Tag Archives: reintroducing

News

Why The Acura ZDX Will Be A Runaway Success

Summary

  • Acura is reintroducing the ZDX as its flagship electric SUV, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainable and contemporary technologies.
  • The ZDX A-Spec will feature a single rear-mounted engine with around 340 horsepower, while the Type S variant will have a projected 500 horsepower and an adaptable air suspension.
  • The ZDX will incorporate GM’s Ultium battery technology, offering an impressive driving range of up to 325 miles in the A-Spec trim and a slightly reduced range of 288 miles in the Type S variant. Acura also provides easy charging solutions for ZDX owners through its Acura Home Electrification platform and the Acura Smartphone App.

After a decade-long absence that allowed time for development and innovation, Acura is now balanced to revive the iconic ZDX title, infusing it with new goals and technology. The previous ZDX represented a daring Sportback SUV that took significant inspiration from the MDX platform of the brand. While considered futuristic by certain reviewers, it did not achieve notable success. Moving forward to August 2023, Acura officially announced its stunning revival. The ZDX brand would be restored as the forefront of Acura’s foray into the field of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). This announcement drew a deliberate shift toward sustainable and contemporary technologies, a watershed event in Acura’s journey toward an electric future.

Related: 2025 Delorean Alpha 5: Everything We Know So Far

Acura Is Pushing The Boundaries Of High-Performance SUVs With The ZDX

Acura ZDX Basic Specs

ZDX A-spec

ZDX Type S

Motor Configuration

Single Motor, Available Dual Motor

Dual Motor

Horsepower (Estimated)

340 horses

500 horses

Suspension Type

Multi-link, Fixed Coil

Multi-link, Air Suspension

Dampers

Amplitude Reactive Damper

High-Performance Adaptive Damper

The all-electric ZDX expands Acura’s lineup of high-performance SUVs. Within its A-Spec version, the ZDX derives its power from a single rear-mounted engine, projected to produce around 340 horsepower. Furthermore, an alternative setup awaits in the ZDX A-Spec series, incorporating twin engines and an all-wheel drive system. The multi-link suspension on the ZDX has been mightily adjusted by Acura’s skilled engineers to provide a premium driving experience that combines performance with unmatched refinement.

Remaining true to the legacy of all Acura Type S models, which have gained praise for their exceptional features, the ZDX elevates every aspect of the driving encounter. This is all about acceleration, braking, and handling while maintaining comfort, sophistication, and usefulness for everyday driving. The ZDX Type S brags a projected 500 horsepower, an adaptable air suspension endowed with adjustable height, and adaptive dampers calibrated for optimal performance. Noteworthy power is harnessed through striking yellow six-piston calipers, complemented by substantial 15.6-inch Brembo front calipers. For those seeking heightened performance, high-performance summer tires are an option, packaged with a gloss-black wheel, amplifying the Type S’ already impressive performance capabilities.

The driving experience can be personalized through a collection of different driving modes, among them a Sport mode that amplifies acceleration and responsiveness, moving the driving sensation to exciting heights.

Related: 2024 Dodge Charger EV: Everything We Know So Far

Unveiling ZDX’s Ultium Battery And Impressive Mileage

2024 Acura ZDX Type S 2
Acura

When it comes to range, the ZDX is set to incorporate GM’s Ultium battery technology, housing the identical 102.0-kWh battery pack found in the Cadillac Lyriq. This battery boasts an impressive 325-mile driving range in the A-Spec trim, while the Type S variant offers a slightly reduced range of 288 miles per charge. Notably, the ZDX comes equipped with standard DC fast charging capabilities, capable of charging rates of up to 190 kW. This rapid charging potential translates to an additional 81 miles of range for the single-motor A-Spec model in just a 10-minute charging session, according to Acura’s specifications.

Charging Made Easy

Acura simplifies the charging experience for ZDX owners by facilitating the selection, purchase, and installation of an Acura charger for their residences. Additionally, Acura streamlines the process of locating and utilizing public charging stations during journeys to their upcoming destinations.

