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Acura MDX (pre-2007)
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" .....Mitsubishi’s new Pajero GLS (Montero 01 in the US) has raised the standard for four-wheel drives in several areas, and beat the Mercedes-Benz ML320 and Toyota 100 Series LandCruiser GLX to the best 4WD title.
On the road, the Pajero delivers class-leading ride, handling and steering, and braking, attracting consistently good scores.
The change to a unitary construction (with no separate chassis) has helped Mitsubishi to deliver best in class dynamics. The new chassis combines with fully independent suspension to provide an outstanding ride/handling compromise.
In this respect, it makes the LandCruiser feel like a truck.
Although the Toyota LandCruiser’s 4.5 litre engine delivers more pulling power in the low to mid rev range, the Mitsubishi Pajero’s 3.5 litre V6 also performs strongly.
New to the Pajero is a five-speed, adaptive auto transmission with a tiptronic-style manual shift mode.
Off the bitumen, the LandCruiser still has the edge but the Pajero is now very close. With a good approach angle, a smooth and willing engine, solid engine braking and reasonable wheel articulation, the Pajero copes with terrain that would have defeated the previous model.
For the money, the Pajero GLS also offers a long standard equipment list.
The ML320 uses the same great engine as the E320 sedan, but has limited off road ability, and the Pajero is at least equally capable on the road."
However, one thing all these comparisons demonstrate that many fail to comprehend in their zeal to promote their vehicle of choice is that everyone has different priorities and preferences. Do they want an off-roader, do they even need an off-roader. Do they like the styling, is it feminine, is it masculine, is it minivanish, is it too trucky. How important is it to them to have a prestige brand, and what do they consider to be a prestige brand. What is the trade-off between cargo room, passenger room, etc. Do they want something more in the "image" of a truck or a car. How much do they value safety. Etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.
No need to put someone down because they (god forbid!) prefer a car-like SUV, or a truck-like SUV, or want an off-roader, or never take the vehicle off-road. No need to apply brand and/or class snobbery either. (Brillmtb, this part of this post is not directed at you, it's just a general comment.)
As Ken always says, put together a list of your priorities of what you want in a vehicle, before you shop and start narrowing down vehicles. Don't shape your priorities based on an initial desire for one particular vehicle; let your needs drive what you select.
If you find that your priorities list favors vehicle Y, but you don't WANT vehicle Y, then there's something wrong with your priorities list -- reassess your needs, search your heart, and re-rank your priorities and their weight.
I found the MDX to be the best vehicle for my family's needs. It's not god's SUV, it's not the right choice for everyone. Same goes for the Sequoia, Montero, ML320, ML430, RX300, and so on.
That said, one thing that automatically makes me nervous about the Montero (since I value a reasonable degree of safety) are its IIHS crash test scores. The IIHS front crash tests are more realistic than NHTSA's, and the Montero didn't do as well as one might hope from a new model.
Safety is also my highest priority. I'm looking forward to seeing the MDX's crash data...
Do you think they will crash test the MDX...?
It appears that they haven't crash tested any Acura models -- is this because of the lower number of Acuras sold in comparison to other vehicles tested, or because the Acura name isn't as high profile as other vehicles which have been selected for testing?
The results for the Odyssey are available though, and I'm guessing should signify a similarity to the results we can expect for the MDX.
Regards.
Rail
I do agree that there is a different SUV for everyone. I agree that you should begin with a list of what your needs are then look for the SUV that best fits your top 10 expectations/needs. I disagree that the Montero did poorly in the crash tests, the one I remember was actually better than I had expected. Since the MDX doesnt even have a test yet if I read the post correctly after yours then I would wait and buy after the test if crash test results are of great importance to you.
I do think the Montero is a better value, fully loaded LTD (with rear air) are now selling at 34,500 thanks to the pressure out there with the MDX and Sequoia. I hope MDX and Sequoia buyers will soon benefit as well because the dealers are just plain ripping folks off now with MSRP or close to it pricing.
