[tru_blue]

Hi All, I want to get an Acura MDX or RDX or Lexus RX350 very soon and was wondering if you have anyone that you can refer me to with who provided good service when you dealt with them.

My car is too small for 2 kids right now :QQ:

Any help would be recommended, thanks in advance !

[TypeRNammer]

If you're talking about 1st generation RDX, I would stay away from it.

I was initially in the market for one until I test drove one at a Honda dealership.

I found the acceleration and the suspension to be very choppy.

And don't expect fuel economy to be great.

[Hehe]

I'd say go for the RX350? The new gen is coming out and it looks very nice.

I have my salesman at Richmond Acura if you want (pm me). He's very straight forward when my company got the TLX. There was a promo from Acura and he gave us right after mentioning it to him (even made the offer better so our lease payment stay under a certain number). By contrast, Burrard Acura only offered it after going back and forth several times (they found all sort of excuse to not offer it to us).

[!Aznboi128]

If you're talking about 1st generation RDX, I would stay away from it.

I was initially in the market for one until I test drove one at a Honda dealership.

I found the acceleration and the suspension to be very choppy.

And don't expect fuel economy to be great.
Would agree with this my fiancé's mom has one and the ride is "sporty"
the seats aren't that comfortable as well I'm 5'11 it was hard for me to find a good comfortable seating position with out hitting my knee on the centre console.

[tru_blue]

forgot to add: i'm looking for the 2016 or 2015 models only

[aznkev03]

I got my 2015 MDX last September from Lougheed Acura from Gurp. Best price and service out of all of them (went to Burrard and Richmond too). I'd say haggling was the most difficult at Burrard by far.

[Edit] I know this is the largest of the cars you're looking at but for what it's worth, I have no kids yet. However I have carried my niece around in this vehicle a ton and I think I would seriously consider a minivan when I have kids... Bring your stroller and make sure it fits in the back with the seats up.

[kkttsang]

Depending on your budget. The Rdx is much cheaper than the mdx and the Lexus.
I have the 2014 Rdx. It's for the wife and baby. I don't know how old your kids are, but after we put the baby seat in the middle, it get crammed for other passengers. The mdx has much more room.
But if it just you wife and two kids, with a tight budget the Rdx is pretty decent. Good enough for the wife anyways. But if u need more room the mdx is much roomier

[thumper]

if you are sticking with two kids i would stay with the RDX. my parents have the MDX and being a 7 passenger it's on the big side. parking it in richmond can be a bitch. even though you somehow manage to fit it in a parking stall dosen't necessarily mean you can open the doors :o

they used to have an lexus rx. they wanted to upgrade to an rx350 but were disappointed in the vehicle overall compared to the MDX and how the options were priced and packaged. also acura before this time year end they offer heavy rebates on both the MDX and RDX... i'm not sure if it's still in effect.

[tru_blue]

thanks for all the advises, anyone in the same boat as me and looking to get into an RDX or MDX very soon also?

[Jtseng]

I prefer the Acura MDX since it looks more aggressive

[Acura604]

RDX stuff:

2015 RDX TECH - now somewhat dated but huge rebates and deals are available on 2013-2015. smooth ride... V6 is good powerplant.. .for daily driving on mixed hwy/city expect 12.2 L/100km. small gas tank 60L ... seems to run fine on either regular or premium. the 2013-2015 don't even have LED tail lights or brakes..sheesh. terrible Bluetooth / Hands free operation...navigation cannot be utilized while vehicle is in motion. common issue on this model is bad struts ....typically replaced under warranty.

2016 RDX TECH ADVANCE - more futuristic, funky looking design on the exterior. cool ass LEDs front and rear...super nice and white jewel eye headlights which are superior to HIDs. improved navigation with 3D view rather than top down on the previous model. slightly more HP than the previous model. tons of safety tech: lane assist, blind spot monitoring, collision mitigation, lane departure

both models above have cylinder management...the RDX goes down to either 3 or 4 cylinders when not under load or highway cruising... you will get 500km to a full tank if driven with flow of traffic. the rdx is a pretty smooth ride but I wouldn't label it as sporty.

if you're just a couple with 1 or 2 kids, get the RDX.

MDX is gorgeous...but a 7 seater that size is huge...the gas tank is close to a 75L capacity...and needs premium only. of course its a lot more money...and I think a minor refresh is coming up.

anyways good luck.

[Spoon]

Go all out and get a Sienna.

