Building on the MDX's stellar safety credentials, for 2017 several important previously optional features are combined as standard equipment in AcuraWatch, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies offered as standard equipment on all 2017 MDX models. AcuraWatch technologies include Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM).

AcuraWatch Technologies	2016 MDX	2017 MDX
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)	Technology and Advance Package	Standard, all grades
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)	Advance Package	Standard, all grades
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF)	Advance Package	Standard, all grades
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)	Standard with Advance Package; Available for other grades	Standard, all grades

Also for 2017, the MDX models get available new Auto High Beam headlights, which increase nighttime visibility, new Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Automatic Brake Hold, which encourages parking brake use, and a new Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles for improved visibility while reversing and maneuvering.

The restyled MDX earned a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is projected to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a GOOD rating in the Institute's stringent small overlap frontal collision test.

Key Safety and Driver-Assistive Features

• Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
• 5-Star NHTSA Overall Vehicle Score; anticipated IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ collision safety rating
• Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Design
• Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
• Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Brake Assist
• Advanced 4-Channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution
• Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS)
• Driver and Front Passenger SmartVent® Side Airbags
• Driver Knee Airbag
• Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor
• Adjustable Head Restraints
• Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Surround-View Camera System
• Parking Sensors (available)
• Blind Spot Information (BSI)
• Rear Cross Traffic Monitor 
• AcuraWatch™ - Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS®) - Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) - Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) – Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)

Top Safety Rating Targets The 2017 MDX was designed to achieve top scores and best-in-class performance in all National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests. In particular, the MDX achieved a 5-Star NHTSA Overall Vehicle Score, and is projected to attain an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating.

Rating	Achieved
NHTSA Overall Vehicle Score	5-Stars
NHTSA Overall Frontal Crash	5-Stars
NHTSA Overall Side Crash	5-Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4-Stars
	Projected
IIHS safety rating	TOP SAFETY PICK+
IIHS Small overlap front	Good
IIHS Moderate overlap front	Good
IIHS Side impact	Good
IIHS Roof strength	Good
IIHS Head restraints & seats	Good
IIHS Front crash prevention	Superior

Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Design Structures in the front of the 2017 MDX are designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision with a pedestrian. Research shows that the following features can dramatically improve a pedestrian's chance of survival if struck by a moving vehicle.

Specific pedestrian head injury mitigation features include:

• Hood is designed to deform if contact is made with either an adult or a child pedestrian
• Sufficient clearance exists between the hood and hard engine parts, allowing the hood to deform if impacted by a pedestrian
• Windshield base has a unique section structure for efficient impact energy absorption
• Energy-absorbing fender mounts and supports
• Break-away windshield wiper pivots
• Deformable hood hinges

Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is an Electronic Stability Control system that works in conjunction with the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle, ABS, EPS and SH-AWD® (if so equipped) to enhance control capability while the vehicle is accelerating, braking, cornering or when the driver makes a sudden maneuver. VSA functions by applying brake force to one or more wheels independently while also managing the throttle, ignition and fuel systems to help the vehicle maintain the driver's intended path of travel.

The VSA system constantly analyzes data from sensors that monitor wheel speed, steering input, lateral and longitudinal G forces and yaw rate. It compares the driver's control inputs with the vehicle's actual response. Whenever the actual response falls outside of a predetermined acceptable range, VSA intervenes with a corrective action. For instance, if VSA detects an oversteer condition, the system may apply braking force to the outside front and rear wheels to counteract the unintended yawing effect. In the event of understeer, VSA may apply braking to the inside rear wheel while reducing engine power to help return the vehicle to its intended course.

VSA also provides a limited-slip differential effect for the front wheels by applying braking force to a slipping wheel, thereby redirecting driving force to the wheel with more traction. VSA is calibrated to function in a near-transparent manner, and in many cases a driver will not even be aware of its operation. However, anytime the system is enhancing vehicle stability, an indicator light flashes in the instrument cluster. While the driver can reduce the traction control effectiveness allowing more wheel slip during stuck condition by pressing the VSA Off button, ABS remains fully operational at all times.

Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering

Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) is standard on every 2017 MDX model. The system incorporates driving stability technology that initiates steering inputs that prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction during cornering and in slippery road conditions. Using vehicle speed and steering angle data, Motion-Adaptive EPS works with Vehicle Stability Assist and Electric Power Steering to detect instability in slippery road conditions both during cornering and under braking and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction. This advanced technology supports the driver's action in operating the vehicle more safely and comfortably.