Acura Home Electrification (Acura HE) stands as an online platform tailored to provide ZDX owners with a seamless and convenient home charging remedy. Through Acura HE, the ZDX owners are linked with a network of carefully screened local installers, guided by dedicated Expert Energy Advisors. These advisors aid in identifying the optimal home charging solution according to the individual’s requirements. Detailed information about ordering and implementing Acura’s home energy solutions is accessible through Acura Home Electrification.

For those seeking on-the-go charging solutions, the ZDX owners can make use of the Acura Smartphone App to effortlessly pinpoint and connect with charging stations across the nation, granting access to over 90% of existing DC Fast Charge networks. The app’s integrated payment system facilitates all financial transactions within the Acura App, spanning all supported charging networks.

Related: 2025 Chevrolet Corvette EV: Everything We Know So Far

Uniting Acura’s Design Finesse With Technological Excellence

21 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec
Acura

Displaying a profile that is sleek, low, and expansively wide, the ZDX boasts an elongated wheelbase and a captivating interplay of contrasting surfaces, exhibiting Acura’s steady commitment to performance from every visual perspective. Clear design elements encapsulate the evolutionary progression of Acura’s distinctive front fascia, showcasing the symbolic Chicane Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Jewel Eye LED headlights, and a seamlessly integrated Diamond Pentagon grille.

Continuing to develop a connection between conceptual inspiration and tangible production, the ZDX Type S introduces an entirely fresh Acura hue named Double Apex Blue Pearl. This distinctive color was previously offered as a glimpse of the Acura Precision EV Concept. Furthermore, the ZDX will present the option of the signature Tiger Eye Pearl, which can also be found on models like the Acura TLX Type S, MDX Type S, and Integra Type S.

2024 Acura ZDX Electric SUV_3
Acura

Inside Acura’s ZDX interior, the cabin is crafted with premium materials, luxurious features, and an array of intuitive technologies. Notably, Acura has seamlessly integrated Google2 into the vehicle, marking a first for the brand, to ensure uninterrupted connectivity while on the move. This integration brings forth familiar applications like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and a variety of options from Google Play. These components collectively contribute to a connected, personalized, and streamlined driving experience that is emblematic of the ZDX.

The ZDX interior contains a combined expanse of 22 inches dedicated to high-definition digital displays. This includes the standard Precision Cockpit Driver Information Cluster, spanning 11 inches, and the Center Information Screen measuring 11.3 inches. Both screens are equipped with an intuitive touchscreen interface, further enhanced by wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 3. Through the Google built-in system integrated within the ZDX, Google Maps can be displayed on either of these screens, offering advanced route planning capabilities complete with recommendations for charging stations to optimize travel time. Moreover, Google Maps has the capability to estimate the required charging time for reaching the destination, even initiating preconditioning of the EV battery when the designated stop is a DC Fast charging station. This proactive battery preconditioning can significantly reduce charging durations, ensuring prompt resumption of the journey.

Related: ​​​​​​​Acura Performance Electric Vision Concept: Everything We Know So Far

Exploring The Comprehensive Safety Technologies Of The ZDX

06 2024 Acura ZDX Type S
Acura

The ZDX comes complete with AcuraWatch, a comprehensive suite of technologies dedicated to safety and driver assistance. Among these are notable innovations like Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Blind Zone Steering Assist, both making their debut in the Acura lineup.

Introducing the AcuraWatch 360+ system, the ZDX Type S ushers in the Hands-Free Cruise driver assistance technology, an initial inclusion within the Acura range. This feature empowers genuine hands-free driving along compatible roads spanning up to 400,000 miles. Further, elevating the ZDX Type S’ AcuraWatch 360+ offerings, the model boasts the brand’s first Automatic Parking Assist system. This innovative system takes the anxiety out of parallel parking, streamlining the process for drivers.