[jaemc]

I prefer the RDX simply due to styling and the drive. Much tighter and agile than the MDX due to the size difference. The interior I feel very comfortable with overall.

On the roads you definitely don't get the presence of the MDX but I also feel like I'm actually driving within my lane in the RDX. Maybe I'm just not used to driving the MDX or such a large vehicle.

[b0unce. [?]]

Or get a sequoia :lol

[J-Chow]

Get a minivan.

I have 2 kids, and trust me. You'll need trunk space AND if you need to haul extra people around, the people in the 3rd row won't be cramped.

[saucywoman]

I haven't driven the MDX or RDX but since I work at Lexus I've driven the RX350 and loved it!
Mind you it's been the FSport, but I just love how the stock system pumps bass, and you are given a smooth luxurious ride :)
No I'm not in sales either and just trying to get a sale lol.

[StanleyR]

Lexus now?!?!? last I heard you were at Ford

you certainly get around don't you :awwyeah:
(sorry, I just had to say it ;))

[jackal]

i own a 2013 rdx w/tech package. here is my long term owners review.

usage is 90% city. i'm getting 12.3 l/100km. i did something like 8.7 on a trip to seattle and back. the ride is good. i don't feel like i'm driving a boat but i don't feel like i'm driving a sports car either. the engine produces very good power. the power come on smooth and throughout the power band unlike the turbo predecessors. passing maneuvers are cake. transmission isn't the smoothest but i don't have a lot to compare to. my other vehicle is an f150 and i find it much smother downshifting down hills and approaching intersection but that could also be related to the mass of the vehicles. the dual clutch transmissions out there are so much smoother and faster(ford escape).

i wish the rear seats folded completely flat like in the crv. it was something i didn't think would affect much and it hasn't but on the few occasions where i'm loading something long like ikea furniture flat would be better.

the BIGGEST complaint i have about the rdx and something that has driven me nuts over the last couple years is the nav system... you can not operate the navigation system while the vehicle is moving... for example if your driving to seattle along the i5 and you decide you want to stop to get food. you feel like red robins. you have to pull over, stop and then search for red robbins or enter the address. this is the case even with a passenger in the car. so fucking annoying. now i basically bring my garmin instead of using the built in nav. i have no idea if this is still the case with new models or not but it's fucking annoying.

other then that it has been very reliable. no issues so far. seats are great. the tilt rear mirrors are nice for parking. i still enjoy driving it very much and i never felt i needed the size of a larger suv (plus i have a truck)

if there are any specific question you can pm me.

[thumper]

i don't know if this is a priority, but pay attention to what kind of awd system each brand uses. at the time my parents chose their mdx, acura's sh-awd system was one of the best at the time. i remember watching youtube videos https://youtu.be/FJZxVefta68 of side by side comparisons and acura's setup did better than the others in most cases. but that was a few years ago and things have changed so it may not apply in today's market?

[extracrunchie]

The rx350 actually takes regular gas, so factor that in your decision.

[extracrunchie]

i don't know if this is a priority, but pay attention to what kind of awd system each brand uses. at the time my parents chose their mdx, acura's sh-awd system was one of the best at the time. i remember watching youtube videos https://youtu.be/FJZxVefta68 of side by side comparisons and acura's setup did better than the others in most cases. but that was a few years ago and things have changed so it may not apply in today's market?

IMO, nothing beats a Subaru in 4wd. Unfortunately in those test, tires play a huge role and if they want a non biased test, they should equip all the vehicles with the same tires.

[thumper]

IMO, nothing beats a Subaru in 4wd.

but sadly, the tribeca underperforms as an option in this category. i'm not even sure if it's still in production.

[thumper]

The rx350 actually takes regular gas, so factor that in your decision.

from what little i know, the current MDX says recommended, but not required to run premium. something to do with the new 3.5L having direct injection and cylinder deactivation.

[extracrunchie]

but sadly, the tribeca underperforms in this category. i'm not even sure if it's still in production.

That and the tribeca is butt ugly lol. :moderated:

^^^ RX350 recommended fuel is Regular but Acura's are recommending Premium but you could put regular.

[AstulzerRZD]

IMO, nothing beats a Subaru in 4wd. Unfortunately in those test, tires play a huge role and if they want a non biased test, they should equip all the vehicles with the same tires.

Actually, a lot of things can beat a Subaru in 4WD. Let's break it down to shifting power from front to rear, and from left to right. We'll see in a bit why the left-right shift is extremely important.

