The 2024 Acura ZDX marks the brand’s entry into the electric vehicle market, developed in collaboration with General Motors using their Ultium platform. This partnership brings benefits and challenges; while the ZDX offers a stylish and sharp exterior design, it also inherits some common criticisms commonly associated with GM vehicles
In a fast-growing electric vehicle market, the ZDX is a solid choice for anyone looking for a stylish electric SUV that stands out from the rest.
Performance & Comfort
The ZDX comes with two powertrain options. Both options use a 102-kWh battery, shared with the Cadillac Lyriq platform. The base A-Spec comes with a dual-motor version that makes up to 490 hp. For those who want more power, the Type S “the performance trim” comes with a dual-motor setup, delivering 499 horsepower and 544 lb-ft of torque, compared to the A-Spec’s 437 lb-ft. This makes it the better choice for performance, with a quick 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds, which is quick for an SUV. The all-wheel-drive Type S also adds an air suspension with adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, and 22-inch wheels, taking its performance to the next level.
The ZDX falls short in the handling department, with steering that feels floaty, even with the Type S trim. It’s not as agile as you’d expect from a Type S model, especially when compared to other Type S models in the lineup. The ZDX could benefit from more steering feedback to enhance driver engagement, and this is most likely due to its GM-based Ultium platform, which takes away from the usual Acura Type S driving dynamics.
The real highlight of the ZDX is its smooth ride. The suspension handles bumps well and stays comfortable in most driving conditions, making it a great choice for everyday comfort. Even with the larger wheels on the Type S, the ride stays surprisingly smooth, never feeling too harsh. Paired with a quiet cabin, even at highway speeds, the ZDX truly shines as the ultimate comfortable cruiser.
Interior
While the ZDX shines with a stylish and eye-catching exterior, the interior quality falls a bit short due to GM’s influence. The cabin feels more simple and plain compared to other Acura models, lacking that premium touch you might expect. There’s a noticeable use of plastics on frequently touched areas, giving it a bit of that “GM feel.” The dash itself is a mix of materials that look decent but don’t stand out, leaving the overall interior experience feeling a bit underwhelming, especially considering the vehicle price point. Other luxury models such as the MDX Type S, set a better standard for what you’d expect from an Acura interior, with a more premium and refined feel.
On the bright side, the cabin is spacious and impressively quiet, even at highway speeds. Wind and traffic noise are kept to a minimum, and without any engine noise, the ZDX still manages to be peaceful and relaxing for every drive.
The ZDX seats up to five, and the Type S model offers 16-way adjustments, thigh extensions, and extra side bolstering for the driver’s seat. Both the front and rear seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The driving position is excellent, and visibility is clear in all directions.
Technology
The ZDX comes with a 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen The ZDX is also Acura’s first model to come with Google built-in as part of its infotainment system. This means that the user interface is powered by Google, including Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice commands, and access to third-party apps like Spotify through the Google Store. It’s a great setup, and you still have the option to use wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto if that’s your preference. Unlike GM, which is phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its latest EVs in favour of only a Google-based system. This gives Acura an edge over GM for drivers who prefer the flexibility and familiarity of these integrations.
The Type S trim also comes with Acura’s Hands-Free Cruise, similar to GM’s Super Cruise—a great benefit of this partnership between Acura and GM. It works by allowing hands-free driving when paired with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering systems on certain highways.
Range
The Type S, available only with all-wheel drive, has an estimated range of up to 447 km. The ZDX also supports DC fast charging, which Acura claims can add around 115 km in just 10 minutes and takes 42 minutes to charge from 20% to 80% on a fast charger. In our real-world testing, with both city and highway driving, we got around 385 km of total range.
Storage Space
The ZDX offers 813L of storage behind the second row, making it competitive within its class. Inside, the ZDX has a utility-focused interior with plenty of space for smaller items, like your phone, keys, or wallet, in the large tray in front of the front cupholders—which can also fit large bottles comfortably.
