2010 Acura MDX to start at $43,040

The 2010 Acura MDX starts at $43,040, including destination charges. It went on sale on Friday.

The new seven-passenger luxury ute gets more aggressive styling front and rear, new trim enhancements and new wheel packages.

The new MDX will come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission mated to a 3.7-liter V6 VTEC engine, making 300 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. That's 5 lb-ft less than last year, but gas mileage improves slightly to 16 city, 21 highway. Also standard is Acura's all-wheel drive system.

New standard equipment for 2010 includes a power tailgate, LED backlit instrumentation, paddle shifters and integrated rearview camera. There is also a $3,700 tech package, which includes satellite and instrument panel options.

The entertainment package includes a rear DVD player, headphones and a remote control. The advanced package includes everything from the tech package, plus safety features such as blind-spot information and active suspension damping. The range-topper will set you back $54,565.

By JAKE LINGEMAN