56-649: The Buick Rendezvous is a mid-size crossover SUV that was sold by Buick for the 2002–2007 model years. It debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2000, and sales commenced in spring 2001. The Buick Rendezvous and its corporate cousin, the Pontiac Aztek , were GM's first entries into the crossover SUV segment. The Rendezvous featured a four-speed automatic transmission with a V6 engine and optional all-wheel drive (dubbed Versatrak). The SUV used
112-608: A minivan (large cargo capacity, seating for up to seven), a luxury automobile (ride, handling, smoothness), and a sport utility vehicle (truck styling and available all-wheel drive ). The Rendezvous was produced at General Motors' Ramos Arizpe , Mexico , assembly plant, where it shared an assembly line with the Pontiac Aztek . Like the Pontiac Aztek, the Buick Rendezvous is based on a shortened version of GM's second-generation U-platform minivans. In lieu of
168-604: A vehicle size class which originated in the United States and is used for cars larger than compact cars and smaller than full-size cars . "Large family car" is a UK term and a part of the D-segment in the European car classification. Mid-size cars are manufactured in a variety of body styles, including sedans , coupes , station wagons , hatchbacks , and convertibles . Compact executive cars can also fall under
224-453: A 3.7-liter (3664 cc) V6 tuned for 300 hp (224 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 270 lb⋅ft (366 N⋅m) of torque at 5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and is estimated by the EPA to consume 16 miles per US gallon (15 L/100 km; 19 mpg ‑imp ) in the city and 21 miles per US gallon (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg ‑imp ) on
280-642: A Buick. A major contributor to the Rendezvous's success was an aggressive value-pricing strategy that made the Rendezvous US$ 6,500 less than a comparably equipped Acura MDX and US$ 8,000 less than the Lexus RX . The Rendezvous handily exceeded GM's predictions of 30,000 to 40,000 units a year by a large margin, which helped offset the poor sales of its closest relative, the Pontiac Aztek . Midsize car Mid-size —also known as intermediate —is
336-505: A black dash and steering wheel in tan interiors. On April 11, 2006, Acura unveiled the 2007 Acura MD-X Concept during the New York International Auto Show , showing to the public an indication about the exterior styling of the upcoming completely redesigned MDX. The second-generation MDX was released on October 17, 2006 in the U.S. The second generation model's body has a wider track and longer wheelbase than
392-401: A removable double sided trunk floor with carpet and plastic, and more legroom and headroom compared to the third generation MDX. The MDX also features an optional audio system with 16-speakers including four roof-mounted speakers and a foot sensor for Hands Free Access power tailgate release and closure when the key fob is nearby. A redesigned key fob that is shaped like a convex irregular polygon
448-412: A repositioned air intake for easier access to both battery terminals. High-strength steel (HSS), press-hardened steel and aluminum make up 69.7% of vehicle body mass. The rear body is more rigid with suspension load paths passing into the C and D-pillars, allowing for towing capabilities. Standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) while it can be increased to 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg) when
504-459: A silver face accented by chrome trim rings that was meant to evoke the luxurious look and feel of an expensive watch or designer bracelet. On the uplevel CXL model, a driver information center on the instrument panel provided the outside temperature, compass, and a trip computer that included readings of fuel economy, driving range, and amount of fuel used; this was also available with the base CX model. An optional second-generation head-up display
560-489: A thicker carpet base layer and front fender liners. The seating H-point has been reduced. According to Acura the exterior is more aerodynamic reducing drag by 16% with the new model lapping Nürburgring 8 seconds faster than its predecessor. The steering gear ratio is 9% quicker for a more sporty feel. The MDX rides lower, which reduces its center of gravity . To reduce unsprung mass , the front suspension lower control arms are made from forged aluminum. Structure rigidity
616-504: A traditional four-wheel-drive system, the Rendezvous offered Versatrak , a full-time, fully automatic all-wheel-drive system which provided sure-footed traction in inclement weather and could handle moderate off-road surfaces. The Versatrak system uses hydraulic gerotor pumps and multi-plate clutch packs, instead of the typically used viscous couplings , and is supplied by Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG , under license from McLaren Traction Technologies. Buick benchmarked its Park Avenue sedan as
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#1732793508813672-521: Is 4,451 lb (2,019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase and 8 in (200 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row holds three passengers. The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system (named VTM-4) that engages during off
