Overview & Reviews

When it comes to flagship luxury sedans, most European and Asian automakers start with a rear-wheel-drive platform and a standard -- or at least optional -- V8. As an outlier, Acura has held fast to its belief that V6 power is more than capable. This is partly mindful of fuel economy concerns and partly due to the fact that Honda simply doesn't make a V8 for any application outside of motorsports.

The new Acura RLX flagship sticks to the V6 formula, and also offers an update to Acura's all-wheel-drive system that first debuted in the RL sedan in 2005. There's no V8, but the base RLX does get a new all-wheel-steering system, while the hybrid model enhances its all-wheel-drive system with electric motors to send additional power to the front and rear wheels. Despite riding atop a 2-inch longer wheelbase than the RL sedan that it replaces, the RLX uses shorter overhangs, a wider stance and LED headlights to achieve a more compact, athletic look than its predecessor.

Acura has always trailed in this upper luxury segment with its powertrain offerings and has relied on its technological advancements to make a compelling argument. The Acura RLX continues that trend, delivering a dizzying array of tech features that include dual LCD displays, smartphone connectivity, hands-free audio, climate control and text messaging, as well as the next generation of the AcuraLink telematics service. And like most Acura vehicles, the RLX offers a high level of refinement and should deliver above-average reliability. It's enough to make Acura relevant again in this competitive luxury class.

Current Acura RLX
The Acura RLX debuts for the 2014 model year in base and Sport Hybrid versions. Both models get a 310-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, but that's really where the similarities end. The base model comes with a traditional six-speed automatic transmission connected to front-wheel drive. A four-wheel-steering system known as P-AWS adjusts the angle of the rear wheels for improved cornering and control.

The Sport Hybrid, meanwhile, produces 377 hp thanks to the addition of three electric motors. One is integrated within the seven-speed automated manual transmission to assist the gasoline V6 in powering the front wheels, while the others power one rear wheel each. Not only does this increase power and fuel efficiency, but it dispenses power where it's needed most for optimum handling. Hence, the term "Sport" Hybrid.

The base RLX comes standard with equipment that's often optional on its competitors, including LED headlights, a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, a power-adjustable steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, a rearview camera and a surround-sound audio system. There are a series of packages, which Acura also deems to be trim levels. The Navigation package's contents are obvious, while the Technology package's highlights include automatic wipers, blind-spot monitoring, an upgraded sound system and leather upholstery (premium vinyl is standard). The Krell Audio package, as the name suggests, includes a Krell premium audio system. Finally, Advance package highlights include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control and a variety of advanced safety features like a collision warning system and lane-keeping assist.

Besides its different powertrain, the Sport Hybrid adds special noise-reducing 19-inch wheels, LED foglights, a head-up display, an electronic gear selector and a special accelerator pedal that encourages economical driving. It also comes standard with the Navigation package, while the Technology and Advance packages are available as well.

In reviews, we've found the base RLX's engine to be quiet and smooth, with ample passing power when you need it. The Sport Hybrid is even better, with an ample well of effortless electric torque that pushes the RLX forward with authority from its rear wheels. The ability to apportion left and right also aids handling, although steering feel is lacking for a car with sporting intentions. The ride quality of both models isn't as smooth as that of most rivals. Highway travel can be bouncy and road imperfections transmit some harshness to the cabin.

As with most current Acura products, the RLX offers a sumptuous interior, including a stitched instrument panel, steering wheel and center console, with wood and metal accents throughout the cabin. Although Acura doesn't offer the powertrain choices of its European rivals, its cabin environments are among the best in the class. Acura says the RLX also offers best-in-class rear seat legroom, with nearly 3 inches more room to spread out than comparable German and Japanese luxury models, and some of the widest front and rear passenger space in the segment.

Although the RLX is technically a new model for 2014, used car shoppers could consider its predecessor, the Acura RL.

User Reviews:

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  RLX Rattles down the road since purchase- no solution - 2014 Acura RLX
  By rlxregrets - March 10 - 9:08 pm

  I noticed rattles coming from front suspension after 500 miles. Brought it to the dealership and they couldnt find anything wrong with it. Dealership reported service rep had the same problem but worse after 7k miles. After another 2k miles the rattles increased in frequency and loudness from all 4 wheels. Dealership replaced front struts which resolved a majority of the rattle but the rear rattle persisted. After another visit, the replaced the rear rattle. The rear is better but now the front is ever present over every bump. When I had a 2014RLX loaner the vehicle had the same issue as both mine and the service reps car. Cant believe engineering isnt all over this issue. Beware of RLX.

