Even under the heavy cartoon camouflage, it’s easy to see that big changes are coming to the next-generation 2014 Acura MDX. Most striking is the three-row luxury crossover’s more upright stance, trading in the current model’s long, tapered nose for a more squared-off look. The whole package looks to have grown a bit, which should improve on third-row legroom.

For those wanting 7-passenger seating in true luxury, the 2013 MDX is a value buy. It may not have the cavernous accommodations or refinement of the 2012 Motor Trend SUV of the Year Mercedes-Benz GL, but at $43,280 it also starts at nearly $20,000 less. Acura will reportedly offer the next MDX with a hybrid option, using the same hybrid SH-AWD powertrain set to debut soon in the RLX luxury sedan.

Look for the 2014 MDX in showrooms at the tail end of 2013.