Two examples of how Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering functions in conjunction with VSA are:

Stabilizes Vehicle under Braking This function helps to correct the driver's steering input to reduce vehicle instability when the driver is braking hard on road surfaces with different friction coefficients (such as pavement that is partially covered with dirt or snow).

Mitigates Understeer and Oversteer To mitigate potential understeer or oversteer situations, the system helps correct the steering inputs to help the driver trace the curve.

For more information see the Chassis section.

Brake Assist A function of the VSA system, the Brake Assist feature recognizes hard and emergency braking situations and almost instantly applies added braking force. This Brake Assist feature is controlled by a special logic in the system that evaluates the pedal application rate and force to recognize a panic stop situation. At that point, the VSA modulator pump increases braking pressure while the pedal is still being pressed to ensure maximum stopping force, an action that can help shorten braking distance.

Advanced 4-Channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution The MDX is fitted with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel anti-lock braking (ABS). The ABS system also incorporates Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) circuitry that automatically proportions front-to-rear brake force based on the vehicle's dynamic load on each wheel. For more information see the Chassis section.

Airbags A total of seven airbags, including dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, driver knee airbag, front side airbags, and side-curtain airbags are standard on the 2017 MDX.

Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS) Both the driver and front passenger are protected by advanced front airbags (SRS) that incorporate dual-stage and multiple-threshold activation technology. If deployed, these airbags are capable of being inflated at different rates depending on crash severity, seatbelt usage and other factors. Like other Acura vehicles, the driver's front airbag is located in the steering wheel while the passenger airbag is located on the top of the dash. When deployed, the passenger airbag inflates upward and then rearward to maximize its protective potential while reducing the likelihood of injuries caused by airbag deployment.

Driver's Side Knee Airbag A driver's side knee airbag is designed to better position the driver in the event of a frontal collision so that the front airbag and seatbelts can have maximum effect. The knee airbag is contained beneath a panel on the underside of the instrument panel, which is contoured away from the knees to provide as much clearance as possible for comfort.

Driver and Front Passenger Side Airbags Side airbags mounted in the outboard area of each front seatback are designed to help provide pelvic and thorax protection for the driver and front passenger in the event of a severe side impact. The side airbag design allows the side airbags to deploy in a manner that helps mitigate the risk of injury to a smaller seat occupant.

Side Curtain Airbags All outboard seating positions are protected by side curtain airbags with rollover sensor system. In the event of a severe side impact, the side curtain airbags deploy from modules in the roof, providing a significant level of head protection in the window area. In the unlikely event of a rollover, a roll-rate sensor, along with multiple G sensors, determine the rate of roll and deploy the side curtain airbags accordingly. The side curtain airbags will also deploy and provide head protection in frontal small overlap impacts, such as when the front corner of the vehicle collides with solid object.

Like the other airbag systems in the vehicle, the side curtain system utilizes sensors to determine the most appropriate timing of airbag deployment. To provide the optimal level of protection for occupants, testing was performed to determine the most appropriate timing and rate of deployment in the unlikely event of a rollover. The system uses algorithms to continually evaluate the situation and determines whether a rollover is imminent. The roll-rate sensor and multiple G sensors (accelerometers) determine the "scenario" and calculate the angle of roll and the speed of the vehicle in order to deploy the airbags at the correct point for optimum protection.

In the case of a rollover, the side curtain airbags on both sides of the vehicle will deploy. However, in the event of a sufficient side impact that does not result in a rollover, only the airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle will deploy. The airbag maintains full inflation for approximately three seconds after inflation to allow for the increased duration of a rollover accident.

Adjustable Head Restraints The first and second row seating positions feature individually adjustable head restraints. The head restraints for the third row seats fold automatically when the seat fold-down straps are pulled simplifying the process of converting the MDX into cargo-hauling mode. The headrests can also be folded down independently, improving rear visibility. See the Interior section for more information.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren All MDX models are equipped with a child seat-mounting system called LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren). All three of the second-row seating positions (two positions on Advance trim) and the passenger side third-row outboard seating position are fitted with dedicated LATCH attachment points.

