Acura MDX is a full-size perennial best-seller since its introduction in 2001, aimed at families who need three rows of seats, but also demand sophisticated arrangements. The 2012 Acura MDX carries on its role as a lavishly equipped, sporty carrier family who still manage to sip gas.

A pronounced on-road vehicle, the MDX can not pull a bass boat or press the logging trails. It has no V-8 option or off-road hardware. But for a full-size, three-row SUV, the MDX packs a punch from its 3.7-liter VTEC-equipped V-6, a non-substantial 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque development. With the Acura Super Handling AWD and called a six-speed automatic transmission, the MDX banks from its car-like qualities appeal to buyers who might not have many toys, or drag the wilderness to roam.

The MDX got a new grille in 2010, which takes more than the 2012 Acura MDX. Inside, the MDX equipped with leather seats, widespread woodwork, and a color that traffic and weather updates, stock quotes, satellite radio, and a 60GB hard drive for MP3s offer.

Body style: Sport utility vehicle

Engine: 3.7-liter V-6

Transmission: six-speed automatic

Models: MDX; MDX and Technology; MDX, Technology and Entertainment; MDX and Advance; MDX, Advance and Entertainment

A new Acura MDX is expected to appear before the 2013 model year, with rumors of a more efficient 3.5-liter V-6 and sharper styling. So until then, the 2012 MDX is more of what works.

The MDX got a new grille in 2010, making it into line with the rest of the Acura's shiny shield design. Acura calls this the "Power Plenum" look, and it appeared to be initially controversial in the TL. But for the MDX, the Acura badge is bulging weakened, and the MDX retains its beautiful, sharp styling and meaty wheel arches.

Acura champions itself as a technologically innovative company, and the MDX is no slouch: Bluetooth, satellite radio, Internet connectivity, real-time traffic and weather reports, restaurant reviews, and share prices are all accessible through a color screen and dial. Rear seat passengers can entertain themselves with a DVD player and screen and wireless headphones, while contrasting smooth leather and wood trim around the interior.

The 6-speed paddle sliding makes the MDX particularly fun to drive, when paired with the 300 hp 3.7 L V-6 engine. The 2012 Acura MDX is surprisingly quick and easy to drive - revised steering and chassis reinforcements in 2010 to increase cornering prowess, as retuned optional magneto rheological shock. Full-size, three-row SUVs, do not drive much better than this.

The MDX has airbags cover all three rows of the residents, while an advanced safety structure disappears evenly energy away from passengers in the event of a crash. On the technological front, the MDX is adaptive cruise control, blind spot warnings, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System, an impending crash can detect and automatically stops the vehicle when the driver walks of talent.

All: 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway