Model Strengths:

Luxurious interior; high tech entertainment in a sound-controlled space; impressive all wheel drive performance

Model Overview

The ZDX is a high-performance, leather-lined grand touring sport utility masquerading as a sports coupe. It is what Acura calls, a "Passionate Getaway" concept, designed primarily to provide escape for two adults and their weekend luggage. The 2012 ZDX's interior is a 21st Century interpretation of sporting luxury, with deeply bolstered front seats and dramatically formed arches surrounding a double-cockpit design. The interior's design is a departure from other Acura vehicles, and while luxurious and well designed, the back seat is a family requirement or to accommodate a second couple occasionally. An optional Technology Package includes hand-stitched leather covering virtually all pieces that come in contact with the front seat passengers. Entertainment technology is everywhere; active noise canceling is the baseline, then an 8-speaker audio system is fed by 435-watt digital sound processor with USB connectivity. A Bluetooth HandsFreeLink for your mobile phone is standard, as is a rearview mirror with an integrated rear view camera display. There is also an 8-inch high-resolution display for Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition from an on-board hard disc-drive. The AcuraLink satellite communications system includes weather and real-time traffic including rerouting as it sees fit, and also allows information messaging from Acura. What Acura calls the Advance Package includes the Technology Package plus Collision Mitigating Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Damper System and blind spot information system Underscoring the ZDX sports coupe driving performance is a smooth 300-hp V6, with Acura's VTEC variable valve timing for delivering most of its 270 lb-feet of torque through a broad range of engine speeds. A sporting 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and a multi-clutch lock-up torque converter puts all that power on the pavement through all four wheels. Acura calls the advanced torque-vectoring traction control, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The system can operate through an optional Integrated Dynamics System that has the ability to modify the vehicle's ride to either Comfort or Sport mode.

Model Changes

The 2012 ZDX is nearly identical to last year's model. It continues to cut a dramatic shape and offer strong performance to the luxury buyer.

Model Value

Acura began with no intention of developing an economy car, though efficiencies are everywhere. The obvious competitors are BMW's X6 and the Infiniti FX35. The ZDX is priced directly between the two models, with interior technologies at the top of its specialized segment and luxury appointments well above the competition.