![Acura ZDX S-Line first drive: A smooth, comfy ride, but it doesn't scream 'performance EV' [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/05/Acura-ZDX-front-side.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
Acura ZDX S-Line first drive: A smooth, comfy ride, but it doesn’t scream ‘performance EV’ [Video]
Acura has officially launched its first-ever BEV – the ZDX, and we at Electrek got the invite to Montecito, California, to test drive the top-tier S-Line trim of the crossover SUV. Acura did many things right in its first venture into electrification, but is it worthy of the performance grade the Honda division is known for? Even more, is it worth the price tag? You be the judge.
Table of contents
A quick background on the arrival of the Acura ZDX
It has been about nine months since Acura unveiled the ZDX to the public during Monterey Car Week last summer. The all-electric ZDX kicks off a new era for Acura, one that its team is quite proud of as the automotive industry, including its parent company, Honda, begins to embrace BEVs.
The crossover is the first all-electric offering from the Honda luxury and performance sub-brand and should not be confused with the combustion fastback by the same name that preceded it many years ago.
During its unveiling, we learned the ZDX would be available in an A-Spec version, complete with single—and dual-motor powertrain options and a dual-motor Type S trim that includes an exclusive “Double Apex Blue Pearl” exterior paint.
In December 2023, Acura opened up reservations for the BEV, sharing that the previously mentioned A-Spec trim would start at an MSRP of around $60,000 for RWD and around $70,000 for the S-Line.
By January 2024, we got official pricing, which was a bit higher than initially promised unless you include the maximum federal tax credits available in the US, which this model should qualify for. More on that later, but for now, we’re going to run you through the specs of the ZDX S-Line – the model we got the chance to test out recently around Santa Barbara and Montecito. Here are some images of the exterior.
Experiencing the Acura ZDX S-Line, inside and out
To begin, the 2024 Acura ZDX arrives in three separate trims: RWD and AWD versions of the A-Spec and the top-tier AWD S-Line—the variant we tested out. All models are the same size—197.7 inches long by 77 inches wide and 64.4 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 121.8 inches.
Each variant also features the same 102 kWh battery pack, but the BEV’s platform offers somewhat disappointing charge rates – 10 to 20% in 42 minutes on a DC fast charger. For the sake of comparison, here are how the performance specs break down by trim, including the S-Line.
| Acura ZDX Trim | A-Spec RWD | A-Spec AWD | S-Line AWD |
| Powertrain | Single Motor | Dual Motor | Dual Motor |
| Horsepower | 358 hp | 490 hp | 499 hp |
| Torque | 324 lb-ft | 437 lb-ft | 544 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| EPA Est. Range | 313 miles | 304 miles | 278 miles |
| DC Charge (10 mins) | 81 miles | 79 miles | 72 miles |
As the premium trim level, the Acura ZDX S-Line also has the $1,000 add-on option for 22-inch Berlina black performance wheels and 275 / 40R22 summer tires from Continental instead of the standard all-seasons.
Starting with the exterior, you’ll notice a wide and long stance, similar to the Honda Prologue we previously tested, that shares many of the same BEV DNA (much of which came from GM). Starting with the front, you’ll notice a new diamond pentagon grille that is illuminated, alongside an Acura badge that is much more subtle compared to its other models.
The S-Type I drove comes equipped with a Berlina Black lower grille beneath the 3D embossed diamond, as well as a black upper cabin – perfectly matching the wheel upgrade if you opt in on it.
You’ll notice “Jewel Eye” LED headlights and metallic gray runners along the wheelbase in the images above. I am not a fan of the gray on the sides, as I feel it takes away from the luxury feel Acura usually tries to achieve.
The ZDX body curves inward toward the rear to increase aerodynamics, where you’ll find a subtle tuned spoiler and RR diffuser. The result is a crossover BEV with a low center of gravity and near 50/50 weight distribution, creating a clean exit flow of air that equates to a smooth and quiet ride.
Next, let’s move into the interior of the Acura ZDX S-Line.
Overall, the inside of Acura’s first all-electric crossover is roomy and comfortable, but it by no means screams luxury. The dash components and door trims were quality and sturdy, but there was still plenty of plastic and other composites present.
These elements were actually quite nice, but they don’t match the price point Acura is asking for this BEV, but more on that in a bit. I found the seats very comfortable, and I liked the white interior leather with the S-Line logo embossed in the front headrests—a nice sporty touch.
You know I always test out the air-conditioned seats, and in the case of the ZDX, I found them adequate. They definitely worked, but after a while, I had to check and see if they were still on. However, I remained cool as both a driver and a passenger, so they got the job done.
