Acura ZDX takes cues from Precision concept

Acura's first electric vehicle, the ZDX, will hew closely to the Precision concept revealed by Honda Motor Co.'s luxury arm in August at Monterey Car Week.

A prototype of the EV was recently spotted near General Motors' proving grounds near Milford, Mich. The Acura ZDX is being codeveloped with GM and will use its global EV platform powered by Ultium battery packs.

While the front end bears a close resemblance to the Precision EV concept, it also appears to share some structural elements with Cadillac's Lyriq electric crossover.

Acura has not disclosed dimensions of the 2024 ZDX, but the concept and prototype appear to be closer in size to the MDX midsize crossover rather than the RDX compact crossover. The Lyriq also is a midsize crossover.

The essence of the sporty Precision EV concept remains intact, including a low, wide stance, a long sculpted hood, low roofline, D-pillar treatment and rear fascia, but much of it appears to have been adapted to fit on the production platform of the Cadillac Lyriq. Elements of a floating roof in the rear side profile also appear under the camouflage. It also shares the same A-, B- and C-pillar arrangements.

The Precision EV concept features no door handles and uses cameras for side mirrors, but the prototype appears to use conventional handles and side mirrors. Through the front windows are hints of a large infotainment screen with a physical knob.

Acura has not shared specs for the ZDX, but the output and range will likely come close to the Lyriq, which offers a 340-hp single-motor rear-wheel setup powered by a 100-kilowatt-hour battery with 312 miles of range. A dual-motor all-wheel Lyriq will come out in early 2024.

Acura says there are plans for a ZDX Type S variant that will carry forward its performance heritage. That's unlike the Lyriq, which GM markets as comfortable and cushy.

Also unconfirmed is where the ZDX will be assembled, but analysts expect it to be built at GM's factory in Spring Hill, Tenn., where the Lyriq is also produced.