2014 / 2015 Acura RLX Review and Road Test with AcuraLink Review

Breaking into the Luxury market isn't easy. Toyota has arguably had the most success with Lexus, the only full-line luxury marque sold in America that isn't German. Infiniti gave up on trying to go head-to-head with the S-Class and 7-Series when they ditched the Q, and Cadillac has yet to have a complete and coherent strategy. Meanwhile Acura started off strong with the Legend, created a competent E/5 competitor with the all-wheel-drive RL, and then things started to fall apart. Can the RLX bring the brand back?
Why do I bring up Germans in a review of a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan? Because some folks [not everyone mind you] at Acura and plenty of fan boys would like to think the brand runs with the big dogs. In truth Acura has always been a "near-luxury" brand because they lack a full-size competitor to play in the S-Class/7-Series/A8 pool.
Competition
In order to look at the RLX through the right lens, we need to nail down the competition. Acura would like you to believe the front-wheel-drive RLX should be pitted against the rear-wheel-drive BMW 528/535, Mercedes E350 and Lexus GS350. I think this comparison has a few problems. First, the RLX isn't as dynamic as a RWD sedan. Second, Acura's brand position is a problem. What say our readers? Should the brand matter in comparisons? Should this all be priced based? In my mind the RLX's drivetrain and the brand's near-luxury image put the Acura in direct competition with the Cadillac XTS, Lincoln MKS and Volvo S80. What about the FWD/AWD A6? Perhaps, but Audi's brand is a solid BMW/Mercedes competitor these days.
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[@thenfanthefan8610]

i test drove this car it does not drive harsh its very very smooth and refined its also extreamly quiet idrove the car over some harsh pavement and it drove very good the cabin was still pretty quiet and balanced. and the handling was great i could not tell its was a front wheel drive car it handled like my 2005 acura rl but just a different feel like something that i have not driven before it was smoother and it put a smile on my face this is a very sturdy well made car, its quick off the line and at high speeds 80 + mph i could not tell how fast i was going because the car was so smooth and quiet but dont listen to me go drive it for yourself this car will be in my driveway after the new year nice car acura im impressed.

[@GeorgeKnighton]

If there's some personal reason you have to wait until "after the new year," fine. But there are some amazing discounts available right now, in December. The change in the yen/dollar ratio has allowed Honda to give the dealers incentives that allow them to fall below the invoice...and even below the dealer holdback. They have 5500.00 more to play with than they used to have/per car. So...think about buying BEFORE new year's! :-)

[@CyberagaEdm]

I'd rather have a ok looking car than a fancy looking car that breaks down all the time. if its not a Honda/Acura or Toyota/Lexus I'll pass. BMW / Audi / Cadillac aren't known for their reliability. They may look more sporty and more power but I'd much rather have a Car that going into the shop less and saves me money !

[@famicomnintendo]

I bought it and I'm glad I did

[@AbsoluteMdot]

Yes I agree 100%. My Friend went out and bought a new Volvo SUV and it's costing her a lot of money and gives her some trouble

[@mb013962]

I saw one of these on the highway yesterday and it looked amazing...better in person than on the videos

[@PKMNFan4664]

IMO, this is an underrated car.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The problem is that less than 1% of GS or M shoppers consider the RLX according to independent research. It's not hard to see why, Acura is a "near-luxury" brand like Volvo, Cadillac and Lincoln while Lexus is considered a main-stream luxury brand. Infiniti is somewhere between the two. It's a bit of a stretch to compare a FWD V6 only near-luxury car to a RWD V6/V8 vehicle like the M37/M56 or the E-Class or 5-Series. Even the GS350 is a difficult comparison because of the RWD platform.

[@mrgold3591]

I have an 18 RLX sport hybrid and it has been trouble-free and fun to drive since I purchased CPO back in Dec/2019. Love the 377hp/341tq and always getting +27 mpgs no matter how I drive. The only issues I've had was getting a pinch flat from a pothole with the low profile tires and the rear electric sun shade came off its tracks. Unfortunate Acura dumped the Sports Hybrid powertrain in 2020 when they really needed it now so much.