728-478: Is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under its luxury Acura division since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for "Multi-Dimensional" luxury. It has ranked as the second-best selling mid-size luxury SUV after the Lexus RX in the U.S. The MDX is the first luxury crossover SUV to have standard third-row seating, and shares its platform with
784-462: Is improved and weight reduced through increased use of high-strength steel. Overall, 64% of the total vehicle body mass is high strength steel (HSS), aluminum and magnesium. HSS makes up 59% of vehicle body mass; 1,500 MPa yield strength steel makes up 7%. A single ring-like hot stamped HSS outer door ring component reinforces the A-pillar , roof rail, B-pillar, and lower floor rail encircling
840-474: Is included. Powertrains are improved, with the existing 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 10-speed transmission available for four trims; base, technology package, A-Spec, and advance package. While the all-wheel-drive (AWD) is optional on the base and technology trims, it is standard on A-Spec and advance trims. The Type-S trim model will get a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 and front brakes with four-piston Brembo calipers as standard. All-wheel-drive will also be standard for
896-976: Is powered by a 3.5-liter direct injected Earth Dreams V6 with Variable Cylinder Management . A front-wheel drive (FWD) model is available for the first time, in Canada all-wheel drive remains the only configuration offered. EPA-estimated fuel economy is improved with all-wheel drive ( SH-AWD ) models rated at 18 mpg ‑US (13 L/100 km; 22 mpg ‑imp )/27 mpg ‑US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg ‑imp )/21 mpg ‑US (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg ‑imp ) (city/highway/combined) and FWD models rated at 20 mpg ‑US (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg ‑imp )/28 mpg ‑US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg ‑imp )/23 mpg ‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg ‑imp ) (city/highway/combined). The headlights are Acura's Jewel Eye LED Headlights (first introduced on
952-662: The Ford LTD II and the Plymouth Fury . A comparison test by Popular Science of four intermediate sedans (the 1976 AMC Matador, Chevrolet Malibu , Ford Torino, and Dodge Coronet ) predicted that these will be the "big cars of the future." By 1978, General Motors made its intermediate models smaller. New "official" size designations in the U.S. were introduced by the EPA , which defined market segments by passenger and cargo space. Formerly mid-sized cars that were built on
1008-702: The Honda Pilot . The Pilot was made available with an eight person seating configuration, while the MDX exclusively seats seven, with two seating positions in the third row. The MDX was introduced on October 5, 2000 as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX , based on the Isuzu Trooper . In Japan, it was made to replace the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) which
1064-610: The RLX ). Each headlamp uses five separate LED sources with three used for low-beam lighting and two for high-beam lighting. LED bumper mounted fog lamps are offered as a dealer installed option. The interior reduced button clutter by adding a 7-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback , an additional 8-inch screen is also standard. To reduce interior noise an acoustic ( PVB layered) windshield, acoustic front door glass and thicker rear glass are used as well as triple sealed door openings. Advance package models include further noise reduction using
1120-438: The 2003 model year, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp (15 kW) more power than the earlier models, and the wheel designs were updated. The 2004 through 2006 engine received a modest increase in power and produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 lb⋅ft (343 N⋅m). The 2004 model is credited with a top speed of 137 mph, and a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model yearfeatures dual tail pipes instead of
1176-447: The 2007 through 2009 model years, three option packages were available: Sport, Technology and Entertainment. All Canadian Acura MDX models, aside from the heated front seats, also get the second-row heated outboard seats as standard equipment as well. A feature unique to Canadian MDX models are headlight washers . In terms of packages, Canadian MDX models get only two: Technology and Elite. The Technology package corresponds essentially to
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#17327935088131232-565: The 2019 model year, the Active Damper System is available for non-hybrids, the front seats feature 4-way power lumbar. During the 2018 New York International Auto Show, alongside the debut of the third generation RDX , Acura announced the introduction of the A-Spec appearance package. The exterior features black and dark chrome accents, replacing all the chrome and rides on 20" grey aluminum wheels. The bumpers are redesigned to give
