Can Acura woo SUV shoppers from the likes of BMW and Audi? With the MDX SH-AWD S-Spec, they’re trying.
How so? This three-row SUV can be ordered with some extra sport–specifically Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, called SH-AWD for short. Here’s what Acura says about it:
“This sophisticated system is designed to enhance high-performance dry-road handling while providing the same all-weather advantages of conventional all-wheel drive.
“By continuously directing engine power to match weight distribution, available traction, and other conditions, SH-AWD provides seamless power transitions and supreme agility. The feel of such high-performance cornering can't be matched by front, rear or conventional all-wheel drive systems.”
Not much is new for 2019, though, other than fresh colors and some interior updates.
David S. WallensCould I feel all that extra handling technology? Honestly, no, not in my normal commute. Will anyone really experience it? I don’t know. But the OEs are adding more sport to their sport utilities, and each one needs something to help separate it from the rest of the field.
My bigger question: Can Acura compete toe-to-toe against the Europeans and other premium Japanese brands? It’s a crowded field out there. For what it’s worth, though, for the fifth year in a row Consumer Reports called the MDX the best buy in the premium midsized crossover field.
View all comments on the CMS forums
You'll need to log in to post.
