When it comes to luxury midsized SUV’s, the 2011 Acura-ZDX, is a good option. According to recent analysis done by automobile critics and experts, if you are looking for a sophisticated, all-wheel drive vehicle sans the other functions of larger SUV’s then the Acura ZDX is a perfect choice. This so-called family-hauler is indeed compatible for those small families who travel out of town a lot but makes it a point to only bring things that are necessary. Why? Because the Acura –ZDX drives smoothly making it comfortable for long-distance traveling however it is not roomy enough for backpackers’ bulky luggage.
Performance
Performance-wise, the ZDX drives efficiently even in sharp curves and terrains. This all-wheel drive precious sport coupe, as Acura categorizes it, is powered by a V6 engine making it more effective especially during long drives compared to sedans. In terms of safety, Acura has always made it a point that their vehicles are engineered to provide maximum protection to its passengers during frontal crashes or side collisions. The 2011 ZDX is equipped with an outstanding airbag system, Trailer Stability and Brake Assist plus Vehicle Stability Assist to provide optimal traction control.
Interior
The interior of the ZDX has small back seat space relative to its interior cargo which is also a bit restricted. Although the front seats are cozy and the seats’ shape and make are comfortable to sit on especially during long trips, critics can not ignore the lack of space for adult-sized passengers of its rear seats. This particular limitation however is offset by the material that the whole interior of the ZDX is made of.
The leather coverings and detailed stitching, as well as the strategic and ergonomic location of the beautifully designed dashboard and center stack or the Monolith makes one feel the difference of riding in a luxury vehicle. The carpet, the cabin and the overall interior design are also being commended by the auto press. For an additional cost, one you can enjoy the technology package add-on to the Acura-ZDX which includes XM satellite radio, a rearview camera, a smart-navigation system which has voice recognition and user-friendly navigation-keys.
Exterior
Now, talking about its exterior design, most reviewers and test drivers of the 2011 ZDX agree that the style of this crossover/ midsize SUV is certainly well-thought of. The curves and the angles from the front up to the rear end are robust enough to exemplify the vehicle’s strong performance but at the same time refined to imply elegance. The 2011 Acura-ZDX’s cutting-edge exterior certainly has that second-look appeal that other car under the midsize SUV classification doesn’t have.
Added Features
Not only that, this state-of-the-art package also includes a high-end audio system, real-time traffic plus weather report and of course a 15 GB media storage system. The dashboard, as some people attest is a bit cluttered with buttons but drivers of the ZDX will surely be able to learn each buttons’ functions effortlessly in time. When it comes to being utilitarian, it is not a good option especially in comparison to the Acura MDX obviously because it lacks enough space for bags or luggage. It is also behind in terms of cargo capacity compared to Lexus RX 350 (MSRP $39,075; 18 city / 25 hwy) and the Cadillac SRX (MSRP $34,615; 18 city / 25 hwy).
Reliability
Based on the Initial Quality Study and the Vehicle Dependability study made by J.D. Power and Associates, the Acura ZDX rated 8 over 10 which mean that the warranty that this luxury vehicle provides is considered above average making it worth acquiring. As a matter of fact Acura provides a six-year powertrain warranty and a 50,000 –mile limited warranty.
The 2011 Acura-ZDX is able to surpass the standards of a sports coupe based on style and is definitely a performer in its own right. Although it is a bit costly, just like other luxury midsize SUV’s, people will still get the value of their money in the ZDX.
Overall Rating
72 out of 100
What others say:
“The Acura ZDX has one of the most perplexing packages of any vehicle. It’s gorgeous, thanks to all the voluptuous, curved sheetmetal, and the design complexity in its wavelike side crease that compliments the roofline.”Car Connection
“Overall, ZDX is fairly car-like with well-checked body lean and decent cornering ability; it deftly handles narrow twisties.”Consumer Guide
“Is it an overweight hatchback or a sporty SUV? In either case, the 2011 Acura ZDX is an automotive oddity that compromises in the wrong places.”Edmunds
“The ZDX is a four-door luxury SUV with coupe styling. The front seats are roomy, but the second row is snug. Folding the second row expands the cargo area. The low roof and small windows compromise visibility. The smooth and powerful 3.7-liter V6 is mated to a six-speed automatic.”MSN-Consumer Reports
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $46,020.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters) | Miles Per Gallon: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Length: 192.4 in. (488 cm) | Width: 78.5 in. (199 cm) |
| Height: 62.8 in. (159 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4410 lbs (2001 kg) | Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 27.5 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 24-valve V6 SOHC VTEC® | Displacement: 3.7 liter |
| Horsepower: 300 HP | Max RPM: 6300 RPM |
| Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph (2010): 6.4 seconds | 1/4 Mile (2010): 15.1 seconds |