[@tingokuman]

The more I drive my RLX the more I love it. Every thing Alex says about the car is true. Two of the safety systems lane keeping and radar cruise do have a strange R2D2 feeling somebody else is behind the wheel and I'm just along for the ride. I actually prefer it over the German systems and Lexus because there SAFETY SYSTEMS and not driver aids. ((we like to drive)) Also they can be disabled from the steering wheel. Acura is competing with its self not the segment primarily because the Acura buyer doesn't care about that segments alleged rivals. Volvo takes this philosophy when they design a car. I wanted a conservative, reliable, tech laden business suit on wheels (mission accomplished !). The only short comings on the car for me is the alleged audiophile quality system is not up to the task for R&B, URBAN, JAZZ, ROCK etc. There is no discrete mobile hotspot or at least a cradle to charge and share its wifi like the Bmw (occasional mobile office) granted my phone does it but on most phones it drains the batt and its usability somewhat limited. A side note Acura dealerships are very eager to move these and lease residuals are huge due to the fact depreciation is usually low on Honda products. Negations usually go fairly easy with deep incentives because Acura is trying to shed the stale obsolete image the RL portrayed. A 1995 Acura Legend is still more recognizable than any RL. 

[@Lemaj420]

Thanks, very nice overview wrap up of your purchase. I appreciate your remarks on this product because you own it and sounds fair. I s yours the front or AWD?

[@longwalkshortpier]

Gosh Alex, you're so composed and full of colorful descriptors that help me sense what you're feeling from the suspension while simultaneously driving through curvy roads without a single stammer. Great job!

[@CsuhyonK]

I drive the RLX and you are dead on about everything.... Even a few of the negative things you said. I've got 1800 miles on mine. Overall I love it. Love the styling, tech, attention to detail and power.

[@spade118]

Very very good review. Very comprehensive. This is a review I would send someone if they wanted to buy this car. Keep up the good work.

[@Ttimmy]

It might be a bit vanilla on the outside but from personal experience, the interior in this car is amazing. So well build and well made. And oh my God comfortable. I could live in this car.

[@maxangst]

I miss the Legend

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That's a tough one, I personally prefer the interior in the 6-series, but it is purely a style preference because they are very closely related. You can always split the difference with the 650i Gran Coupe. The 6-Series with the executive package (leather dash) has one of the best interiors on the market in my opinion. It is easily the equal of Maserati and Aston's lower end models.

[@quintonturner6967]

I really like Acura and you did an outstanding job of giving viewers an unbiased review. I just wanted this car to be so much better than what it is. I noticed how uncomposed the ride quality was while you were driving. I even have a 99 RL with lowering eibach springs and my car rides much smoother than the new RLX. Come on Acura retune the suspension and release the super handling hybrid all wheel drive system already.

[@BTC909]

Best auto reviews and I watch every new model review channel.

[@ashtonbradly]

Honest guy, don't hold back and keep up the good work.

[@miami428]

Thanks Alex great review like always. I would pass on this RLX and take the Cadillac XTS if the choice was mine. I am blown away by the major improvements that Cadillac has made in recent years. They have really stepped their game up and can truly compete. This comment is coming from the owner of a Mercedes S 500 and a avid German car lover. If the XTS is this good I am guessing the new CTS will be even better since that's Cadillac's bread and butter sedan.

[@thomasharris5151]

Really good car and the 2018 update is super nice.. still surprised it didn’t sell better(the BEAK GRILLE hurt a lot!)... even with the grille

[@emmabaptiste129]

Dear Alex, you are doing a very good job explaining this new Acura RLX. I am proud of you. You do the best job better than other car info videos on KZbin . Keep up the good work. When I am ready to by my next car I go not need the dealer to teach me about the car because you have already done that. I would like for you to do a complete and full review on the all me KIA Optima hybrid because I am planning to buy one In the next 12 months. Thank you in advance!

[@tomtheocharides6204]

Alex, Great reviews :). Will you be reviewing the 2016-17 RLX with the SH-AWD?

[@DesolationAngels]

I can relate to your comments regarding the harsh ride some of these luxury cars have. I so wanted to love and purchase the Gorgeous Infiniti Q70 or QX70 but the road noise and ride quality were unacceptable in cars of this class.

