Acura ZDX Type S All Electric SUV
Hey there, fellow EV enthusiasts! I’ve just spent a week putting the 2025 Acura ZDX Type S all EV. It’s surely through its paces. So I’m excited to share my real-world impressions of Acura’s first all-electric offering. As someone passionate about green transportation, I was particularly curious to see how this luxury electric SUV would stand up. Especially to daily use and also whether it truly delivers on its premium promises.
Lightning Quick Acceleration with Refined Character
Let me tell you straight away – this EV moves! The Type S variant packs a serious punch with its dual-motor setup generating 499 horsepower and a robust 544 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0-60 mph in about 4.3 seconds according to my tests.
We know that some electric vehicles that can feel somewhat clinical in their power delivery. However, the ZDX Type S offers a more nuanced acceleration curve that feels distinctly Acura.
What impressed me most wasn’t just the raw speed but how composed the vehicle remains when you unleash all that power. Even with its substantial 6,052-pound weight, the adaptive dampers in the Type S do an excellent job managing body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride quality that never feels harsh, even on the larger 22-inch wheels.
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Acura ZDX Type S Range Reality Check
While Acura advertises an EPA-estimated range of 278 miles for the Type S (304 miles for the A-Spec AWD and 313 miles for the base rear-wheel drive model), my real-world experience delivered about 299 miles of highway driving on a full charge. That’s in ECO mode and quite respectable. That’s especially considering I was testing in cooler temperatures in the teens and 20’s, which typically impacts EV range.
Energy consumption averaged about 2.7 miles per kWh during my week with the car, which translates to approximately 67 MPGe – slightly below the EPA’s combined estimate of 87 MPGe. However, it’s still reasonable for a performance-oriented electric SUV of this size.
Acura ZDX Type S Charging Experience: The Achilles’ Heel?
If there’s one area where the ZDX falls short of some competitors, it’s in charging speed. The vehicle supports DC fast-charging at up to 190 kW, which Acura claims can add 79 miles of range in about 10 minutes.
In my real-world testing, I managed to charge from 14% to 80% in 40 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger in the freezing cold.
Several forum users and reviewers have noted that this earlier-generation charging technology charges 2-4 times slower than the latest EVs from some manufacturers, which could be a significant consideration for those planning frequent road trips.
For home charging, the ZDX comes with an 11.5 kW onboard charger, which can add approximately 30 miles of range per hour on a Level 2 setup.
Luxury Interior with Some GM Influence
Step inside the ZDX, and you’re greeted with a well-appointed cabin featuring high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The 16-way power-adjustable front seats in the Type S offer tremendous comfort and support, even during longer drives. The Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers impressive audio performance. Especially for those audiophiles will appreciate.
However, it’s impossible to ignore the GM influences throughout the interior. The ZDX is built on General Motors’ Ultium platform (shared with the Cadillac Lyriq), and certain elements like the pocket-style wireless phone charger and some switchgear betray these origins.
That said, Acura has done a commendable job putting their own stamp on the vehicle through unique design elements and interface choices.
Tech Features: Google-Powered Intelligence
The ZDX features a responsive infotainment system built on Google’s automotive platform, which works exceptionally well for the most part. Google Maps integration is seamless, voice commands are properly recognized, and the system generally feels intuitive.
The Type S trim includes premium tech features like a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, tri-zone automatic climate control, and the comprehensive AcuraWatch 360+ driver assistance suite, which includes hands-free cruise control and automatic park assist.
This hands-free driving capability is a standout feature, offering genuine convenience on longer highway journeys.
Handling and Ride: Finding the Balance
Despite its considerable heft, the ZDX Type S handles remarkably well for a vehicle of its size. The steering is precise and well-weighted, though I found it could feel a bit heavy at lower speeds. The adaptive air suspension does an excellent job balancing comfort and sportiness, though you will notice some understeer if you push hard into corners – a reminder that this is still a substantial SUV, not a sports car.
The Type S trim benefits from a more performance-oriented steering ratio (15.9:1 compared to 18.4:1 in the A-Spec), which noticeably improves turn-in and overall responsiveness.
The upgraded Brembo six-piston front brakes also provide strong, confidence-inspiring stopping power that’s well-suited to the vehicle’s weight and performance capabilities.
Value Proposition: Premium Pricing with Strong Incentives
Starting at $73,500 for the Type S ($64,500 for the base A-Spec RWD), the ZDX sits firmly in the premium electric SUV segment.
While this pricing puts it above Acura’s gas-powered offerings like the MDX Advance ($68,000) and TLX Type-S ($58,795), the federal EV tax credit of $7,500 helps offset this premium considerably.
Acura is also offering additional incentives, including a $1,000 loyalty discount for current Acura owners and attractive lease terms that can bring monthly payments down to around $760 for well-qualified lessees. These incentives make the ZDX significantly more appealing from a value perspective.
Acura ZDX Type S EV SUV: The Final Verdict
After spending a week with the 2025 Acura ZDX Type S, I’m genuinely impressed with Acura’s first foray into the all-electric space. It combines exhilarating performance, premium amenities, and distinctive styling in a compelling package that feels worthy of the Acura badge.
While faster charging capabilities would enhance its road trip credentials, and some of the GM-sourced components might disappoint Acura purists, the overall execution is polished and refined. The ZDX offers a distinctly Acura interpretation of electric luxury that stands apart from both mainstream EVs and ultra-premium European offerings.
For those seeking a premium electric SUV with strong performance credentials and the backing of Acura’s reputation for reliability (including a generous 96-month/100,000-mile battery warranty), the ZDX Type S makes a strong case for itself, especially when factoring in available incentives. As more charging infrastructure continues to come online, the ZDX’s few shortcomings will become even less relevant for most owners.
