Acura has officially pulled the plug on its ZDX electric SUV, but the brand isn’t walking away from EVs. In fact, it’s already preparing the launch of its next big project,an all-new, fully in-house–built electric model called the Acura RSX.
Why the Acura ZDX Is Ending
The Acura ZDX made headlines when it launched as the brand’s first electric vehicle. On paper, it seemed like a strong entry into the EV market: it had quick acceleration, modern technology, and plenty of space for passengers. But there was always one big catch: it wasn’t really an Acura at its core.
The ZDX was built on a General Motors platform and used GM’s Ultium battery technology, electronics, and even parts of the cabin design. While this partnership helped Acura enter the EV space more quickly, many drivers and reviewers felt that it lacked the identity and refinement that typically define Honda and Acura vehicles.
Now, Acura has confirmed that production of the ZDX has ended. The brand has not gone into specific detail, but it did mention “market conditions” as a factor. The announcement also comes just days before the federal EV tax credit program officially ends. This timing is important because the ZDX was eligible for a $7,500 tax credit, which made it more affordable. Without that incentive, selling the ZDX would have been much more difficult.
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Why Tariffs Weren’t the Issue
Some people speculated tariffs might have played a role, but that’s not the case. Even though Acura is a Japanese brand, the ZDX was built in the United States at the same factory as the Chevrolet Blazer EV and the Honda Prologue. That means it wasn’t affected by the new tariffs placed on imported Japanese EVs. The bigger challenge was simply losing that $7,500 price advantage from federal credits.
What This Means for the Honda Prologue
The ZDX shares its platform with the Honda Prologue, which is also based on GM’s technology. Naturally, fans wondered whether Honda might also end production of the Prologue. However, Honda has confirmed that the Prologue will continue to be sold, at least for the time being.
Acura’s New Plan: The RSX EV
While the ZDX is gone, Acura isn’t stepping away from electric vehicles. Instead, it’s turning all its attention toward the Acura RSX, which could be the brand’s true breakthrough EV.
The RSX was first shown as a prototype in August and is a very different story from the ZDX. This time, Acura won’t be relying on GM. The RSX is a Honda-built SUV from the ground up. It’s part of Honda’s new “Honda 0 Series,” a global lineup of next-generation EVs being developed at Honda’s new EV Hub in Ohio.
The RSX will bring several improvements that drivers have been asking for. It will feature Honda’s own battery technology, a brand-new infotainment system called the Asimo operating system, advanced driver assistance features (ADAS), and more ways to personalize the driving experience. Unlike the ZDX, this SUV will be a true Acura product, inside and out.
When Will the RSX Arrive?
Production of the Acura RSX is expected to begin in 2026. However, industry insiders believe we may get our first look at the near-final version much sooner, possibly at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
For Acura, the end of the ZDX marks both a setback and a fresh opportunity. While the ZDX helped the brand dip its toes into the EV market, the RSX is shaping up to be the real test of Acura’s electric future.
FAQS
Why did the ZDX EV get canceled?
The ZDX was heavily dependent on the $7,500 federal EV tax credit to stay affordable. With that credit ending soon, sales would have dropped, making it tough to keep the SUV in production.
Is the Honda Prologue also being canceled?
No. Even though the Prologue shares the same platform as the ZDX, Honda has confirmed it will continue production.
Was the ZDX affected by tariffs?
No. The ZDX was built in the U.S., so it was not impacted by the new tariffs on imported Japanese EVs. The decision to end it had more to do with the tax credit ending and overall market conditions.
What electric SUV will replace the ZDX?
The RSX is set to take its place. Unlike the ZDX, it will be fully engineered and built by Acura itself, starting production in 2026.
When will the Acura RSX EV be available?
Production should begin in 2026, but a preview model may be revealed as early as the Los Angeles Auto Show later this year.
What makes the RSX different from the ZDX?
The RSX is an in-house design, meaning the brand controls the battery, platform, and technology. This should solve many of the concerns people had with the ZDX being too similar to other GM-based EVs.
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