Honda unveils Acura ZDX concept in New York
Honda has today unveiled a prototype of the provocative Acura ZDX luxury four-door sports coupe at the New York International Auto Show.
The production version of the dramatically styled prototype goes on-sale in the US some time towards the middle of the third-quarter of 2009.
The ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility.
“The ZDX is truly a luxury performance coupe - plus,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “The emotional coupe styling coupled with a luxurious and dramatic interior and surprising versatility, allows the ZDX to define its own segment and attract an entirely new customer.”
The ZDX is designed to break new ground for Acura in the areas of provocative styling, contemporary luxury and meticulous refinement.
With its sensuous curves, sharply raked roofline and flared wheel arches, the ZDX blurs the distinction between coupe, sedan and sport utility vehicle.
Clean, flowing lines start from the headlights and run the length of the car, accentuating the cars presence and grace. In keeping with the coupe-inspired styling, the rear door handles are cleverly concealed in the C-pillar.
The all-glass tailgate opens wide to reveal a highly functional cargo space with integrated under-floor storage. The prototype is finished off with stylish dual chrome exhaust outlets and 9-spoke machined wheels fitted with 20-inch Michelin tyres.
“From the very first sketch of the ZDX, I wanted to create an emotional vehicle that challenged conventional thinking of what a sports coupe should be,” said Michelle Christensen, ZDX exterior designer. “My goal was to create a strikingly beautiful exterior, and use that attraction to help draw you into the rich interior.”
Inside, the ZDX exudes modern luxury while focusing on pampering the front passengers. The cabin is enveloped in leather, which gives the interior a luxurious and inviting feel.
The hand-stitched leather dash and instrument panel sweep down to form a dual cockpit layout, creating a personal and intimate experience for the front seat occupants. The premium leather seats are highly bolstered to support the passengers during sporty driving and at the same time provide comfort during a long getaway.
A black monochromatic center stack leads to the textured metallic center console, which complements the black and pearl white leather trim. The thick leather wrapped steering wheel provides ample grip and is framed by racing-inspired paddle shifters for the ultimate in driver control. The cabin is enclosed by a panoramic glass roof which runs the entire length of the vehicle.
Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, and coupled to a all-new six-speed transmission, the ZDX will also feature Honda's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, as seen in the Honda Legend.
The ZDX will also be available with the latest technologies including a blind spot information system, multi-view rear camera, satellite navigation with voice recognition, real-time traffic and weather updates, surround sound stereo and Bluetooth connectivity.
Video: ‘Top Gear Australia’ first preview and release date
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