Acura ZDX Review

The Acura ZDX is an automotive oddity, something seemingly produced to either answer a question not many folks would ask or to exist as an extreme vehicular example of form over function. Essentially a rebodied Acura MDX, the ZDX has a fastback style that cuts deeply into the rear passenger and cargo compartments. That sloping roof takes away more than 3 inches of rear-seat headroom, making the rear seating suitable only for shorter adults or kids. And maximum cargo space measures only about two-thirds of its MDX platform-mate.

With its swoopy styling and much shorter stance (it's 5 inches lower than the MDX), the ZDX would seem to have a handling advantage over the MDX. Sadly, that's not the case, as in our testing the MDX either equaled or beat the ZDX in every performance category. As such, the Acura ZDX remains an impractical curiosity and a hard vehicle for us to recommend.

Current Acura ZDX
The Acura ZDX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV. It comes powered by a 3.7-liter V6 with 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic with manual shift control is the only available transmission. The ZDX boasts Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that seamlessly transfers power to individual wheels to maximize handling and grip through turns in fair or foul weather conditions.

Standard equipment highlights include 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, a back-up camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, power heated front seats, leather upholstery Bluetooth and a power liftgate. The standard audio system features an in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and a USB/auxiliary audio jack. Optional equipment highlights include keyless ignition and entry, a navigation system, a multiview back-up camera, an upgraded audio system, electronically adjustable suspension, a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control and ventilated front seats.

In reviews, the Acura ZDX struck us as no better than the admittedly already athletic MDX in terms of overall performance, despite its sportier, rakish appearance. The SH-AWD system provides impressive levels of grip and control, though the available adjustable suspension doesn't offer enough of a performance upgrade to justify its added cost. The 3.7-liter V6 sounds inspiring and boasts a strong midrange, though low-end grunt is a bit lacking. The ZDX also comes up short in useful cargo space. Behind the rear seats, up to 26 cubic feet can be stuffed to the glass. With the seats folded flat, maximum cargo space is only increased to 56 cubes, well short of other midsize luxury SUVs.

Used Acura ZDX Models
The Acura ZDX debuted for the 2010 model year and has changed little since.