My issue with the Montero crash tests was that "acceptable" is not "good" in the IIHS framework (I never said it did poorly, though it's obviously not as good as some will prefer). A lot of newer, more modern-designed SUV's easily get a "good" in the IIHS test now (X5, RX300, M-class). These are probably the only reputable crash tests available today, as the NHTSA tests for the 2001 Montero won't be available until January.
One would have hoped that the 2001 Montero, being a new design, would have incorporated more features to ensure a "Good" rating. In fact, the previous generation Montero actually performed slightly better in one area of the IIHS test! That is especially disquieting since next-generation vehicles usually perform better in crash tests, not worse or about the same. That implies that Mitsubishi cut some corners when it comes to safety. That of course would make some buyers nervous about it.
You're correct that MDX crash test results are not yet available. However, experience has shown that vehicles based on similar platforms tend to have similar crash test results. Because the MDX is based on the Honda Odyssey, which had an overall "good" rating in the IIHS test, expectations do tend to anticipate a "good".
Acura also claims that the MDX will achieve the "good" rating in the IIHS test (and 5-stars in the NHTSA tests). Obviously this can be marketing blather, but it is based on their internal tests, and they do have some stake in this. Combine that with the MDX's ancestry and it's pretty "safe" (pardon the pun) to say that the MDX's crash test results will be as good as the Montero's and, in all likelihood, probably better.
Obviously MDX owners will freak if what we think is likely doesn't turn out to be. If someone wants certainty, they should, of course, wait, or look toward the X5, ML320, or RX300. And, to split hairs, I do believe (own opinion) that the X5 and ML320 have additional safety margins beyond just their crash test scores.
On a side note, the IIHS also produced some interesting bumper damage costs. Dunno if the MDX will fare worse or better.
Anyway, I'm not saying that the Montero is a bad vehicle. Again, I think priorities will determine if it's the right vehicle for a prospective buyer, and it should be considered.
William has a lot of good points regarding making a decision. One really has to weigh everything in according to one's own needs.
My personal opinion is that if something goes wrong with my MDX order, I'm going to very seriously consider the Montero at this point. I've tried the ML320 and wasn't impressed. I haven't tested the RX300 or Montero yet. I *did* rent a Montero Sport for a week and thought the engine was too weak. I wasn't impressed with the interior of the Sport.
I think I'll test drive a Montero Ltd. for curiosity sake. If anything interesting comes out of it, you can bet I'll post comments.
After you have your insurance, your lienholder will have to fax a copy of your title to the DMV. This should allow you to license your vehicle.
Does your title show the car being in Florida or in Mass? If it says Florida, your lienholder will have to send the actual title to be changed by your local DMV. A problem sometimes with this is the issue of sales tax. Some states require you to pay your states sales tax for out of state purchases.
Basically you have to go through your lienholder and hope that they are prompt in getting the title out. Especially since you have your MDX coming in! I hope this helps.
They will most likely test it since it has won so many accolades (shades of ML320, RX300, and X5). It will also get good viewership.
What will be interesting is if you folks hear of a "fix" made to give it better results. This was done to the X5 (2001 models have more reinforcements) and ML320 (a mod was made to the 1999.5 model as a result of some German crash tests).
If you don't mind driving, then I'd suggest you give the dealership in Termecula a call... they don't move too many units and they had one available a couple of weeks ago... and the dealer was very nice on the 'phone. MSRP I believe -- but I never got that far into the conversation with him, 'cause I'd already bought one when he called me.
I just picked mine (Mahogany, Touring w/Nav) up from Valencia Acura tonight -- once again MSRP (plus a couple of options I decided to add myself). I ordered mine Sept. 30th
The dealership in Cerritos were also very friendly on the 'phone and even sent me to another dealer who had the package I was looking for in stock. (This was before my VIN number came in).
Good luck.
Rail
Even if you lease out of state, you will have to pay sales tax on the price of the vehicle in the state you are a resident of. In Illinois (where I live), that means paying sales tax on the full price of the vehicle -- which really stinks (for lack of a better term). And, if you purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease, you will pay sales tax on the purchase price!!!!
So, there are no advantages for those of us in Illinois (at least none that I am aware of) to lease/purchase out of state. I purchased my Silver with Touring MDX in Ohio (I have family there and found one available) and I will be going to the DMV next week to pay this great state my sales tax
-jen
Obviously not a car-like SUV for those who would prefer such, but a true truck-like SUV.
