Acura Sends Off ZDX with a Facelift for its Final Year, Should we Say Good Riddance?

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2012 |

The Acura ZDX is a mid-size, luxury crossover that was launched in 2009 with the goal of rivaling the successful BMW X6. And we all know how that turned out; the ZDX failed miserably in its mission, shifting only 1,564 units in 2011 and a mere 416 in the first half of 2012.If Acura's head honchos gave it the boot, everyone would understand the reasoning behind such a decision. In much the same way, it would make sense to revamp it in order to generate customer interest and higher sales, as it had previously said.
Doing both at the same time, though, is something rather unusual…
The official press release reads as follows:
“The innovative and stylish Acura ZDX crossover vehicle, introduced in 2009, will receive numerous styling and technology enhancements for the 2013 model year, which will be the final year on the market for ZDX as the Acura brand sharpens its focus on new models and core products.”
Of course, the company didn’t pull out all the stops for a model, which by its own admission, is already on the death row.
The 2013 MY ZDX gets a redesigned grille, dark wheel accents, front and rear parking sensors, power folding side mirrors, safety features like Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning systems.
Equipment is lavish, with a 435-watt, 10-speaker audio system sporting a 15 GB hard-disk drive, an 8-inch screen with a voice-recognition capable navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry and engine start and heated and ventilated front seats with perforated “Milano” leather upholstery.
"People shopping for a luxury crossover vehicle will find the Acura ZDX an even more attractive product", said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Honda’s Acura division.
On the other hand, Acura will probably understand if buyers won't come rushing in on its showrooms to purchase its "even more attractive product" and the 416 who have already bought the “old” model this year won't be too willing to trade in either.
In any case, the 2013 MY ZDX goes on sale on October 19 with an MSRP of US$50,920, plus an US$895 destination charge.
So what do you say; will you miss the ZDX or do you think Acura did the right thing? Share your answers in the comments after the break.

By Andrew Tsaousis

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