Transferring power between left and right wheels
Why is this important??
Most AWD systems have open differentials at the front and rear axles. This transmits power to through the path of least resistance - in other words, to the wheel that is already spinning.

In a worst case scenario where you're stuck, the additional axle with power won't be able to save you when there is a wheel on each axle with limited/no grip (on ice/snow/in the air).

Better systems will use the brakes to generate resistance in order to shift power to the other wheel. This reduces the torque available to actually move the car forward. In some scenarios, this means that you won't have enough torque left to get unstuck.

One thing that I've noticed is that a lot of older systems (-2000) offered locking front/rear differentials, and a lot of car based systems (2000-2010) with open differentials do not have brake based L/R transfer, as this relied on stability control.

Example: Left wheels in both front and rear axles have no grip.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJZxVefta68

Implementations
Acura: :bowdown: Differential based system on BOTH axles. Able to transfer 100% of power to either left/right wheels.
Audi (TRANSVERSE Haldex based systems in A4+ models): Brake based system. :fuckthatshit:
Audi (Longitudinal Torsen based systems in S/RS models): Electronic locking differentials [either open or 50/50 L/R]/LSD ("Sport Differential") available. :notbad:
BMW xDrive: Brake based system. No LSDs except for in M models. :fuckthatshit:
Mercedes: Brake based system. :fuckthatshit:
Subaru: Open differentials front and back. Brake based system :fuckthatshit:
Subaru WRX/STI: LSD on rear axles. :notbad:

Transferring power between front and rear axles
Subaru (manual transmission):
Viscous coupling where different front/rear axle speeds generates pressure and locks up.
Audi A3s, Volkswagens, and Volvo also use this system.

PROBLEM: Since this depends on rotational speed, tire sizes must be kept constant, making repair costs for punctures/vandalism quite high.
If the difference in pressure is too great, there would be damage. Also can't lockup.

Subaru (auto/CVT transmission):
Electronically controlled clutch engages to transfer power to the rear wheels. No center diff.
Shifts power between 60:40 and 50:50.
BMW xDrive is similar.

PROBLEM: In some systems (most notably Honda's implementation), the clutch cannot sustain prolonged or significant amounts of torque.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkiv-bWbLIo

Acura SH-AWD
There are a couple different versions, but let's look at the simplest (1st gen RDX/2nd gen MDXs, and last gen TL). The RL adds extra overdrive capability for more of a RWD feel.
2 differentials with planetary gearsets AND clutches in both front AND rear axles - the planetary gearsets reduce load on the clutches. 2015+ MDXs only have clutches in the front/rear diffs. Can shift up to 70% power to the rear axle.

PROBLEM: Limited to 50% power to the rear in some scenarios due to diff design. More expensive maintenance.

[Qmx323]

Actually, a lot of things can beat a Subaru in 4WD. Let's break it down to shifting power from front to rear, and from left to right. We'll see in a bit why the left-right shift is extremely important.

Transferring power between left and right wheels
Why is this important??
Most AWD systems have open differentials at the front and rear axles. This transmits power to through the path of least resistance - in other words, to the wheel that is already spinning.

In a worst case scenario where you're stuck, the additional axle with power won't be able to save you when there is a wheel on each axle with limited/no grip (on ice/snow/in the air).

Better systems will use the brakes to generate resistance in order to shift power to the other wheel. This reduces the torque available to actually move the car forward. In some scenarios, this means that you won't have enough torque left to get unstuck.

One thing that I've noticed is that a lot of older systems (-2000) offered locking front/rear differentials, and a lot of car based systems (2000-2010) with open differentials do not have brake based L/R transfer, as this relied on stability control.

Example: Left wheels in both front and rear axles have no grip.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJZxVefta68

Implementations
Acura: :bowdown: Differential based system on BOTH axles. Able to transfer 100% of power to either left/right wheels.
Audi (TRANSVERSE Haldex based systems in A4+ models): Brake based system. :fuckthatshit:
Audi (Longitudinal Torsen based systems in S/RS models): Electronic locking differentials [either open or 50/50 L/R]/LSD ("Sport Differential") available. :notbad:
BMW xDrive: Brake based system. No LSDs except for in M models. :fuckthatshit:
Mercedes: Brake based system. :fuckthatshit:
Subaru: Open differentials front and back. Brake based system :fuckthatshit:
Subaru WRX/STI: LSD on rear axles. :notbad:

Transferring power between front and rear axles
Subaru (manual transmission):
Viscous coupling where different front/rear axle speeds generates pressure and locks up.
Audi A3s, Volkswagens, and Volvo also use this system.

