Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
Options
Acura MDX (pre-2007)
This discussion has been closed.
Comments
BTW: White looks great!
INKY
www.hondacuraworld.com will, for an extra charge, sell the tailgate deflector painted professionally by their body shop. I paid an extra $125 to get mine matched to my silver MDX. I liked it more than the dark grey/semi-black plastic standard color of the tailgate deflector, but that's just personal preference.
Since I don't want to peruse the 1000's of post here and I also don't want to beat a dead horse if this has been discussed, please bear with me. Are the '02 headlights as weak as the edmund's road test say? From the 100's of posts I have read, most here seem to like the mdx quite a bit with only a few minor complaints yet the edmund's road test gave me the impression that the testers would not recommend the mdx. Do you all agree with what they wrote?
Also, the sticker had a $995 charge over msrp for wheel locks, mudflaps, a rubber cargo floor mat and paint & leather protection. He also said that the dealer automatically adds these on all their mdx's but he's waive the charge for me. (I wasn't even trying to negotiate or talk pricing at all. Just wanted to drive one.) BTW, I could do without the "protection" packages which are generally a major rip off.
The other suv's I will consider are the sequoia, the new explorer eb w/ v8, the envoy xl and the yukon/tahoe twins. we need the additional seating and room that our '95 doesn't have. Thanks,
Jeff
I think you would love the quality and value of an MDX. But your choice. They sell everyone they make rather quickly. If one lands at a dealer is goes in a day or two.
Bottom line, supply is increasing slightly so deals are starting to average MSRP not well over it. You were quoted a fair price if MSRP and those options free. I consider the wood shift knob a must have along with body side molding, rear muds, and gold package (on some colors).
Found out today Granite green is hereby retired. What a shame. Nice color I thought.
Let us know what you do.
Oh, get all accessories from Hondaacuraworld.com
No shipping, no tax way lower than dealer.
INKY
However, Acura should offer HID xenons headlamps as its competitors do (e.g. RX300, ML320). That would certainly make the headlamps better.
Some people have added third-party halogen bulbs with varying degrees of success. Some seem to be more cosmetic than functional (e.g. the "xenon look" that some people want -- a whiter light). Some seem to be more practical. E.g. I know some folks bought some Razo's but bulb life has been an issue. Meanwhile, the Sylvania Silverstars so far seem to be good alternatives (though one may need to re-aim their headlights).
There are various third-party xenon upgrade kits that one can get for the MDX, but they are relatively controversial in terms of their legality and how good they really are. I'd prefer to see Acura offer stock xenons for the MDX. Oh well maybe in 2002.
You are more likely to get an MDX quicker without paying needlessly in your area. I've noticed that in areas like Texas, the deep south, and Florida, MDX's can be found more readily and at "fairer" prices (whatever that means). Perhaps it's the warmer climate where folks may be less inclined to get an SUV, or at least an AWD/4WD one.
The Sequoia is a fine SUV, it's big. The new Explorer looks decent and probably has a lot of Ford incentives on it. Both are more "true SUV's" with low-range and more capable towing, but are thus not quite as "car-like" as a hybrid vehicle like the MDX (and RX300) are like. Comes down to your needs and preferences.
Personally, I don't like the Envoy / Trailblazer / Bravada because of their "marginal" score on the IIHS crash test:
http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/0119.htm
Similarly, the Yukon / Tahoe didn't do that well in the NHTSA frontal crash test (3 stars driver, 4 stars passenger).
The Toyota Sequoia hasn't been tested yet. One theory says that because it's based on the Tundra, which does well in the IIHS test, it should be okay. It also can be run in full-time 4WD which can be an advantage in some cases (e.g. the MDX's AWD system generally waits until slippage occurs for the rear wheels to get power, except when the MDX is accelerating, or when one manually engages a VTM-4 lock mode at speeds under 18mph and in 1st/2nd gear).
