2004 ACURA MDX 3.5L V6 5AT AWD (265 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Acura introduced a facelifted version for the MDX’s first generation in 2004, adding slightly more power and an enhanced look for its biggest crossover.

Honda noticed the customers’ appeal for SUVs and crossovers, but it lacked the technology to develop one fast. So even though it already had the CR-V and the Pilot on the market, it pushed harder and introduced the MDX in 2000. From 2004, the Japanese carmaker upgraded its biggest crossover and kept its sales figures high.

When Acura had to improve the MDX, its designers faced a difficult task because customers were satisfied with the car’s look. Yet, Acura changed the front fascia by adding a thicker chromed slat on the grille instead of the formerly used slim horizontal line that supported the badge. Also, the bumper was changed and sported new, more angular foglights. Moreover, Acura installed a shield-like plastic panel under the bumper depending on the trim level.

Inside, Acura bragged about its touch-screen navigation system integrated into the center stack. Depending on the trim level, the leather upholstery covered all seven seats. The last row offered little room and just for two occupants. However, when folded, they provided a completely flat loading area, thus enhancing the loading of larger objects. The second row also featured a split-folding mechanism.

Starting with the 2004 model year, the MDX offered 20 more ponies than its predecessor. That enabled it to get a better acceleration time and lowered emissions.