The mid-1990s marked a pivotal moment in automotive history when luxury brands began exploring the SUV market. Acura’s first venture into this territory came in the form of the SLX, a vehicle that would lay the groundwork for the brand’s future SUV lineup. Based on the Isuzu Trooper platform, this bold experiment merged rugged capability with premium comfort.
During its brief production run from 1995 to 1997, the SLX stood as Acura’s flagship SUV, targeting buyers who craved both status and substance. While its roots might have been humble, Acura’s touches transformed this capable off-roader into something more refined.
Raw Power Meets Refined Engineering
The heart of the SLX beats with a 3.2-liter V6 engine, producing 190 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant, while not breaking any speed records, delivers smooth acceleration and reliable performance. The four-speed automatic transmission, equipped with both Power Drive and Winter Start modes, handles gear changes with surprising sophistication for its era.
“My ’96 SLX has never let me down. The V6 might be thirsty, but it’s bulletproof. I’ve put 200,000 miles on it, and it still runs like a champ.” – Michael Rodriguez, SLX Owner
The drivetrain’s true character shines through during highway cruising, where the engine settles into a comfortable rhythm. However, fuel economy tells a different story – expect 13 mpg in city driving and 17 mpg on highways, figures that reflect the era’s different priorities.
Conquering Any Terrain
The SLX’s off-road credentials stem from more than just marketing hype. Its standard 4WD system, coupled with a robust frame construction, creates a vehicle equally capable of tackling muddy trails and snowy roads. The elevated ground clearance and thoughtful approach angles make light work of obstacles that would stop lesser vehicles.
Here’s what sets the SLX apart in challenging conditions:
- independent front suspension with torsion bars;
- recirculating ball steering system;
- double-wishbone rear suspension;
- two-speed transfer case.
These features combine to deliver remarkable stability and control, regardless of terrain or weather conditions.
Living Room Comfort, Command Center Function
Step inside the SLX, and you’ll find yourself in a cabin that bridges utility and luxury. The interior accommodates five passengers with genuine leather seating surfaces and wood-grain accents that were hallmarks of 90s luxury vehicles.
“The comfort level is impressive. Even after all these years, the seats remain supportive, and the driving position gives you a commanding view of the road.” – Sarah Chen, Classic SUV Enthusiast
Storage space impresses with 90.2 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded, making the SLX a practical choice for both daily errands and weekend adventures. The elevated seating position and large greenhouse provide excellent visibility, a crucial factor in both urban and off-road environments.
Behind the Wheel
The driving experience perfectly captures the duality of the SLX’s nature. In urban settings, the vehicle maintains composure despite its body-on-frame construction. Steering feels direct, if not particularly sporty, and the brakes deliver consistent performance.
Key performance metrics include:
- 0-60 mph: 11.9 seconds;
- top speed: 112 mph;
- turning radius: 19.7 feet;
- braking distance (60-0 mph): 131 feet.
While these numbers might not impress by today’s standards, they represented competitive performance for a luxury SUV of the mid-1990s.
A Brief But Significant Chapter
The Acura SLX may have had a short production run, but its influence resonates through automotive history. It demonstrated that luxury SUVs could balance capability with comfort, paving the way for future developments in the segment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Robust V6 engine with proven reliability | Thirsty fuel consumption even by 1990s standards |
| Genuine off-road capability with proper 4WD system | Dated four-speed automatic transmission |
| Spacious interior with premium materials | Body roll during aggressive cornering |
| Excellent visibility from elevated driving position | Limited availability of replacement parts |
| Impressive cargo capacity | Relatively slow acceleration |
| Strong towing capabilities | Basic safety features by modern standards |
| Durable body-on-frame construction | Some interior plastics prone to wear |
The Acura SLX represents a fascinating moment in automotive history when luxury brands first began seriously exploring the SUV market. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of later Acura SUVs, it served as a valuable learning experience for the brand and helped shape the direction of luxury SUVs to come.