DETROIT -- Acura gets ready to launch its first battery-electric-vehicle in 2024, and it is a midsize CUV that could shake things up with a near category-leading range of 325 miles (523 km) for the “A-Spec” non-performance version.
The ZDX, which will also come in a performance package, the 500-hp ZDX Type S, will be priced starting at $60,000, just $12,000 above the current average transaction price for the whole industry, for a premium/luxury model. The Type S starts at $70,000. The range for the regular version of ZDX is bested in class by only the Tesla Model Y (330 miles [531 km]) and Model X (340 miles [547 km]), but the ZDX’s build quality, fit-and-finish and total utility space is better than the Teslas’. Range for the Type S is 288 miles (463 km),
The ZDX A-Spec comes in both single-motor (rear-wheel-drive) and dual-motor (all-wheel-drive) configurations. The Type S, hailed as the most powerful and best-performing Acura CUV ever, features a performance-tuned dual-motor AWD powertrain.
The ZDX’s exterior design cues were introduced on the Acura Precision EV Concep
t in 2022. Design details include the evolution of Acura's signature front fascia, with the brand's iconic Chicane DRLs, “Jewel Eye” LED headlights and Diamond Pentagon with 3-D embossed diamond pattern and illuminated surround.
ZDX and ZDX Type S Product highlights:
- Standard 22-in. (56-cm) high-def digital dashboard screen with the driver information cluster occupying 11 ins. (28 cm) of that, with touchscreen interface.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Built-in Google services.
- Automatic battery pre-conditioning when GPS destination is a DC fast charger.
- Bang & Olufsen 18-speaker sound system. Bang & Olufsen's intuitive Beosonic one-touch sound control interface allows drivers to create a personal in-car audio experience with four distinct audio moods: Bright, Energetic, Warm and Relaxed.
- AcuraWatch: A suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, including Acura’s first application of rear cross-traffic braking, blind zone steering assist and parking assist.
- ZDX A-Spec is powered by a single motor producing 340 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, or a dual-motor for the all-wheel-drive version.
- Towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg).
ZDX Type S
- 500 hp and a torque rating that will be determined closer to launch.
- Height-adjustable air suspension.
- Performance-tuned adaptive dampers.
- 15.6-in. Brembo front brakes/yellow calipers.
- Multiple drive modes, including Sport mode with enhanced acceleration.
- 22-in. wheels and self-sealing tires
Honda, parent company of the Acura brand and a pioneer in hybrid drivetrains, is a bit late to the BEV party, compared with General Motors and Ford. The ZDX is built on GM’s Ultium battery platform as part of a joint project between the automakers. The Honda brand will bring out the Prologue, also on GM’s Ultium, next year.
Honda is part of an industry consortium accelerating the deployment of DC fast chargers – 30,000 stations by 2030 are planned – with recharging rates up to 190 kW. At a fast charger, the ZDX will recharge to an additional 80 miles (129 km) of range in approximately 10 minutes, according to the company.
Honda is investing $55 billion to bring 30 different EV models both the Honda and Acura lineups to market by 2030.
