TORRANCE, California - The gets a few modest tweaks for the new model year, along with a relatively minor price increase. The base 2009 MDX starts at $41,550, including a $760 destination charge.

The 2008 Acura MDX started at $40,955, including shipping.

A top-of-the-line 2009 Acura MDX with the sport and entertainment packages starts at $49,450, including shipping.

The MDX is equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine that delivers 300 horsepower.

Acura said for 2009, the MDX's power rear tailgate feature is standard equipment with the technology and sport packages. Previously, the power rear tailgate was only available on the entertainment package. New exterior colors include Bali Blue Pearl and Mocha Metallic. Also, Acura said it has added Dayton, Ohio, to its real-time traffic system.

The price increase on the MDX is a little surprising, given that competitor Lexus did not raise the price on its comparable all-wheel-drive . That model starts at $39,925, including a $825 destination charge.