Acura ZDX’s interior features two digital displays – an 11-inch “Digital Gauge Cluster” and an 11.3-inch center screen with Google built-in. It will also be the first Acura vehicle equipped with a Bang & Olufsen audio system, consisting of 18 speakers throughout the cabin – standard on all ZDX trims. That’s a nice touch for sure; the system was boomin’.
Beneath the displays, the extra-wide center console offered plenty of room for storing phones, drinks, and other belongings, and the storage below is perfect for a purse or perhaps some snacks. Why not? I would have preferred the wireless phone charger to be up front near the flat part of the console instead of vertical in a little nook you have to shove it into.
The metal sport pedals were a nice touch, but that’s really the only design element in the ZDX that makes it feel sporty. It also doesn’t feel luxurious either. So what is it? That’s where I struggle.
On that note, let’s dig into my experience driving the Acura ZDX S-Type, shall we?
Driving impressions
To begin, I want to point out that the 2024 Acura ZDX S-Type comes with four different drive modes: Normal, Sport, Individual, and Snow – the latter of which utilizes air suspension to raise the vehicle 25mm. I tested three of the four, as there was no snow in the middle of California in April, but I have some thoughts.
First of all, the button to switch between drive modes on the lower dash to the left of the steering wheel. I knew where to look for it after driving the Prologue, but this placement could be better for safe driving. My driving partner and I struggled to find and tap it while behind the wheel without taking our eyes off the road. You sort of have to lean over and reach for it. I would have preferred to have it as a toggle on the steering wheel.
Normal mode was completely fine, and I found the regenerative braking to be superb in this BEV, especially at its highest setting. One-pedal driving is possible, but again, you must activate a lock mode next to the drive mode button so the vehicle doesn’t creep. Why?
I felt a slight shift when switching to Sport mode, but I would argue the average driver really wouldn’t notice. The dampers offer less vibration, but the electric motor is significantly louder, adding to the ambiance; in terms of overall acceleration, I didn’t feel much “oomph” compared to regular mode.
Still, the dual motors provided plenty of power to easily overtake slower cars (and other journalists) on the highway. I have no qualms with the torque and acceleration from me. I truly loved the Acura ZDX’s ADAS functions, which it calls “Hands-Free Cruise.” Let’s be honest, though; it’s just GM’s SuperCruise – it even has the green bar on the steering wheel (mind you, a wheel that closely resembles the Blazer EV) to let you know when the feature is activated.
That said, the hands free driving worked like a charm and safely switched lanes on its own several times without issue. You can view that autonomous magic in my comprhensive video below. The Head Up Display was fine too. You could clearly see your speed, but there were no other prompts such as navigation. Our particular ZDX must have had a sensor issue because the neither the digital gauge nor the HUD could read speed limit signs – that metric remained blank during the entire drive.
The cluster itself is inherently Acura, but there is much evidence that the ZDX is rooted in GM’s design DNA, similar to the Cadillac LYRIQ, Blazer EV, and the Honda Prologue. I believe that in a lot of the design elements, particularly the cockpit, Acura’s hands were tied (at least financially) to stick with the same components and their placement rather than do redesigns.
It will be interesting to see how Acura’s follow-up to the ZDX will look, assuming it will be a completely bespoke model. I’m particularly interested in learning what architecture and ADAS Honda will deliver as it has now gotten its beak wet in BEVs.
Overall, I think the ZDX is an excellent start for the brand, but it doesn’t scream 100% Acura because it really isn’t. I would classify it as an excellent beginner-level BEV, but I fear consumers will opt for more affordable options for the same… or, in some cases, better performance specs. I think pricing will be the most detrimental to ZDX’s success in the current market. Speaking of which…
Pricing, availability, and our video review of the Acura ZDX
The 2024 Acura ZDX is available for configuration and purchase now and starts at the following MSRPs:
| Acura ZDX Trim | A-Spec RWD | A-Spec AWD | S-Type AWD |
| Starting MSRP* | $64,500 | $68,500 | $73,500 |
What do you think? Would you shell out $65k for the new Acura ZDX? What about $74,500 for the S-Type with performance wheels? I further summarize my experience with the latest all-electric crossover in the video review below.
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Finally! The Nissan LEAF has been reborn as a new 2026 crossover, and it has NACS! [Video]
![Finally! The Nissan LEAF has been reborn as a new 2026 crossover, and it has NACS! [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/06/New-Nissan-LEAF-hero.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
After years of development and months of teasers, Nissan has officially launched a reimagined version of the LEAF as a 2026 model year crossover, set to hit dealerships later this year. We will always love the original LEAF, but this new model is sharp and includes some well overdue upgrades, including a NACS port and Plug & Charge capabilities.
It’s been over fifteen years since the original Nissan LEAF debuted as one of the world’s first viable, mass-market EVs. For nearly a decade, the LEAF was the best-selling plug-in EV in the world, before Tesla took over.
