The new Acura ZDX 4-door sport coupe is likely among the most bold and innovative new crossover packages in recent memory. It's an important car for Acura if only to demonstrate that the brand is energized and is taking risks to bring this gorgeous car to market.

This is truly a "halo" car - so named for the magical effect they have on sales for every car in the brand lineup. Even though ZDX sales may not be in the tens of thousands, we suspect the buzz its created is driving Acura sales of all models.

The ZDX is the flagship example of a new genre of crossovers that seek to make a 4-door appear more like a 2-door coupe. The overall styling result is sleek and sexy - with more room inside than you'd expect, and opportunities for cool stuff like the ZDX's full glass roofline and fastback look. You'll age another decade before many more cars this nice make it to production.

Not exactly an entry-level car, the ZDX starts at $45,645. Our test vehicle was equipped with the Technology package - well worth the extra $4,500., it adds a long list of high-tech features including GPS Navigation, Surround Sound, Premium leather, and every other digital gizmo you'd expect and want for the price.

We put the 2011 Acura ZDX 4-door coupe to the test recently in Seattle, Washington. The Pacific Northwest offers some of the best roads and weather conditions for an all-around road-test, and the Acura ZDX was a pleasure to drive.

The mostly wet and cold conditions just outside the car seemed a continent away as the ZDX kept us warm, dry and comfortable. More importantly, its confident road manners and sure-footedness were remarkable.

On every test-drive, we look for some "Ah, Hah!" moments, and the ZDX served them up in plenty. The all-wheel-drive system was great, but it really shined bright when we were boarding a Seattle car ferry, and the steel decks were slick with rain. As we climbed one deck to the next, the ZDX was sure-footed and stable, with precise steering to board and then drive-away upon arrival.

Other surprises for us included the cavernous cargo carrying ability, quiet cabin, and amazing sound system. Without a doubt, we wanted for nothing, and we felt as if the only comparable car in this class would cost many thousands more than the ZDX. I'd drive this car from Seattle to New York without one second of hesitation, but rather glad anticipation. The car wants for nothing but the open road.

It's not often that such good-looks are so well mannered on the road and fun to drive. The Acura's powerful 300-hp, 3.7-liter VTEC V-6 engine and smooth driveline scoot the ZDX down the road quickly and confidently.

Overall, it's among the coolest packages on the road, and it's physical proof that Acura is once again busy innovating great cars that we love to drive.

- by Vince Bodiford