The all-new 2010 ZDX “four-door sports coupe” is set to go on sale on December 15 with a base sticker price starting of $46,305, Acura announced this week.  The ZDX will be available in three trim packages: the ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package ($50,805), and the ZDX with Advance Package ($56,855).

Standard features on the ZDX include a panoramic glass roof, concealed rear door handles, and a hand-stitched leather dash, center console and door panels. Powering comes from a 3.7-liter V6 that generates 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque while achieving a “class-leading” fuel economy of 16/23 mpg. Standard on every ZDX is Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

For $4500, the technology package adds a Navigation System with Voice Recognition, real-time traffic with traffic rerouting, real-time weather and a rear camera. Additionally, the Technology Package includes an upgraded Acura/ELS Surround® 415-watt Premium Audio System with a 15-gigabyte hard disk drive media storage system (that allows the ZDX owner to download and store up to 3,500 songs), a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system and Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and push button ignition).

In addition to the features found in the Technology Package, the Advance Package adds a new blind spot information system (BSI), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), an Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) active damper system, heated and ventilated front seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces, premium brushed tricot headliner material and a sport steering wheel. All for the low, low price of $6050.

The ZDX is based on the successful MDX SUV, but will be priced well above the MDX, which starts at about $41,000.  How does Acura justify the higher price?  They have the same engine, transmission and all-wheel drive system.  The MDX also has 3 rows standard; the ZDX has 2.  Maybe they can charge more because it’s a new design that’s so good looking….not.  Maybe it’s just me, but I needed to write this before my Thanksgiving turkey just to make sure I could keep it down.  Fugly.  Acura says, “…the ZDX has already generated a tremendous amount of excitement since its world debut at the New York Auto Show in April, thanks to its stunning coupe-like styling…”  Please.  The only excitement is from The Bulimics of America Society. And calling it “coupe-like” is nothing short of drug-induced.  I give the designers and management credit for trying something new, but this design just doesn’t work, especially at such a premium against the much-loved and successful MDX.  Acura’s sales target is about 6000/year, which is a modest number, but might be overly optimistic.

That’s what I think - how about you?  Please leave your comments below.  Happy Thanksgiving!

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