by James Hamel

Created on: January 16, 2011   Last Updated: January 22, 2011

People just don’t get why Acura built the ZDX “four door crossover coupe” and a million words on the subject would never change your mind if you already think it is ugly. But the point of the very low volume ZDX was never to be everything to everyone and appeal to the masses. That is the job for the 2011 Acura MDX.

The purpose of the 2011 Acura ZDX is to serve as a halo model for this luxury brand and even if you hate the rakish slant of the rear hatch or the big front grille, you have to admit that it is unequivocally daring. And when you spend $50,000 on a new luxury SUV wouldn’t you like to be noticed a little? That just won’t happen in a Lexus RX. Sorry.

As the 2011 Acura ZDX is primarily a style statement there are a few trade-offs but there is nothing about any of them that are unlivable. The worst is the rear doors (yes, there are two but the handles are hidden in the blacked out C-pillar) with their very narrow openings. The doors are especially narrow at the bottoms so swinging in your leg can be an exercise in gymnastics. Kids would have no trouble at all.

What is surprising about the 2011 ZDX’s back seat is how roomy it is once you get back there. Thanks to clever scoops taken out of the headliner, Acura has made it possible for a six-footer to sit in the back seat without hitting their head on the ceiling. Rear legroom is actually generous enough to allow you to cross your legs.

Then there is cargo room which isn’t exactly overabundant at 27.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place. Do keep in mind, however, that Acura designed the rear cargo hold (with removable side scallop doors for extra width) to be able to carry one set of Golf Clubs with the back seat in use. Fold the rear seats down and cargo space rockets to a far more useful 57.3 cubic feet of space.

The pick of the ZDX range is definitely the Tech Package equipped model as it boasts upgraded Milano leather, voice activated navigation (Acura makes the most user friendly system in the industry), a multi-view back-up camera, push-button start, keyless entry (just open the door with your key in the pocket), USB/iPod integration and the awe inspiring Acura/ELS audio system upgrade.

 The Acura/ELS audio upgrade is so good you will never be able to go back to regular audio systems with their lack of audio clarity ever again. If you like music even a little bit you will not regret ordering the Tech Package even though it does add over $4,000 to

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>