The Acura MDX is refreshed and restyled for the 2017 model year. The MDX has been the brand's best-selling vehicle for seven consecutive years, so it's no surprise to see it get a refresh. But Acura is really going all out for its flagship luxury SUV with a whole new face, new standard equipment, a whole new powertrain option, and, now, a new advertising campaign.
2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Acura MDX Marketing Campaign

Acura's largest crossover SUV is getting a large marketing push. The 2017 Acura MDX will be introduced to the public through an integrated marketing campaign that launched yesterday.
2017 Acura MDX
The ad campaign featuring the perennial best-seller in the luxury mid-size segment will show how the refreshed MDX is "Designed to Wow." The multichannel campaign will showcase the vehicle's bold exterior design, high-level performance, and host of standard safety and driver-assistive features.

"The new Acura MDX is a true performance SUV, and this campaign speaks to the 'Wow' factor that drivers will experience when they get behind the wheel," said Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager of Acura.

There will be three separate, 30-second TV spots, one of which is set to Beck's "Wow." These will air throughout September and October during NBC primetime programming and CBS NFL games, and through various cable, late night and online video executions.

Acura will also be debuting a digital targeting marketing approach. They say it will allow them to deliver custom-tailored communication to specific audiences based on their specific car purchasing motivations.
2017 Acura MDX

The Refreshed and Restyled 2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Acura MDX has undergone a fairly extensive mid-cycle refresh. There's plenty new for fans of "Precision Crafted Performance" to get excited about.

And it starts with its new distinctive styling. The 2017 MDX is the first production recipient of Acura's new Diamond Pentagon grille, which first appeared on the Precision Concept at the North American International Auto Show earlier this year. The automaker is calling it "the new face of Acura."

The grille makes the front end sharper and more aggressive looking than before. The exterior also features a more sculpted hood, sharpened fenders, restyled headlights, an upgraded bumper with integrated chrome-trimmed dual exhausts, and optional all-new wheel designs.
2017 Acura MDX
Inside, the 2017 Acura MDX is raising its game with an expanded lineup of features and technology. Leather seats, a moon roof, and a multi-angle rearview camera come standard. Natural wood accents and all-new second-row captain's chairs are available.

Most notably, AcuraWatch, a package of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, will come standard on all trim levels of the seven-passenger SUV. AcuraWatch includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
2017 Acura MDX
The 2017 Acura MDX is powered by a carryover 3.5-liter V-6 engine that's paired to a nine-speed automatic. It boasts an EPA-estimated 19/27/22 city/highway/combined mpg rating. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is optional.

But new to the MDX lineup is a hybrid powertrain. The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid version is set to be released later this year. The three-motor hybrid drivetrain mates to a 3.0-liter V-6, includes all-wheel drive, and is expected to achieve better fuel economy.
2017 Acura MDX

The 2017 Acura MDX

From the ads featuring Jerry Seinfeld in 2014, to those with a voiceover from Michael B. Jordan earlier this year, to the new spot featuring a Beck song, Acura keeps finding ways to remain relevant.

Honda's luxury nameplate boasts that the MDX is America's all-time best-selling three-row luxury crossover SUV. This marketing campaign tells me that they want to keep it that way.
2017 Acura MDX
The 2017 Acura MDX is on sale now, and the lineup features three packages: the Entertainment Package, the Technology Package, and the Advance Package. Pricing starts at $44,890 (including the $940 destination charge).