2012 Acura ZDX

INTEGRATED DYNAMICS SYSTEM
The available Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) uses magnetically-controlled active dampers to stiffen the suspension when needed, or create a smoother luxury-car ride. A control knob in the center console allows the driver to choose between Sport and Comfort modes.

ACURA/ELS 10-SPEAKER PREMIUM AUDIO
Part of the Technology Package, this audio system includes a 435-watt amp, 10-speaker Surround Sound, 15-GB hard drive, DVD-audio, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth, USB/iPod integration and an auxiliary audio input jack.

Despite the numerous controls, the Acura ZDX's sophisticated-looking dash is actually quite easy to figure out. An LCD view screen displays the optional navigation as well as the rear backup camera, and the instrument cluster includes large, legible gauges bathed in a soothing blue light. Seating up front is first rate, with tall sport seats that hold the body tightly during aggressive driving. The rear seats, however, are far from welcoming, with little legroom and even less headroom. The wide cargo floor can be expanded by folding down the rear seats but the extreme angle of the liftgate obliterates all vertical cargo space.

The 2012 Acura ZDX looks like nothing else on the road, which is exactly what Acura intended. The silhouette is designed to evoke a coupe-like profile, but there is something that gets in the way. Maybe it's the tall ride height. Black panels run the length of the roof and back onto the liftgate, the front two concealing a panoramic sunroof. In a nod to maintaining the coupe theme, Acura has recessed the rear door handles into the rear door's upper corners, thus keeping the side sheet metal clean and unbroken.

To power its 2012 ZDX sport crossover, Acura looked to the MDX's 3.7-liter V6. This engine has good power reserves but doesn't provide the kind of immediate rush felt with a big V8. Still, the trade-off for using a V6 is usually better fuel economy but, in the case of the ZDX, the numbers really don't add up.

3.7-liter V6
300 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/23 mpg

The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2012 Acura ZDX starts around $47,000 and can climb as high as $58,000 with the Advanced Package tacked on. The public hasn't exactly flocked to the ZDX, and the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price reflects this in its noticeably lower sales price (sometimes by as much a $5,000). Making things more difficult for Acura are the many competitors in this price range that offer more power and more interior room, not to mention better resale. In this price range, buyers can shop the Lexus RX, Cadillac SRX and the Land Rover Evoque. For about $10,000 more, the BMW X6 is within grasp. As for resale, the ZDX does not hold up as well as other Acura products, with five-year projected resale figures well below the Cadillac SRX, BMW X6 and Lexus RX, but on par with the Mercedes-Benz GLK.

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