1288-595: The 2021 model year, the fourth-generation MDX was revealed as a prototype on October 14, 2020, virtually revealed on December 8, went into bulk production on January 12, 2021 for the 2022 model year, and went on sale on February 2, with the Type-S trim released on December 23. The MDX became the flagship model of the Acura marque following the discontinuation of the RLX mid-size luxury sedan in June 2020. The exterior includes
1344-475: The A-Spec a more sharp and aggressive design. Red leather seats with black alcantara inserts is now an option for the A-Spec package. Other changes for the A-Spec trim are new gauges, carbon fiber trim, sport pedals, and thicker steering wheel with paddle shifters. As part of 2014 Acura MDX launch in the United States, a campaign called 'The Extremely New MDX - Made for Mankind' was produced. The campaign highlights
1400-818: The CR-V and Odyssey) options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a backup camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005, the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle . The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg ‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg ‑imp ) highway and 17 mpg ‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg ‑imp ) city. The first two model years' 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 240 hp (179 kW) and 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) of torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. For
1456-766: The Honda 6-speed automatic transmission for a ZF 9-speed automatic and changed the SH-AWD system for 2016. The revised SH-AWD system uses a hydraulically-controlled clutch and is similar to system found in the TLX . A refreshed for the 2017 model year MDX went on sale in June 2016, and features a diamond pentagon front grille which debuted on the Acura Precision Concept, redesigned LED headlamps with automatic high beams , LED DRL light pipes and LED amber light pipe turn signals. Restyled LED fog lamps are optional from
1512-624: The MDX has the same design as the VTM-4 systems found in the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline . It is different than Honda's "RealTime AWD" system in the Honda CR-V and other models in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs (by monitoring throttle inputs). The navigation system and DVD entertainment system (also popular on other Honda/Acura models, such as
1568-416: The MDX received a facelift adopting to Acura's new "Power Plenum" grille that debuted on its 2009 model year sedans. The most important upgrades to the 2010 model where a new paddle shift six-speed SportShift automatic transmission with downshift Rev-matching, and an increase in compression ratio to 11.2:1 with forged aluminum pistons to replace the previous 2007–2009 3.7L's 11.0:1 pistons. Structural rigidity
1624-511: The Rendezvous an overall Acceptable rating in its frontal offset crash test for fair structure performance and fair dummy control. However, the IIHS did not perform a side-impact test on the Rendezvous. The Rendezvous was a badly needed success for Buick, given the decline of its aging customer base, and singlehandedly brought a large number of younger, wealthier "conquest" buyers into Buick showrooms who otherwise would not have considered purchasing
1680-502: The Rendezvous's intended role as a versatile accoutrement for busy people with families, it provided a center console with storage space and power points for a laptop computer as well as separate compartments to hold a purse, a cell phone, pager, or other small items that the owner would want to keep organized and readily accessible as well as an optional rear cargo organizer system and rear seat stereo system controls with headsets. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives
1736-462: The Type-S. However there is no hybrid powertrain available unlike the previous generation. In the front, a double wishbone suspension with forged aluminum lower control arms, damper forks, and steering knuckles makes its way into the MDX along with more rigid cast-aluminum shock towers, larger front brake rotors and wider alloy wheels. Plastic wheel well liners are replaced with fabric material and
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1792-570: The US model's Technology package while the Elite package is an amalgamation of the US model's Sport and Entertainment packages. However, AcuraLink real-time traffic reporting through XM NavTraffic is unavailable for Canadian MDX models. Like the first generation model, the new generation is manufactured exclusively by Honda of Canada Manufacturing Ltd. in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. Along with the 2007 RDX ,
