for the sluggish Honda Horizon, and is now essentially an evolved version of the acclaimed CR-V. The MDX has even conquered the TL to become Acura’s flagship vehicle this year. The new approach seemed to prove fruitful, as the MDX was crowned Car and Driver magazine’s Best Luxury SUV, as well as Motortrend’s Sport Utility of the Year.
The Lincoln MKX is backed with well though out marketing from its base manufacturer, Ford. This cute ute was introduced on a salvage mission, in an attempt to recover the fledgling core consumer base of the preceding Lincoln Aviator.
Phonetically, the MDX and MKX are separated by just one letter (which apparently is enough of a reason for Ford's attorneys to get a bit agitated), but how similar are they in the areas where it really matters? A peerless SUV would tally 100 points in the six categories that decide this slugfest.
Acura MDX
MSRP (base): $40,195Engine: 3.7-liter, 24 valve, SOHC, VTEC V6
Horsepower: 300 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 275 lb-ft. @ 5,000 rpm
MPG: City: 17; Highway: 23
Performance - 15/20
The Acura MDX is underpinned by a proper, uni-body foundation and exhibits a wider track and longer wheelbase than its predecessor. The reconstructed anatomy is of the safest variety, Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering, which acts as a sponge to absorb impacts upon collision. With the ability to withstand an impact at 50 mph, by far surpassing the 35 mph standard current rating by the NHTSA, the MDX displays a clear advantage over its competitors. The sticky AWD balances on an independent link suspension, adjusted accordingly at Germany’s famed Nurburgring race track for maximum agility. With superior handling achieved, Honda’s sister affiliate set forth to develop the highest horsepower output engine in the entire fleet. The 3.7-liter, VTEC V6, wields a punchy 300 ponies at the crank -- enough to get a good head start at the stoplight. The MDX impresses with its ability to rocket its 4,538 lbs from 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds.
Exterior - 15/20
The newest fashion of MDX orbits around chief engineer Frank Paluch, who contributed heavily to the styling of last years round. His objective was to blueprint a so-called “stealth family package.” For those unaware of exactly what that entails, it means a lowering of the visual center on a vehicle. The D-pillar is acutely sloped forward in the hopes of camouflaging the third-row seating to an onlooker’s perspective. From a birds eye view, this Acura appears smaller, although measuring tape would prove otherwise.. The MDX isn’t coy about flaunting its straight edges either. Freshly developed, high-beam, cat-eye headlights, shapely, curving tail lights, domed back design, aggressive grille, dual exhaust canisters, five-spoke alloy wheels, and an enlarged manufacturer’s badge, all enhance the form and class of this SUV.
Interior - 8/10
The intent of tacking on more girth to an already stout ute was to multiply cabin space. Now at an exceedingly adequate 43 cubic feet when the third row is folded, and a capacious 84 cubic feet when you add the second row to the equation, the MDX offers an abundant helping of legroom to its occupants. The placement configuration is arranged in three rows of two and comfortably seats seven. The 60/40 split in the middle row and 50/50 chop in the rearmost makes for versatility in compartment use for cargo and passengers alike.
In true luxury SUV fashion, Acura has provided a tri-zone climate control with air filtration, enabling the copilot and company to adjust individual temperatures in their own micro climates. The system also comes complete with humidity control, developed in the interest of optimum comfort and sensors that predict, detect and eliminate pesky window fogging. A moonroof, heavy wood accents, and an operator-friendly cockpit are just a few of this year’s improvements.
Sound system/goodies - 7/10
Technology has been good to the MDX, which sports a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, and a 253 watt, seven-speaker, subwoofer audio system. Options available on the MDX can earn you advanced ELS premium sound attached to 10 speakers. The CD changer uses a 24-bit D/A converter that allows for all MP3 formats, including CD-R and CD text. A fully integrated rear entertainment system is included as well as XM satellite radio, Bluetooth capability, marginal navigation, and an innovative GPS link sensor.
Bang for the buck - 16/20
The $40,195 is a feasible sticker price and quite acceptable for what very well could be competition for the Porsche Cayenne. Refined style and sophistication mix well to create an SUV that isn’t harsh on the wallet.
Driving experience - 16/20
Billing the Acura MDX as “the driver’s SUV” is a lofty Acura claim, but with a beefy mojo, a quiet interior and keen handling it holds true to its word. The 8.0 second 0-60 time may not be pulse pumping enough for some, but it’s as performance laden as you’re going to get without dropping a turbo in it.
Overall score - 77/100
With this effort, what Honda couldn’t accomplish with the failed Horizon and CR-V are more than forgiven. The Acura MDX is an original SUV from all aspects and will expectantly be the benchmark for generations to come.