[@izuaff04]

always enjoy your review....how review should be done...not a 5 minute review...very comprehensive...

[@nelsonricciardi7087]

Great review. One of the best I've seen. Great work.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It did not at launch but for 2014 Cadillac is putting a 410 HP / 368 lb-ft 3.6L twin turbo V6 with AWD into the XTS.

[@weirdshibainu]

How could acura have blown it so badly? Another generation of rl that will be a sales disappointment. Heads should roll at acura for bringing such a medicore product to a crowded luxury market.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The upcoming hybrid will not have the same SH-AWD system as you are used to seeing. There will be no mechanical connection between the engine and the rear wheels. Instead each rear wheel will have a 27HP motor attached to it while there will be an approximately 40HP motor/generator between the engine and transaxle. Combined output is 370 but the rears will never have more than a combined 54 horsepower which is far less than the 2013 RL with the mechanical AWD system.

[@hy77281]

@dave dunn Imitation leather is pretty standard today in luxury cars. You could get a $59000 base E class and it'll also come with their MBTex imitation leather.

[@shoaibahmed34]

Subscribed to your channel a while ago and don't regret it one bit. Great in depth reviews just how I like them. Always enjoy watching your videos. Keep them coming and I would like to request a review of the Infiniti Q50 if you haven't already reviews it yet. Cheers

[@EyeBDaMD]

Spot on about the steering! Weird, but accurate.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The problem is likely to be price. The new hybrid SH-AWD has electric only rear wheels limiting the rear wheel power to a combined 54 giving that RLX a strong FWD bias still. Since Acura is likely to bump the price beyond the current RLX that puts the hybrid dangerously close to the 400-450HP twin-turbo V8 Germans.

[@chadsingleton7632]

I don't understand why people call this car boring unrecognizable yes boring no. Im a Bmw guy but this car has caught my attention. I had a Legend in college. lol it still runs an old buddy of mine uses it as a daily driver.

[@asifwekere]

Great review. Thank you.

[@PorscheCayenneLover]

I always go with imports and RWD, but I would EASILY take the XTS over the RLX and other premium-FWD (a travesty) competition. Overall, I choose the Infiniti Q70 (#1) or Lexus GS350 F-Sport (#2). This was an excellent review as always Alex!

[@SL_barn]

...which are tarted up Camry's. Amazing automotive knowledge you have. The Accord plaform, btw isn't such a terrible foundation to work with, either. It's an excellent car with lots of upward potential (obviously).

[@tannerstrohmeyer7367]

I've sorta learned to like RLX.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Oddly enough we had the Cadenza back to back with the RLX. The RLX has a more solid feel (but somewhat artificial), is faster, handles better and has a few more gadgets. However, the Cadenza is a whopping $20,000 cheaper and has a much smoother full-range radar cruise control option. The Kia has a longer warranty, some dash plastics are lower rent, and the brand is a value brand rather than a near luxury brand. But I have to come back to: it is $20,000 cheaper. Is the RLX worth it? Not to me.

[@aiminamiable]

I have a question Alex. I have decided I want to get a new car. I have narrowed it down to the BMW 750I and the BMW 650I. Which should I get?

[@gbriank1]

I'd love to see a comparison review with the MKS, or heck even the Taurus SHO. With all of the features Ford is packing into the SHO, you can easily get one for $15,000 cheaper than the RLX. (My local dealer isn't discounting the RLX much, as he only has two...but, I bought my SHO for $10k off sticker with no argument from the dealer.)

[@remixbaby5902]

Is this considered a full size or mid size?

[@SL_barn]

...which are tarted up Camry's. Amazing automotive knowledge you have.

[@markus7n]

japanese reliability🤤

[@Tully3674]

It's nearly 4 years later that I write this (from Alex's review) and I see very, very few of these cars on the streets of Los Angeles. Also saw very, very few from the previous generation (after 2005). So I ask, with so few sold throughout the USA, why does Acura continue producing this model?