While the original hatchback LEAF will go down in history as one of the earliest successful BEV models, its market status in recent years has been repetitive, laughably archaic (CHAdeMO), albeit nostalgic. The last five or six model years of the Nissan LEAF have essentially been the same car, and the public has been petitioning for something new.
How could an automaker so ahead of the BEV curve in 2009 fall so far behind over the course of a decade? Nissan asked itself that same question and has since bounced back with the ARIYA, which has been in production since 2022, but what about a new LEAF?
In the summer of 2023, Nissan confirmed a next-gen LEAF was in the works, set to arrive in 2024. If you look at your calendar, you’ll notice that it didn’t happen, but we’re closer than ever! Last year, Nissan began sunsetting LEAF production to make way for the new version.
Since January 2025, we have been following several camouflaged images of the reimagined LEAF in the wild before Nissan gave us a first official look in March. Earlier this month, Nissan shared even more details, including a timeline for the new BEV’s global debut.
Today, the third-generation Nissan LEAF has officially launched as a 2026 model, and it’s about as nice of an upgrade as we could have asked for.
Nissan’s new LEAF is set to hit dealers this fall
This morning, Nissan shared all the specifications for the four planned trims of the new 2026 LEAF (except pricing, sorry). There’s much to unpack here, so let’s dig right in.
For starters, the first thing you’ll notice, which we’ve already noted in the past, is that the 2026 LEAF has evolved from a compact hatchback to a (slightly) larger, family-friendly crossover SUV.
The new LEAF is marginally shorter in length than the second-generation model (173.4 inches vs. 176.4 inches), but it is about an inch wider and a similar height to its predecessor. So, arriving as a radically looking version of the LEAF without the hatchback, it will fill a similar footprint to the older models.
While the 2026 Nissan LEAF may be similar in size, most of the rest of the BEV has been significantly overhauled in the best ways. For example, the battery packs and electric motors have been bolstered to provide significantly better horsepower, charge rates, and range.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the standard configurations of the four initial LEAF trims in the new generation:
| Nissan LEAF Trim | Motor | Battery | Power | Onboard Charger |
| S | 130 kW | 52 kWh | 174 hp, 254 lb-ft torque | 7.2 kW |
| S+ SV, PLATINUM+ | 160 kW | 75 kWh | 214 hp, 261 lb-ft torque | 7.2 kW |
Nissan also shared initial range estimates for the new LEAF trims, except for the base-level S version. Note that the two versions of the 2025 LEAF offered ranges of 149 and 212 miles, respectively:
| 2026 Nissan LEAF Trim | Est. Range |
| S | TBD |
| S+ | 303 miles |
| SV+ | 288 miles |
| PLATINUM+ | 259 miles |
Even at its lowest range, the 2026 LEAF can go significantly farther than the previous generation. Better yet, it will be A LOT easier when future owners need to recharge. Yes, Nissan has finally abandoned the long-defunct CHAdeMO port and has replaced it with not one, but two more modern options.
A J1772 port is present on the driver’s side fender for Level 1 and 2 charging, while a North American Charging Standard (NACS) is on the passenger’s side fender, giving drivers access to Tesla’s massive Supercharger network. Per Nissan, the new LEAF models can recharge from 10 to 80% in 35 minutes on a DCFC. 240V charge times remain “TBD.”
The new models also have “Plug & Charge” capabilities.
Moving inward, the 2026 LEAF looks like an entirely new vehicle designed for the modern driver. The two higher-end trims come with dual 14.3-inch dash displays with Google built-in. The two lower trims have dual 12.3 inch displays and all support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Nissan also shared that the cabin has an upgradable dimming panoramic roof—a first for its segment, according to the automaker. The crossover’s cargo area is 55.5 cubic feet behind the second-row seats when they’re folded (20 cubic feet when they’re upright).
Additionally, the new LEAF’s PLATINUM+ trim has 64-color ambient lighting that can be customized to set any mood in the cabin.
One key element we are missing from Nissan is the pricing of these new LEAF models. Those details should come sometime toward the end of summer, as the automaker has said the 2026 LEAF models should hit Nissan dealerships this fall.
While we await more details, be sure to check out Nissan’s b-roll footage of the new 2026 LEAF inside and out below:
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Suzuki revealed prices for its first EV, a twin to the upcoming Toyota Urban Cruiser. The e Vitarra will go on sale next month in an increasingly crowded market. Can it keep up with the Kia EV3 and other popular electric SUVs?
Suzuki announces prices for its first EV, built with Toyota
Ahead of sales, which are set to begin next month, Suzuki announced e Vitara prices this week, its first EV that will also serve as a twin to Toyota’s upcoming electric SUV.
The e Vitara will start at £29,999 ($40,500) with prices ranging up to £37,799 ($51,000) for the flagship “Ultra ALLGRIP-e 4WD” trim.
