What's more, the materials used to envelop the passengers are by some of the most opulent I have witnessed in a car that sells in the $50,000 to $60,000 range. Acura reps actually used up 10 minutes explaining to us how the leather we find in the ZDX is selected, treated and assembled.
The important point to remember with the ZDX is that it was conceived around the idea of a passionate getaway. What this entails is what Acura calls a “2 + Freedom” package. Although destined for two people at all times, the ZDX can carry three extra passengers in the rear along with a fair amount of gear. This explains why little was mentioned about the narrow rear-door opening, the contorted ingress and egress exercise and total absence of headroom if you measure over 5'10.
Something new, something old, something true
The ZDX is based on the MDX platform and therefore, not to mention logically, shares a good number of its mechanical components including the always impressive SH-AWD system, first introduced with the 2005 RL. This is true. Although far from ancient, the 300-hp 3.7L V6 that is also good for 270 lb-ft of torque is a competent performer, displaying just the right amount of grunt and power when desired.
What's new is a 6-speed autobox (coming soon to the MDX) which benefits from a wider range of ratios, ideal for fuel economy and, evidently, performance. Managed through the conventional lever or now commonplace steering wheel-mounted paddles, the transmission never missed a beat even when pushed hard in the twisties on Mulholland Drive. According to Acura, the automatic is good for 13.2/9.2 L/100 km city/highway fuel consumption and capable enough to propel the 4,431-lb (2,010-kg) vehicle to 100 km/h in just over 8 seconds.
Pavement competence
These numbers give it the fuel miser crown amongst its competitors which include the likes of the Lexus RX, BMW X5 xDrive30i and Infiniti FX35. Concurringly with its many rivals, the ZDX, although shod with the same ground clearance (200 mm) as the MDX, prefers smooth even roads over rough terrain. The taut suspension setup allows for meaningful body control, limited roll and plenty of confidence even when the tires are protesting their adherence limit.
Brakes felt strong and resistant on the mountain passes and steering, although suffering from a lack of on-centre responsiveness, delivered good precision and control. In these conditions, Acura's SH-AWD revelled at the opportunity to display its abilities. Able to transmit up to 70% of engine power and subsequently 100% of that to the left or right wheel, the ZDX hugged each corner with much aplomb as the outside rear wheel actually pushes the vehicle towards the apex.
The important point to remember with the ZDX is that it was conceived around the idea of a passionate getaway. What this entails is what Acura calls a “2 + Freedom” package. Although destined for two people at all times, the ZDX can carry three extra passengers in the rear along with a fair amount of gear. This explains why little was mentioned about the narrow rear-door opening, the contorted ingress and egress exercise and total absence of headroom if you measure over 5'10.
 |
| The 300-hp 3.7L V6 that is also good for 270 lb-ft of torque is a competent performer. |
Something new, something old, something true
The ZDX is based on the MDX platform and therefore, not to mention logically, shares a good number of its mechanical components including the always impressive SH-AWD system, first introduced with the 2005 RL. This is true. Although far from ancient, the 300-hp 3.7L V6 that is also good for 270 lb-ft of torque is a competent performer, displaying just the right amount of grunt and power when desired.
What's new is a 6-speed autobox (coming soon to the MDX) which benefits from a wider range of ratios, ideal for fuel economy and, evidently, performance. Managed through the conventional lever or now commonplace steering wheel-mounted paddles, the transmission never missed a beat even when pushed hard in the twisties on Mulholland Drive. According to Acura, the automatic is good for 13.2/9.2 L/100 km city/highway fuel consumption and capable enough to propel the 4,431-lb (2,010-kg) vehicle to 100 km/h in just over 8 seconds.
Pavement competence
These numbers give it the fuel miser crown amongst its competitors which include the likes of the Lexus RX, BMW X5 xDrive30i and Infiniti FX35. Concurringly with its many rivals, the ZDX, although shod with the same ground clearance (200 mm) as the MDX, prefers smooth even roads over rough terrain. The taut suspension setup allows for meaningful body control, limited roll and plenty of confidence even when the tires are protesting their adherence limit.
Brakes felt strong and resistant on the mountain passes and steering, although suffering from a lack of on-centre responsiveness, delivered good precision and control. In these conditions, Acura's SH-AWD revelled at the opportunity to display its abilities. Able to transmit up to 70% of engine power and subsequently 100% of that to the left or right wheel, the ZDX hugged each corner with much aplomb as the outside rear wheel actually pushes the vehicle towards the apex.
 |
| Concurringly with its many rivals, the ZDX prefers smooth even roads over rough terrain. |