The
new Acura MD-X won’t be out until this fall, but to sate our appetites Acura has offered up this MD-X Concept
that strongly hints at what the new ute will look like. The concept SUV features a wider track and longer wheelbase
than the current MD-X and has a wide stance that rests on massively flared fenders. 20-inch five-spoke alloys are
housed in those oversized wheel arches and the vehicle is tipped with a five-sided front grille and Xenon HID
headlights.
Acura revealed the production version is currently being track tuned on the Nurburgring in
Germany and will feature the most powerful V6 in its class and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.
More
live shots, a load of press shots and Acura’s official release after the jump.
Acura “MD-X Concept” Debuts at New York International Auto Show
Production Model to Goes
on Sale This Fall
NEW YORK, April 12, 2006 – The Acura “MD-X Concept” luxury performance
SUV made its world debut today at the 2006 New York International Auto Show featuring bold, sleek exterior styling
indicative of the next generation MDX production model.
“Every aspect of the MD-X Concept design
conveys performance while still retaining SUV functionality,” said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto
operations. “The styling signifies a bold direction for the next generation MDX, both in appearance and
substance.”
The MD-X Concept is fashioned as a true driver’s SUV, with its low, wide stance and
aggressive design. Its sleek surface lines are modeled after a high-powered megayacht.
The MD-X
Concept features a wider track and longer wheelbase that give the vehicle a sportier, performance look. The
profile of the concept reveals a refined SUV with smooth, chiseled lines and an elegant form. A dominant
character line runs from the front quarter panel to the rear, evoking the feeling of forward movement. The
sharply raked D-pillar creates a stealth, aerodynamic appearance while still retaining the third row seating
functionality and cargo carrying capability of the current generation MDX.
The Concept sits low to
the ground despite the large 20-inch five-spoke custom alloy wheels, while the large wheel arches and flares add to the
Concept’s muscular appearance. The sleek cabin features flush mounted windshield glass, which improves
aerodynamics while adding to the MD-X Concept’s smooth and flowing design.
“The smooth
lines and sleek shape of the MD-X Concept challenge the conventions of SUV design,” said Ricky Hsu, chief
designer for the MD-X Concept. “Our goal was to create the image of a sports sedan while maintaining generous
interior volume and utility of a SUV.”
The front hood is accented with pronounced character lines
culminating in an aggressive five-sided grille, which gives the MD-X its bold presence. The commanding front
grille features a dominant center bar running through a solid aluminum face. The narrow, Xenon High Intensity
Discharge (HID) headlights appear to grow out of the massive grille, giving the overall front-end a strong, distinct
look.
“The front end of the MD-X Concept communicates power and prestige,” explains Hsu.
“We want drivers to do a double-take when the vehicle passes them on the road.”
In the rear, the
MD-X Concept has an integrated rear hatch, which sits flush against the bumper to create a smooth, clean
appearance. LED taillights wrap around the cargo hatch adding to the vehicles wide and low appearance. A
rear spoiler improves aerodynamics and the integrated dual exhaust pipes add to the SUV’s sporty style.
The next generation MDX production model will be available this fall, bringing a whole new level of performance and
sophistication to the Acura light truck lineup. Track-tuned at the famed Nurburging in Germany, the all-new MDX
will feature outstanding performance and handling. Equipped with a powerful, class leading V6 engine and coupled with
Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All -Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), the next generation MDX will re-invent
the luxury SUV segment just as it did when it first debuted.