Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Acura Announces Pricing for New 2003 MDX Luxury SUV

Torrance, Calif. 09/30/2002 -- Acura today announced prices for its more powerful 2003 MDX luxury SUV, which features significant added equipment and refinements that increase the vehicle's price 2.8 percent compared to last year based on a sales-weighted average. The 2003 MDX will be priced at $35,700 when it goes on sale Sept. 30 at Acura dealers nationwide. The MDX comes with three available factory options: a luxury Touring Package priced at $2,600, and also available on models equipped with the Touring Package, a newly enhanced Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition' and rearview camera priced at $2,200 and the all-new Acura DVD Entertainment System priced at $1,500.
The 2003 MDX delivers V-8-like performance thanks to a new 3.5 liter V-6 engine, which boosts horsepower to 260 (a 20 hp increase over the 2002 model), an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission, drive-by-wire throttle control and a recalibrated 4-wheel drive system. A retuned suspension system increases ride comfort while an increase in dynamic torsional chassis rigidity, revised steering and the addition of Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) help to maintain the MDX's sport sedan-like handling.

Other new features for 2003 include redesigned alloy wheels, the addition of automatic on/off headlights and three new exterior colors. Inside, the MDX receives over 25 enhancements designed to increase the level of refinement beyond the 2002 model's benchmark-setting levels, including an enhanced navigation system and an all-new optional DVD entertainment system.

Key New Features for 2003 MDX

Next generation engine which increases horsepower from 240 to 260
All-new compact 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-wire throttle
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
Additional front airbag sensors and new system control logic
Rain sensing windshield wipers (Touring Package)
Auto on/off headlights
Auto-up driver's side window with auto-reverse
Available Acura DVD Entertainment System with headphones and remote control
Rear splash guards
Additional 2003 MDX Refinements/Enhancements

Revised suspension settings for a smoother ride
35 percent increase in dynamic torsional body rigidity for precise handling
Refined steering system for enhanced feel and reduced kickback
4-wheel drive system remapped to provide up to a 30 percent increase in rear torque
Next generation Acura Navigation System including:
o Voice recognition
o Rearview camera
o Enhanced graphics
o Expanded US database coverage
Redesigned alloy wheels
New exterior colors:
o Midnight Blue Pearl
o Sage Brush Pearl
o Sandstone Metallic
New interior color - Quartz