What is the issue with the 2024 ZDX?
The 2024 ZDX’s most talked-about problem is its value proposition: a mid-200s mile EPA range that trails rivals, paired with a premium price and practical compromises that limit its appeal in the growing electric-SUV segment.
Key drawbacks cited by critics
Before listing the main concerns, it helps to understand the core issues reviewers point to when assessing the ZDX. The following bullets summarize the most frequently mentioned drawbacks in reviews and owner feedback.
- EPA range and efficiency: The ZDX delivers a range that sits in the mid-200s miles, which is respectable but not class-leading in its segment, especially as competitors push higher ranges with similar or lower pricing.
- Pricing and value: At higher trim levels, the ZDX can be priced close to or above rivals that offer longer range or more established charging networks, leading to questions about whether it represents the best value for money in the luxury-EV space.
- Practicality and cargo space: The coupe-like profile and sloping rear roofline reduce cargo practicality and rear-headroom compared with more traditional SUV silhouettes, which can be a drawback for families or those who need versatile space.
- Ride and handling balance: While sport-oriented variants aim for engaging performance, some reviewers find the ride to be less refined than expected for a luxury SUV, particularly on uneven pavement or at highway speeds.
- Interior controls and infotainment: The interior tech, while feature-rich, has at times drawn commentary for usability and occasional glitches, which can affect the daily ownership experience for some users.
- Charging speed and network experience: The ZDX offers DC fast charging, but its charging speeds and network experience are often compared unfavorably with rivals that offer faster charging or broader public availability.
These factors cumulatively shape the overall reception: the ZDX is seen by some as a capable but not standout option in a crowded field of electric luxury SUVs, raising questions about whether it represents the best balance of range, price, and practicality for today’s EV buyers.
Details by category
Performance and range
The ZDX uses a dual-motor setup that delivers brisk acceleration and responsive all-wheel-drive performance. It benefits from the instant torque that characterizes most EVs, contributing to strong everyday usability. However, its overall range sits in the mid-200s miles on the EPA cycle, which means longer trips require more planning around charging stops. Real-world efficiency can vary with weather, driving style, and terrain, and rivals with higher range estimates can offer more confidence for long-distance travel.
Pricing and value
Pricing positions the ZDX as a premium offering within Acura’s lineup and in the broader EV segment. In its higher trims, the price rises toward the upper end of the luxury-electric spectrum, prompting comparisons with competitors that may offer longer range, more cargo space, or more established charging ecosystems. Prospective buyers often weigh the ZDX’s feature set and brand appeal against these alternatives to determine whether it delivers competitive value.
Interior, practicality, and design
Inside, the ZDX boasts a modern, tech-forward cabin with a range of comfort features and design touches that align with contemporary luxury standards. Yet the practical trade-offs of the coupe-like roofline—especially for taller passengers in the rear and for cargo volume—can be a deciding factor for families or practical-minded buyers. The design language is polarizing for some, but it also contributes to a distinct visual identity within the segment.
Charging and technology
Charging capability is a key consideration for any EV buyer, and the ZDX provides DC fast charging as part of its package. While it supports rapid charging, the experience is not universally described as class-leading, especially when compared to models that emphasize ultra-fast charging speeds or broader public charging networks. The technology suite—infotainment, driver-assist features, and connectivity—meets current luxury-vehicle standards, but some owners report occasional software quirks that can affect daily usage.
Should you buy one?
If you’re eyeing the 2024 ZDX, consider how its strengths align with your priorities. If you value strong on-road performance, a high-tech interior, and Acura’s brand identity, and you’re comfortable with mid-200s range and the associated charging planning, it can be a solid choice. If longer range, maximum cargo flexibility, or the absolute value proposition are higher priorities, you might find more compelling options elsewhere in the evolving electric-luxury category.
Summary
The 2024 ZDX sits at an intersection of strong performance and mixed practicality. Critics point to mid-200s range, pricing that can stretch toward rivals, and compromises in cargo space and ride refinement as the most significant issues. For shoppers, the decision hinges on whether the ZDX’s distinctive styling, feature set, and Acura pedigree outweigh its range and value trade-offs in a fast-moving EV market.
In the evolving landscape of electric luxury SUVs, the ZDX contributes a unique option that will appeal to a subset of buyers who prioritize brand identity and design over maximum range. As incentives, charging networks, and software updates continue to mature in the market, the ZDX’s standing may shift in future model years.