Lincoln MKX
MSRP (base): $35,770 (AWD version)Engine: 3.5-liter, 24 valve, DOHC Duratec V6
Horsepower: 265 @ 6,250 rpm
Torque: 250 @ 4,500 rpm
MPG: City: 16; Highway: 24
Performance - 14/20
The Lincoln MKX shares the fundamental skeletal makings of the Mazda6 and parent manufacturers Ford Edge. As with many midsizes, vibration reduction is essential for a smooth ride and the MKX is no exception. It utilizes both a four-wheel, independent suspension and Lincoln's Advancetrac with Roll Stability Control. There is a vehicle roll motion sensor integrated into the ECU that promptly measures this SUVs roll rate at a minimum of 100 times per second. The intelligent AWD is revolutionary in that it aids the ABS and anti-skid yaw in keeping as much rubber on the pavement as possible by relieving torque from the wheels that slip and evenly redistributing it to the ones with more grip. The 3.5-liter, Duratec V6 displaces 265 horsepower and has warranted a seed on Ward’s Top 10 Engines for the Year. What's most amazing is not the amount of brawn, but that it accomplishes all of this on 87 octane fuel. And it’s all managed by a class-exclusive, six-speed automatic transmission that peaks mid-band.
Exterior - 14/20
The Car Connection deemed the Lincoln MKX as “one of the most gracefully styled Lincolns in a decade,” and cited, “It’s tastefully rendered with a genuinely attractive shape.” We're not sure we'd go that far, but it does put a twist on design conservations. With the most prominent feature being its grated grille and adaptive headlamps, the MKX is otherwise cosmetically understated. A patented signature Vista Roof was applied to capitalize on panoramic visibility and expand the vehicle's openness. This enhanced moonroof can be vented or slung wide open, and it definitely brings a much needed element of flair to an otherwise bland appearance.
Interior - 8/10
The internals of the MKX were crafted with serenity at the forefront, with the specific intent of emitting a warm and inviting vibe. Genuine lumber trim, satin nickel accents and a meticulously detailed control panel are all woven together to bring the interior into the 21st century. The captain’s and copilot's bucket seats can optionally be outfitted in a lush leather. Coupled with a soft white glow from the gauge cluster and center console and the result is a soothing cabin. From the aluminum engine and wind-noise canceling spoiler, to the strategic placement of space foam, the drive becomes an undisturbed personal oasis. The 10-way positioning driver's seat can be programmed to enable the driver, with use of a key fob, to keep his settings intact each time he sits in the car. Toggle the easy-fold mechanism and you’ll get a grocery-accommodating 31 cubic square feet in the rear, collapse the second-row seats and you’ll get a body-lugging 69 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
Sound system/goodies - 8/10
The MKX offers many venues to entertain, none of which are uncommon on any sport utility in the class. The Lincoln can be outfitted with two pairs of wireless headphones and an 8-inch, flip-down LCD monitor adorns the Rear Entertainment DVD System, with back lighting that makes pixels more vibrant and perfect for video games -- but for a steep price. The MP3-capable audio jack feeds into the THX II certified sound booster as 14 logically planted speakers cycle the 600 watt stereo. The digital receptor will harvest more than 125 channels on SIRIUS radio, and with live traffic updates approximately every four minutes. The navigation system, although function savvy, was lackluster and entirely too basic.
Bang for the buck - 17/20
With a little more than a $37,000 tag, the Aviator replacement proves to be a relatively fair deal. Amongst its similarities to the Ford Edge and dryness as a whole, there are a few gems, like the 265 horsepower powered by basic octane fuel, the silent cabin and the alert AWD system.
Driving experience - 15/20
For an inaugural venture into the sport utility bracket, Lincoln has managed to stay afloat. Redeeming factors for this outing are found mainly in the gas tank. Other than the power-to-fuel economy ratio, a few key handling characteristics make the MKX marginally enjoyable.
Overall score - 76/100
Pioneering into new genres can be daunting for a manufacturer, even more so when your parent branch has already had success in the same market. With a niche to be filled on the luxury end, Lincoln has made subtle improvements on an existing creation (read: Ford Edge).
and the winner is…
In this match of luxury ute, which has the driver in mind and where JDM styling meets domestic brawn, Acura prevails -- subsequently ushering in what is hopefully a new dawn for the midsized SUV. And while these two really are only the tip of the iceberg, they represent what midsized brute-utes are all about: beauty and brawn in an affordable, functional package.Resources:
http://autos.aol.com/
http://www.acura.com/
http://www.lincoln.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/
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