Overview
Acura is beginning its journey into an electric future by resurrecting a name from its past: ZDX. Unlike the original ZDX, which debuted for the 2010 model year with fastback styling that was arguably ahead of its time, the new 2024 ZDX SUV is set to wear a more traditional two-box SUV shape. The new SUV was previewed by the Precision EV Concept that debuted at 2022’s Monterey Car Week event. The concept’s styling is interesting, with a floating roof, smooth body sides, and a light-up grille. The interior features elements that we think the production car won’t be able to pull off, including a narrow yoke-style steering wheel and a transparent infotainment system. On the practical side, the ZDX is the product of a partnership between Acura’s parent company Honda and General Motors; the ZDX will utilize GM’s Ultium battery. Previous reports said that the Acura will be built alongside the Cadillac Lyriq SUV at GM’s Springhill, Tennessee assembly plant. That gives us a clue as to what will power the ZDX: a rear-mounted electric motor with 340-hp in base trim, with the possibility of a 500-hp, all-wheel drive variant offered as an upgrade—possibly wearing a Type S badge.
What’s New for 2024?
The ZDX nameplate returns for the 2024 model year attached to Acura’s first all-electric SUV offering.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Base
$60,000 (est)
Technology
$63,000 (est)
A-Spec
$66,000 (est)
Advance
$69,000 (est)
Type S
$75,000 (est)
If the ZDX line follows the trim levels of gasoline-powered Acuras, we should see a variety of models with increasing technology and performance. The Type S will probably be the range-topping model, and we’re excited to see what an electric version of Acura’s well-known performance trim will be capable of.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
If the Cadillac Lyriq—the ZDX’s surprising platform-mate—is anything to go by, we expect to see rear- and all-wheel drive powertrain options ranging from 340-to-500 horsepower. Acura has confirmed that a ZDX Type S is a part of the plan, and that may well be the all-wheel drive variant with the higher horsepower rating. No details have been released just yet, but we’ll find out more closer to the ZDX’s on-sale date.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The ZDX will use GM’s Ultium battery technology and will likely get the same 102.0-kWh battery pack as the Lyriq. That battery is said to provide up to 312 miles of driving range in the Cadillac, so the Acura should offer a similar figure.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
We expect the production ZDX to get a more conservative interior design than the Precision EV Concept car’s. The concept’s yoke-style steering wheel will likely be replaced with a normal, circular one. A two-row seating layout is likely and we expect premium interior materials and possibly some eco-friendly textiles to amp-up the ZDX’s green appeal.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Although the concept vehicle’s transparent display screens look cool and futuristic, we think the production ZDX will come with a more conventional infotainment screen and digital gauge display. What we aren’t sure of yet is if the ZDX will use Acura’s current software interface, which is controlled by a touchpad, or a version of GM’s new Google-based system. Either way, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with wireless connectivity are likely to be standard, and we expect to see Acura’s signature ELS stereo system available as well.
As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
- Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
