- The 2024 Acura ZDX debuts as the brand’s first EV, and the mid-size SUV is based on GM’s Ultium battery platform.
- Along with rear- or all-wheel-drive powertrains, the ZDX will offer up to 325 miles of EPA-estimated range and a performance-oriented 500-hp Type S model.
- With the first deliveries set to arrive early next year, the 2024 ZDX will start around $60,000; the Type S opens around $70K.
The 2024 Acura ZDX remixes the brand’s “Precision Crafted Performance” formula. While the new mid-size SUV’s electric powertrain is an obvious departure from the decades of internal-combustion engines that came before, the fact a performance-minded Type S variant remains in the mix should interest Acura fans who appreciate fun-to-drive models.
Acura’s First EV
For anyone caught off guard by the ZDX’s reveal today, here’s a quick recap. Not only is the nameplate resurrected from the coupe-like-SUV thingamabob that debuted in 2009, but it’s Acura’s first EV too. The exterior design of the production-ready 2024 ZDX seen in these photos was also previewed last year by the Precision EV concept.
Oh, and this Acura is built on GM’s Ultium scalable battery platform, and it shares a lot with the Cadillac Lyriq. Like the Caddy, the ZDX has an identical 121.8-inch wheelbase. The Acura is slightly taller but slightly slimmer, measuring 64.4 and 77.0 inches, respectively. Plus, it’s over an inch longer at 197.7 inches from tip to tail.
Of course, the ZDX’s styling stands on its own, with a face featuring the latest rendition of Acura’s “Jewel Eye” LED headlights and a pentagonal faux grille with a three-dimensional embossed surface and an illuminated outline. A “floating” roof design sits above mostly smooth bodywork that’s especially vivid in the new Double Apex Blue Pearl paint that’s exclusive to the Type S (the goldish Tiger Eye Pearl is also offered). While the A-Spec wears 20-inch wheels, the Type S rolls on 22s. A pair of slinky taillights round out the rear styling.
A-Spec and Type S Models
The ZDX is available with a single-motor rear-drive powertrain or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration. The rear-drive A-Spec is good for 340 horsepower. An all-wheel-drive version is also offered, but Acura isn’t yet releasing that setup’s output. Meanwhile, the spicy ZDX Type S features specially tuned dual motors that funnel 500 horses to all four wheels. Regardless of their powertrain, both models are rated to tow up to 3500 pounds.
Every ZDX has a 102.0-kWh battery pack that allows a peak charging rate of 190 kW using a DC fast-charger. Acura claims that in about 10 minutes this connection can add an estimated 81 miles of range to the single-motor A-Spec. That same model is expected to have an EPA-estimated range of 325 miles per charge (315 with all-wheel drive). The Type S is expected to have a 288-mile range.
Every ZDX has a fully independent suspension, but the A-Spec uses coil springs whereas the Type S features adaptive dampers and air bags that enable an adjustable ride height. The hi-po ZDX also has upgraded brakes with larger 15.6-inch front rotors pinched by Brembo six-piston calipers. To further prove its sporty nature, Acura even offers the electric Type S with grippier summer tires.
A Look Inside the ZDX
The ZDX’s interior design isn’t much different from what people will find in other Acura models. The trim on the dash and doors flows into each other, and many of the soft-looking surfaces have contrast stitching. The center console includes a flat storage tray along with cupholders and a wireless charging slot. Beneath the upper section is an open area that’s useful for storing bulkier items like purses or hand bags.
We’re happy to see that Acura didn’t go to the dark side and switch to mostly touch controls, as there are knobs and buttons for the HVAC system as well as a volume knob for the stereo. Speaking of the sound system, every ZDX has a high-end 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen unit. An 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard. The infotainment system is powered by Android and includes Google’s voice assistance, maps, and app store.
The ZDX’s suite of driver assists includes the usual tech, but it also introduces rear cross-traffic braking and a rear pedestrian alert. Most notably, AcuraWatch 360+ debuts as the brand’s version of GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, meaning the ZDX can essentially drive itself on over 400,000 miles of mapped roadways split between the U.S. and Canada.
The 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec will have a base price around $60,000. The sportier Type S will start in the neighborhood of $70K. While pre-orders are slated to open later this year, customer deliveries aren’t expected until early 2024. Acura also says dealers will still be involved in every ZDX sale, but that’ll be done online—at either a dealership or from the comfort of home.
Senior Editor
Eric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si.