Honda MDX 4WD Heralds a New Adventure in Luxury
Honda
MDX 4WD Heralds a New Adventure in Luxury
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Honda opens up the SUV market with the introduction of its fresh luxury challenger - the all-new Honda MDX four-wheel drive.
Honda's first luxury sports utility features technical innovations such as a proactive Variable Torque Management Four-Wheel Drive (VTM-4) system, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), fully-independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with four channel ABS and EBD, F1-style drive-by-wire-throttle and synchronised front and rear climate control systems.
Designed to match its acclaimed Odyssey and Legend stablemates in areas of functionality, comfort and refinement, the MDX seats seven passengers and is comprehensively equipped to the highest luxury vehicle standards.
At the heart of the MDX concept is a spirited 3.5-litre, 24-valve, V6 VTEC engine delivering a healthy 191 kW of power @ 5800 rpm and 345 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm.
Honda's renowned Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control (VTEC) valvetrain - first pioneered in NSX - adjusts the timing, duration and lift of the intake valves according to engine speed. With a two-stage intake manifold, VTEC offers a combination of high-rpm performance, fuel economy and swift low-rpm response.
Honda's commitment to environmentally responsible engineering is not overlooked - the MDX delivers an economical combined figure of 12.9 litres per 100km.
The MDX also meets stringent Euro-3 Low Emission Vehicle standards, thanks to orifice-type fuel injectors and an exhaust system with two closely-coupled primary catalytic converters, a secondary underfloor catalytic converter and a large diameter exhaust pipe.
The MDX 5-speed automatic transmission matches the engine for quiet, smooth operation. With the assistance of Grade Logic Control, the MDX transmission anticipates driver throttle inputs to ensure seamless gear changes.
A smooth delivery of power is also ensured with Honda's new drive-by-wire Electronic Throttle Control System, or ETCS. ETCS eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator and engine by controlling the throttle during gear shifts.
The MDX introduces a new and unique Honda four-wheel drive system that optimises fuel economy and provides sure-footed performance in slippery conditions.
Dubbed VTM-4 - Variable Torque Management Four-wheel drive - the system consists of a pair of wet clutches in the rear differential that are computer controlled to maintain traction in a variety of conditions. The system ensures torque is proactively delivered to the rear wheels in proportion to forward acceleration to supplement four-wheel drive.
The MDX features Honda's Variable Assist Steering system, which regulates steering effort while providing exact control.
Four-wheel fully independent suspension provides precise handling and a smooth and compliant ride on a variety of surfaces. The suspension is tuned with damper valves to enable precise control of damping throughout the suspension movement.
The MDX has 17" alloy wheels with Michelin tyres for medium off-road duty. Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front discs, four-channel ABS with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) are standard.
The MDX body was designed to deliver best-in-class collision performance. High tensile steel has been used throughout the MDX's unit body for its strength and lightweight qualities.
Reinforcements in the rear wheel house, tailgate and rear subframe ensure the MDX has significantly high levels of torsional rigidity.
Bold and muscular exterior styling sets the MDX apart from its competitors - chiseled lines, extensive glass areas and large halogen headlights give the MDX a clean and purposeful look. A sloping, tapered front end contributes to a low drag co-efficient of 0.36 CD for greater fuel efficiency.
Safety is a high priority - the MDX gains side airbags in addition to Honda's dual-stage, dual threshold front i-SRS airbags. All passengers benefit from 3-point seatbelts while front passenger seatbelts gain pretensioners with load-limiters.
The black leather MDX interior is luxuriously appointed while still incorporating Honda's familiar design simplicity and functionality. Tasteful woodgrain trim, a 6-stack, 7-speaker CD sound system, cruise control with steering wheel controls, synchronised climate control systems, luxurious power-adjusted front leather seats and electric sunroof add to the luxury of the interior. A three-row seating arrangement allows optimum comfort for up to seven passengers. And for maximum rear cargo space, the third row seats fold neatly into the floor.
Honda Australia Director Lindsay Smalley said the MDX would provide a genuine luxury SUV alternative for customers who demand more than just a badge.
"The concept of spirited, agile performance is elegantly achieved with MDX," he said.
"Its combination of smooth V6 power, precise and confident handling, advanced four-wheel drive system and luxury levels of comfort results in a truly involving driving experience."
"We believe MDX is the right package to establish Honda as a leading player in the Luxury Sport Utility segment."
The Honda MDX will be priced at $69,990 and goes on sale around Australia on Thursday April 3.
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