The 2017 Acura RLX Sedan is one of the vehicles that combine power and luxury. Moreover, there is enough space for the passengers on both front and rear seats, whereas the standard features that are offered make it outstanding. On the other hand, the price is higher compared to some German sedans. The steering is not that great either, but let’s analyze this car into greater detail.
Powertrain
There is only one engine option that is offered for the 2017 Acura RLX Sedan – a 3.5-liter V6 unit. This unit produces 310 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque, which means that it definitely doesn’t lack power. The unit comes together with a six-speed automatic gearbox. The hybrid version is also an option, and this powerplant is paired with three electric motors for a combined output of 377 hp and 341 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain in the hybrid is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
The engine is strong and refined – two characteristics that set it apart from competitors. You won’t make a mistake if you buy the 2017 Acura RLX sedan because it is terrific for everyday commuting. However, acceleration is not that brilliant, and it is an aspect which needs to be enhanced. According to the EPA estimates the fuel economy of the standard RLX is 30 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in the city. On the other hand, the hybrid’s fuel economy is 29 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway.
Read more: 2017 Acura NSX Type R
Driving impression
There is no doubt that the engine under the hood of the 2017 Acura RLX is powerful enough for everyday errands. What are downsides is that the rivals offer more engine options whereas the driving the RLX is not as entertaining as we thought it would be. The regular version is a bit too firm, whereas the hybrid model is sometimes unsteady if the road is not smooth enough. What improves driving is Precision All-Wheel Steering in the RLX and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive in the hybrid model. With these, the handling is more confident, and the driver has better control of the vehicle, but this comes as premium extra meaning you will need to pay for it dearly.
Exterior and Interior
The 2017 Acura RLX Sedan is a good-looking car, but the design is too simple, and there is nothing for what we can say that it is outstanding. Don’t get us wrong, we realize that it was not easy to assemble the RLX and there are some beautiful parts such as 10 LED lighting elements in the headlights. A power roof is available within the range, and the new model is slightly wider than the previous one.
First of all, due to the width expansion, there is more room in the interior. Five people can sit comfortably and even in the base trim, high-quality materials are used. For the rear seat passengers, there are 38.8 inches of legroom whereas the trunk capacity is 15 cubic feet. On the other hand, the hybrid offers only 11.6 cubic feet.
What is unique in the Acura is the Krell audio package. It is a part of the Advanced Package and the sound system consists of 14 speakers which produce a sound of tremendous quality. Some other features are heated front seats, a navigation system, tri-zone climate control, 12-way power-operated and heated front seats.
2017 Acura RLX Price
The starting price of the 2017 Acura RLX sedan is a bit over $55,000. However, the Technology package is included, and the car is $3,000 more expensive compared to its predecessor. The 2017 Acura RLX Hybrid costs slightly over $61,000, and if you want this model, you will have to wait a bit, because it will go on sale after the regular car. The Acura RLX will be a bit more expensive than BMW 5 Series, Lexus GS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6.