The LATCH system provides two lower anchors and an upper tether anchor. When used with a compatible child seat, the LATCH system provides attachment points between the child seat and the vehicle seat without having to use the vehicle's seat belts. Tether anchors are available for the remaining middle seating position and outboard driver's side in the third row. All seat belts except the driver's are equipped with a locking retractor that can be used to help secure any child seat. Both rear side doors are also equipped with childproof door locks for added protection.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The MDX is fitted with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that alerts a driver whenever the air pressure in one or more of the vehicle's tires decrease significantly below the recommended level. When the pressure in one or more tires drops sufficiently, it causes a low tire-pressure indicator, located in the instrument cluster or in the Multi-Information Display (MID), to illuminate. The information-selectable MID display can show all four tires pressures in real time and even if the TPMS information is not selected for viewing on the MID by the driver, it will appear automatically in the event one or more tires falls below the normal minimum pressure.

Multi-Angle Rearview Camera A multi-angle rearview camera is standard on the MDX. It offers three viewing angles (wide view, normal view and top view). Drivers may select the preferred view according to driving conditions. The rearview image is displayed on the 8-inch color audio/information display. On-screen guidelines help the driver better judge distances, and predictive guidelines help make maneuvering in reverse easier.

Surround-View Camera System In the MDX with Advance Package, four exterior cameras provide a 360 view of the space immediately around the vehicle through the navigation display. A camera button among the nav display controls or an even more conveniently located button on the end of the turn signal lever changes camera views.

When Reverse is selected, the rear camera view appears on screen along with an overhead 360 view. Guidelines appear in each view, which correspond with the angle of the front wheels angle to show the vehicle's predicted rearward path. A press of either camera button switches to show the rear view alone, and another press shows a wide-angle rear view.

Pressing either "Camera" button when not in reverse shows the 360 view combined with a front view that is ideal for putting the vehicle in the ideal position in the garage. Another button press provides a front wide-angle view that is useful for helping spot an approaching vehicle or person when nosing out a tight spot with a blocked side view. Additional views include looking ahead from both sides and just the passenger side view alone.

View	Application
Front view + ground	Parking spot
Front view wide	Parallel parking
Both side view	"Blind spot" parking
Rear view + ground view	Parking spot
Rear wide view	Backing up
Right side view	Parking against curb

Parking Sensors (Advance Package) To assist in maneuvering in tight spaces, such as entering or exiting a parking space, the 2017 MDX with the Advance Package features a set of eight parking sensors—four in front and four at the rear. When a sensor(s) detects an object close to the vehicle, the system provides an audible warning plus a visual alert on the MID and, when backing up, also on the Display Audio screen when showing the rearview camera view. With each type of visual alert, the system indicates in what direction the detected object is located. The sensors are mounted flush to the bumper fascia for a clean appearance.

Blind Spot Information

The blind spot information (BSI) system uses radar sensors located on both sides of the rear bumpers to continually monitor blind-spot areas to help determine whether a vehicle is in the driver’s blind spot. The system provides a visual cue by lighting an indicator near the outside mirrors, depending on which side of the MDX a vehicle is detected. The system also gives an audible warning and flashes the indicator to further alert the driver if the turn signal is activated on the side where a vehicle is being detected. To prevent false alarms while maneuvering at low speed, the BSI system is disabled below approximately 20 mph.

Note that BSI cannot detect all vehicles, and that some vehicles or devices may interfere with the system. Drivers should always visually check for the presence of other vehicles before changing lanes.

Collision Mitigation Braking System

Included in AcuraWatch, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) is one of the most sophisticated driver-assistive technologies available. It continually scans traffic conditions ahead of the MDX, alerts the driver of a potential collision with a detected vehicle or pedestrian, and then takes proactive action to help reduce collision forces if one becomes unavoidable.

Unlike the pre-collision systems on some vehicles, CMBS can automatically apply the brakes to help reduce the severity of a collision. When CMBS detects a potential collision, visual, audible and tactile (driver and front passenger seatbelt pre-tensioning) alerts first prompt the driver to take corrective actions. If the system determines that a collision is imminent, it applies the brakes to help reduce vehicle speed and collision forces.

It is important to note that CMBS cannot detect all objects ahead, nor is it intended to replace the driver's assessment of traffic conditions and control of the vehicle. The driver must intervene in certain situations, and must always be attentive when using the system. In addition, CMBS is not intended to apply enough braking force to prevent a collision. The system also may not perform all visual-, audible- and tactile-alert stages, and may instead automatically engage the brakes if the system deems it necessary.

