At 300 horsepower, the 2008 Acura MDX is the most powerful model made this year by the manufacturer. This generation of MDX is also the most luxurious sport utility vehicle that Acura makes, and after taking a look at the myriad of standard features it’s easy to see why. When one factors in all of the optional features that can be included at a slight additional cost, it’s a wonder there are any of them left on showroom floors.

The ‘08 MDX’s engine is truly something to admire: a 3.5 liter VTEC V-6, it has a dual-stage intake manifold, high-flow exhaust system, weight reduction and drive-by-wire throttle system. The transmission offers grade logic and shift hold control as well as sequential SportShift. SH-AWD, power distribution and direct yaw control round out some of the performance details. Best yet, all of the above come standard on the base model MDX, which costs $40,195.

While the Acura/ELS Surround premium sound system, entertainment package and navigation system with real-time traffic, Zagat reviews, destination database and voice recognition are all optional, the base model still comes packed with technology rich creature comforts. For example, power windows, moonroof, XM satellite radio, tri-zone climate control and center control panel multi-information display all come standard.

The 2008 Acura MDX is also one of the safest cars on the roads. Jam packed with airbags everywhere, this SUV also has Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and HID headlights. The body structure has been designed with pedestrian safety in mind, and an optional rear view camera minimizes scuffs, scratches and dings that can occur while parallel parking or backing out of a driveway. Crash testing proves it: in the event of an accident there’s no place safer.