From the logbook: Acura MDX

What's the best answer for the person looking for a luxury car but needs to hold a few kids and it just can't be a dowdy minivan? Enter the car-based luxury SUV. Ever since the debut of the Lexus RX, nearly every manufacturer has scrambled to bring out as many upscale SUVs as the market will bear. Today there are lots from which to choose, including models from Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Infiniti, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volvo.

Acura's MDX was first introduced for the 2001 model year, and it has mostly impressed us with its refined powertrain, pleasant ride, and comfortable interior. And with its kid-sized third-row seat, one could make the argument that it's also a fine family hauler.

Our latest MDX, a 2010 model with a new six-speed automatic, cost us $46,715. While that's not exactly cheap, it's something of a bargain compared to other high-end SUVs. So does the MDX fulfill SUV and family-type duties? Take a look at the logbook:

"Very nice package in terms of ride and power."

"Steering feels a bit artificial as it has weight but is not particularly responsive."

"Towed my T@B trailer to Portland, ME. Plenty of power but 12 mpg not too good."

"Ride is a bit stiff but handling is good."

"Super slick powertrain."

"Six-speed transmission is transparent, even though it holds higher gears as much as possible."

"Driving position is easy to tailor with seat adjustments and power tilt-and-telescope steering wheel."

"Very comfortable front seats."

"Good fit and finish and nice switchgear."

"Easy access for both kids and adults."

"Middle-row center safety belt is mounted to the roof, which is disappointing for a car of this price."

"Nav system not as easy as others, such as the Cadillac SRX."

"Could not figure out how to shut off the navigation system's voice."

"Like this better than models from Mercedes-Benz or BMW…MDX gives you similar size but for less money."

"Does almost everything most buyers would want."

Overall, the MDX does many things very well and manages to outpoint other luxury SUVs costing much more. Is it perfect? Not quite. There was universal dislike of the MDX's overly complicated controls and programming the navigation system without using the voice commands was particularly tiresome. But here's the one logbook line that likely tells the story of how we feel about the MDX: "I would buy this."