[@hy77281]

I drove this car a month ago when I got it as a loner. I got the mid level model with navigation. The car was nice enough to drive and very comfortable. The problem Acura has is their spec sheet is just unattractive. I would probably not bother to test drive this car if I was shopping in this segment. 310 HP, front wheel drive and 6 speed auto puts people off before they even try the car.

[@tknight7]

Alex I saw your video on the Kia Cadenza, Acura RLX and this car. You really gave me a lot to think about {KIA Brand). Truthfully is the Cadenza a better buy than the RLX for the money? I'm looking for a quiet and comfortable ride. I like the Mercedes because of the gas mileage, and it seemed more quieter than the RLX and KIA.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It's always tricky to compare apples and oranges and in some ways Acura and Kia are different fruit. However, the RLX vs Cadenza comparison is a bit more appropriate given Acura's near-luxury image and Kia's push up market. Since Value usually excludes the "cost" of the brand, the Cadenza in top level trim is certainly a better value. You get much of the same feature content and luxury feel for considerably less. There is obviously value in the brand, but that's a very personal calculation. If you're looking seriously about the RLX, then an intriguing alternative would be the brand new Kia K900. It's 60-66K and you get a bigger vehicle than the RLX with more features and gadgets than Acura offers like self-closing doors, reclining rear seats, etc. The new K900 should make Lexus very, very worried.

[@ShumsPublishingCorp]

Hi, if I'm getting a used 2015 RLX with 15K km's on it for the same price as a new Cadenza, Avalon and Jaguar XE, what do you advice to take (considering the FWD impact as a daily driver (2 hours driving a day) + importance goes to reliability + back seat room to chauffeur around in)?

[@AlternativeUses]

there's only so much you can do to a honda accord chassis/engine/infotainment system when you're competing against luxury cars that aren't converted from a lesser model

[@Tully3674]

Acura RL/RLX's main competition (from 2005 to present) is Lexus & Infiniti. Your review didn't mention either name plate. Set aside drivetrain, the RLX focus is on technology with secondary focus on ride & handling. Lexus' is on comfort with technology second. Infiniti attempts to do all things equally (like an E-Class or BMW 5 series). I think not comparing a Lexus GS and/or Infiniti M (or Q) to the RLX was a mistake. Such a comparison would better understand Acura's intentions w/ the RLX.

[@alexdykes]

I think it may be our older Canon XA10 camera, we will be upgrading to the newer XA20 which has much more accurate color in a month or two.

[@gentrynunu1]

Good video!

[@weirdshibainu]

Words like odd, peculiar and strange to describe a 60k car is enough to buy something else. The Avalon is a nice car, for thousands less

[@peipeizhao4637]

good job man!!

[@tomsawyer4857]

Tully3674, Lexus (aside from es) and infinity are all rwd, that's why he didn't mention them

[@Monsshayy]

Hey Alex I have a rlx and my transmission mount and right top engine mount is broken and I can not get no access I use my vehicle to get my kids to school and to get to work so if you can please help me with this matter it will be greatly appreciated my financial situation stop me from going straight to the Acura dealership to get it fixed

[@javierrodriguez8630]

Totally wrong about touch screen not being able to do phone functions... Yes you can... You can dial any number... Check out the Shorcuts...

[@henrypacheco9048]

does this car have a slight bump when you break slow?

[@clapcityock9100]

No

[@johnnyr25]

If you have already gotten a chance to test the Kia Cadenza, Alex, how would rate compared to the RLX?

[@EFCONNECT]

I really enjoy your detailed reviews. However, why do all your videos appear to be recorded on an overcast day? The colors to me seem washed out, which detracts from my enjoyment in watching your videos. Is there a way to correct this on your end, as no matter what setting (480p or 1080p) I use I get the same result.

[@brucelivingston2220]

Guess it depends what you want from the car. Acura, if nothing else, seems to be trying to carve out their own niche within the market. They're doing things differently, and for some people, that's exactly what they want. It seems like they're trying to improve upon the driving experience, make it more enjoyable than the tried and true tech that we're used to. If you're a gamer, it's like buying a new game, or learning a new skill. It's like they're tempting me to master it.

[@count500]

More videos please!

