2017 Acura RLX

by Hall Acura Virginia Beach

Teeming with Tech

Many carmakers claim their wares have the latest technology, but sometimes that tech turns out to just be a gimmick, not providing a substantive improvement to the driving experience.

That’s not the case with the 2017 Acura RLX. This luxury sedan is teeming with tech, but the RLX doesn’t just include gadgetry as an afterthought; it was designed around it. From its sophisticated drivetrain to its user-friendly infotainment system, the 2017 RLX really is a car for people who think technology can make everything better.

Powertrains and Performance

The base RLX comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission (with paddle shifters). The EPA rates it at 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).*

That’s not bad for a big sedan, but what really sets the RLX apart is its standard Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) system, which automatically turns the rear wheels under certain conditions to give this luxury barge the nimble handling of a much smaller car.

Acura also offers the RLX Sport Hybrid, which pairs the aforementioned V6 with a three-motor hybrid system, with power being sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed automated manual transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). Total system output is rated at 377 hp and 341 lb-ft of torque. The EPA rates this powertrain at 29 mpg combined (29 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).*

Features and Trims

The 2017 Acura RLX is a four-door, five-seat sedan. Prices start at $54,450 for the tech, front-wheel drive non-hybrid version.**

That price buys a pretty generous compliment of standard equipment, including a power moonroof, electric tilt and telescoping steering column, heated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control.

Acura doesn’t do multiple trim levels for the RLX, but there are more features available in multiple option packages. The Technology package is the entry-level package (the Navigation package is no longer offered) and includes the Acura Navigation System™, a Color Multi-Information Display, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding side-view mirrors, and a leather-trimmed interior with heated front seats and driver memory. A 14-speaker Acura/ELS® Audio System comes standard; a Krell® Premium Audio System is also available.

In addition to all of those features, the Advance package includes a 360-degree camera system, ventilated front seats, heated rear (outboard) seats, and auto-dimming side-view mirrors.

Finally, the RLX Sport Hybrid comes standard with the Technology package and can be upgraded to the Advance package. A head-up display is an exclusive standard feature for the Sport Hybrid.

Design

The 2017 Acura RLX clothes its copious technology in styling that is appropriately modern. It’s the best interpretation of Acura’s current styling theme so far, with looks that are restrained, but not boring.

At the front, Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights flank a bold shield-shaped grille, and they’re not the only LEDs on this car. All of the lighting on the RLX—including the lights on the door handles—is comprised of LEDs.

The interior is equally well-styled. It’s a pleasing blend of analog gauges and trendy center-stack display screens, with polished wood and metal trim. A standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add a touch of sportiness, while 12-way power driver’s and front passenger’s seats should help keep occupants in place during vigorous cornering.

Safety

Acura’s tech-heavy approach applies to safety equipment as well. The 2017 Acura RLX comes standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of driver assistance aids, including forward collision warning and lane-departure warning systems, blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist, road departure intervention, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2017 RLX also comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control systems, and front, front-side, side-curtain, and driver’s knee airbags.

Bottom Line

The 2017 Acura RLX is a luxury sedan for the tech-savvy buyer. From its powertrain and chassis to infotainment and safety systems, the RLX is built around the latest tech. It makes a big impact, too, improving nearly every aspect of the driving experience and making the RLX quite a contender in the luxury-car arena.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit Hall Acura Virginia Beach at 3200 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452.

*Based on 2017 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors.

**Prices shown are Acura suggested retail prices only and do not include taxes, license or destination and handling charge. Destination & Handling charge is $950 for sedans and $975 for SUVs. Acura vehicle accessory costs, labor and installation vary. Dealers set their own prices. Please consult your selected dealer.

Image: Acura