Acura ZDX Electric SUV Unveiled During Monterey Car Week

author: FutureCar Staff    

Honda and its premium brand, Acura, are gearing up to join the electric car revolution by introducing their first electric SUVs. Honda plans to build its electric cars at GM's factory in Tennessee and utilize GM's Ultium EV platform. In addition, Honda is constructing its own battery factories and preparing for EV production at various facilities in Ohio.

Acura has recently unveiled its first battery electric offering, the ZDX, at Monterey Car Week 2023. The base model, known as A-Spec, features a single rear motor with 340 horsepower and an estimated EPA range of 325 miles. The up-rated ZDX Type-S model has dual motors, producing a combined output of 500 horsepower and an estimated EPA range of 288 miles. Both versions come equipped with a 102 kWh battery and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The A-Spec ZDX will have a starting price of around $60,000, while the ZDX Type-S is expected to be priced at approximately $70,000. Acura has mentioned the availability of a dual motor option for the A-Spec, but no specific details have been provided except that the EPA range will be slightly lower compared to the single motor version. The ZDX Type-S will come with upgraded front brakes from Brembo and air suspension.

Acura has announced that all ZDX sales will be conducted through a new omni-channel digital sales process, offering a simple and intuitive shopping experience either from home or at an Acura dealership. Pre-sale activities for the ZDX will commence later this year, with the first client deliveries scheduled for early 2024.

Emile Korkor, assistant vice president of Acura National Sales, expressed excitement about the arrival of the new ZDX, stating that it represents Acura's transition to a zero-emissions future and showcases their commitment to Precision Crafted Performance in the electrified era.

The exterior and interior design of the ZDX was led by a team at the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles. Acura describes the ZDX as having a low and wide silhouette, a sleek appearance, a long wheelbase, and high contrast surfacing. Notable design elements include Acura's signature front fascia, Chicane DRLs, Jewel Eye™ LED headlights, and a seamless Diamond Pentagon with a 3-D embossed diamond pattern and illuminated surround.

Acura's executive creative director, Dave Marek, mentioned that as Acura moves into an electrified future, they will continue to push forward-thinking design and proportions in their products, taking advantage of the increased styling and packaging freedom offered by EVs. The ZDX represents Acura's new modern expression of performance.

According to CNET, the Acura ZDX is similar in size to the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX, measuring just under 200 inches long. However, the ZDX has a 10-inch longer wheelbase and a lower roof height, giving it a more sporty appearance.

The ZDX will be the first Acura vehicle to feature Google built-in software, powering its 11-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.3-inch main touchscreen with an Android-based operating system. This integration includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store as the primary infotainment software. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also supported with wireless connectivity.

Acura has collaborated with Bang & Olufsen to bring a premium audio system to the ZDX's cabin. The design incorporates brushed aluminum grilles and the renowned Danish luxury audio brand's signature acoustic lens technology.

In terms of charging, Acura assures potential EV drivers that the ZDX will be capable of accepting up to a 190 kilowatt DC charge, which can add approximately 81 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Acura owners will be able to locate charging stations on most nationwide DC fast charging networks and pay for charging sessions through an Acura smartphone app. Additionally, the ZDX will have access to a high-speed CCS charging network launching in 2024, expanding to 30,000 charge points by 2030.

Acura is also launching its Acura Home Electrification program, which will connect buyers with trusted local installers for home charging setup. This service allows customers to include the cost of home charger installation in their monthly purchase or lease payment.

Every ZDX model comes equipped with AcuraWatch™, a suite of safety and driver assistive technologies. Noteworthy features include Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and Hands Free Cruise driver assistance technology, which enables true hands-free driving on compatible roads. AcuraWatch™ 360+ also includes an Automatic Parking Assist system to assist with parallel parking.

As the Acura ZDX enters the market, it presents an appealing electric SUV option for consumers. Acura aims to cater to its loyal customer base, providing them with the opportunity to consider an electric car from a brand they trust. The ZDX offers more features and capabilities compared to its competitors, making it a strong contender in the market.

FutureCar Staff