The crossovers are invading New York this year, with Toyota unveiling its new Highlander, Dodge its updated Durango, Jeep the reborn Cherokee and Acura the latest MDX. As previewed by the pre-production prototype unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show just a few months ago, the new MDX follows other new Acuras in toning down its edgy styling in favor of something with more mass-market appeal. (Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing depends largely on your point of view.)

Underneath the less aggressive styling, the 2014 Acura MDX is a good 275 lbs lighter than the model it replaces, motivated by a direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic handles the power, channeled either to the front wheels or to all four through Acura's trick Super-Handling AWD system. Whatever you think about the toned-down styling, though, you can count on Acura to deliver on the luxury and technology. The new MDX packs AcuraLink, premium audio system, dual-screen infotainment display (8" for nav up top, 7" for entertainment below), adaptive headlights, and much much more.