By the way I was happy to report 24.5 mpg at 70 mph on 300 mile trip. However, by fill ups was actually 23.5. Trip computer errs on the high side of things. Beats the 21 mpg with headwind on first 300 mile leg of trip.
Ordered body side molding will arrive Friday.
Any application tips?
INKY
Tell us how much standing snow was it the ditch? Did you have to lock the VTM to get out?
James
How do you know Granite Green is being discontinued. If you build your own 2002 MDX at the Acura website, Granite Green is still included as one of the colors. What is your source of information? Are you sure you don't mean the dark emerald pearl green which was discontinued from the 2001 model colors and does not appear on the 2002 Acura website? Just curious.
I have been reading your helpful posts in this room. But i have one question which i think all of you lucky owners can answer as to the comfort level of the rear seats. I was reading the review on MSN carpoint and one of the reviewers mentioned that
The front seats are much more comfortable than the rear benches, with short cushions (2nd row) or the seatback too flat with limited legroom (3rd row). Furthermore, the padding is firm and both lateral and lumbar support are rather dismal.
Can you guys give your comments on this.
Thanks for the response.
I used loops of painter's masking tape on the backside of the templates to hold them in place. If you do this, be sure to use the tape that is designed for using on delicate surfaces (i.e., wallpaper). The tape is usually, blue. Since it releases so easily, I taped the heck out of my templates to the car so they wouldn't move. The only other thing I can think of is, I remember that the ends of the mouldings had a slight curviture to them. Don't hesitate to make sure that the ends remain straight as you apply. Also, MOST important.....make sure you prep the area before applying the BSMs. Use rubbing alchohol to remove any grime and wax. Keep us posted!
INKY
I think a minimum last choice minimum repair is to replace/repair the bumper and repaint the entire bumper and warranty as such. I am not happy that this is like pulling teeth. Any thoughts. Oh I will never take delivery in the rain again. I do not care if it takes two days to clear off. Dealer should fear my survey responses. This is my third Acura and 10th new Honda product.
INKY
Does your dealer farm out their body work? If so, you may want to find out who does it and speak directly with them to see what they propose but, I'd still contact Acura first. Keep us posted....
This is something I will walk into my garage every morning for the next umteen years and saying man....
I bought a new TL 6 month ago from this dealer.
Writing letter to general manager.
INKY
Congrats on the new car. I think you're right -- this isn't transit damage. Honestly, there's nothing to "flap around" on the car while it's on the train or truck -- the only protection are those white plastic sheets they put on the horizontal surfaces. They don't flap -- have you *ever* seen one do that on the back of a transport truck? In addition, I'm virtually certain that the bumpers do NOT have the plastic sheet protection -- just the hood and roof and maybe the tops of the side panels.
My guess is your car bumped something or something bumped your car. I believe the bumpers come painted from the factory. You could check w/Tim at Hondacuraworld to confirm. Then, tell your dealer to order you the new bumper rather than rube goldberging the one they dented.
The dealer isn't going to be able to order a bumper simply based off of your request. It's going to have to be approved by the 'District Manager' (I think....). I just recently had a very small defect in my paint that I noticed several weeks after delivery. I didn't even go back to the dealer I bought the 'X from because it wasn't convenient and 'the other' Acura dealer didn't hesitate to make the situation, right (after getting approval from the DM....).
JMHO, I'd rather allow them the opportunity to make it right than "walk into my garage every morning for the next umteen years and saying man....". If they botch it by 'filling and painting', they'll have to fix it. But, I think the longer you postpone this, increases the likelyhood that they could say that you incurred the damage. I'd take them up on their offer while they're still biting.
In checking various Acura dealers web sites in the mid-west, it looks like the availability is getting better. One dealer in St. Louis listed 21 MDX available, in Kansas City had 14 in inventory and 8 more available in April, in Chicago 9 in stock. Looks like they may becoming easier to buy.
This is my first post on this MDX site. I enjoy the sharing of info.
Cost to paint is $300!.
