New MDX Due in Mid-2013 with Front-Wheel Drive Option for 1st Time

Acura'sAcuraJapan, 1986 > present24 models
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other big car for the North American International Auto Show is the 2014 MDXAcura MDX PrototypeJapan, 2014 > 20149 photos
. While Acura technically calls it a prototype, the production version will go on sale in mid-2013 in North America. For the first time, the seven-passenger SUV will be available with either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive fro the first time. 

Borrowed from the new RLAcura RLX ConceptJapan, 2013 > present4 photos
and NSXAcura NSXJapan, 2013 > present22 photos
, the MDX has Acura's new Jewel Eye LED headlights. Acura claims that the new model is 16% more efficient than the previous generation. The roof is 1.5in lower to improve aerodynamics slightly, but the cabin is larger than the previous gen thanks to a longer wheelbase. 

Acura did not reveal the MDX's interior because it said that it is still being worked on. 

The truck will come exclusively with a 3.5-liter V6 with variable cylinder management and either all-wheel or front-wheel drive. Acura says that there was a lot of interest in the truck in warmer climates where all-wheel drive is unnecessary.

Features will include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, a multi-angle rearview camera, lane keeping system and active cruise control. Acura also says that the interior will be significantly quieter than the previous generations. It will also come with a full suite of infotainmnet systems. 

The new generation will be built in Lincoln, Alabama, instead of Alliston, Ontario.