Acura ZDX on Honda Prologue: Engineering, Design, and Driving Experience

In this episode, I sat down with the chief engineer to unravel the intriguing development tale behind the Acura ZDX on the Honda Prologue. The collaboration between Honda and General Motors was a fascinating dance of responsibilities. While GM focused on the platform and powertrain, Honda took charge of the top hat design, ensuring a unique and engaging experience for customers. The interior packaging was a meticulous process of selecting hardware and placing switches thoughtfully to create a familiar Honda atmosphere. The suspension setup, featuring a multi-link design with passive dampers, aimed to deliver a fun and lively driving experience characteristic of Honda.

Moving on to the technical details, the Prologue boasts an 85 kWh Altium battery pack, offering a practical 280 miles of range. The tuning of the suspension and steering was meticulously crafted to embody the essence of a true Honda driving experience. Despite its GM origins, the Prologue manages to exude Honda's distinctive style and ergonomics both inside and out. As we hit the road, the Prologue's compliant suspension and fast steering make it feel like a true Honda product, resonating with the brand's legacy of reliability and performance. The Prologue aims to bridge the gap between Honda's loyal customers and the exciting world of EVs, offering a seamless transition into the future of automotive technology.

As we delve deeper into the Prologue's performance and design, it becomes evident that this EV SUV is a fine blend of luxury and practicality. With a starting price of $48,000 and an elite trim level offering 212 horsepower and 280 miles of range, the Prologue caters to those seeking a premium driving experience. Despite its GM underpinnings, the Prologue manages to carve out its identity as a true Honda product, both in terms of aesthetics and driving dynamics. While not groundbreaking, the Prologue holds its ground in the competitive EV SUV market, offering a familiar yet refined option for Honda enthusiasts venturing into the realm of electric vehicles.