The 2017 Acura MDX ranks 10 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and reasonably priced option for drivers looking for a well-equipped luxury midsize SUV.The 2017 Acura MDX ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category.
Pros Balanced ride and handling Excellent fuel economy More standard driver assistance features than rivals
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Less cargo space than 3-row rivals
The 2017 Acura MDX is one of the best-driving, most technologically advanced three-row luxury crossovers, and a new Sport Hybrid model and active suspension should only add to that reputation. Among luxury crossovers, the Acura MDX is a standout in nearly every possible way—and it stands as quite a counterpoint to the brand’s sedans, which can’t seem to get proper traction in the market.While this model is already one of the best-driving models in its class, the 2017 Acura MDX has been given ride and handling improvements, more standard active-safety features, and a new Sport Hybrid variant that promises both better performance and higher fuel economy numbers.We give it a 7.5 out of 10.
Pros New Sport Hybrid Refined and quiet Great handling Space for six
Cons Rough-shifting transmission Too much bright trim Complex infotainment interface Lacks steering feedback
The 2017 Acura MDX receives a comprehensive face-lift, including a new front end with fresh headlight and grille designs. A Sport Hybrid model debuts with more power and better fuel economy than the regular MDX. New standard features for 2017 include capless fueling, an electronic parking brake, auto high beams, additional USB ports and the AcuraWatch suite of active safety aids (previously optional on some MDX versions). Newly available features include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, automatic locking when you walk away from the vehicle, power-folding mirrors, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, upgraded wood trim and second-row captain's chairs.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Optional SH-AWD system enhances handling and all-season surefootedness Smooth and confident acceleration from the V6 engine Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Touchscreen isn't user-friendly and graphics are subpar Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than some rivals Clunky auto stop-start function Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does
HIGHS: Standard active-safety tech, newly refined schnoz, excellent handling.
LOWS No longer the best, expensive option packages, frustrating infotainment system.
Still a compelling alternative to European luxury SUVs.
For 2017, the Toyota RAV4 gains a host of driver assistance features as standard equipment, including a forward collision mitigation system, lane departure warning, automatic high beams and adaptive cruise. The range-topping Platinum trim level is new this year.
Pros Quiet demeanor on the road makes it a pleasant commuter vehicle Rides smoothly in a variety of conditions Plenty of cargo space for its size High-tech safety features come standard
Cons Modest acceleration from the sole engine offering Fewer easily accessible storage compartments than most competitors
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 ranks 11 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 RAV4 faces stiff competition in the compact SUV class. It trails several rivals in terms of style and performance, but it has impressive safety features in all trims and one of the most spacious cabins in its class.
Pros Impressive list of standard features Easy-to-use infotainment system Spacious cabin
Cons Unimpressive acceleration Plastic-heavy interior
There's a RAV4 for just about everyone, and while we applaud Toyota for adding more safety technology for 2017, the competition is worth a good look, too. The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is the latest in a long line of compact crossover SUVs to grace the automaker's showrooms.
Pros Upgraded, roomy interior Lots of standard safety tech Wide range of models available Improved ride and handling Hybrid is intriguing
Cons Not the most polished crossover to drive No third row Unimpressive fuel economy Quirky styling