1848-604: The complete technical transformation of the MDX and centers around the idea of "Made for Mankind," a concept designed to highlight the unique engineering and design philosophy at the heart of all Acura vehicles - the synergy between man and machine. The campaign was developed by Mullen (Boston and LA) and with MediaVest. Also, a series of 8 comedic commercials were created with comedian Jerry Seinfeld and director Barry Sonnenfeld. In addition, Acura became an exclusive sponsor of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Skipping
1904-531: The factory. MDX models will come standard with AcuraWatch which includes forward collision warning (with automatic emergency braking), lane departure warning (with lane keep assist) and Adaptive Cruise Control. A 360-degree surround view camera is optional. To reduce body mass the front fenders switched from steel to an aluminum panel. The MDX Sport Hybrid powered by a 3.0-liter SOHC V6, 7-speed dual-clutch , 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery gasoline hybrid producing 321 hp (239 kW) and 289 lb⋅ft (392 N⋅m)
1960-427: The front doors for improved crash protection. Acura states that after conducting a simulated IIHS 25% small offset frontal crash test the front doors will open with normal force. The updated Adaptive Cruise Control adds low-speed stop-and-go functionality. In terms of safety the MDX adds a standard driver's knee airbag, optional Lane Keeping Assist System and Collision Mitigation Braking System . Acura swapped
2016-525: The full-size cars of a decade or so ago ... best sellers include Ford Torino , Chevrolet Chevelle , AMC Matador , Plymouth Satellite ..." The domestic manufacturers began changing the definition of "medium" as they developed new models for an evolving market place. A turning point occurred in the late 1970s, when rising fuel costs and government fuel economy regulations caused all car classes to shrink, and in many cases to blur. Automakers moved previously "full-size" nameplates to smaller platforms such as
2072-468: The highway. It is one of the most powerful engines Honda has produced to date. The MDX is able to tow 5,000 lb (2,300 kg). The "VTM-4" all-wheel drive system on the previous generation was replaced by the new SH-AWD "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive" previously debuted on the 2005 Acura RL . This AWD system is one of the most advanced in its class, featuring an active rear differential often found on high performance cars, which somewhat mitigates
2128-451: The line acceleration as well as when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4WD and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in
2184-522: The mid-size category. The automobile that defined this size in the United States was the Rambler Six that was introduced in 1956, although it was called a "compact" car at that time. Much smaller than any standard contemporary full-size cars, it was called a compact to distinguish it from the small imported cars that were being introduced into the marketplace. By the early 1960s, the car
2240-582: The mid-size market for decades. Mid-size cars were the most popular category of cars sold in the United States, with 27.4 percent during the first half of 2012, ahead of crossovers at 19 percent. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Fuel Economy Regulations for 1977 and Later Model Year (dated July 1996) includes definitions for classes of automobiles. Based on the combined passenger and cargo volume, mid-size cars are defined as having an interior volume index of 110–119 cu ft (3.1–3.4 m ). Acura MDX The Acura MDX
2296-414: The mid-size market segment as the line of cars themselves kept increasing in size. By 1965, these GM "A platform" mid-size models matched the size of 1955 full-size cars. During the 1970s, the intermediate class in the U.S. was generally defined as vehicles with wheelbases between 112 inches (2,845 mm) and 118 inches (2,997 mm). Once again, the cars grew and by 1974 they were "about as large as
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2352-553: The new MDX was the first Acura model to pass the Acura Quality Line, a special quality control and verification process separate from the other Honda vehicles. For the 2009 model year, the MDX had added more upgrades to the navigation system and there are two new colors added. The power tailgate, previously available only with the Entertainment package, is now included with Technology and Sport packages. In 2010,
2408-535: The nose-heaviness of the MDX's traverse engine platform so it can dynamically compete with the longitudinal engine layout crossover SUVs. The latter types of vehicles, such as the BMW X5 or Audi Q5 , have a more balanced 50/50 front/rear distribution for better handling, but have less efficient packaging for passenger/cargo room. Like many Acura models, the MDX comes with a power sunroof , leather interior, and high-intensity discharge (Xenon) low-beam headlights. For
2464-408: The previous MDX. There is less visibility to the rear compared to the prior generation, however an available backup camera compensates for this. The redesigned Acura MDX's unit-body was engineered with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure designed to absorb energy from a collision. The suspension was tuned at Germany's Nürburgring race track . The engine was upgraded to
