Choosing a new 2007 Acura MDX is easy, once you’ve decided if you want the Technology Package, the Entertainment Package, or the Sport Package. Prices have not been finalized at this writing, but Acura says a basic MDX will cost around $41,000 and a loaded MDX will top out around $48,000. Yeah, we called it basic, but the standard MDX is far from that. In addition to its all-new 3.7-liter V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system, the 2007 Acura MDX includes the usual – and expected – list of luxury SUV standards. Highlights include a third-row seat, a power sunroof, heated outside mirrors, power and heated front seats, keyless entry with personalized memory, and a 253-watt stereo with a six-disc CD changer, an auxiliary input jack for an iPod or other MP3 player, and XM satellite radio.

As good as the standard MDX might be, the really good stuff is optional, and we’d bet that most MDXs will be equipped with one or more of the additional-cost packages. Opt for the Technology Package, and the MDX gets a DVD navigation system with voice recognition, a rearview camera, and Zagat Survey restaurant reviews and ratings; a triple-zone, solar-sensing, GPS-linked climate control system with a humidity sensor; HandsFreeLink Bluetooth wireless communications with a phone book import feature; and AcuraLink satellite communications with real-time traffic reporting. As if that’s not enough, the Technology Package also includes a stunning 410-watt Acura/ELS Surround audio system with Dolby Pro Logic II, a DVD-Audio player, and 10 speakers.

To this, MDX buyers can add the Entertainment Package, which is more than just a DVD player and a rear LCD screen. The Entertainment Package also includes heated outboard rear seating positions, a remote-linked power tailgate, and a 115-volt power outlet in the center console just like the ones in the wall at home. That makes it so much easier to plug in the PlayStation for long road trips to Vegas with the guys…uh, we mean, to the Grand Canyon with Stylish Mom and the Munchkins.

The Entertainment Package is also available in conjunction with the Sport Package. The Sport Package includes the same goodies found in the Technology Package, and kicks things up a notch with unique 18-inch alloy wheels, an Active Damper sport-tuned suspension, perforated leather upholstery, textured interior trim, and self-leveling Xenon headlights. Buy the Acura MDX with Sport and Entertainment Packages, and you’re looking at spending around $48,000. Driver Dads should have no trouble selling this to Stylish Moms – just explain that the kids won’t be as prone to motion sickness with the Sport Package’s “special” suspension.