Anticipated Starting Prices For The ZDX A-Spec And Type S Models

2024 Acura ZDX Type S 3
Acura

Acura ZDX Estimated Pricing

ZDX A-spec

$60,000

ZDX Type S

$70,000

Acura is set to present the ZDX A-Spec in two distinct configurations: a single-motor model with rear-wheel drive and a dual-motor variant with all-wheel drive. The projected starting price for the 2024 ZDX A-Spec is around $60,000. On the other hand, the ZDX Type S, positioned as the most effective and high-performance Acura SUV to date, will showcase a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain that has been tuned for performance. This elevated variant is anticipated to begin in the approximate range of $70,000.

What about the sales process? Acura’s approach to ZDX sales involves a novel omnichannel digital sales process, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. This approach allows customers to explore and purchase the ZDX from the comfort of their own homes or within an Acura dealership. Pre-sale initiatives for the ZDX are scheduled to start later this year, with the first deliveries to customers anticipated in early 2024.

News

How Hybridization Could Bring The V-8 Back To The Mercedes C-Class And E-Class

Summary

  • Mercedes-AMG is considering reintroducing V-8 engines in their C-Class and E-Class models, potentially bringing back the raw power and performance that enthusiasts love.
  • The rumored V-8 hybrid configuration could launch as early as 2026, satisfying the desire for a powerful engine while also incorporating greener technology.
  • Mercedes recognizes the importance of the V-8 engine in its brand’s reputation and dominance in the luxury market, and the reintroduction of this engine could help attract customers back to its vehicles.

In a striking turn of events for performance drivers, a seismic shift might be on the horizon for Mercedes-AMG’s acclaimed C-Class and E-Class models. Amidst speculation and insider murmurs, the resounding opinion suggests that the V-8 engine could soon reclaim its throne in these high-octane marques, rekindling our passion for raw power and exhilarating performance. Mercedes-AMG, renowned for pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, is considering the revival of the V-8 powertrain in their C-Class and E-Class iterations.

Whispers of this exciting endeavor with the AMG GT63 S E Performance and AMG S63, where the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine combines with an electrifying hybrid configuration. Insiders reveal that these V-8 entrants could make a comeback as early as 2026, unleashing performance that resonates through the very soul of Mercedes buyers. Yet, as anticipation mounts, so does skepticism within the AMG community, which yearns for the original V-8 engine that once dominated the C and E-Class models.

Again, Mercedes has been somewhat lock and key regarding this idea, but countless outlets are reporting and alluding to the V-8 engine being reintroduced into these hybrid designs.

Related: 10 Things BMW And Mercedes Could Learn From Tesla

Mercedes Could Be Adding A V-8 Engine Back Into Its C-Class And E-Class Models

Mercedes C-Class
Mercedes

In a shocking turn of events, Mercedes-AMG has been considering adding a V-8 hybrid engine back into its highly-successful C-Class and E-Class models, which would be a blast from the past we all would enjoy. Not only is this being speculated and discussed, but it’s even rumored that these V-8-powered hybrids could launch as soon as 2026. Considering OG, Mercedes drivers remember when the C-Class and E-Class had V-8 engines, with them being swapped out in 2022. Many drivers weren’t thrilled with this decision by the company, which could have led to these current discussions.

After all, consumers generally have the largest voice when dealing with automakers of this caliber. Mercedes are known for their finely tuned, well-calibrated, and potent engines. One of the reasons people happily spend so much for their Mercedes-made cars is the long-standing reputation they have acquired, which the V-8 heavily contributed to. A C-Class or E-Class without a V-8 engine doesn’t purr the same or perform as we’d all prefer: and Mercedes knows it. Luckily, with 2026 only a few years away, we could witness the rebirth of C and E-Class vehicles powered by both electric and V-8 engines before our very own eyes.

Related: 10 Things That Make The Mercedes EQS SUV Special

How Mercedes Shifting Hybrid Could Give Us Back Our Powerful V-8 C-Class And E-Class

Blue 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz
  • It’s rumored that the 2026 C-Class and E-Class will be reintroduced with the M177 4.0-liter V-8 engine.

