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 starting with SUVs. Honda plans to build its first electric cars at GM's factory in Tennessee and use GM's Ultium EV platform. Additionally, 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 trim, 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 has dual motors with a combined output of 500 horsepower and an estimated EPA range of 288 miles. Both versions come 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 around $70,000. Acura has announced that there will be a dual motor option for the A-Spec car, but no specifications have been provided except for a slightly reduced EPA range compared to the single motor version. The ZDX Type-S will include upgraded front brakes from Brembo and air suspension.

Acura has implemented a new omni-channel digital sales process for all ZDX sales, ensuring a simple and intuitive shopping experience whether at home or at an Acura dealership. Pre-sale activities for the ZDX will begin 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 and emphasized Acura's commitment to a zero-emissions future and Precision Crafted Performance in the electrified era.

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

Acura's executive creative director, Dave Marek, stated that as Acura moves into an electrified future, they will continue to push the forward-thinking design and proportions of 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, it distinguishes itself with a 10-inch longer wheelbase and a lower roof height, giving it a more sporty appearance.

The ZDX will be the first Acura to feature Google built-in software, powering its 11-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.3-inch main touchscreen. The software utilizes an Android-based operating system that integrates 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. Additionally, the ZDX will feature a premium audio system from Bang & Olufsen.

Acura ensures an extensive and reliable charging network for the ZDX. All models will be capable of accepting up to a 190 kilowatt DC charge, adding approximately 81 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Acura owners will be able to search for charging stations through an Acura smartphone app and pay for charging sessions. The ZDX will also have access to a high-speed CCS charging network launching in 2024.

Acura is launching its Acura Home Electrification program alongside the ZDX, connecting buyers with local installers for home charging setup. This service allows customers to potentially include the cost of home charger installation in their monthly purchase or lease payment.

The ZDX comes standard with AcuraWatch™, a suite of safety and driver assistive technologies. Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Blind Zone Steering Assist are among the features included. The ZDX Type-S introduces Hands Free Cruise driver assistance technology, enabling true hands-free driving on compatible roads. AcuraWatch™ 360+ also includes an Automatic Parking Assist system for stress-free parallel parking.

The Acura ZDX offers an appealing electric SUV option for shoppers in a size that many desire. With a trusted brand like Acura, current owners will likely feel comfortable transitioning to an electric vehicle. Acura has presented a strong contender in the market, and it remains to be seen how customers will respond to the most powerful Acura SUV ever offered.

At CleanTechnica, we understand the dislike for paywalls. That's why we have decided to ditch ours. However, as a media business, we still face challenges in sustaining and growing our operations. We appreciate your support as we continue to provide exclusive content and strive to stay above water in this competitive industry.

FutureCar Staff