Reliability, as with the MDX, is an unknown (perhaps more so with the Montero given Mitsu's history with quality).
You'll find lots of differences between the feel of an RX300 and a Montero! It'll come down to what you prefer in your vehicle. FYI, RX300 discounts are becoming larger, probably due to Lexus increasing production, and possibly because of fresh competition. A poster on the RX board who I consider knowledgeable and who does his homework says that more aggressive discounting now makes the 2001 model the same price as the 2000 he bought with discounts. This despite Lexus's 2001 price increase and the addition of features like VSC, a form of BrakeAssist, and optional Xenons. (Lexus dealers have a lot of room to discount because of the RX's large delta between invoice and MSRP.)
Ken, was the 99.5's crash-test-inspired enhancements also some more reinforcements? While some may criticize these additions, I sure don't mind, it beats the alternative.
railr, congratulations on your new MDX, and finding a fair deal in CA.
Yes, reinforcements were added to the front frame area; it was substantial enough that the side steps needed new brackets. The crash test results never mentioned this, however.
If Acura does this, people who bought the first ones will wonder if theirs is safe...
Safety was also a concern after seeing the report on SUV rollovers. I believe the MDX would be safer in this area since it has a 5" wider track and is 4.4" lower in height than the Montero. The Montero is definitely a better off road vehichle with its high ground clearance and better 4wd system, but since we don't plan on using this vehicle off road the MDX was the better vehicle for the family. Even at 2K more than the Montero, we consider the MDX a better value for meeting our needs.
I think your focusing your comments too much on crash tests results but I guess that is the most important selection criteria for you.
I think you might be confusing the crash test of the Montero Sport, I saw recent results with the Montero (I think in consumer guide or something, I will dig it out again if I can find it) and the Montero 01 did rate as "good" I believe.
The Montero will be better off road but I am not saying that everyone should put this criteria first.
I dont think the difference in true safty will differ much between the two in real world driving.
SUV's dont roll unless the driver does not know how to drive them properly.
The 2nd seat is every bit as good as the MDX. I too can fit 2 baby seats and a third person. The fact that the seat is 60/40 instead of 50/50 is a matter of personal preference. I think it is better just in case you need a little more opening than 50% will allow.
Agree with you on the swing out. The GJC has the best door. Door goes up but so does window in case you are close to a wall.
The small differece in stance is not as important as roll center or the tires used and more importantly the driver.
The MDX does not handle that much better. A GSR will handle that much better. I drove both SUV back to back. The MDX had a little less roll, higher noise level, rougher ride. If I were to push the MDX to the level needed to see the difference then you would in fact be driving unsafe and safty has been mentioned in this site on numerous occasions. You cant have you cake and eat it too comes to mind.
Dont get me wrong, the MDX is a better choice for some but the reviews are comparing apples to oranges, using criteria that are more appropriate for cars and the consumer is not getting all the information needed to make well informed decisions.
Thats why sites like these are so important.
Boston Auto Transport has been very helpful. The driver trucking our MDX up here is going home for Thanksgiving and hadn't planned to get us the car until Friday, but depending on the mileage he makes today, he's willing to meet us quite close to our house and make the drop-off. We're keeping our fingers crossed we can take our new MDX for a spin tonight!
I commute into Boston or Cambridge through monstrous traffic every day and have seen only two MDXes on the road -- they're awfully scarce in these parts. I think we're going to attract a lot of attention! :-0
HONDA ACURA WORLD -- By the way, Tim of Honda Acura World got completely snowed in by Buffalo's big storm yesterday and is essentially "closed" for a few days whie he shovels out! He asked that somebody pass that along to the forums.
Laurie
Lexus was the only car hooked up to the external power and I liked the way the instrument panel looks and the radio was nice too.
Unsolicited comment out of topic - coming from Europe I still can't get it - what is it that made Americans put VW's, Volvos and Heinekens into the luxurious category?! Is it one man's trash another ones treasure thing or the belief that more $$$ = better? Anyway, the point is many items considered blue collar/mass production ordinary thing in Europe are sold here as the luxury items.
