In life, taking shortcuts rarely leads to good outcomes. The new Acura ZDX might prove an exception to the rule.

Seeking a fast path to an electric vehicle, Acura and its parent company, American Honda, partnered with General Motors to use GM's acclaimed Ultium EV platform and component set. The results are the 2024 Acura ZDX and Honda Prologue, and the ZDX is an appealing entry in the two-row electric luxury SUV segment. Acura sources it from GM's Spring Hill, Tennessee, assembly plant, which also produces the Cadillac Lyriq.

Verdict: Acura-specific design and details distinguish the new 2024 ZDX as different from GM-branded electric SUVs. Still, those in the know will identify GM-sourced design and components as apparent as the infotainment system and as subtle as the new-car smell. Does that matter? Ultimately, the market will decide, but we like the ZDX.