PROBLEM: Since this depends on rotational speed, tire sizes must be kept constant, making repair costs for punctures/vandalism quite high.
If the difference in pressure is too great, there would be damage. Also can't lockup.

Subaru (auto/CVT transmission):
Electronically controlled clutch engages to transfer power to the rear wheels. No center diff.
Shifts power between 60:40 and 50:50.
BMW xDrive is similar.

PROBLEM: In some systems (most notably Honda's implementation), the clutch cannot sustain prolonged or significant amounts of torque.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkiv-bWbLIo

Acura SH-AWD
There are a couple different versions, but let's look at the simplest (1st gen RDX/2nd gen MDXs, and last gen TL). The RL adds extra overdrive capability for more of a RWD feel.
2 differentials with planetary gearsets AND clutches in both front AND rear axles - the planetary gearsets reduce load on the clutches. 2015+ MDXs only have clutches in the front/rear diffs. Can shift up to 70% power to the rear axle.

PROBLEM: Limited to 50% power to the rear in some scenarios due to diff design. More expensive maintenance.

Found the engineer :ahwow:

Thanks for this, very educational

Anyone selling a 3rd gen TL SH-AWD in manual?

[BBMme]

The mdx is probably one of acura best sold vehicle.

[thumper]

anyone have thoughts on the new 2016 mazda cx9? is it in the same class as a mdx?

http://newcarreleased.xyz/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/2016-cx9.jpg

http://2016carreleases.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2016-Mazda-CX-9-rear-side.jpg

http://2016releasecars2017.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/2016-Mazda-CX-9-Interior.jpg

[Jtseng]

mazda is not in the same class as Acura....Mazda is in the same class as Honda though



anyone have thoughts on the new 2016 mazda cx9? is it in the same class as a mdx?

http://newcarreleased.xyz/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/2016-cx9.jpg

http://2016carreleases.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2016-Mazda-CX-9-rear-side.jpg

http://2016releasecars2017.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/2016-Mazda-CX-9-Interior.jpg

[tru_blue]

anyone have thoughts on the new 2016 mazda cx9? is it in the same class as a mdx?

http://newcarreleased.xyz/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/2016-cx9.jpg

http://2016carreleases.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2016-Mazda-CX-9-rear-side.jpg

http://2016releasecars2017.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/2016-Mazda-CX-9-Interior.jpg

I would get the MDX over the CX-9 anyday, plus you don't even see too many CX-9 on the road anyways due to its price point

[thumper]

there is a sales promo on the mdx/rdx right now. i didn't catch the whole ad all i heard was $1k credit on the rdx and $5k on the mdx for cash purchase, and special lease rates.

[recaro888]

the new mdx is pretty sweet!

[AstulzerRZD]

I would get the MDX over the CX-9 anyday, plus you don't even see too many CX-9 on the road anyways due to its price point

These aren't the right photos.
This is still the last gen car!

Photos of the incoming model here!
It's quite the looker, and the interior design looks great.
Car and Driver (http://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2016-mazda-cx-9-shunning-power-for-practicality-official-photos-and-info)

[Vansterdam]

any thoughts on the 07-2010 RDX? currently in the market for one

[pastarocket]

Try unhaggle.com. Once you send your contact information and info. about the MDX or RDX that you are buying, an Acura staff will contact you.

Perhaps you can get a deal from the dealership.

[Mr.JDM]

any thoughts on the 07-2010 RDX? currently in the market for one

I have a 2012 rdx, same as the 07-10 rdx. love it so far. gas has been pretty good as long as you dont mash on the pedal and spool up the turbo. it gets better gas mileage compared to the wife's rav4 v6. i get 10.4kms/100k according to the dash computer while the rav4 averages about 11.2 according to the dash computer as well. so we tend to use the rdx more on the city. with normal driving it feels like a crv just better on cornerings, just took my rdx to yakima washington last month did great on the highway specially the xm radio.

also put on k&n intake on mine which helped quite a bit with the turbo lag if i had extra cash i'd probably invest on flashpro as well.

[tru_blue]

I just picked up a 2016 MDX recently and its a great car !