I've seen highways full of MB, Volvo, VW trailer trucks, taxi cab fleets consisting of 99.9% of Mercedeses and raws of Heinekens, Carlsbergs or Tuborgs cheaper then almost any other beer in the store. I'll tell you this much - you would turn much more eyes driving MDX in Europe than here! Paradox...
Of course, this doesn't matter much here since no one cares what they think or live like anyway.
Also saw 2002 Ch.Blazer (looks very nice but the limited version will be more $$ than MDX!!!), saw new Buick SUV (Aztek platphorm, so-so) and some other good stuff.
The pockets on the MDX doors were stuffed with QX4 advertisement (can they go any lower than that?)
Did anyone install (or plan to do so) a front protective grill? Is there one fitted for the MDX? What was the price (with installation?) How does it look? Any pictures?
Any MDX stories from around Buffalo, now that you got 2' of snow?
Thanks.
vip
I don't think the IIHS will be testing the MDX anytime soon. Look how long it took them to supplement their mid-size SUV report (X5, Montero, etc.). Based on what we know about the Odyssey though, it should do quite well. As for the NHTSA tests, I don't really even bother too much with those anymore (except the side impact tests). The '99.5 and newer Nissan Pfs received four and five stars, but yet only a marginal result for the IIHS test.
Drew/aling
Townhall Community Leader/Vans Conference
Not the most important selection criteria, but I would no longer knowingly buy a vehicle that didn't rate or was fairly certain to score an overall "good" in the IIHS ratings. That's one of my personal criteria, it isn't everybody's.
There are too many SUV's now with IIHS "good" ratings to have to accept one where the manufacturer didn't invest in making it "good."
(Again, the MDX is expected to be good, and yes, I will freak if it won't be. And again, for those whose requirement is to actually know the test result, I would advise waiting or looking to the X5, ML320, and RX300).
Folks here like Drew and probably Ken add more to their personal requirements, and also mandate safety items like stability control. I suspect that stability control will be a requirement for my next vehicle as well.
I think you might be confusing the crash test of the Montero Sport, I saw recent results with the Montero (I think in consumer guide or something, I will dig it out again if I can find it) and the Montero 01 did rate as "good" I believe.
I'm afraid I'm not confusing it; NHTSA isn't scheduled to release crash test results for the Montero until January 2001. IIHS's tests for the 2001 Montero (not the sport) resulted in an "acceptable" rating (they have four levels -- poor, marginal, acceptable, and good). The URL for the rating on IIHS's web site, which I included in my original message to you, is:
http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/00022.htm
The Montero Sport rates a "poor", its IIHS report is at:
http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/99011.htm
I hope that the Montero is a good vehicle. However, for me, personally, just seeing the less-than-ideal crash test results makes me wonder about how serious Mitsubishi is about safety. This after it was revealed this year that Mitsubishi had been covering up serious defects in its vehicles for over two decades (!), and criminal charges were filed against its management.
Hopefully DaimlerChrysler will be able to set them right, as Daimler now owns 34% of Mitsubishi and has the option, and I believe intent, to purchase it 100%.
P.S. Say Drew, since you're probably watching, there's a doppleganger for you in the Montero forum ... people are asking him the Healy-type questions ...
You loose just one arm instead of two, your body in intact but your head is down the road.
Guys....dont get hung up on this too much. Hopefully the great majority of you are defensive drivers that wont have to find out what "good" actually means.
Remember, a deceleration injury (tearing you aorta) can occur during crashes in which the "dummy" looks good and there was no interior penetration.
Again, unless you know the real world difference I would hesitate to read too much into these ratings.
Safety-focused manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz spend millions in building their own internal labs to conduct safety testing, not just relying on outside agencies, which may not respond quickly enough in the design of a vehicle.
Both NHTSA and IIHS have documentation on their web sites that discuss their statistical factors and derivations. E.g. 5 stars in the NHTSA frontal crash represents a 10% or less chance of serious injury, 4 stars is 11% to 20% chance of serious injury, 3 stars is 21% to 35% chance of serious injury, etc. They define serious injury as "one requiring immediate hospitalization and may be life threatening."
