Used 2014 Acura RLX Sedan Review & Ratings

Performance

Many buyers have been patiently awaiting the arrival of the all-new 2014 Acura RLX Sedan. This is definitely a car that does not disappoint, no matter how high your expectations might be. The 310-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine sprints to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The engine mates to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, so you have the fun associated with a manual and the practicality of an automatic rolled into one. Fuel economy is about average, yielding 20 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Later in the model year, a Hybrid SH-AWD model is expected to surface. It is rumored to deliver 370 horsepower and return 30 mpg combined. The ride is smooth and quiet, but this is a large sedan, so do not expect it to be as agile as it looks. That being said, the steering is precise and responsive. It is also equipped with Acura's Agile Handling Assist system to improve handling.

Technology

• Audio - The standard audio system is beyond impressive, offering 10 speakers, digital music storage, CD player, SMS text to speech capacity, satellite radio, and iPod interface. A 14-speaker ELS Sound System and a 14-speaker Krell Sound System are available.
• Navigation - The hard drive Acura Navigation System boasts an 8-inch screen and voice recognition, as well as a trial period of AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Traffic Rerouting™ and Zagat Survey® reviews/
• Keyless Access - Never fumble for your keys again, with this feature that starts the car with the push of a button.
• Bluetooth® - Send, receive, and end calls without taking your hands off the wheel with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®.

Safety

Although crash test results are not yet available for the 2014 RLX Sedan, Acura does have a reputation for scoring quite well. When braking was put to the test, the vehicle stopped from 60 mph in 120 feet, which is definitely a respectable number for this segment. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation, and rear parking sensors. Standard safety features include:
• Vehicle stability assist
• Traction control
• Rear door safety locks
• Child seat anchors
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Remote anti-theft alarm
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Emergency braking assist
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Engine immobilizer
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Emergency interior trunk release
• Daytime running lights

Appearance

From its Jewel Eye™ LED headlights to its chrome-trimmed dual exhaust, the 2014 RLX turns heads from every angle. It combines an aggressive stance with a sculpted body, flared wheel wells, and quite possibly some of the most eye-catching 18-inch wheels available on a sedan. You can get 19-inch wheels, too, but it does compromise the smooth ride.

Comfort

If you love the exterior, just wait until you get inside. There is a tremendous amount of legroom in both rows and although the rear seat does not split, there is a pass-through for skis. The front seats are comfortable, but you may feel as though they do not offer enough support for a long road trip. The materials throughout are nice enough, but they are not as luxurious as rivals in this segment. The center stack is a bit cluttered with controls, but not nearly as overwhelming as its TL, TSX, and ILX siblings. The navigation system gets rave reviews for being simple and intuitive.

Cargo

Go ahead and be the designated drive to the golf course, as your 15.3-cubic-foot trunk will be more than accommodating to a few golf bags.