Acura MDX Ground Clearance: What To Know
Acura MDX by Kevauto - CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury selection, offering an optional turbocharged engine and incredible horsepower. However, if you want to go off-roading or slide over speed bumps, you must know how far the vehicle comes off the road. You might wonder - what is the Acura MDX ground clearance? Is it ideal, or are you better off selecting another vehicle for your needs?
If you’re interested in learning more about the ground clearance of the Acura MDX, you’ve come to the right place. The more you know about the ground clearance, the easier to determine if it’s the proper choice for your life. Read on to learn more about the ground clearance pros and cons, ground clearance by generation, and more valuable Acura MDX information.
Ground Clearance Pros and Cons
Ground clearance refers to the measurement from the lowest part of your vehicle’s body, minus the wheels, to the ground. As with any feature, there are pros and cons to consider before using this measurement to decide on the right vehicle for your life. Let’s dive into a few of the pros and cons of the Acura MDX ground clearance to clarify your options.
Ground Clearance Pros:
Those with a vehicle ground clearance size higher off the ground offer a better view than those much lower to the floor. Also, a larger measurement for ground clearance reduces the overall risk of damage when driving over irregularities in the earth, speed bumps, and dips in the street. Cars higher off the ground also provide a more grandiose and intimidating appearance, which many drivers enjoy.
Ground Clearance Cons:
Of course, there are drawbacks to ground clearance. Those sitting in the front or back seat may have more trouble getting inside the vehicle, especially if they are elderly or have mobility issues. There is also a greater chance of rollover because the ground clearance provides an increased center of gravity. Some may not enjoy the lower stability in vehicles higher off the floor and may lead to a nervous drive.
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Acura MDX Ground Clearance By Generation
First Generation: The first generation of the Acura MDX appeared on the scene in 2001 and existed on the market until 2006. It was an all-wheel drive crossover that was built based on the revised platform of the Honda Global mid-size platform. The first generation of the Acura MDX provided dimensions for ground clearance that landed at 8 inches. It was the high point for ground clearance in the Acura MDX and it never returned.
Second Generation: The second generation of the Acura MDX appeared for purchase in 2007, stretching its lifespan until 2013. The exterior changed extensively from the first generation, offering a redesign to the grille and much sharper edges. It also offers a longer wheelbase than the previous version. The second generation provided a ground clearance slightly smaller than the first at 7.3 inches - almost an entire inch lower than the first generation’s offerings.
Third Generation: The third generation came to life in 2014 and survived until 2020. This product shifted to a front-wheel drive-only option for the United States market. It included interior upgrades, an engine shift to the 3.5-liter V-6, and more. This generation of the Acura MDX offered the same ground clearance as the previous version at 7.3 inches.
Fourth Generation: The fourth and final generation of the Acura MDX appeared in 2021 and is continuing today with the latest 2024 model. Again, this generation decided to make several changes to the original design. The biggest changes included improved drivetrains and a new panoramic sunroof. Again, the fourth generation provided a ground clearance of 7.3 inches.
MDX Ground Clearance By Generation
First Generation: 2001-2006
All Models: 8 inches
Second Generation: 2007-2013
All Models: 7.3 inches
Third Generation: 2014-2020
All Models: 7.3 inches
Fourth Generation: 2021-Present
All Models: 7.3 inches
What Version of the MDX Has the Best Ground Clearance?
The Acura MDX’s ground clearance hasn’t shifted much over the years, changing in a major way only once in all four generations thus far. According to getjerry.com, the ground clearance is about the same if you stick with the newest generations. The highest trim tends to have the lowest ground clearance, but you’ll get the best at 8 inches out of the first generation.
If you want to make the most out of your vehicle in ground clearance, try to purchase one of the years from 2001-2006. These versions offer almost an entire additional inch of ground clearance when compared to other generations. Although it’s still semi-low, it will provide the best height.
If you want a lower car with more features, go with the third or fourth generation. There isn’t too much variation, but no versions of the Acura MDX have great ground clearance.
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Should You Purchase the MDX Based On Ground Clearance?
According to edmunds.com, the ideal ground clearance for a vehicle should be around 8.5 inches. Thus, the Acura MDX ground clearance falls flat. It’s a poor choice for off-roading or if you want to keep your vehicle in one piece when driving over rough terrain. It’s not a vehicle for the off-roading adventurer.
If you take your vehicle off-roading or on rugged terrain, it’s not a good idea to invest in the Acura MDX based on ground clearance. There is a much higher risk of damage to your undercarriage, and you’re better off going with another vehicle.
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So you’re in the market for a used vehicle? We’ve gone ahead and prepped some essential questions to ask when buying a used car.
Final Thoughts
Ground clearance is valuable, especially if you’re excited to go off-roading or need to prevent damage from hitting your undercarriage. The Acura MDX ground clearance isn’t ideal, with the best landing around 8 inches in the first generation and the worst being 7.3 inches in the final three generations.
We hope this information comes in handy! It might feel too much to land on the correct vehicle with all the features you want, but our information should simplify the process. The length of the ground clearance is just one critical item to consider.
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