What’s The Most Cursed Automotive Nameplate?

Key Takeaways

• The Acura ZDX is a prime example of a cursed automotive nameplate, with two failed generations.
• The Edsel is another classic example of a doomed car brand, launched in 1957 and discontinued in 1959.
• Some car models are doomed from the start, with poor sales and eventual discontinuation.
• Acura’s decision to revive the ZDX nameplate for an electric crossover was met with poor sales.
• The ZDX was discontinued after just one model year, with only 7,391 units sold.

What Makes a Nameplate Cursed?

A nameplate is considered cursed when it is associated with a car model that has failed to gain traction in the market, resulting in poor sales and eventual discontinuation. In the case of the Acura ZDX, the nameplate has been used for two separate generations, both of which have failed to succeed.

The Edsel is another classic example of a cursed nameplate, launched in 1957 and discontinued in 1959. Despite its initial hype, the Edsel was met with poor sales and was eventually phased out.

The Acura ZDX: A Prime Example of a Cursed Nameplate

The Acura ZDX is a prime example of a cursed nameplate, with two failed generations. The first generation was launched in 2009 and was met with poor sales, with only 7,191 units sold by the time production ended in 2013.

Acura decided to revive the ZDX nameplate for an electric crossover, but the decision was met with poor sales. The second-generation ZDX was launched in 2024, but it only managed to sell 7,391 units before being discontinued in 2025.

Poor Sales and Discontinuation

Poor sales and discontinuation are common themes among cursed nameplates. The Edsel, for example, was discontinued in 1959 after just two years of production. The Acura ZDX, on the other hand, was discontinued after just one model year.

In both cases, the poor sales and discontinuation can be attributed to a combination of factors, including poor marketing, lack of innovation, and changing consumer preferences.

What’s Next for Acura?

Despite the failure of the ZDX, Acura is unlikely to give up on the electric vehicle market. The company has announced plans to launch several new EV models in the coming years, including a revamped version of the NSX.

However, the question remains: will Acura be able to shake off the curse of the ZDX and find success in the EV market? Only time will tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most cursed automotive nameplate?

A: The Acura ZDX is a prime example of a cursed nameplate, with two failed generations. However, other nameplates, such as the Edsel, could also be considered cursed.

Q: Why was the Acura ZDX discontinued?

A: The Acura ZDX was discontinued due to poor sales, with only 7,391 units sold in its first year of production.

Q: Will Acura continue to produce electric vehicles?

A: Yes, Acura has announced plans to launch several new EV models in the coming years, despite the failure of the ZDX.