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2024 Acura ZDX vs Mercedes-Benz EQB: What To Choose?
Acura’s electric journey revisits history with the 2024 ZDX SUV, departing from the original’s gas-driven fastback design. The new ZDX embraces a conventional two-box SUV layout, showcasing a captivating aesthetic with a floating roof, sleek body, and illuminated faux grille. Developed through a collaboration between Acura’s parent, Honda, and General Motors, the revived ZDX incorporates GM’s Ultium battery technology. Initial speculation suggested that the Acura ZDX would share electric powertrains with the Cadillac Lyriq, produced at GM’s Tennessee plant. On the EV landscape, the Mercedes-Benz EQB stands as a transition-friendly option, closely resembling its gasoline counterpart, the GLB SUV. Swapping the engine for an electrified powertrain, the EQB maintains a practical cabin, albeit with a slightly reduced cargo area due to the battery. Despite having a lower all-electric range, the EQB offers an effortless electric driving experience, compensating for the need for more frequent charging.
| Acura ZDX | Mercedes-Benz EQB | |
| Dimensions | 197.7 in x 77.0 in x 64.4 in | 184.4 in x 72.2 in x 65.6 in |
| Motor | permanent-magnet AC | permanent-magnet AC |
| Horsepower | 500 hp | 288 hp |
| Torque | NA | 384 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | NA | 5.4 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA | NA |
| Top-Speed | NA | 100 mph |
Acura ZDX
Motor & Performance
Let’s shift our attention to the ZDX lineup. We start with the A-Spec model, featuring a robust 340 horsepower rear-wheel-drive motor. If desired, this model provides an option for a second motor. Which, while not boosting the overall horsepower, adds the capability of all-wheel drive. However, what truly seizes our focus is the exhilarating Type S iteration. This version arrives standard with dual motors and all-wheel drive. The electric motors in the Type S variant have been meticulously calibrated to offer a remarkable combined output of 500 horsepower.
Price & Mileage
We highly recommend considering the range-topping Type S model. Leveraging our insights into the Cadillac Lyriq, which shares a platform with the ZDX, we expect the Type S variant to offer the dynamic acceleration that electric vehicle enthusiasts often desire. With a starting price of $60,000 for the ZDX, it positions itself attractively. While we await the EPA’s official MPGe estimates for the ZDX, we foresee them aligning closely with Lyriq’s impressive numbers. The Lyriq achieves remarkable ratings of up to 95 MPGe in city conditions and 82 MPGe during highway cruising. This similarity suggests the ZDX will likely deliver competitive efficiency.
Acceleration & Features
GM’s Ultium battery technology takes center stage in the ZDX, adopting the same 102.0-kWh battery pack as the Lyriq, resulting in an astounding driving range of up to 325 miles for the A-Spec variant. Meanwhile, the Type S model maintains a respectable range of 288 miles per charge. Equipped with DC fast charging as standard, the ZDX boasts rapid charging capabilities of up to 190 kW, ensuring quick power top-ups. The heart of the ZDX’s dashboard showcases an impressive 11.3-inch infotainment display that radiates a strong sense of pride. Complementing this feature, snugly positioned within the binnacle just ahead of the steering wheel, is a second 11.0-inch gauge-cluster display. Notably, the seamless integration of standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto further enhances the ZDX’s tech-savvy appeal.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
Motor & Performance
The introductory variant of the EQB is the EQB250+, showcasing a 188-hp electric motor and front-wheel drive. Opting for the EQB300 brings forth all-wheel drive and a marginally more potent 225-hp electric powertrain. For those seeking the swiftest EQB, the optimal choice lies with the dual-motor EQB350, boasting a robust 288 horsepower. While the EQB shares chassis elements with the gasoline-driven GLB, its weight is notably higher, resulting in a more stable and composed ride quality. During a test of the EQB350, it exhibited superior acceleration compared to the GLB250 and approached the performance of the 302-hp AMG GLB35.
Price & Mileage
The EQB comes in three variations, yet they share remarkable similarities. Among these options, the EQB300 with 225 horsepower stands out as a well-rounded choice, boasting an estimated range of up to 242 miles on a single charge. Starting at a base price of $53,900, the Mercedes-Benz EQB provides diverse options. The EQB350, on the other hand, has received an EPA rating of up to 98 MPGe in city conditions and 93 MPGe on highways.
Acceleration & Features
During a test track session, the EQB350 demonstrated its prowess by reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds—just half a second shy of the GLB35’s performance, yet marginally quicker than the Audi Q4 e-tron. Inside the EQB, you’ll come across Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system in full view, boasting a touchscreen, voice command capabilities, and conveniently placed steering-wheel controls for managing audio, navigation, and various functions. While the interface offers convenience, it occasionally presents frustration, especially with its overly enthusiastic voice-assistant that tends to appear at the mere mention of “Mercedes.” On the navigation front, there’s a feature thoughtfully designed to aid drivers in locating EV charging stations with greater ease.