2010 Acura MDX Facelift gets Gaudy Grille and Revised Powertrain

Following in the footsteps of the smaller RDX, Acura's largest SUV model, the MDX has received a mild facelift for the 2010 model year. Changes include a fresh exterior look that adopts the Japanese firm's controversial front shield along with some minor engine tweaks, a new 6-speed automatic transmission, chassis refinements and improved look and feel of interior trim materials plus the addition of new technology features.

On the outside, the 7-seater MDX gains Acura's new corporate grille, retrimmed front and rear bumpers, new exhaust tips, revised hood, new side sills and reworked taillights with brighter LEDs. The available 19-inch seven-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels complete the exterior upgrades.

Moving on to the interior, Acura says that the 2010 MDX benefits from higher quality trim materials, a thicker steering wheel grip, increased use of LED interior lighting and revised cockpit controls along with relocated front seat headrests for improved comfort and more detailed leather stitching.

Furthermore, Acura has introduced several new technology features on the RDX such as the AcuraLink Real-Time Weather and Traffic Rerouting systems, a new full VGA 8-inch navigation screen, an upgraded rear view camera with three unique view choices and updated audio and rear entertainment systems.

Under the hood, the 2010 model year MDX receives an updated version of Acura's 3.7-liter VTEC V6 engine linked to an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. Among other changes, the V6 features cylinder heads with improved cooling, new intake valve springs, a new EGR system, unique long-reach spark plugs, a larger throttle body. The revised engine produces the same output as before at 300-horsepower and surprisingly, 5 lb-ft of torque less at 270 lb-ft.

However, in combination with the new transmission, the 2010 MDX returns an EPA estimated city/highway fuel mileage of 16/21 mpg which is an improvement of 1 mpg city and 1 mpg highway over the 2009 model.

Finally, Acura says that the MDX's ride and handling have been enhanced thanks to the revised power steering system, stiffer rear trailing arm mounting and the body rigidity improvements.

The 2010 MDX is expected to go on sale in the U.S. sometime in September.