The 2012 Acura ZDX is a stylish, fun, luxury, midsized, sport utility vehicle. This coupe-style SUV emphasizes luxury and looks, with sporty driving dynamics.
The Acura ZDX ranks high in performance and reliability tests. Other features like cargo room, unique styling, and safety options, make the car great for those who travel frequently.
Specific categories of the car are reviewed below, and compared to similar SUVs on the market.Its distinctive looks, and high-quality material interior and features aid in its favorable ranking.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Hatchback AWD | Base Price: $46,120.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79L) | MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Length: 192.4 in. (488.7 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) |
| Height: 62.8 in. (159.6 cm) | Width: 78.5 in. (199.5 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: 3.7L V6 SOHC, VTEC® | Compression Ratio: 11.2: 1 |
| Horsepower: 300 HP | Max RPM: 6300 RPM |
| Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:ZDX w/ Tech Package | MSRP: $50,620; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:ZDX w/ Advance Package | MSRP: $56,670; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
Engine
Overall, the Acura ZDX is extremely safe to drive, with its 3.7 liter, V-6 engine, and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SHAWD). The 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque is powerful. The Acura ZDX does maneuver well in tight spots, and due to its 6-speed automatic and responsive transmission, it is very safe to drive on the curvier roadways.
Performance
The Acura ZDX does 16 mpg in the city, and up to 23 on highway driving. If you are seeking the thrill of a truly sporty ride, the Audi A7 or Land Rover Evoque may be what you’d want to look at. Acura’s reliability and engineering may be worth the trade however. This SUV is fast, but just not as fast as other sports cars.
Exterior
The Acura ZDX has a unique and distinctive style. Its sloped back and aggressive front end is similar to a coupe, yet its 4 doors and rear lift-gate look more utilitarian in nature. This offsets the total coupe look, giving the car its own look which is intriguing.
The roof design limits rear-seat room, so it will not comfortably seat three adults. The Cadillac SRX is in the same category, but offers more room in the back seat, and costs less.
Interior
Test-drivers loved the controls, and high-quality materials used in the Acura ZDX. Favorite features include the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), converting from sports to comfort modes. Another highly rated feature is the audio system with 10-speaker surround sound. The DVD-audio, XM satellite radio, USB and iPod integration, and Bluetooth are also features found in the ZDX.
The front seats are roomy and comfortable for both driver and passenger. The downfall is much less room for passengers in the rear seats. This crossover car may be for those who travel without many passengers. The Infiniti FX is comparable, with a larger cargo space, but with a more sporty performance, and costing less.
Safety & Reliability
The safety and reliability ratings for the Acura ZDX are very high. The precise handling is excellent. The steering is tight, it accurately rounds corners, and is easily maneuvered. It handles well in ice and snow, as well as twisting roads in general. The SHAWD system allows you to drive with confidence, even if some of the sportiness of acceleration is sacrificed.
The BMW X6 is slightly more agile, but with a higher price. If you are driving long distances often, the Acura ZDX’s safety and reliability standards are well-earned. The Acura ZDX comes with a four-year (50,000-mile) limited warranty, and a six-year (70,000-mile) powertrain warranty. If you prefer safety over pure sportiness, the 2012 Acura ZDX is worth a look.
Competition
More form than function is what this category is all about, other cars that may be placed side by side with the ZDX include the BMW X6 (MSRP $59,800; 16 city / 23 hwy), the lower priced Cadillac SRX (MSRP $43,010; 16 city / 23 hwy), and the Infiniti FX35 (MSRP $45,150; 16 city / 21 hwy).
Overall Rating
73 out of 100
What others say:
“The MDX-based ZDX is a coupe-like, four-door luxury SUV. Cabin fit and finish is impressive.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“From a handling standpoint, there is much to like about the way Acura’s 2012 ZDX rounds corners. The steering is tight and communicative and the suspension cautiously straddles the line between a compliant ride and athletic performance. ”KBB
“More form than function, the 2012 Acura ZDX is neither a sporty hatchback nor a functional SUV. As a result, it’s full of compromises that should give shoppers reason to pause.”Edmunds
