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2020 Acura MDX AWD A-SPEC Review by David Colman +VIDEO - It's E15 Approved
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
Blows away much more expensive competition
By David Colman
Special Correspondent to THE AUTO CHANNEL
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
If you're in the market for a three row SUV, you'll have a tough time beating the A-Spec Acura MDX all-wheel-drive. This unit's accolades include great appearance, excellent performance and
plush comfort. Let's start with appearance. Most large SUVs leave a lot to be desired in this department. Either they have been zealously over-styled or boringly under-styled. By giving the MDX a
refreshing new look A-Spec treatment for 2020, Acura has reinvigorated the shape of this previously unremarkable SUV. We particularly liked the svelte shape of the body contours, which did wonders to hide
the fact that this prime mover measures 196 inches in length and weighs a ponderous 4,200 lbs. The Modern Steel Metallic exterior shade minimizes vertical bulk while maximizing linear continuity. Splendid
detailing of the LED Jewel Eye headlights, and heated power door mirrors (with turn indicators) streamline appearance as well. Even the bulbous rear end receives deft stylistic treatment, with minimum
ornamentation and a well detailed lower valance panel.
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
The red/black "A Spec Exclusive" interior styling package is even more visually enticing than the exterior, with just enough red color panels on the Alcantara and leather seats to spice up what
would be an otherwise somber black chamber. The contrast stitched seats themselves proved exceptionally comfortable, with 12 way power adjustment for both driver and passenger, and manual seat back tilt for
second row bench occupants. A third row bench suitable for children lies inconspicuously folded until needed. The beauty of the MDX interior layout becomes most evident when you want to convert it from
passenger duty to cargo configuration. All you need to do is flip the convenient side mounted levers of the split rear folding bench and the seat backs instantly disappear into a flat cargo floor good for
34 cubic feet of space. Acura has devised an ingenious method for disappearing the rear center armrest so the loading floor is instantly cleared of all protuberances in one fell swoop. This meant I could
easily swing my bike over the low rear transom and slide it into place effortlessly. Try this maneuver in other comparable SUVs and you will find yourself searching the owner's manual for information
about how to accomplish a series of convoluted maneuvers that take just seconds in the MDX.
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
Driving the A Spec MDX also proved to be an unexpectedly rewarding endeavor. Acura equips this top line SUV with its Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that uses artificial intelligence to
apportion drive to wheels requiring traction in a given circumstance. SH-AWD generally defers to front wheel drive until a need for more rear wheel traction is detected. The system then morphs into all-wheel-drive,
augmented by torque-vectoring which apportions power to each wheel as needed. On the A Spec model, substantial 265/40R20 Continental mud and snow rated radials ride 20 inch diameter A Spec, smoke finish alloy rims.
Although the MDX stands 67 inches tall, you never feel as though the well heeled chassis loses contact with the pavement.
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
The icing on this finely layered cake is the lovely 3.5 liter V6 engine which benefits from variable valve timing (VTEC) and cylinder deactivation to produce reputable power and mileage figures. Expect to
get 21 MPG in overall driving from the 290hp engine which also produces a tow-worthy 267lb.-ft. of torque. The 9 speed automatic gearbox offers paddles at the steering wheel for manual override, and is
programmed to start in 2nd gear for fuel saving purposes. If you desire 1st gear starts from a standstill, simply punch the "D" drive button twice and you will activate the "S" sport
setting of the transmission. The V6 also benefits from automatic shutdown at traffic lights, a feature which improves fuel economy. This action works quite seamlessly, but can be defeated by simply pressing
a delete button on the center console.
2020 Acura MDX AWD A-Spec
Inside the MDX, living is easy, with a huge covered compartment between the front seats that will store anything from a pair of sunglasses to a full sized jacket. Back seat guests reported that the
luxuriously upholstered rear bench was more than accommodating, but a pair of captain's chairs is also available. Separate chairs would ease access to the third row, but complicate flat floor storage.
From engine to drivetrain to suspension to looks, the A Spec MDX is a knockout product that blows away much more expensive competition from BMW, Audi and Mercedes Benz.
