Why did Acura discontinue the ZDX?
Acura, the luxury division of Honda, made the decision to discontinue the ZDX crossover SUV in 2013 after just three model years. The ZDX was a unique and stylish vehicle, but it ultimately failed to gain traction with consumers, leading Acura to pull the plug on the model.
Reasons for the ZDX's Discontinuation
There were several key factors that contributed to the ZDX's demise:
- Niche Market Positioning: The ZDX was designed to occupy a narrow market segment, blending the lines between a sedan and an SUV. This "four-door coupe" styling was not widely appealing to consumers, who tended to prefer more traditional SUV or sedan body styles.
- Poor Sales Performance: The ZDX struggled to find buyers, with annual sales never exceeding 3,000 units in its three-year run. This low sales volume made it difficult to justify the model's continued production.
- Competition from Other Acura Models: Within Acura's own lineup, the ZDX competed with the more popular and practical MDX and RDX SUVs, as well as the TL and TSX sedans. Consumers often opted for these other Acura models over the niche-oriented ZDX.li>
- Styling Polarization: The ZDX's distinctive, coupe-like styling was divisive, with some consumers finding it attractive and others considering it unattractive or impractical. This polarization likely contributed to the model's poor sales performance.
Ultimately, the combination of a niche market positioning, poor sales, and competition from other Acura models led the company to discontinue the ZDX after the 2013 model year.
The ZDX's Legacy
Despite its short-lived production run, the ZDX left a lasting impact on the automotive industry. It was one of the first vehicles to blend the lines between a sedan and an SUV, paving the way for the rise of the "four-door coupe" segment. While the ZDX itself was not a commercial success, it demonstrated Acura's willingness to take risks and experiment with new vehicle designs. The lessons learned from the ZDX's development and discontinuation likely informed Acura's future product planning and design decisions.
What is the issue with the 2024 ZDX?
*Describe the defect or noncompliance:
During assembly, the passenger-side front stabilizer bar bracket bolts may have been improperly fastened. If the bracket bolt(s) loosens and separates from the vehicle frame, the stabilizer bar and/or bracket can damage the high voltage cables and/or EV battery coolant lines.
Why did Acura stop making the ZDX?
Unfortunately, due to limited sales, the first generation ZDX was discontinued after the model year 2013. It is now one of the rarest Acura's ever produced, with just 7,191 cars sold in the US.
Is the ZDX coming back?
Our team thinks the entry-level configuration will pair a powerful lithium-ion battery with a rear-mounted electric motor. This model will probably get 340 horsepower. The Acura brand has told the automotive industry that it will release a 2024 Acura ZDX Model S, a performance variant.
What are the disadvantages of the Acura ZDX?
Neither as luxurious as its most upscale competitors nor as engaging to drive as some others, the ZDX Type S is all about compromises. Some of that can also be said of other models with Type S trims; with Type S vehicles, Acura isn't as performance focused as other brands are, such as BMW and its M division.
How rare is the Acura ZDX?
The ZDX was discontinued after the 2013 model year due to poor sales, and in a statement from Honda, "as the Acura brand sharpens its focus on new models and core products." The ZDX was the rarest of US-manufactured Acura offerings, with a total of 7,191 vehicles produced and sold in North America.
How much is the 2024 ZDX?
The price of the 2024 Acura ZDX starts at $65,850 and goes up to $75,850 depending on the trim and options. Given our experience with the ZDX Type S, we'd recommend saving some money and going with the A-Spec with the optional dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain.