2520-411: The prototypical target for ride and handling for the Rendezvous. To provide a luxurious and responsive car-like ride, all Rendezvous models came equipped with a fully independent rear suspension system with aluminum-alloy control arms and crossmember, as well as rear solid disc brakes, regardless of drivetrain. The instrument cluster of the Rendezvous featured teal-illuminated needles and numbers set in
2576-516: The rear-view mirror. The redesigned MDX overtook the TL as Acura's top seller in the United States. The 2014 MDX Prototype was unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show , the production version was revealed at the New York Auto Show . Production began on May 2, 2013; vehicle assembly shifted from Ontario, Canada to Lincoln, Alabama. US sales began on June 20. The MDX
2632-611: The same platform as GM's short-wheelbase minivans, the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana . The Rendezvous provided a passenger- and load-carrying capacity not seen in the Buick lineup since the discontinuation of the Buick Roadmaster Estate station wagon in 1996. It was Buick's first truck -based vehicle in its lineup since 1923, and the Rendezvous was billed as a combination of the best attributes of
2688-679: The same platform, like the AMC Matador sedan, had a combined passenger and cargo volume of 130 cubic feet (3.68 m ), and were now considered "full-size" automobiles. Cars that defined the mid-size market in the 1980s and 1990s included the Chrysler K-Cars ( Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant ), the Ford Taurus , and the Toyota Camry , which was upsized into the midsize class in 1991. The Taurus and Camry came to define
2744-462: The single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could now be had with a dark grey wood (as opposed to reddish wood on earlier models), and also
2800-540: The standard panoramic sunroof , either 19 or 20-inch alloy rims, a tailgate similar to the 2019 RDX, headlights and taillights similar to the current TLX , a differently styled grille emblem, nine exterior and seven interior colors. For the Type-S trim, a yellow color, called Tiger Eye will also be available. The improved interior includes a 12.3-inch infotainment system and the Acura's first 12-inch digital full TFT instrument cluster, touch pad, 16-way power front seats with 3-memory positions, removable center second row seat,
2856-489: The transmission cooler is added. The cooler kit is available as an accessory for the AWD models. The MDX facelift was revealed on April 9, 2024 for the 2025 model year. Changes include updated exterior styling, new exterior colors, new alloy wheel designs, the touchpad controller has been replaced in favour of additional storage space and a wireless charging pad, a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google built-in and
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#17327935088132912-604: Was added to the lineup. The front wheels are powered by the engine and a single electric motor, and the rear wheels are powered by two electric motors. The Sport Hybrid comes as standard with the SH-AWD system, Acura's Active Damper System and the Integrated Dynamics System with a SPORT+ mode. Sales commenced in April 2017 for the 2017 model year and was available in Technology and Advanced packages. For
2968-464: Was also available on both CX and CXL models, while an optional tire-pressure monitoring system provided readings of tire pressure and warned if out of the specified range. The Rendezvous boasted the ability to carry seven passengers when equipped with a third-row bench, a class-leading feature that Buick brought to market before its competitors, and was able to carry a standard 4-by-8-foot (1.2 m × 2.4 m) sheet of plywood . In support of
3024-588: Was discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the vehicle went on sale in Japan and Australia as the Honda MDX ; sales with Honda badges ended with the introduction of the second generation three years later. Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the Honda Accord , Acura TL , TSX and Odyssey , it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 engine with VTEC . Curb weight
3080-402: Was improved for the 2010 model year. An Advance Package became available that included Adaptive Cruise Control , blind spot monitor , Active Damper suspension, collision mitigation braking system, wider 7-spoked 19 inch wheels and tires , Premium Milano leather ventilated seats and auto leveling headlights. Non-navigation equipped MDX models now have a backup camera monitor located in
3136-513: Was renamed the Rambler Classic and while it retained its basic dimensions, it was now competing with an array of new "intermediate" models from General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler. The introduction of the 1962 Ford Fairlane was viewed by consumers as too close to the compact Falcon in size and performance as well as too close to the full-sized Ford models in price. It was the introduction of General Motors " senior compacts " that grew
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