Acura has redesigned its luxury sedan, the Acura RLX. The 2018 version comes in two trim levels, the basic P-AWS with front-wheel-drive and an upgraded Sports Hybrid version (SH-AWD) with all-wheel-drive.
Both the models have been restyled with newly designed exterior having LED headlights and patterned grills. Acura has also increased the interior space for this version.
The prices for the cars start at $54900 for the P-AWS model and rises to $61990 for the Sports Hybrid model.
Go on a Reliable drive
The Acura RLX 2018 review conveys that RLX models run on 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine delivering 310 horsepower. The 10-speed automatic transmission has improved the acceleration.
The Sports Hybrid model packs three electric motors and returns 377 horsepower combined. The SH-AWD has a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that makes driving along winding mountain roads easier.
Both the models have independent rear-wheel steering and can turn corners effortlessly.
Acura has fallen short to improve the performance of the brake and steering for the 2018 RLX version. The suspension efficiently dampens shocks from bumpers making the drive smoother. Acura RLX 2018 delivers above-average handling and the smooth powertrains improve drivability. It also offers decent mileage with EPA ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the basic model.
Performance wise Acura has done a good job with its 2018 RLX models and is reliable enough to be used for everyday ride.
RLX gives you your space
Acura RLX 2018 models have a roomier interior than the previous versions. However, while the interiors are functional they are not made too fancy. Although the sloping roof may have compromised the headspace a little, there is enough rear legroom and elbow and shoulder room.
With adjustable seats and limited bolstering on the sides, there is enough room for drivers of any shape and size.
The two-screen infotainment system is mostly average. The touchscreen has a better resolution than the push-knob one. The SH-AWD model has the Krell Audio system, heated rear seats, and cool front seats.
The leather upholstery for the seats feels standard and looks decent, if not stylish. The models come with AcuraWatch technologies with wave radar and multiple cameras with sensing facilities.
RLX has a Redesigned Exterior
Acura has mainly redesigned the exterior of the 2018 RLX models. The newer design includes mesh grills, sharper corners, and jewel-eyed LED headlamps. A muscular engine hood with creased design contributes to the stylish exterior.
The sedan looks every bit a luxury vehicle with large chrome inserts and stylish LED taillights. The cars also come with freshly designed rear bumper and decklid. The overall length of the car has increased by at least 2 inches.
By and large, the exterior of Acura RLX 2018 has the old sedan impression with a more revamped appearance, thus making it more attractive than the previous versions.
This will be one of the safest cars you drive
Acura RLX 2018 models score best when safety is considered. It fulfills all the standard safety requirements with surround view and multi-view cameras, automatic emergency brake with warnings in case of probable forward collisions, adaptive cruise control, and warning for changing lanes. It also comes with Traffic Jam Assist which allows autonomous driving, front and rear parking sensor and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
There are also improved safety features like blind spot monitoring and head up display.
Acura RLX 2018 is way ahead of its contemporaries in safety with a five-star score from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It has also earned top scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety after withstanding five crash tests. It has also earned the second-best score in headlight performance test.
Acura has only missed out on the passenger side small overlap test. However, it still managed to feature as the IIHS 2018 Top Safety Pick.
Final Verdict on Acura RLX
Acura RLX 2018 is an average-performing luxury sedan when compared to similarly ranged cars by BMW, Mercedes Benz, and Audi. But the upgraded styling can earn some points with the buyers and the standard safety features can make it a reliable car.
Although you may get disappointed if you expect an exceptional design or an excellent performance, Acura RLX 2018 can be considered a value for money due to an affordable price range. It may appeal to customers who value safety and average driving performance over style.
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