Used 2013 Acura ZDX

Ever since debuting for the 2010 model year, the ZDX has been the odd duck in Acura’s lineup. An admittedly niche vehicle, the ZDX is meant to be an all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger SUV with coupe-like styling and the luxury and tech amenities found in Acura’s sedans. But rather than the whole being greater than the sum of its parts, the ZDX’s attributes work against it. This SUV’s style-first exterior results in compromised interior visibility, tight rear passenger space, and a limited cargo bay. Factor in a starting price around $50,000 and it’s little surprise the ZDX crossover SUV failed to connect with buyers. That being the case, 2013 marks the final year of production for Acura’s short-lived ZDX.

The 2013 Acura ZDX offers a relatively enjoyable driving experience, provided you can arrange yourself and the mirrors to see out of the vehicle. The ZDX’s standard 300-horsepower V6 is capable of getting this rather large vehicle up to speed, but not with the velocity its sporty looks might suggest. With a curb weight of more than 4,450 pounds, there’s just a lot of mass to move. The highlight of the ZDX is actually its standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This sophisticated system offers great grip in corners and on slippery roads. The 2013 ZDX’s 6-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator that is responsive to throttle input. If you live somewhere with blazing sunshine, beware of the ZDX. On a summer day in California, we found the ZDX’s fabric screen below the panoramic glass roof on the losing end of a battle with the sun, making for a hot and bright cabin.

Acura has never tried to bill the ZDX as a family hauler. Though it can technically seat five passengers, Acura has said this shapely crossover SUV is meant for two adults and their cargo. Try actually getting into the tight rear seat, and you’ll find this was a smart move. Though the seats are clad in soft Milano leather, actually getting into them can be awkward and potentially head-bumping due to the vehicle’s sloping roof. Up front, the cabin is highlighted by an 8-inch color nav screen, Acura’s usual array of flush-mount buttons, and a wide center console between the two large front seats. The steering wheel, too, features its own litany of buttons, along with paddle shifters for that race-car feel.

Acura describes the ZDX as a "4-door sports coupe," but the ZDX sits higher and is wider than others in that category. Frankly, it’s an odd crossover SUV that looks like little else on the road except the BMW X6, which could be considered its rival in this niche segment. The ZDX is a blend of angles and curves, with a high beltline and windows that become progressively smaller toward the back. The ZDX has a steeply sloped roof, which may look elegant and athletic, but hampers rear visibility. Whether you admire or dislike the ZDX’s looks will be for your eyes to decide.

PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM
Need proof that rolling audio systems can rival the one in your home? Look no further than the 2013 ZDX. Now standard is a 10-speaker surround-sound system that plays CDs, DVD-Audio discs, and songs from a built-in hard drive. If that isn’t enough, there’s a USB/iPod input and satellite radio in addition to that old standby, AM/FM.

BLIND-SPOT MONITORING
This technology keeps digital eyes toward the sides of the vehicle where yours may miss. Due to the ZDX’s compromised rear visibility, this feature is even more welcome now that it’s standard.

The ZDX comes in just one trim level for its last hurrah, and offers plenty of value-added features. Among them are a navigation system, heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a rear-view camera, a power liftgate, a 435-watt/10-speaker surround-sound system, leather seating, and a push-button ignition. On the safety front, the ZDX comes with blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure and frontal-collision warning systems, front and rear parking sensors, and six airbags.

With the ZDX now coming with features that used to be part of the Technology Package – and the Advanced Package no longer available – options for 2013 models are essentially limited to accessories. Extras include larger wheels, remote engine starting, spoiler, trailering equipment, and a cargo cover.

The 2013 ZDX continues to use Acura’s 3.7-liter V6. The engine has good power reserves, but offers just marginal fuel economy. Premium fuel is required. ZDX models have all-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The ZDX’s tow rating is limited to a rather meager 1,500 pounds.

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