Pricing: 2010 Acura ZDX

2010 Acura ZDXAcura has announced a starting price of $45,495 for the new ZDX four-door luxury crossover. The sleek, new MDX-based car will be available in three trim packages: base, Technology Package ($49,995) and Advanced Package ($56,045). All models come standard with all-wheel drive and a 300-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine. EPA mileage is estimated at 16/23 city/highway.

Standard features on the base model include a panoramic glass roof, concealed rear door handles, and leather accents on the dash, center console, and door panels. The Technology Package adds a navigation system with voice recognition, real-time traffic and weather, a full display screen, and multi-view rear camera. Also included is an upgraded audio system with a built-in hard drive to store up to 3,500 songs; a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system; and keyless entry with push-button start.

The Advance Package adds a blind-spot information system, adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance system, Integrated Dynamic System (IDS)--which offers a Comfort and Sport setting--and heated leather front seats.

We recently took a ride in the new ZDX and found that style has trumped utility. The fit and finish is first rate, the exterior attractive, and there are a number of interesting features, but the low roof, close quarters, and poor access will have limited appeal even to the targeted affluent empty nesters.