The NHTSA star rating system, and the IIHS poor-marginal-acceptable-good rating are meant to show relative differences. Acceptable is better than marginal, good is better than acceptable.
They also document the actual differences between what constitutes acceptable versus good. E.g. for dummy kinematics and restraint performance, observed behaviors like bottoming out of the airbag, movement of most of the dummy's head through the original plane of the side window, excessive rearward or upward movement (> 100mm) of the steer column, etc. result in a downgrade from "good" to "acceptable" for that test. Each IIHS test, such as the one I sent you a link to, documents which one of those factors led to a downgraded rating, if any.
Whenever I hear someone poo-poo a crash test because it isn't "real world," it's usually because they aren't aware of how sophisticated these tests are (there is a LOT of documentation on them), or someone whose vehicle didn't fare too well in the tests. It isn't usually from someone who has a true scientific invalidation of the result.
Obviously the crash test can't predict every circumstance (and IIHS and NHTSA take great pains to explain these factors). However, it is, overall, a good indicator of how well engineered a vehicle is for safety. It doesn't take a brain surgeon to look at the photos in the IIHS test and see compression of various areas of the vehicle, deforming of key zones, etc.
I would agree that differences between one overall "good" vs. another "good" in the same class of vehicle are probably not as statistically meaningful; that may be as much for bragging rights (e.g. X5 vs. ML320, which differ only in one score).
However, there are meaningful differences between "acceptable" and "good." It's up to the individual to decide how important that difference is. I'm not sure if these results were available to you when you purchased your vehicle, so you either decided that it wasn't important or were not aware of it.
Either way, that's your right, and I'm not criticizing you for it; please don't take it personally. My main point is, for those for whom crashworthiness as demonstrated by independent testing is important, these are real ratings, and can be a major factor in one's purchasing decision.
For example, in my own case, as I've documented in a much earlier post, I agonized long and hard over whether or not the ML320 had enough incremental safety advantages over the MDX to justify buying it. And I was confused between certain circumstances -- e.g. at the time, child-proof door locks were not available for any M-class (supposedly there is now a retrofit), the 2000 model I would have bought didn't have child seat tether anchors (there should eventually be a retrofit but I'm not sure when, and the M-class doesn't have a door-ajar light. On the other hand, it has really tough construction, features like BrakeAssist, 4-wheel traction control, and stability control.
As rxcure implied, and IIHS said (and NHTSA similarly says with their own system), once you're in the "good" rating class, differences are much less pronounced. So in the end I decided to go with the MDX and I think it's safe.
Standards for safety do change, however. In several years vehicles will be even safer. Today, I will not buy another vehicle that doesn't carry the highest crash test rating or is expected to do so if it hasn't been tested yet. The competition out there is just too good.
1. ML320/430: Very nice and solid. Would have bought it if there's no MDX.
2. Volvo V70 XC: Another great performer. But the 3rd seat is useless(we need 7 seater) and the space is smaller than ML and MDX.
3. Montero: Also a solid machine. Good price. But the interior is less flexible than MDX's.
Many factors for deciding the right vehicle for you are subjective(style, space, #of seats, price...). I agree with brillmtb that real life driving is not the same as crash test and don't always depend on IIHS' report. As for price, Montero is around $4K lower than MDX's(especially in SF bay area). We simply decided to put in more bucks for MDX. I love the forums as I can hear others' opinions/experiences and filter them to help me make decision and have benefited a lot(thanks to wmquan, aling...). Hope everyone makes his/her best purchase and enjoy it w/o regrets...
The Acura models are backordered through at least January, plus they're a bit expensive (especially the tailgate deflector). Some of us would like to get some kind of front air deflector installed before the weather gets worse in our respective areas, and the potential for chips in the hood becomes larger.
Has anyone tried to see if a third-party deflector made for the Odyssey would fit?
Any information appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Agree that the seats are firmer as in the ML but as a guy with a bad back (at too young an age) the firmer seats work better for me.
See......there is another example of how small differences can tilt it one way or another.
Would rec you not "hide" them.