Not as much as I thought.
Just mailed letter to General Manager stating that a new bumper is required to keep me satisfied. I will consider any fair adjustment they reply with. But I cannot pay that much for a car and live with built in bumper crease from day one.
INKY
I was told lots of dealer have extra Granite green to cover the backorders and some have extras.
I am still waiting for the silver one. Looks like a 4 month wait.
With the new engine in 2003, would reliablity suffer a little like any new intros?
I think 240hp is enough, anymore is more gas cost.
Bumper cover is from hondaacuraworld and is the plastic bumper itself. Comes black. They will paint for $300. Will advise what dealer says.
At this point to avoid repainting and all that crap I would accept reasonable compensation such as a car bra.
thx
INKY
It is interesting that Acrua would leave things like this - I mean, if some dealers have long waiting lists and others do not, why not shift a few cars to where the customers are standing in line?
You do not have to run out of state. I have bought out of state over the phone and gotten faxed buyers order. Always ensure clause about upon physically test driving and condition. Not big deal. If uncomfortable with that, just wait locally.
funny thing is I could have ordered any MDX I wanted last week for late April or mid May delivery. I guess some areas softer then others.
INKY
As for me, after I saw the Honda Pilot and its attractive price range, I will sit tight until I test drive the Pilot.
The 2003 will go for MSRP for a while (4-6 months) and then also begin discounting, though not to massive levels.
The first prediction based on pending availability of the Pilot, some supply catch-up, and people putting off buying 2002's in favor of 2003's and whatever new features are added.
The second prediction based on the inevitability of discounting, ala the Acura TL, which commanded MSRP for quite some time.
Nevertheless, I doubt if folks will be negotiating up from invoice for a while longer.
Not sure about discounting. I think discounts will be found here and there as circumstances allow but who can tell.
INKY
"Why should I pay for an MDX where I can get the same features in the Pilot"?
I know the Pilot is lacking the moonroof and the MDX will get a new engine next year.
Thanks
With all these new SUVs coming out, I think I probably one of many would be buyers that are sitting on the sideline (unless of course my current car is stolen)
I tend to think the MDX will come down sooner than Odyssey. Reason: Despite increased production of Odyssey it has much LESS competition as the class leader (by a wide margin) mini-van at it's price point than the MDX (even with it's increased production) as a top notch SUV (or whatever term you want to use) has at it's price point.
Just my .02 !
metmdx
(damn, it's late)
As for the core differences between the 2003 Honda Pilot and the probable 2003 Acura MDX, this is what I think the MDX will have over the Honda...
1: Sunroof
2: Trip Computer w/ Outside Temp, Compass, Average MPG, etc....
3: Heated Seats (?)
4: 3.8 liter V6
5: 17 inch wheels
6: On-Star
7: Memory Seats (Touring)
8: 8-Way Power Passenger Seat (Touring)
9: Better Styling With a Bit More Class (IMHO)
Some may say there isn't enough to differentiate the two but look at the Toyota Highlander and the Lexus RX300. The only extras the Lexus has are a trip computer, memory seats, Xenon lights, an optional navigation system, and a more rounded appearance, yet people are still paying $5000 more than a loaded Highlander for the Lexus, so Acura probably won't have a problem.
There are a number of subtle features that add up in cost that may not be on the Pilot. E.g. foglamps are either not standard on the LX (not sure about the EX). Instead, they'll be an accessory for about $300 plus dealer installation (using www.collegehillshonda.com as a source; they have a "preview" list of Pilot accessories). There are other smaller items like the electrochromatic rear view mirror (apparently an extra-cost accessory on the Pilot), and probably the passenger-side reverse tilt-down mirror (probably not available on the Pilot). Honda has to strip some content out of the Pilot to keep its price down.
