Acura is not a brand that is known for making bold moves. For the past decade, the luxury arm of Honda has been playing it safe, offering reliable but uninspiring vehicles that cater to a loyal but shrinking customer base. But that is about to change with the introduction of the 2024 Acura ZDX, the first all-electric vehicle from the Japanese automaker. The ZDX is not just a new model but a new direction for Acura, one that promises to deliver electrified performance, elevated design, and exhilarating power in a mid-size SUV that can compete with the best in the segment. The ZDX is also the first Acura to feature the Type S badge, which signifies the highest level of performance and technology in the lineup.
The Acura ZDX Type S is expected to produce an estimated 500 horsepower and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it one of the fastest electric SUVs on the market. But the ZDX is not just about speed, it is also about range, efficiency, and connectivity.
The Acura ZDX boasts an anticipated 325-mile EPA driving range rating, thanks to a 102.0-kWh battery pack that uses GM’s Ultium platform. The ZDX also features the first integration of Google built-in for Acura, providing a seamless and personalized driving experience with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other Google services. The ZDX is expected to be priced in the $60,000 and $70,000 range for the base and Type S models, respectively, and will arrive in dealerships in early 2024. Reservations for the all-electric ZDX are now open.
Design
The ZDX is a stunning example of Acura’s new design language, previewed by the Precision EV Concept in 2019. The ZDX features a sleek and muscular silhouette with a low roofline, a long hood, and a short rear overhang. The front end is dominated by a dramatic evolution of the Diamond Pentagon grille, illuminated by LED lights that create a signature pattern.
The headlights and taillights are also LED and feature a sharp, angular design that complements the grille. The ZDX also has a unique rear spoiler that integrates with the roof and the tailgate, enhancing the aerodynamics and the vehicle's aesthetics. The ZDX rides on 22-inch wheels, in different styles and colors depending on the trim level. The ZDX Type S also has some exclusive design elements, such as a Double Apex Blue Pearl paint option, a black roof, and a more aggressive front bumper and rear diffuser.
Performance
The ZDX is not only a beautiful SUV but also a powerful one. The ZDX is powered by an electric motor that drives the front wheels, while the ZDX Type S has a second motor that adds all-wheel drive and more power. The ZDX has an estimated output of 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, while the ZDX Type S has an estimated output of 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The ZDX can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while the ZDX Type S can do it in 4.8 seconds.
The Acura also has a top speed of 130 mph, while the ZDX Type S has a top speed of 155 mph. The ZDX is not only fast but also efficient. The ZDX has an anticipated EPA driving range rating of 325 miles, while the ZDX Type S has an anticipated rating of 288 miles. The ZDX also has a fast-charging capability, allowing it to replenish 80% of its battery in 30 minutes using a 150-kW DC fast charger. The ZDX also has a regenerative braking system, which recovers energy from deceleration and braking and feeds it back to the battery.
Technology
The ZDX is a showcase of Acura’s latest technology, both in terms of infotainment and safety. The ZDX features the first integration of Google built-in for Acura, which provides a connected and personalized driving experience. The ZDX has a high-resolution 11-inch Precision Cockpit Digital Instrument Cluster and an 11.3-inch Color Touchscreen, which can be customized to display various information and functions.
The Acura ZDX also has an enhanced version of Google Maps for EV drivers, which optimizes route plans for recharging, finds charging stations along the route, and estimates charging times required to reach the destination. The ZDX also has Google Assistant, allowing the driver to use voice commands to control various features and functions, such as navigation, music, climate, etc. The ZDX also has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which allow the driver to access their smartphone apps and services on the touchscreen. The ZDX also has a wireless smartphone charger, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, which makes its Acura debut in the ZDX. The ZDX is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assist features, part of the AcuraWatch system.
The ZDX has a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. The ZDX also has Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, which maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead and can stop and resume following in traffic.
The Acura ZDX also has Lane Keeping Assist, which helps the driver stay in the center of the lane, and Road Departure Mitigation, which warns the driver if the vehicle is about to leave the road and can apply steering and braking to prevent it. The ZDX also has a Collision Mitigation Braking System, which can detect potential frontal collisions and apply braking to avoid or reduce the impact. The ZDX also has a Blind Spot Information System, which alerts the driver if there is a vehicle in the blind spot, and a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, which warns the driver if there is a vehicle approaching from the side when reversing.
