Subsequently, a fully loaded MDX like our test example can run you close to $55,000. That isn't exactly inexpensive, but it is a relative bargain -- order up a comparable 2011 BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium, and you'll be staring down an MSRP approaching the $67,000.

Perhaps that's the draw behind the model's continued success. The MDX looks, feels, and drives virtually as well as its rivals from Europe, yet costs significantly less. That's an awfully attractive proposition, and we understand why 47,210 people decided to purchase as MDX in 2010.

I attended the media launch of the original Acura MDX way back in April 2000, and I've always liked the vehicle since. This 2nd generation is getting on in years but has aged well. The overall demeanor of the vehicle is very satisfying. It's luxurious and well-built and comfortable but not ostentatious. It is only as big as it needs to be, as compared with, say, the Audi Q7 that we had in the office at the same time, which carries a ridiculous amount of mass.

We spec'd a new BMW X5 xDrive35i Premium with similar options and the total came to a whopping $72,075. Maybe the BMW would be a better drive through the twisties, but from the driver's seat of the Acura MDX we can't imagine it being $17,000 better. Against competition such as the Infiniti FX35, the gap in price is significantly decreased, but we're sure that most drivers in the market for one of these Japanese luxury SUVs would be happy behind the wheel of either.

What it doesn’t like is the excessive road noise and wonky controls, which takes the words right out of my mouth. Honda/Acura likes to extol the virtues of its Active Noise Cancellation system in its various models, but, not to put too fine a point on it, it doesn’t cut the mustard. Compared to many other models in the segment of the market, the MDX displays far too much road noise when it’s under way and, for an upscale SUV, has surprisingly poor NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness).

Perhaps it’s the tires, but whatever it is, something needs to be done. With a vehicle of this calibre, you shouldn’t have to raise your voice when conversing while driving on the highway, but that’s the way it is. The road noise and poor NVH isn’t an all-consuming racket, but a vague background white noise kind of thing. It’s not massively intrusive, but there, nonetheless.