Anyone who needs one can pm me so i can give you my salesperson's contact info :thumbs:

[MuranoGO-15]

I had the Mazda CX-9 as a rental car for a few weeks, its a good roomy solid 7-seater! But its not sporty, sure it got some zoom zoom, but it does feels heavy and bulky, its super long too so parking is a challenge, not like an Acura MDX would be. Plus the CX-9 is using a Ford Motor in it, which I don't quite like! The CX-9 is due for an all-new-redesign, so perhaps the next gen will be alot nicer!

I test drove the Acura MDX prev gen, and it was really nice, the 2010+ ones. I have mixed feelings about the all-new MDX, don't know why Honda hid the exhaust pipes on the back. I always thought he MDX was sort of a Sports SUV, and the double-exhaust on the back made it look very aggressive, but now you can't even see them and just see two marker lights instead! hmm...

[tru_blue]

I had the Mazda CX-9 as a rental car for a few weeks, its a good roomy solid 7-seater! But its not sporty, sure it got some zoom zoom, but it does feels heavy and bulky, its super long too so parking is a challenge, not like an Acura MDX would be. Plus the CX-9 is using a Ford Motor in it, which I don't quite like! The CX-9 is due for an all-new-redesign, so perhaps the next gen will be alot nicer!

I test drove the Acura MDX prev gen, and it was really nice, the 2010+ ones. I have mixed feelings about the all-new MDX, don't know why Honda hid the exhaust pipes on the back. I always thought he MDX was sort of a Sports SUV, and the double-exhaust on the back made it look very aggressive, but now you can't even see them and just see two marker lights instead! hmm...

I went for the 16 MDX because they had alot of new techy safety features and I love the heated steering wheel :)

[oldsnail]

i have a 2nd gen mdx and currently driving a 2016 mdx for the last week as a loaner car.

it drives much better , steering a little light, and it doesnt feel like a heavy car like the 2nd gen. but , i do not like the center console too much. not too many physical buttons.

my 2nd gen mdx is in the shop so long because they are repairing the SH-AWD. it isnt cheap! and it is one owner dealer maintained.

[MuranoGO-15]

I went for the 16 MDX because they had alot of new techy safety features and I love the heated steering wheel :)

You mean the 2nd GEN MDX never had a heated steering wheel?!! I never knew that! Having a heated steering wheel at this time of year is really nice!!! So many times I've gotten into my car with frozen hands to be super relieved by the heated steering wheel, its a God sent!

The 16 MDX is the right choice for you indeed!

[MuranoGO-15]

i have a 2nd gen mdx and currently driving a 2016 mdx for the last week as a loaner car.

it drives much better , steering a little light, and it doesnt feel like a heavy car like the 2nd gen. but , i do not like the center console too much. not too many physical buttons.

my 2nd gen mdx is in the shop so long because they are repairing the SH-AWD. it isnt cheap! and it is one owner dealer maintained.


I never knew the 2nd gen mdx was so heavy! its like one of the heaviest suvs in its class, averaging around 4600lbs for the SH-AWD model! The 3rd GEN AWD is around 4200lbs, a reduction of 400lbs, that is very significant weight reduction while adding more features from Honda!

[freelunch]

Just wanted to add a few things:

The STI has LSD in both the front and rear, while the center differential is a special planetary gearset with a 41:59 split.

"The Driver’s Control Centre Differential (DCCD) allows the centre differential locking of the WRX STI to be dialed in and adjust its handling. It adjusts both an electromagnetic multi-plate transfer clutch and mechanical locking of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) to distribute torque to the front and rear wheels. Auto Mode identifies the ideal power distribution for changing conditions, whilst Auto [+] keeps more power up front for increased traction. Auto [-] transfers more power to the rear for tighter cornering, and the six-step Manual Mode locks in the driver’s favourite handling characteristics."

If you have an older 2005+ Subaru you have

Variable torque distribution AWD
"An AWD system designed exclusively for 5-speed automatic transmission, E-5AT (with manual mode) models to provide aggressive, sporty driving with increased turning abilities all while retaining the fundamental driving stability offered by the Symmetrical AWD. An uneven 45:55 front and rear torque distribution has been set for the front and rear tyres. Sending greater torque to the rear wheels can reduce understeer, a trait that plagues 4WD vehicles, when cornering for smooth and agile handling. Torque distribution is controlled automatically up to an equal 50:50 front and rear to suit road surface conditions for both sporty driving and stability."