With respect to the technical details on crash tests that you seem to be very well versed at what would be the difference between acceptable and good in real world injuries. Do the testers put these differences into objective physcial damage to our bodies so we can see what they would expect?
I still dont know if there is a statistical difference but no bilologic significance (oops there goes by sats class 101). If you understand statistics, and it seems you might, you will see my point.
Also, the scales are important. You can break things down so fine and multiple out the small difference as to make it look like it is significant.
I will look to the site if you have it to see if they explain the differences.
thanks
http://www.acuradriver.com/service/news/1998i1.asp
(He also had a tailgate rattle which was the tailgate striker and latch contacting while driving. Service department fixed it quickly.)
Not everyone wants to read on the subject, and/or wants to see a message anywhere near as long as what I wrote, plus some folks are still connecting via dial-up. Would rather not inflict the long download time on them.
I also do this for messages that focus more on non-MDX issues, since this is an MDX forum. The reader can decide whether or not to view the hidden message.
To answer your question, yes, there are correlations to biological injuries. For example, NHTSA maps incidences of physical injury to their probabilities and thus their star ratings. IIHS is relatively similar; being sponsored by the insurance industry, they obviously have access to all sorts of actuarial data!
The dummies are constructed to register the type of forces that would cause biological injury. They can predict if it's likely that, say, a femur will be broken, or a skull fractured. (I hate even typing the last line.)
You're correct that in the end, statistics are what are compiled from these tests, and that statistics can be manipulated. However, I think the IIHS (and NHTSA) don't play games with these numbers, and they are meant to map to real-world scenarios. It is impossible for them to make it foolproof, of course, as there are many variables. But when you look at photos of how different vehicles respond in the tests, you get a very good idea of how real world things can become.
This information is documented in the web sites; I sure didn't learn this through osmosis. I also watched an excellent PBS special on car safety and its evolution (had a lot of nice clips of cars before safety glass - wait those were NOT nice at all, they were gruesome! - the Volvo engineer who pioneered the 3-point seat belt - the fancy MB test center and their introduction of airbags). Unfortunately, the information is quite a bore to read and is voluminous.
www.iihs.org is IIHS's web site. www.nhtsa.gov is NHTSA's.
The IIHS crash test of the Montero can be found at:
http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/00022.htm
Again, I'm not saying the Montero is a bad vehicle, and I'm not even saying that it is an unsafe one. However, the crash tests do indicate a higher probability of physical injuries (serious and perhaps fatal) for this specific case, compared to one with a higher rating. Obviously "acceptable" is much better than being rated "poor" or "marginal," but "good" is better. It's up to each buyer to decide what that means. But I'd certainly hope no one would buy one that rates "poor!"
Good luck, and thanks for listening.
Acura Sales Soar - November 9, 2000
The Acura Division of American Honda Motor Company is going strong surpassing their 1999 year-to-date new vehicle sales! With sales of 118,291, they are on track to exceed their all-time record year sales of 143,708 set in 1991.
To date, TL sales of 57,733 are up 26%; CL of 21,560 are up 19%; RL of 12,219 are up 9%; Integra of 23,357 are up 2%; MDX/SLX of 3,216 are up 542%; and Total Vehicle sales are up 19%. The MDX with first month sales of 2,456 units will surely provide the additional momentum to beat our all-time record!
I'm assuming that the above reflects sales in USA and Canada. Is the MDX available in any other countries yet? Do you think these are actual deliveries or does it include orders?
Acura for MSRP + $260 and got 4 mud flaps + wheel locks Nov. 11. I had deposit down since Sept. 10 and was on page 2 of wait list but 5 others before me skipped. I had a verbal when I put down deposit that I could buy for MSRP without [non-permissible content removed] accessories. I went in after the Oct. 11 open house and got them to confirm this. All in all a great experience - salesman Peter Chu.
'Nother subject - re premium gas. The Odyssey has 9.4 to 1 compression and mine likes MBTE 87 just fine but the MDX has 10.0 to one so this is probably Acura's reason for premium requirement.
I will be picking up my MDX, silver, touring, next week. In my case, having contacted the dealer via the internet has made events go well on the deal. MSRP, and a break on the accessories.
