Acura's largest and most luxurious sedan, the midsize RLX distinguishes itself with a bountiful collection of standard technology, as well as outstanding interior room for its class. While the “flagship” RLX might not carry the cachet of its European competitors, Acura’s premium four-door soundly undercuts them in price. The RLX comes in just two trim levels, both of which include the AcuraWatch technology suite of valuable active safety equipment.
What's New for 2017
Little has changed for the 2017 model year, apart from dropping the previous Base trim level. The Technology Package is now standard. A Sport Hybrid RLX with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) will go on sale during the 2017 model year. The Sport Hybrid will combine the 3.5-liter V6 engine with three electric motors (two at the rear).
Choosing Your Acura RLX
The front-drive RLX is powered by a direct-injected 3.5-liter V6 engine that develops 310 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque, matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Every RLX gets Acura's signature “jewel eye” LED headlights, brightly finished 19-inch wheels, and a four-wheel steering system. Called Precision All-Wheel Steer, that system alters rear toe angle to create the effect of rear-wheel steering. Acura claims it will sharpen maneuverability and stability.
Although the RLX is positioned as a midsize luxury sedan, its leather-lined interior comes quite close to full-size dimensions. Fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway (23 mpg combined).
Without a doubt, the RLX's most impressive standard feature is its AcuraWatch safety system, which includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, collision mitigation with automatic braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure and forward collision warnings, road departure mitigation, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Not many vehicles of any sort have such a selection of safety features as standard equipment.
The RLX is offered in two well-equipped trim levels:
Technology Package
In additon to AcuraWatch, the “base” RLX boasts tri-zone automatic climate control with humidity control, 12-way power heated front seats with driver memory, keyless access, dual touchscreens, Bluetooth phone and audio, and a 14-speaker Acura/ELS sound system with satellite and Internet radio. You also get navigation with real-time traffic data, rain-sensing wipers, 19-inch noise-reducing alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The electronic parking brake includes automatic brake hold. The next-generation AcuraLink telematics system is also standard. Pricing starts at $55,370 (destination charge included) and ends there, since no extra-cost options are available.
Advance Package
Adds a bundle of premium equipment such as ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, rear sunshades, front and rear parking sensors, remote start, surround-view cameras, and a premium 14-speaker Krell audio system.
No individual options are offered for the RLX, beyond the usual dealer-installed accessories.
Considering that features such as navigation, premium leather and AcuraWatch come standard, Acura’s RLX is a complete luxury car right out of the box. The Advance package can make the RLX even more luxurious inside, but it's more of an indulgence than a necessity, especially in view of its steep $6,000 premium over the Technology model.
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