Acura ZDX: Acura’s First EV is Built by GM

The automotive industry is witnessing a unique collaboration with the release of the 2024 Acura ZDX. As Acura’s first entry into the all-electric vehicle market, this SUV is not a solo engineering effort by Honda. Instead, it is the product of a strategic partnership with General Motors. By utilizing GM’s Ultium battery technology and chassis, Acura has revived a historic nameplate to fast-track its electric future.

The GM and Honda Partnership Explained

Developing a dedicated electric vehicle platform from scratch takes years and billions of dollars. To speed up this process, Honda partnered with General Motors. The result is the Acura ZDX, which shares its mechanical DNA with the Cadillac Lyriq and the Chevrolet Blazer EV.

The vehicle sits on GM’s “Ultium” platform. This scalable battery and motor architecture allows Acura to offer a competitive EV without waiting for Honda’s proprietary “e:Architecture” platform, which is scheduled for release later in the decade. Because of this partnership, the ZDX is manufactured alongside the Cadillac Lyriq at GM’s plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

While the skeleton of the car is American, Acura designed the “skin” and the interior experience. The exterior features Acura’s “Precision Crafted Performance” design language, characterized by the diamond pentagon grille (now closed off and illuminated) and “Chicane” daytime running lights.

Performance Specs: A-Spec vs. Type S

Acura offers the ZDX in two primary configurations: the A-Spec and the high-performance Type S. Because they use the Ultium drive units, the power output numbers are robust.

ZDX A-Spec

The entry-level model focuses on range and comfort.

  • Drivetrain: Available in single-motor Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or dual-motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
  • Horsepower: The RWD model produces 358 horsepower.
  • Range: This is the most efficient version, with an EPA-estimated range of 313 miles for the single-motor setup.
  • Price: Starts approximately around $64,500.

ZDX Type S

The Type S badge carries weight for Acura fans, implying track-ready performance.

  • Drivetrain: Standard dual-motor AWD.
  • Horsepower: It delivers an estimated 500 horsepower and 544 lb-ft of torque.
  • Performance Hardware: It includes height-adjustable air suspension, adaptive dampers, and massive 15.6-inch Brembo front brakes with six-piston calipers.
  • Range: due to the focus on power and larger wheels, the range drops to an EPA-estimated 278 miles.
  • Price: Starts approximately around $73,500.

Charging Capabilities and Battery Tech

Both trims utilize a 102-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack provided by GM. This is a substantial battery size that puts it in direct competition with the Tesla Model Y and the Audi Q8 e-tron.

Charging Speed: The ZDX can accept DC fast charging at rates up to 190 kW. In real-world terms, this means you can add about 81 miles of range in just 10 minutes under optimal conditions. While this is not the fastest charging in the industry (cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 can hit 350 kW), it is competitive for the luxury segment.

Charging Networks: Acura ZDX owners gain access to major charging networks. Through the Acura EV smartphone app, drivers can locate and pay for charging at EVgo and Electrify America stations. Furthermore, Honda and Acura have agreements in place that will eventually grant ZDX owners access to the Tesla Supercharger network, likely requiring a NACS adapter for these initial models.

Interior Technology and Google Built-In

Stepping inside the ZDX reveals a mix of GM hardware and Acura design. The layout features two distinct screens rather than one massive continuous panel. There is an 11-inch precision cockpit driver cluster and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen.

A major shift for Acura here is the operating system. The ZDX features “Google Built-in.” This means Google Maps is the native navigation system, and Google Assistant handles voice commands for climate control, media, and navigation.

Key Tech Features:

  • Audio: The ZDX is the first Acura to feature a Bang & Olufsen luxury audio system, replacing the brand’s long-standing partnership with ELS Studio. It features 18 speakers on the Type S.
  • Safety: The vehicle introduces “AcuraWatch 360+.” This system allows for hands-free driving on up to 400,000 miles of compatible highways. This technology is effectively a rebadged version of GM’s highly rated Super Cruise system.
  • Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Is It Eligible for Tax Credits?

Because the ZDX is built in Tennessee and uses batteries manufactured in the United States (via the GM-LG Energy Solution joint venture), it navigates the complex requirements for the US Federal EV Tax Credit.

As of early 2024, the Acura ZDX is eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. This is a significant advantage over many imported competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Kia EV6, which currently do not qualify for the incentive when purchased (though leasing rules differ). Always check the latest IRS guidelines as these lists update frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Acura ZDX just a rebadged Cadillac Lyriq? While they share the same platform, battery, and manufacturing plant, they are not identical. Acura tuned the suspension, steering, and throttle mapping specifically to feel sportier than the comfort-focused Cadillac. The exterior sheet metal and interior design are also unique to Acura.

Does the Acura ZDX have a front trunk (frunk)? No. Like the Cadillac Lyriq and other vehicles on the Ultium platform, the front area is packed with power electronics and mechanical components, leaving no room for a storage frunk.

When will the ZDX be available at dealerships? Deliveries began in early spring 2024. Interested buyers can currently configure and order the vehicle through Acura dealerships.

How does the size compare to the Acura MDX? The ZDX is slightly smaller than the three-row MDX. The ZDX is a two-row SUV that is roughly similar in length to the MDX but sits lower to the ground for better aerodynamics. It offers 26 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.