No nonsense.
However, as Yogi said, "It ain't over till it's over." I'll try to post my impressions after a few days.
1) Interior quality: Fit, finish, quality of leather and overall construction was much better
on the Mercedes. MDX had that great imitation wood for a 34+ car??
2) Safety: 6 air bags, heavier construction on the Mercedes.
3) MPG: toss up, MDX a little better, but Mercedes way better than the American suvs...
4) Size/seating: MDX and Mercedes both seat 7 without driving around town in a gas guzzling monster! I can't figure out all those people driving around with one person in their Excursion/Suburban/Expedition/Navigator what they were thinking? All the other SUVs were eliminated for lack of abilitity to seat 7.
5)X5, MDX, and R300 all drive a little more car like, but again if you are buying a SUV I figure you want the best 4x4... If you want 4x4 and care like buy the new Volvo T5/4Matic/S6 Avanti!
6) Luxury: Mercedes reputation and support from dealer was the final swing factor. Treatment from Rasmussen in Portland was great. Treatment from Salem Acura/Mercedes was Garbage, don't by in Salem Oregon.
7) Reliability: This was our big worry, first couple years of ML were dogs! From the more recent stuff I've read ML had improved. MDX being first year and with Honda's great record on their minivan swung us to trust the dealership to support us if anything happened. More faith in the Mercedes customer service thant the Acura here.
So far love the car, seats the 7 okay and gets okay MPG. Wife loves the feel and safety of the SUV over her old Ford Windstar. I don't even want go get started about the crap of a minivan!
If your leather fails, demand replacement under the warranty.
Use a good product such as Lexol cleaner/Lexol conditioner, and you should be fine. The protection package is a waste of money since it will wear out after a couple of months.
Drew/aling
Townhall Community Leader/Vans Conference
foobarguy, I don't know how Acura books sales on a monthly basis. The Autosite Market Report for SUV sales in October does not even list the Acura MDX, even though there were deliveries made in October.
BTW, looking at the October report and comparing it to September, I noticed RX300 sales seemed to cool. Probably due to a number of factors, including the previous month being a high sale month because of 2000-model-year-end discounts. However, they were down 10% from the previous year, when we've been seeing significant improvements on the last year. Maybe the 2001 price increases and even MDX competition may have flattened the sales curve somewhat -- there are reports of aggressive RX300 discounting, very early in the 2001 model year.
Another factor was that the ML320 registered a large sales improvement compared to the previous year (end-of-year discounting? but that would have affected last year's too ...).
Regarding the nose guard, is it primarily just a cosmetic thing? Does it really protect anything (being plastic and all)? I would have preferred that Acura sell an accessory like a chrome or black brush guard. Sure would help protect against parallel parkers, and probably look good too.
clchu, thanks for your input on your ML320 vs. MDX decision, it seems well thought-out, and based on your carefully thought-out priorities. Good luck with your ML320, it's a fine vehicle.
The ML320 was our second choice behind the MDX. Our interpretation of safety led to a toss-up between the two because the 2000 ML's we were looking at lacked child-proof locks (supposedly now available as a retrofit), childseat anchor tethers (now required by U.S. law in all 2001 vehicles, and maybe a retrofit will be available for earlier models), and lack of child-friendly features like a door-ajar indicator. That, to us, mostly offset the safety advantage of the ML's tougher construction, more airbags, pretensioners on all outbound positions.
Understand your point about car-like ride and handling. From our perspective, we could get a better value and more utility than an Avant or XC with the MDX, and still get a very car-like SUV with a comfortable ride (the ML rides well for its truck-based origin, but we loved the comparably smooth MDX ride, which didn't seem to sacrifice normal handling like the RX300 we drove did).
Nowadays, no one has to accept the old "if you need a truck, buy a truck" axiom. I figure the next M-class will be even more car-like than today. It was certainly a major breakthrough when it was introduced, the first real, practical car/truck hybrid.
Finally, what's interesting in your decision that sort of parallels mine is the quality of dealerships; I was really nervous about the MB service departments around Seattle, but very confident in our local Acura dealer.