It’s worth noting that because Mercedes is in talks of shifting greener, this could also come with a few gas-powered benefits. Of course, we’d love to see further initiatives by the German automaker to go 100 percent electric with most, if not all, of its model: but that’s not logical for the present market. People aren’t ready to let go of their loud, high-performance vehicles, and we don’t blame them. A significant market that Mercedes dominates is the higher-tier sportscar customer, which would otherwise shift to Porsche, BMW, Audi, or Ferrari. Again, the C and E-Class aren’t comparable to some of these brands’ most prestigious cars but are a favorite among wealthier drivers.

Mercedes, a global powerhouse brand, has aligned with the high-performance engine, so eliminating the V-8 configuration in 2022 up until 2026 or later will hurt the company. Regardless, with the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 returning with its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 and an expected release of an E-Class with the V-8 rather than V-6, Mercedes could grab hold of the luxury market once again in massive numbers. The magic about the hybridization of Mercedes is giving us the best of both worlds in more ways than one. The brand could realize that with a V-6 engine and hybrid electric capability, its cars won’t be as loud or impressive as with the initial V-8.

Again, that’s not to say V-6 engines aren’t good for the brand, but with a hybrid build, they may not be exciting enough to grab hold of customers. Another theory that’s circling is that Mercedes did this on purpose, pulling back on V-8 only to reintroduce it with a more premium hybrid model.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

Future Hybrid Mercedes C-Class And E-Class Sedans Won’t Need Much Exterior Tweaking

2024 Mercedes E-Class
Mercedes

Another critical point to remember is that with the C-Class and E-Class embarking on a hybrid x V-8 overhaul, many speculate the two models won’t need much change appearance-wise. With minor adjustments, both models can easily fit the twin-turbo V-8 under the hood along with the motor, battery, and other plug-in hybrid components: all good signs for this happening. After all, many brands are forced into eco-friendly designs for their highest-performing cars because governments and consumers want this.

Mercedes is currently testing the V-8 hybrid configuration to pass Euro 7 emissions standards requirements: so we’d expect a press release in the next year or so. Mercedes doesn’t want to get our hopes up, and we respect the secrecy (for now). Again, we’re seeing brands like Maserati ditch their V-8 range with special edition limited production models, as they can’t comply with the European manufacturing standards for cleaner driving. Europe being harsher on its car companies is ultimately setting the world up for a different landscape come 2030, 2040, and 2050, so it’s best these brands cooperate and evolve rather than fight the change. As we’re learning now with Mercedes’ ambitious V-8 hybrid plan: this is possible.

Related: Mercedes-Benz Vision One Eleven Concept: Everything You Need To Know

We’re Seeing The Inevitable Electrification Of Mercedes-Benz

A parked 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes-Benz USA

Even though Mercedes hasn’t jumped straight into the idea of electric driving, this brand has made significant strides in shifting to hybrid/electric design from traditional gas-powered. According to a press release from the company, Mercedes has an ambitious plan to go fully electric by the end of this decade. That would mean the next release of a V-8 engine could be one of its final: ever. From 2025 onwards, the brand has promised to nearly entirely shift its designs to electric rather than hybrids or gas-powered luxury sedans, SUVs, etc.

That said, with murmurs of this hybrid V-8 C-Class and E-Class models coming to market within the decade, what could this mean for Mercedes’ ultimate vision? It’s undoubtedly curious especially considering this press release has been updated into 2023, and the company continues to push the message of green, emission-free driving into 2030.

Moreover, here are the three electric-only architectures MB has mentioned creating by 2025:

  • MB.EA will cover all medium to large size passenger cars, establishing a scalable modular system as the electric backbone for the future EV portfolio.
  • AMG.EA will be a dedicated performance electric vehicle platform addressing technology and performance-oriented Mercedes-AMG customers.
  • VAN.EA ushers in a new era for purpose-made electric vans and Light Commercial Vehicles, which will contribute to emission-free transportation and cities in the future.

So, we’ll have to wait and see if Mercedes can somehow fulfill this promise of electric architecture while also giving us a V-8 hybrid like currently speculated. Things are set to become more interesting in the world of European-created vehicles.