First All-Electric Acura Makes Global Debut
At the world-famous Monterey Car Week, one of the world’s top gatherings of well-heeled automotive enthusiasts, Acura took the wraps off its first all-electric model, the 2024 ZDX. Arriving on American driveways early next year, the Acura ZDX will offer up to 500 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of 325 miles.
The first step on the brand’s path towards a 100-percent electrified lineup, the all-new ZDX features dramatic styling, impressive technology, and what is claimed to be an engaging driving experience. It will be available in two distinct models: the ZDX and the high-performance ZDX Type-S.
Acura ZDX: Choice of One or Two Motors
Built on a brand-new, dedicated EV platform co-developed with General Motors, the ZDX has a low center of gravity, excellent weight distribution, and a flexible battery architecture. The entry-level ZDX A-Spec has a single rear-mounted motor producing 340 hp and rear-wheel drive. An optional upgrade is available to make the ZDX A-Spec all-wheel drive. Starting MSRP is expected to be around $60,000.
A step up from the ZDX A-Spec is the ZDX Type-S, which Acura says will be its most powerful and best-performing Acura SUV ever. Two “performance tuned” electric motors are standard, giving all-wheel drive. Horsepower jumps to an estimated 500 hp, and a height-adjustable air suspension, adaptive dampers, and large Brembo front brakes are standard, along with 22-inch wheels and available high-performance summer tires. Like the A-Spec, it will have a multi-link front and rear suspension to deliver great ride quality as well as excellent handling. The ZDX Type-S is expected to have a starting MSRP of around $70,000.
Convenient EV Charging
Both the Acura ZDX A-Spec and ZDX Type-S leverage GM’s Ultium battery architecture, which allows Level 3 DC fast charging speeds of up to 190 kW. In approximately 10 minutes, the standard 102-kWh battery pack in the ZDX A-Spec can take on an estimated 81 miles of range on a compatible charger.
Knowing that charging is an important part of the ownership experience, Acura also says it will make it easy for ZDX customers to order and install a charger for their home, as well as find and use public chargers on longer trips. A home electrification portal allows customers access to dedicated “energy advisors,” who help them choose the home charger that best fits their needs.
On the go, Acura’s smartphone app makes it easy to find and connect to charging stations nationwide, and provides access to more than 90 percent of the DC fast chargers in the country. Convenient payment integration with many networks allows payment to be processed through the app on all partner networks. Acura is also one of the many brands that has formed a joint venture to roll out 30,000 new high-speed chargers across the U.S. and Canada starting in 2024.
Designed in California
The exterior and interior design of the Acura ZDX was created in Los Angeles, and is an updated, productionized version of the Acura Precision EV concept that the brand showed last year. Low and wide, the ZDX has a sleek silhouette, a long wheelbase, and sharp surfaces. There are many eye-catching design details, including “chicane” shaped LED lights and an integrated “diamond pentagon” front face with illuminated surround.
Inside, the ZDX’s interior is oriented around the driver, and features high-quality materials, premium features, and the latest tech. A stunning, bespoke 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system is standard on all ZDX models, and includes speakers in the headliner for a truly immersive audio experience.
Acura ZDX: Tech and Safety
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and Google assistants and technology are built in for seamless connectivity on the go. Drivers can operate Google Assistant, Maps, and Play with voice controls as well as on the large 11.3-inch central touchscreen. The driver’s instrument cluster is also a high-res screen measuring 11 inches. The ZDX’s Google-based navigation estimates charging times on longer trips and can pre-condition the battery in advance of reaching a high-speed charger to reduce charging times.
Acura calls its suite of driver and safety technologies AcuraWatch. It includes rear cross-traffic braking, steering assist, and an exceptionally sophisticated cruise control system that allows hands-free operation on some roads, helping to make long drives and commutes more comfortable. The ZDX Type S also features Acura’s first automated parking-assist system.
The first Acura ZDX models are slated to arrive in drivers’ hands in early 2024.