Sukuki’s first EV is available with two battery options: 49 kWh or 61 kWh, providing WLTP range of 346 km (215 miles) and 428 km (266 miles), respectively.
Buyers can choose from “Motion” or “Ultra” grades, with single (2WD) and dual-motor (4WD) options. Suzuki developed the new four-wheel drive (4WD) ALLGRIP-e system specifically for the e Vitarra and is one of the few auto brands to offer an electric SUV with 4×4.
The e Vitara sits on a new dedicated “HEARTECT-e” EV platform, which houses the eAxle and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
As part of a deepening alliance, Toyota will use Suzuki’s EV powertrain for its upcoming electric SUV, the Urban Cruiser (shown below in white). Toyota will launch the Urban Cruiser in the next few months, which will essentially be a rebadged e-Vitara.
The e Vitara measures 4,275 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. That’s about the size of Kia’s new EV3 at 4,300 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,560 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,680 mm.
In the first quarter, the Kia EV3 was the best-selling retail EV and the fourth best-selling electric vehicle (including commercial EVs) in the UK.
The EV3 starts at £33,005 ($42,500) in the UK. IT’s also available with two battery options: 58.3 kWh or 81.48 kWh. The former is good for a WLTP range of 430 km (270 miles), while the latter provides a range of 599 km (375 miles), respectively
| Suzuki e Vitara trim | OTR Pricing |
| 49kWh Motion 2WD | £29,999 |
| 61kWh Motion 2WD | £32,999 |
| 61kWh Ultra 2WD | £35,799 |
| 61kWh Motion ALLGRIP-e 4WD | £34,999 |
| 61kWh Ultra ALLGRIP-e 4WD | £37,799 |
Suzuki is offering a few discounts for early buyers, including 0% PCP for two years with a 20% deposit. With a deposit of £8,436 ($11,500), monthly payments for the 61 kWh Motion 2WD model would be £379 ($513).
If you order before September 30, Suzuki will give you a free Ohme home charger, plus 10,000 miles in home charging credit.
Can Suzuki’s new e Vitara keep pace with the Kia EV3 and other popular electric SUVs like the Hyundai Inster? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tesla (TSLA) is sitting on so much inventory it has to take over parking lots all over the US
Tesla (TSLA) is currently sitting on so much inventory in the US that it has to take over parking lots outside of its exciting delivery centers to act as “overflow lots.”
Over the last few weeks, there have been increased reports of Tesla vehicles spotted in parking lots not directly linked to Tesla retail, delivery, or service locations.
In Chesterfield near St. Louis, Missouri, Tesla has rented the parking lot of a partly demolished mall where it is parking hundreds of unsold cars, which its delivery location three miles away can’t hold.
This is what is known as an “overflow” lot to handle rising inventory levels. Tesla has been using a lot more of these this year amid demand problems.
There was another Tesla overflow lot spotted in Farmington Hills, Michigan earlier this month that has been controversial. The lot was reportedly not coded for vehicle storage, and the city notified Tesla:
In this case, many vehicles were Cybertrucks, which Tesla is having a tough time selling. We previously reported that sales fell by half compared to last year despite bigger discounts, and Tesla had to throttle down production to avoid building even more inventory.
About 100 Cybertrucks were spotted in the Farmington Hills lot.
Similar Tesla overflow lots were also spotted in Nevada, Florida, and Ohio in recent months.
Tesla’s inventory in the United States can be difficult to track. Some sites track Tesla listings, but the automaker can sometimes post a single listing for multiple vehicles with the same configuration.
Nonetheless, the latest data points to Tesla inventory increasing over the last week, with a surge of Model 3 listings:
Tesla’s overall inventory is higher than it was at the same time last quarter.
Cybertruck inventory has decreased slightly as Tesla has reduced production, but the automaker is still holding over 3,000 unsold Cybertrucks.
Electrek’s Take
Tesla is now offering record-low lease prices and subsidized financing to move its vehicles in the US, and yet, it still has higher inventory this quarter than it did the last, with only two weeks left in the quarter.
This is a problem for Tesla because the US is its last market where things are not completely terrible.
Sales in Canada are now gone. Almost completely. Europe is down roughly 40% even with the new Model Y.
In China, Tesla is currently down approximately 3,000 units compared to Q1, despite having ramped up Model Y production, made all variants available, and offered 0% financing.
At this point, it looks like Tesla is going to deliver between 350,000 and 360,000 vehicles in Q2, despite the Wall Street analyst consensus still being at 410,000 vehicles.
That would be down a whopping 80,000 units compared to the same period last year, and this time, Tesla has no Model Y changeover to blame things on. All that amid surging EV sales globally.
Maybe Tesla shareholders start to wake up and realize that there’s a problem that needs fixing, but I wouldn’t bet on it.
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