15 years ago, Acura launched the ZDX. It was a coupe-like mid-size SUV with a similar profile to the charming Honda Accord Crosstour. But the ZDX never really found an audience and production ended after just a few years.

For 2024, the ZDX name is back but as the brand’s first-ever all-electric vehicle.

We recently hit the roads outside of Santa Barbara, California to log our first impressions of Acura’s first EV. And we spent our time in their high-performance Type S variant, which is one of the first ZDX models to launch.

Like the Honda Prologue, the Acura ZDX is a result of the brand’s partnership with General Motors which means it shares the same Ultium platform as the Chevrolet Blazer EV and Cadillac LYRIQ.

Styling is very different though and gives us a look at the future of Acura design. Size is similar to the 3-row MDX but the wheelbase is 8-inches longer which gives the ZDX some major wagon vibes in the best way.

A-Spec models see either a 358 horsepower rear-drive setup or 490-horsepower with the addition of an extra motor for all-wheel drive.

Moving up to the Type S sees standard all-wheel drive with 499 horsepower and 544 lb-ft of torque.

They all use a 102-kWh battery pack but depending on trim, you could see between 278 to 313 miles of range. And you can pull up to 190-kWs on a Level 3 DC fast charger which means a 20% to 80% charge can be had in 42 minutes.

Ride on the highway was incredibly comfortable and quiet, with just some wind and tire noise. The ride really does feel luxurious but the Type S we drove can dial in some performance.

“Now in the ZDX Type S we don’t have a Sport Plus mode so we can’t go full send but we do have a Sport mode you definitely get some more feedback in the wheel. We get a little bit more feedback from the audio that’s coming out of the vehicle as well. The suspension is a little bit stiffer so we get a little bit more of a spirited drive.”

Specific to the Type S…you also get large bright yellow 6 piston Brembo brakes, 22-inch machine finished wheels, and an air suspension with adaptive dampers.

And having GM underpinnings means that Handsfree Cruise, aka Super Cruise driver assistance, is available.

Inside feels premium. You have an 11-inch digital instrument cluster as well as an 11.3-inch central display with Google Built-in. The system makes it very easy and worry-free to take any long trips that require charging stops through the native route planning. Plus it still allows you to run Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And we really appreciated the buttons and knobs to adjust the climate controls.

The ZDX fits up to five passengers. Sitting in the backseat is pretty roomy and has available heated seats. Cargo space behind the second row sees up to 29.7 cubic feet which is just shy of what’s available in the gas-powered RDX.

Acura’s are known for their impressive audio and it’s much the same here in the ZDX with a brand new 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The 2024 Acura ZDX qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit which means prices can start at $58,350 for an A-Spec and $67,350 for a Type S.

The ZDX will arrive in dealers very soon so stay tuned and keep it locked for our full review, right here on MotorWeek!