The Acura RLX with Advance Package is a $60,000 car that drives like a million bucks. The powerful 310 hp direct-injected 3.5 liter DOHC 24-valve VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) strives to humble NASA.
With the RLX you’ll get more than a craft with the power of a Saturn rocket. No, RLX doesn’t travel at the speed of light, but the ride is smooth, features are luxurious, it handles like a command ship, and has enough advanced technology to analyze moon rock.
The six-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift transcends you from nowhere to somewhere faster than you can say Lake of Tranquility.
The RLX is the perfect urban competitor with its nimble, streamlined, and middle weight looks. The car can meet the eye and take on challenges from the road.
The interior is of luxury material and craftsmanship that boasts and encourages you to take ownership. From its grille to its tail, from the underbody to the roof, the RLX is the most exciting vehicle I’ve driven this year.
RLX handles superbly with the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Blind Spot Information System, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Even an older gentleman of questionable talent, like myself, can take on the garment of the professional driver.
Speaking of driving, you can’t help but become a better driver with performance features like Precision All-Wheel Steer system, Parking Sensors, Electronic Park and Brake, and Agile Handling Assist.
If you like to be more involved in the driving experience remember the 6-speed transmission is outfitted with racing-style sequential SportShift paddle shifters, putting performance at your fingertips. And when you engage Sport mode you can feel the steering and throttle response.
The test RLX came with the Navigation Package that includes Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition and AcuraLink connectivity system, providing real time traffic, street, and road conditions. But the technology was cumbersome, as completing some of the most simple tasks was difficult. For example, moving from XM to AM requires too much time and concentration.
However, inside the RLX cabin was like a beautiful home. Wood grains accented with polished metal, soft leathers and detailed stitching throughout, were accompanied by driver and front seat passenger 12-way power heated seats adding further comfort.
My week’s drive experience netted me an average 25 mpg, but Acura promises you 31 mpg highway.
I invite you to take a ride in a contemporary car that is designed with the future in mind. Even a drive to the stars is not beyond your reach.
Warranty:
6-year/70,000 mile powertrain warranty
4-year/50,000 mile limited warranty
Specifications:
Curb weight: 3,933 lbs.
Head room : (front/rear) 37.6/36.9 inches
Leg room: (front/back) 42.4/38.8 inches
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 196.1 inches
Height: 57.7 inches
Width: 74.4 inches
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].
Friends Read Free