Review of the 2025 Acura ZDX: Is it the first electric Acura or a potential alternative to Cadillac?

The 2025 Acura ZDX is a striking SUV that offers strong performance and features for the money, thanks to its General Motors electric platform. However, its interior quality is a significant letdown compared to competitors like the Cadillac Lyriq. Despite this, the ZDX offers a compelling value proposition with its range of powertrains, including the high-performance Type S variant. The ZDX also boasts impressive driving dynamics with features like adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. However, the interior design and materials fall short of luxury expectations, resembling more mainstream brands.

### Acura ZDX Powertrain and Performance
The Acura ZDX comes in three versions, offering a range of power outputs and electric ranges that make it competitive with luxury models. The dual-motor A-Spec model provides 490 hp and 437 lb-ft of torque, while the high-performance Type S variant boasts 499 hp and 544 lb-ft of torque. Despite the impressive performance figures, the ZDX still falls short of luxury rivals like the Cadillac Lyriq in terms of range and overall driving experience.

### Acura ZDX Driving Dynamics
The Acura ZDX offers impressive handling and road-holding capabilities, thanks to features like adaptive dampers, height-adjustable air suspension, and Brembo brakes. The ZDX provides a comfortable ride in normal mode, while sport mode offers a more engaging driving experience with firmer suspension settings and lowered ride height. The careful tuning of the suspension ensures that the ZDX strikes a balance between comfort and performance.

### Acura ZDX Interior and Technology
While the Acura ZDX boasts a modern and sleek interior design with dual 11-inch screens for instruments and infotainment, the materials quality falls short of luxury standards. The use of plastic trim and rubbery leather detracts from the overall premium feel of the cabin. However, the ZDX does offer a range of technology features, including a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance on the Type S variant.

### Acura ZDX vs Cadillac Lyriq Comparison
The Acura ZDX faces stiff competition from the Cadillac Lyriq, which offers a more luxurious interior and comparable performance characteristics. While the ZDX provides good value for money, the Lyriq’s superior interior quality and overall driving experience may sway buyers. Both models share the same Ultium platform and powertrain options, making them compelling choices in the luxury electric SUV segment.

### Acura ZDX Verdict
The 2025 Acura ZDX presents a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses, with its performance, features, and driving dynamics impressing while its interior quality and overall refinement fall short. Despite these drawbacks, the ZDX offers a competitive value proposition in the luxury electric SUV segment, especially when considering the federal tax credit. Ultimately, buyers will need to weigh the ZDX’s performance and handling against its interior shortcomings when making a purchasing decision.

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