2024 Acura ZDX Type S Review: A Surprisingly Fast TRON Cruiser with Brains and Brawn
Let’s cut straight to it. The 2024 Acura ZDX Type S feels high tech, feels fast, and feels luxurious. BUT, it’s not groundbreaking. IT IS a very good stop gap for what Honda/Acura has planned for their EV future.
I took this adopted child of an EV for a spin and came away more impressed than I thought I would be, confused (in a good way), and honestly wondering how much better future Honda/Acura EV’s will become.
0 to “I Should Slow Down” in No Time Flat
Let’s talk speed, because wow. The ZDX Type S is insanely quick. Mash the go pedal and it delivers that instant EV torque that’ll make your passengers question their life choices. It launches like it’s trying to leave Earth, but somehow without feeling out of control. I found myself passing big rigs touching 100 from 70 in the blink of an eye. It’s fast, it feels fast when it puts you in the back of your seat, and when you’re going 100mph+ (on a closed course of course haha), it feels remarkably stable. It’s a big SUV that doesn’t feel like a big SUV.
Steering, Handling & Feels
The steering is tight, responsive, and gives you that “I'm in control” confidence. It feels planted, solid, and shockingly nimble for its size. You almost forget you’re piloting a 3-ton EV. Acura tuned this thing right. It hugs the road like it actually likes you and takes bumps like your overprotective mom.
Interior Vibes: Spacious, Short-ish, but Chill
Inside, the ZDX Type S gives you plenty of space to stretch out, whether you're riding solo or with your whole crew. The seats are plush, supportive, and perfect for long hauls (well, as long as your range anxiety allows). The rear of the cabin does seat two adults comfortably and three adults surprisingly well given they all like each other. The cabin does feel a bit short vertically, especially if you're a taller human, but nothing claustrophobic.
Visibility is excellent, too. You’re not peeking over a tank turret. The sightlines are great and make city driving a breeze.
Infotainment: Google Built-In, but Everyone's Invited
Here’s the tea: the infotainment actually makes sense. It’s got Google built-in, which is slick and super helpful; Maps, Assistant, Play Store, you name it. But Acura was smart enough to keep Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both work pretty well when they want to, so you’re not locked into one ecosystem. Shout out to inclusivity!
Hands-Free Steering: It Works, Until You Zone Out
Yes, the hands-free steering works. It's chill. But if you start doing the “autopilot daydream,” the car is like, “Hey bud, eyes up! You're still responsible here.” It’ll cut acceleration and politely nudge you to take the wheel again. Smart, safe, and not annoying.
LED Mood Lighting + Cabin Quiet Like a Library + Arena-like Sound System
The LED trim lighting? Straight out of TRON. It gives the cabin this cool, futuristic glow that makes you feel like you’re in a sci-fi movie while stuck in traffic. And thanks to minimal cabin noise, it’s all luxury vibes inside, no annoying EV whines or road drone. Turn on the music and get studio quality sound of the the premium Bang & Olufson speakers.
One-Pedal Driving (Optional, Thankfully)
One-pedal driving is here, but Acura gives you options. You can tune the sensitivity or just turn it off completely. Finally, a car that respects your preference to coast like it’s 2006.
EV Range & Real Talk on Road Trips
The range is decent, more than enough for daily city use. Commuting? Grocery runs? School drop-offs? Easy. But long road trips? That’s where the usual EV pain creeps in. Charging infrastructure is still catching up, so plan ahead or bring snacks and patience. Or just fly?
Final Verdict: The ZDX Type S Is a Sleeper Hit
The 2024 Acura ZDX Type S is a surprising, high-tech, and fun electric crossover that doesn't scream "I'm an EV!" It whispers it, then disappears into the distance while your jaw’s still on the pavement.
It’s got:
Legit power and acceleration
Smart, user-friendly tech
A quiet, comfy ride
Cool interior lighting for your TRON cosplay dreams
A planted, confidence-inspiring drive
Premium sound system
Long trips still kinda suck (they suck, not just kinda), but that’s not Acura’s fault, it’s just the EV world we live in. For everything else? This ride is chef’s kiss.
TL;DR for the lazy homies: The ZDX Type S is fast, comfy, looks dope, tech is intuitive, and it doesn’t feel like a typical EV. If you're in the market for a high-performance electric SUV that won’t bore you to death, The Plug recommends checking it out.
