Acura MDX – This continues to be my favorite luxury SUV. However, I favor the MDX before its 2007 redesign. It has everything one could want in an SUV, including a 50/50-split third-row seat that folds away into the floor when not in use and the overall abundance of Acura excellence. I think the Acura MDX is really the benchmark for all other luxury SUVs and none match it.
Consumer Reports is fairly effusive in its praise, too. The model I would point you toward is the 2004 Acura MDX. Its only average score comes in the electrical system category. Otherwise, it’s all excellent or above average. Of course, there is a premium to be paid. An entry-level MDX is going to cost you about $16,000. It’s money well spent.