The Acura RLX emerged in late 2012 as Honda’s ambitious bid to reshape the luxury sedan landscape. This flagship model brought forward-thinking technology and engineering excellence to a segment dominated by European stalwarts. While it may have flown under the radar for many buyers, the RLX packed enough innovation to make the established players take notice.
Beyond the badge lies a car that dared to be different. The RLX combined Honda’s engineering prowess with Acura’s luxury aspirations, resulting in a unique proposition for discerning buyers. Instead of simply mimicking German rivals, Acura forged its own path with distinctive features and technology.
Progressive Design Language
The RLX’s exterior design spoke a language of subtle sophistication. Its wide stance and taught body lines created an athletic presence without resorting to aggressive styling cues. The signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, arranged in a distinctive array, became an instant recognition point and technological showcase.
The car’s proportions struck an impressive balance between presence and elegance. At 4982mm long and 1890mm wide, the RLX commanded attention while maintaining a sense of grace. The understated use of chrome accents and sharp character lines demonstrated Acura’s restraint in an era of increasingly bold luxury car design.
“After three years with my RLX, I still catch myself admiring its lines in parking lots. The design has aged remarkably well, especially those distinctive LED headlights. It’s understated but has presence.” – Michael Chen, RLX owner since 2014
The attention to aerodynamic efficiency shaped many design elements, from the sleek A-pillars to the carefully sculpted rear end. These weren’t merely aesthetic choices – they contributed to the car’s impressive stability at highway speeds and class-competitive fuel efficiency.
Engineering Excellence
Under the hood, Acura’s engineering team delivered a masterclass in powertrain innovation. The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine produced 310 horsepower, delivering power through a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided robust acceleration while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency.
The true engineering highlight came in the form of the Sport Hybrid model. This variant paired the V6 engine with three electric motors – one integrated with the transmission and two powering the rear wheels. The result was a combined output of 370 horsepower and more importantly, an innovative approach to all-wheel drive handling.
Key performance features include:
- direct-injection V6 engine with VTEC technology;
- precision all-wheel steering system (P-AWS);
- sport hybrid SH-AWD in hybrid models;
- adaptive damper system;
- electric servo brake system.
The RLX’s handling characteristics showcased Acura’s commitment to driving dynamics. The Precision All-Wheel Steer system helped the large sedan feel surprisingly agile in urban environments while maintaining rock-solid stability during high-speed highway cruising.
Pioneering Technology
The RLX served as a technology showcase for Acura, introducing several innovations that would later spread throughout the luxury segment. The dual-screen infotainment setup, while initially controversial, proved to be an efficient way to manage multiple vehicle functions simultaneously.
“The tech in this car was ahead of its time. Features like road departure mitigation and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow were rare in 2013, but my RLX had them all.” – Sarah Martinez, RLX Sport Hybrid owner
Advanced driver assistance systems formed a comprehensive safety package, including collision mitigation braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features worked together seamlessly, providing a confident driving experience without feeling intrusive.
The 14-speaker Krell audio system, available in higher trim levels, delivered exceptional sound quality that rivaled much more expensive luxury vehicles. This attention to audio excellence reflected Acura’s understanding of luxury buyers’ priorities.
Premium Comfort
The RLX’s interior prioritized comfort and functionality over flash. High-quality materials covered every touch point, from the supple leather seats to the soft-touch dashboard surfaces. The cabin’s design emphasized horizontal lines, creating a sense of width and spaciousness.
Front passengers enjoyed 12-way power adjustable seats with heating and ventilation capabilities. The rear seats offered generous legroom thanks to the car’s long wheelbase, making the RLX a genuine five-passenger luxury sedan.
Essential comfort features include:
- tri-zone automatic climate control;
- heated steering wheel;
- power rear sunshade;
- acoustic glass on all windows;
- active noise cancellation system.
The 428-liter trunk provided practical storage space, though hybrid models sacrificed some capacity to accommodate the battery system. Throughout the cabin, thoughtfully placed storage compartments helped keep belongings organized and easily accessible.
Beyond the Ordinary
The Acura RLX represented more than just another luxury sedan – it showcased what was possible when engineers were given free rein to innovate. While it may not have achieved the sales success of its European rivals, it earned respect for its technical excellence and forward-thinking approach.
Looking back, the first-generation RLX stands as a testament to Acura’s willingness to challenge conventional luxury car wisdom. Its blend of advanced technology, exceptional comfort, and engineering innovation created a unique option for buyers seeking something beyond the usual suspects in the luxury sedan segment.
Pros and Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Outstanding hybrid powertrain technology with innovative all-wheel drive system | Conservative exterior styling may not appeal to all luxury buyers |
| Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features | Infotainment system interface can feel dated compared to newer systems |
| Exceptional build quality and reliability | Limited dealer network compared to German competitors |
| Spacious and comfortable interior with high-quality materials | Resale value tends to be lower than European rivals |
| Excellent value proposition compared to similarly equipped competitors | Sport Hybrid model’s trunk space is compromised by battery placement |
| Class-leading fuel efficiency in hybrid form | Some interior materials and design elements feel less premium than competitors |
| Impressive standard feature set across all trim levels | Brand prestige doesn’t match established luxury marques |
The Acura RLX remains an intriguing choice in the used luxury sedan market. While it may lack the brand cachet of its European competitors, it compensates with technical innovation, comprehensive feature set, and proven reliability. For buyers prioritizing substance over status, the RLX offers exceptional value and a unique driving experience that sets it apart from conventional luxury options.