Lane Keeping Assist System

Included in AcuraWatch, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) provides a less stressful driving experience by reducing steering correction movements and driving effort on the highway. LKAS uses a camera to read lane markings and uses the Electric Power Steering to assist the driver in maintaining their position within a detected lane.

Designed for the U.S. road structure, the system uses a monocular camera mounted on the upper portion of the windshield to identify painted lanes, Botts’ Dots and other reflective markers at speeds between 45 mph and 90 mph. When LKAS senses that the driver is drifting from the middle of a detected lane, the system generates corrective steering torque to assist the driver in maintaining lane position.

LKAS may be activated and deactivated using a switch located on the lower right part of the steering wheel. The system will suspend operation after approx. 10 seconds if the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel, accompanied by a visual warning in the MID, resuming when the driver makes a steering input.

Road Departure Mitigation Integrating LDW (see below), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) uses a monocular camera (mounted on the upper portion of the windshield) to identify solid or dashed painted lane lines, Botts' dots and Catseye markers. RDM uses steering force, via EPS to help the MDX stay in its lane and, if the vehicle is detected leaving a lane marked by solid lines, braking force may be applied, via VSA, to keep the vehicle from departing the lane or roadway altogether.

The monocular camera recognizes lane features and identifies the lane. If the RDM system determines that the MDX is about to leave a detected lane, it will provide steering assist (primary) and in rare occasions when steering assist is not sufficient to avoid leaving a lane marked by a solid line, braking assist, to help the driver stay on the road. RDM is integrated with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system to provide moderate braking, and with the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system to provide steering input.

Multiple visual and audible warnings alert the driver when the RDM system is taking corrective action. These include a lane departure warning on the driver's Driver Information Interface (DII) along with an audible warning. RDM also has a customizable initial warning of either a steering wheel shake/vibration, or an audible alert. This can be customized in the vehicle settings. RDM can be turned off by using the RDM Off button on the left of the dash.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow

Included in AcuraWatch, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow is activated by a button on the lower right side of the leather-wrapped steering wheel. This vehicle speed and following interval control system uses a grille-mounted millimeter-wave radar to monitor the interval between the MDX and a detected vehicle directly ahead. Like a conventional cruise control system, the ACC system can maintain a preset speed. In addition, by combining radar data with data from speed sensors, ACC can regulate the MDX’s speed to maintain a preset temporal following interval.

The Low-Speed Follow feature can reduce the driver workload in congested traffic by maintaining a selected distance interval during cruise control operation, even in stop and go traffic. If a vehicle detected ahead is in range of the system and slow to a stop, the MDX will also automatically decelerate down to a stop. When the detected vehicle moves forward, the vehicle icon on the MDX's multi-information display will blink. With a press of the RES/+/SET/– switch up or down, or with a press of the accelerator pedal, the MDX will automatically accelerate, resuming the Low-Speed Follow mode.

It is important to note that ACC cannot detect all objects ahead, nor is it intended to replace the driver's assessment of traffic conditions and control of the vehicle. The driver must intervene in certain situations and must always be attentive when using the system.

A Multi Information Display (MID) message and audible warning alert the driver when the ACC function is activated. See the Powertrain section for more information.

Safety and Driver Assistive Features

Active Safety Features	MDX	MDX with Technology Package	MDX with Advance Package
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)	•	•	•
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)	•	•	•
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control	•	•	•
Advanced 4-Channel ABS	•	•	•
Electronic Brake Distribution (EDB)	•	•	•
Brake Assist	•	•	•
Multi-Angle Rear View Camera System with dynamic guidelines	•	•
Surround-View Camera System with dynamic guidelines			•
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)	•	•	•
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)	LED	LED	LED

 

Passive Safety Features	MDX	MDX with Technology Package	MDX with Advance Package
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure	•	•	•
Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS)	•	•	•
Driver and Front Passenger Side Airbags	•	•	•
Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor	•	•	•
3-Point Seat Belts at all Seating Positions	•	•	•
Front 3-Point Seat Belts with Automatic Tensioning System		•	•
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH): 2nd-Row All and passenger side 3rd-row	•	•	•
Driver's and Front Passenger's Seat-Belt Reminder	•	•	•
Child-Proof Rear Door Locks	•	•	•

 

Driver Assistive Features	MDX	MDX with Technology Package	MDX with Advance Package
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)	•	•	•
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow	•	•	•
Parking Sensors			•
Blind Spot Information (BSI)	•	•	•