NEW YORK, U.S.A., April 12, 2006 – Acura unveiled an unprecedented trio of new vehicles at the New York International Auto Show, including the show stopping world debut of the MD-X Concept SUV. In addition, a production version of the all-new RDX performance luxury SUV made its debut, providing an advance preview of Acura's all-new light truck lineup. Finally, an Acura powered-race car was unveiled along with the announcement that it would campaign in the 2007 American Le Mans Series (ALMS).
Acura MD-X Concept and Turbocharged Acura RDX Debut
"All three vehicles represent Acura's passion for providing the best in automotive performance and technology," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "From the sporty RDX, to the exciting MD-X Concept, to the world-class Acura ALMS race car, Acura is moving ahead of the competition and into the fast lane.
Acura's all-new light truck lineup took center stage with the unveiling of the MD-X Concept and RDX entry premium SUV. With bold styling, the MD-X Concept provides a glimpse of the all-new MDX luxury performance SUV, which will go on sale this fall. The Concept's aggressive design exudes performance and reflects the SUV's track-tuned development.
The all-new RDX, which features Acura's first turbocharged engine and the breakthrough Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), also made its debut. Hitting dealerships this summer, the RDX boasts the exceptional handling of a sports sedan with the utility of a SUV.
Finally, Acura unveiled an Acura-powered race car the company plans to campaign in the 2007 American Le Mans Series. The ALMS draws on the heritage of long-distance "endurance" sports car racing in both Europe and the United States, as exemplified by the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans. The 10-race domestic series includes the 12 Hours of Sebring - a U.S. fixture since 1952 - plus events at the country's premier road circuits, including Road America, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Laguna Seca, Lime Rock Park and Road Atlanta.
ALMS competition features multi-class racing of high-tech sports car prototypes and production-based Grand Touring machinery, with both factory teams and relentless privateers battling for victory. State-of-the-art technology and engineering, ranging from electronics to aerodynamics to fuel efficiency, are key to success in the ALMS. Manufacturers currently fielding teams include Audi, Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Lexus, Aston Martin, and Chevrolet.