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  14 RLX from 11 RL - 2014 Acura RLX
  By rfw3 - November 11 - 8:42 am

  RL coming off lease. Dealer initiated a special offer which was very attractive and quite a bit less expensive that the RL lease. Both vehicles have many pluses and a few minuses. The critical reviews of the RLX in Consumer Reports and Edmunds made me focus in on the suspension and seat comfort. The RLX is our six Acura. Acura reliability is definitely above average. We did experience transmission problems with the RL which took a couple months to sort out. We have had three of four recent AWD vehicles with transmission problems. There is a message there I believe.

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  nice car - 2014 Acura RLX
  By gman124 - August 11 - 8:33 pm

  all in all, a very nice car. but not sure if i would lease it again given the opportunity

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  Better Than It Looks - 2014 Acura RLX
  By texastom2 - August 7 - 7:48 pm

  Coming out of my first Acura a 12 TL AWD, I looked at everything else in its class. My wife got the 13 Lexus GS 350, which is very nice, but I needed more testosterone. I was very surprised when I test drove the RLX as most of the reviews by the experts were average at best.. It is a perfect fit for me. Bigger inside than my TL and the Lexus 350. Lots of room in the back seat. The control panel is much more intuitive than my TL. The ride is plenty smooth, the transmission feels great shifting in all gears, A/C is perfect. I really enjoy driving it. I leased it and did not know until I was handed the keys it comes with a great Roadside Assistance Pkg. basically covers everything.

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  Acura Beats to a Different Drum! And I Like It! - 2014 Acura RLX
  By thkim - July 7 - 5:01 pm

  Acura plays by no one elses rules as far as I can tell. Every competitors car that Acura claims the Acura RLX competes with is either rear wheel drive or all wheel drive. The RLX is front wheel drive with Rear Wheel Precision Steer. Initial marketing reasons would conclude its silly for Acura to say they compete with those other cars, but the truth is when you drive the RLX and feel how wonderfully precise it is and how nice the drive is you have to ask yourself why would I want all wheel drive with more things to break and horrible fuel economy. I have had my RLX now for 1000+ miles and I love it. The more I drive it the more I love it. I have owned Lexus LS430, ES300h, BMW...

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  Huge Step Backwards - 2014 Acura RLX
  By jimvette - June 19 - 10:13 pm

  I just traded my 2009 RL for a 2014 RLX w Navigation. I cannot get over the step backwards in features and quality. The interior could just as easily be for a Corolla. The Radio is inferior to the standard model in 2009. As best as I can tell the only additional feature on the RLX is the X! After a week, I wish I had just stayed with my 2009. I suggest that you stay away feom any of the RLX models except the Advanced package if you dont mind paying its sky high price. Honda should be ashamed of itself for calling this a luxury car. A loaded Civic would come closer.

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  acura finally got it right! - 2014 Acura RLX
  By jtienda - June 7 - 12:33 pm

  Just bought 2014 rlx advance, had 2011 rl the difference is like night and day. WOW! what a great car , we love it. rlx does it all , great ride, tech is state of the art. looks great. jg

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  Great Car - 2017 Acura RLX
  By Bob - August 9 - 1:18 am

  Traded in a 2012 Acura TL . The 2017 Acura RLX is just a perfect Car. It is quiet has a lot of power and a great car for the price. Tested a Lexus GS350 but the Acura RLX is much better.

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  smooth ride - 2017 Acura RLX
  By billy chambers - March 4 - 9:53 pm

  By far the best car i have every owned. Does all the bells and whistles in outstanding manner. Cons a bit pricey for most folks.

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  Unfairly Overlooked and Ridiculously Underrated! - 2017 Acura RLX
  By Acura host - January 26 - 12:26 am

  I test drove just about every luxury sedan in this price range--BMW, Audi, Lexus, Infinity, Porsche (suv), and some midlevel sedans as well, and I can honestly say this is the best one out there. Why? Well,....it depends on what you want. I wanted Quality (Ive always loved the way Acuras drive and last), Safety (NHTSA and IIS best ratings --with suite of safety features), Visibility (you can actually see out of the car and over your shoulder), Dependability (not one issue with it for over a year), and Ease of Driving (the smoothest engine and most maneuverability Ive come across), ---(btw, the steering IS very connected to the road and incredibly sporty for a large sedan). Not to mention--- the roomy, rear seat, , the quiet cabin, the improved suspension, the way it climbs a hill and never downshifts, not to mention its classic, elegant appearance. The RLX is a fantastic vehicle and its a shame that it doesnt get more love in the press. Read reviews from actual owners!! Test drive it yourself, and youll be extremely surprised in the best possible way. Pricing is high, but check around to get a good deal. They are out there. There is nothing sedate about this top notch sedan. It is thee hidden jewel at Acura!