2014 Acura MDX Spied Testing at the Nürburgring
Acura’s next-generation MDX SUV has been filmed undergoing high-speed testing at the Nürburgring ahead of its expected 2014 launch.
Acura’s development of the third-generation MDX has reached an important stage, with a camouflaged prototype recently filmed lapping the Nürburgring. The video, which emerged in late October 2012, captures the seven-seat SUV navigating the challenging corners and elevation changes of the famous German circuit. This marks a rare appearance for an Acura model at the Nürburgring, a venue more often associated with European performance vehicles.
2014 Acura MDX Spotted Testing at Nürburgring
Design Details Under Wraps
The prototype seen in the footage is heavily disguised, concealing most of the new MDX’s bodywork. Despite the camouflage, some details are still visible. The distinctive Acura headlights can be seen through the wrapping, and the grille appears less pronounced than on the outgoing model. The MDX’s overall proportions and stance suggest an evolutionary update rather than a radical redesign, maintaining the familiar silhouette that has characterised previous generations.
- Signature Acura headlights visible despite camouflage
- Toned-down grille design compared to previous MDX
- Evolutionary exterior changes rather than a complete overhaul
Powertrain and Technical Expectations
While Acura has not released official specifications for the 2014 MDX, it is widely expected that the SUV will share its mechanical platform with the 2014 RLX saloon. This would mean a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine producing around 310hp is likely to power the entry-level model. In addition, reports suggest that Acura’s hybrid technology, previewed in the RLX, could be offered on higher trims. This hybrid system would combine the V6 with three electric motors and an all-wheel drive system, potentially improving both performance and efficiency.
| Engine (base) | 3.5-litre V6 petrol |
|---|---|
| Power output | Approx. 310hp |
| Hybrid variant | Possible, with three electric motors and AWD |
| Production location | Lincoln, Alabama, USA |
| Production start | Early 2013 |
Production Plans and Market Position
Production of the new MDX is scheduled to begin in early 2013 at Honda’s facility in Lincoln, Alabama. Acura plans to launch the SUV in 2014, targeting the premium crossover segment. The MDX will compete against established rivals such as the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class, both of which have also undergone Nürburgring testing in recent years. Acura’s decision to test the MDX at this demanding circuit signals the company’s commitment to refining the SUV’s handling and dynamics, aiming to appeal to buyers who prioritise driving performance as well as comfort and practicality.
Significance of Nürburgring Testing
The Nürburgring is renowned for its challenging layout, with a combination of high-speed straights, sharp corners, and significant elevation changes. Manufacturers often use the track to test and fine-tune vehicle dynamics, including suspension, steering, and braking performance. The presence of the MDX on this circuit indicates that Acura is placing a stronger emphasis on dynamic capability for its new model. This approach is in line with trends among premium SUV manufacturers, who increasingly subject their vehicles to rigorous testing to ensure they meet the expectations of discerning customers.
The Nürburgring footage reveals the MDX maintaining pace through the circuit’s high-speed sections and coping with its notoriously uneven surface. This suggests that Acura is working to deliver a stable and composed ride, with a focus on chassis control and handling precision. Such testing is likely to benefit the final production model, especially for drivers seeking a blend of comfort and agility in a family SUV.
Broader Implications for Acura
Acura’s decision to test the MDX at the Nürburgring may also reflect a broader strategy to enhance its reputation in global markets. By subjecting its flagship SUV to the same standards as European competitors, Acura signals its intention to compete more directly with established luxury brands. This could lead to further Nürburgring testing for future Acura models, as the company seeks to demonstrate its engineering capabilities to a wider audience.
For more details on the MDX’s likely technical underpinnings and hybrid technology, see coverage of the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid. The MDX’s development at the Nürburgring is a clear indication of Acura’s evolving approach to performance, refinement, and global competitiveness.