On the other hand, the Pilot has slightly more room (though I'll bet the third row for "three" is tiny, and it may not be much wider than the MDX's third row, if at all; Honda may have just split the third row 60/40 and put another seat belt and headrest on it. We'll know for sure once detailed specs come out. Also, the Pilot can be bought with a DVD video system (can't be combined with nav, just like the Odyssey). The Pilot will probably use regular fuel.
To some buyers, they'll take the cash savings and opt for the Pilot. For others, they'll want the MDX, even the 2002. It'll be interesting, that's for sure. I don't think Acura will ever differentiate the two vehicles too radically; look how an Accord EX V6 isn't too far away from a base Acura TL. So the debate of Accord vs. TL will probably be carried over to Pilot vs. MDX. A more powerful engine is probably Acura's answer, e.g. trying to change the debate by paralleling Accord vs. TL-S.
The difference between the Pilot and 2002 MDX is less than the difference between the Highlander and RX300. Radically different styling, significantly more room in the Highlander and a much firmer ride, xenons with the Lexus, and, frankly, better (on the average) luxury dealer service with Lexus over Toyota than Acura over Honda. Plus the interior quality of the RX300 is a bigger jump from the Highlander than I expect the MDX to have over the Pilot (this based on the fact that the MDX's interior does not match the Lexus' in quality). Hope Acura improves the quality of the 2003's interior. The 2002 is decent but can and should be better.
I'll bet a lot of folks will still buy the Odyssey. If the third row of the Pilot is as tight as I suspect, the Odyssey still provides more passenger room, and, depending on configuration, cargo room.
I was wondering if anyone had experience with Sunnyside Acura in Nashua NH? I was going to approach them with the website costs and ask them to be competitive. (We are paying MSRP for the vehicle so I feel they should at least be competitive on the accessories.) When we placed the order I asked if they would discount and they said no, but that was before I found the website.
I was also wondering if anyone would be willing to share their trade in experiences at Sunnyside Acura. I have a 98 Volkswagon Passat with 70K miles. I've checked out all the websites (Edmunds, Kelley BB, NADA) and have trade in values that vary by $2K (between 10K and 12K) Having said that a car enthusiast friend of mine said that I should disregard those numbers and expect $8K. I'd prefer not to sell on my own but if $8K is the number I definitely will.
I appreciate your feedback.
I can't speak to the Dealer Accessories, but I can speak to the trade in value experience with Sunnyside. I was on the list for my MDX with them last year. Finally it was getting close to delivery time and they told me my vehicle was coming in at the end of the month and they gave me my trade value. However, the vehicle didn't come in until three months later and when it did, they offered me $3000 less on my ML. Needless to say I wasn't happy, I mean whose car depreciates $1000 a month? Not to mention from my perspective, they didn't meet their delivery promise. If they had split the difference I'd have bought the MDX as it is, I told them to keep it. I hope you fair better. I just don't like taking it in the shorts on a trade when I'm paying MSRP.
Now I'm on two Honda Pilot lists and am hoping the fact that I'm on two lists (4th on both) that I can assure that I get a reasonable trade. At least I'll have something to compare it to.
I found the comparisons between the Pilot and MDX above interesting. I do expect heated seats in the Pilot. The only thing that might not be on the Pilot that I'd want that the MDX has is the Sunroof. Other then that 280 HP (rumor for 2003 MDX) is no big deal, 17 inch wheels - who cares, memory seats not a player with me since my wife and I rarely trade vehicles and so on. I have to say the Volvo XC90 has me intrigued.
I also don't see a lot of Odyssey sales being cannibalized by the Pilot/MDX. We have an Odyssey which is a much better people and "stuff" hauler. When we go on vacation, we take the Odyssey. There's no way we could get half the stuff we take in our ML and the the Pilot will only hold a bit more then the ML. I like the MDX/Pilot because I like Honda quality and like SUVs but the hauling capacity isn't going to be close.
Good luck with your MDX. Sean S. was the salesman I dealt with. Nice guy, but he couldn't care less about my trade value issue because there were plenty of people on the list after me.