There are five exterior changes on the 'new' Acura MDX

Headlights -- While the shape is similar, the headlights on the 2014 model are definitely more streamlined, and maybe a bit larger. Wraparound LED lighting, as we have seen in other luxury makes -- most notably Audi vehicles -- modernizes the front end and helps the headlights stand out.

Grille -- The shield shape remains, but is more pronounced in the 2014 model, which dulls the “beak” a little bit. Wider chrome trim makes a bold statement, and chrome mesh added below the Acura emblem adds a sporty touch.

Front bumper -- There's no argument the front bumper -- as well as the fog lights and the fog-light surrounds -- are all new. A chrome finish replaces black on the bumper itself. The shape of the bumper is more dynamic, going from a basic bar across the front of the SUV to something more complex. The fog lights that used to act as bookends to the black bumper are now elongated spheres floating above the bumper. We're not sure this artistic design will actually appear on the production MDX, but it does look nice on the prototype.

Body -- The body of the new MDX has a slightly more fluid appearance that comes from its more aerodynamic design and loss of 1.5 inches of height. Door panels don't seem to have changed, but the silhouette of the greenhouse does have slightly more rounded edges.

Rear -- The tail end of the MDX gets more dramatic with the addition of a chrome bridge connecting the taillights and a geometric chrome bumper. Like the headlights, taillights get eye-catching LEDs, but the shape of the taillights appear unchanged.