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Why You Should Buy An Acura ZDX Instead Of A Cadillac Lyriq

It would make perfect sense to cross-shop the Cadillac Lyriq with the Acura ZDX. Both of these electric luxury crossovers ride on the BEV3 platform with GM motors and batteries. In developing the ZDX using GM architecture, Acura had its own input in terms of exterior and interior design, suspension tuning, and the overall personality of the vehicle.

These crossovers have a lot in common, but here are five reasons the Acura ZDX might be the better EV for you compared to the Cadillac Lyriq.

Acura ZDX brakes.

Performance-Focused

The horsepower ratings of the Cadillac Lyriq and Acura ZDX are pretty similar when comparing the same powertrains. However, the Acura ZDX Type S has 544 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor Lyriq produces 450 pound-feet of twist. That’s a significant difference giving the ZDX Type S a quick 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than the quickest Lyriq. Until the Lyriq-V comes out for the 2026 model year, the ZDX Type S is the sporty choice between these two luxury EVs, while the Lyriq has more of an emphasis on refined comfort.

Acura ZDX rear three-quarter angle.

Fewer Software And Battery Issues

The Acura ZDX seemingly hasn’t suffered the same software bugs or battery drain issues as the Cadillac Lyriq. For the Lyriq, 2024 models were shipped with outdated software, 2023 models needed a software configuration management update, and over-the-air updates caused battery drain issues. The Acura ZDX hasn’t been perfect; it had a brake system recall and issues with the Acura EV app. But it appears that early adopters of the Lyriq have had a few more headaches.

Acura ZDX A-Spec interior.

Better Financing

If you’re looking to finance or lease, the Acura ZDX has some advantages over the Cadillac Lyriq. As of this writing, well-qualified shoppers can lease an Acura ZDX for as little as $489/month for 36 months, with $5,999 due at signing. Meanwhile, the best Lyriq lease deal is $599/month for 36 months, with $4,729 due at signing. Also, there’s a 0 percent finance deal on the ZDX, but the best Lyriq financing is 3.9 percent.

Acura ZDX Type S driver side profile.

Towing

The Cadillac Lyriq and Acura ZDX have the same maximum tow rating of 3,500 pounds. However, every ZDX trim and configuration has that rating. The AWD-equipped Lyriq can tow 3,500 pounds, but GM doesn’t recommend towing at all with a single-motor, RWD Lyriq. We don’t think Lyriq and ZDX owners do a lot of towing anyway, but it’s something to consider if you’re in the market for a midsize electric luxury crossover.

Acura ZDX spy shot.

Conventional Charge Port Door

The Cadillac Lyriq’s motorized charge port door is pretty slick, but it will be challenged in cold climates that get snowy and icy in winter. Meanwhile, the Acura ZDX has a more conventional charge port door, which is not unlike a regular gas door. This simplicity can provide a little extra peace of mind if you’re worried about ice or electrical gremlins keeping the charging door shut.

George is an automotive journalist with soft spots for classic GM muscle cars, Corvettes, and Geo.

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Comments

  1. Who are you guys working for ?

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    1. Seems like the authors know how to bait the commenters and it’s been working nearly every time.

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    2. It’s literally on a GM platform lol.

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  2. Nice job GM, share all the technology and parts with Honda, because “most customers don’t cross shop GM and Honda”…Funny how the Prologue out sold the Blazer EV and the Acura is getting better reviews and cheaper than the Caddy

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    1. If the Honda is getting better reviews than the Blazer then it really shows the bias of whatever news media you read. The two are literally the exact same vehicles with only CarPlay/AndroidAuto being the difference and as much as it is a popular feature, doesn’t warrant vastly better reviews for literally the same car. Was it Consumer Reports you read because if it was, I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised.

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    2. This was one of a series of partnerships with Honda. Other cooperative efforts were autonomous (Cruise) and fuel cells. The EV partnership was ended, probably for the same reason GM canned the ‘Ultium’ moniker and is diversifying its battery formats and chemistries – Ultium is already outdated. The other partnerships were to continue, but hasn’t Cruise been completely canned? And with the recent Honda-Nissan(-Mitsubishi) news, that would seem to leave GM out.
      In return, GM got investment and was supposed to get Honda expertise (and sourcing?) of small cars that Honda is much better at than GM.

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    3. Never seen a ev blazer commercial or billboard in nyc but have seen countless Prologue ev billboards , internet ads and tv ads in nyc

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    4. A friend that works at the local Honda dealer told me the best selling ultium based vehicle is the Honda Proloque. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto definitely plays a factor. Who wants to pay for OnStar and internet access when your phone handles those tasks already?
      As a Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Camaro owner, Honda service trumps Chevrolet, build quality is better w/ the Honda, the Honda is more user friendly, and quite frankly, GM doesn’t seem to care about it’s customers. Based on my experiences with Honda and GM, I’d buy the Proloque over the Blazer EV and the ZDX over the Lyriq.

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  3. Don’t buy either one. Save your money for something worthwhile.

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    1. Yeah, the worst thing about the Cadillac is the styling. But this thing is no improvement.

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  4. Don’t buy an EV, period.

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  5. That interior is a mess compared to the Lyric’s.

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    1. So true. Why doesn’t this article talk about Lyriq advantages, such as a VASTLY more luxurious interior with much nicer materials. And likely a better ride.

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  6. WELL this should tell you something about the mind set of a “GM” sponsored blog—telling you to buy a “non” GM product? GM must really love this.

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    1. GM sponsored? How?

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    2. From this website:

      Notes Of (Possible) Interest
      GM Authority is owned and operated by Motrolix LLC. In addition to GM Authority, Motrolix also owns and operates the following properties:
      – Ford Authority
      – Cadillac Society
      GM Authority is not owned, operated, supported, or otherwise condoned by General Motors, its brands, subsidiaries, or partners.

      Reply
  7. I bought a Cadillac Lyriq. It is excellent and the Super Cruise is outstanding. The Cadillac dealership provides first class service.

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  8. Why is The GM Authority bringing up the Acura ZDX? It does not matter who owns the GM Authority. This should be positive comments related to all GM products unless there is something very wrong with a specific part or vehicle. The same goes for running out of articles to show, such as Old GM Iron from yesteryear. Maybe the people you have hired to write these articles should be replaced.

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  9. No comparison. The Lyric is so much sharper looking inside and out.

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  10. The interior of Acura looks cheap and who ever thought an Acura was in the luxury class…?

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  11. If you cross border Canada/ USA , Acura/Honda US do not have a reciprocal agreement with Acura/Honda Canada for warranty. Good luck with tat !

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  12. Acura is offering 30k off MRSP per Inside EVs. GM is making money off designing, engineering and building vehicles for Honda/Acura which has helped GM achieve positive variable gross margins on its EVs in Q4 of this year.

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  13. Also, the Acura has Apple Play and Android Auto compatibility….

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  14. Both vehicles are built on the same assembly line by gm at Springhill Manufacturing in Tennessee, aka old Saturn plant.

    Reply

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