[@CrazyCanadian5555]

Hi Alex can you do a test on 2013-2014 Dogde Ram 1500??

[@SOMEFATASSBITCH]

well done

[@chigasaki06]

And whose genius idea was it to hide the exhaust tips? The only feature that helps the styling, and they hide it.

[@jasonchoi9222]

i'm sorry why would anyone buy this over Cadillac or lincoln?

[@jacktran960]

Jason Choi Reliability and maybe they just like Acura? People have preferences.

[@crackaddict444]

Fake wood? Really?

[@johnnyr25]

Hm. I didn't think I would find a Hyundai (Genesis, Equus) more attractive to drive than an Acura, but here we are. The first thing Honda needs to recognize is the Acura is not Audi. Yes, Audi can get away with selling a FWD A4 with a very dear MSRP despite it being FWD. The reasons for that could fill a book. They largely stem from the fact that Audi is a German brand and VAG can ride on that. Knwoing that, there is only one way: R W D. Toyota know this, Nissan knows this, HYUNDAI knows this.

[@dvspot]

No shiftable transmission and only front wheel drive for 48-60k lol lol lol

[@MrIpad2lover]

I don't think they'll ever put a normal SH-AWD on the rlx so sorry

[@justintran9134]

alex what is your camera setup?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I think this was on a Canon XA25 with additional footage from a Canon HF G10. I have switched to two Canon XA25s since then. I also occasionally use a Canon EOS 70D but it's too cumbersome for most uses and the sensor lacks the dynamic resolution of the XA25 in most situations.

[@MrIpad2lover]

Physics listen up the SH-AWD is coming next year it's a hybrid though does that answer your question

[@chigasaki06]

Introducing Acura's boring ass flagship sedan with weak sales. Acura clearly does not listen to consumers. For goodness sakes, this car looks like plain toast on wheels. Even the Kia Cadenza has better styling. Acura makes great cars technologically, but without the looks, they will always be a sub premium auto maker. Hopefully the wont screw up the tlx.

[@RealtimeReviews613]

Its too bad the rear and side fails! The sides are boring and bland. The rear has chevy cruise taillights and no rear chrome exhaust! Its to plain and to slow for $60,000. Hyundai makes the genesis sedan r spec with 429 horsepower for less money

[@ArtStamos]

Imitation leather? Car needs AWD, Nav, real leather. Tech package. Car needs one Ipad screen, basically buy a Volvo and save, $20k initially.

[@TassieLorenzo]

I like the old RL better.

[@harajukujay1]

I don’t like this review, this vehicle is beyond more reliable than any other vehicle that you named including Mercedes and bmw is less reliable than a Ford, This car drives way better than any other vehicle, the back wheels turn slightly with the front wheels as well

[@prototypeglory]

Aside from the upcoming NSX, Acura's lineup is uninspiring.

[@305joni]

You know there is a sh-awd model coming this year with 370 horsepowers

[@hhgoreish1]

Acura need to listen., Can not have a front wheel drive only to compete. Need the SH AWD with a rear wheel bias to compete, need a better ride and handling. When you move to a luxury segment that high you need to talk there language. Acura need to quit being deaf and listen to customers and critics, unless they want to buy their own cars PAWAS is nice but should be an option. HYBRID SHAWD is excellent but should be just an extra option. main car should be more powerful SH AWD rear wheel biased

[@tiberianexcalibur]

I much rather drive a Buick, more luxurious.

[@gentrynunu1]

These acura's don't have tail pips anymore & I think that is what make look refine & expensive looking now it looks like a Hyundai cheap sorry but is the truth!

[@supercrossjunkie9237]

Its easy to see why you were held back in school. Ha Ha

[@famicomnintendo]

This rlx doesn't even have headlamp washers lol

[@mrgold3591]

I think the Canadian RLX has them.

[@OneOfOne]

its very dull. thats why the last one didnt sell. its boring. theres no outstanding feature it has which is why it competes with other dull cars.

[@G5usFrk]

Blo

[@RealtimeReviews613]

If im paying $50,000 plus for the base model u better gibe me REAL leather cheap ass acura

[@supercrossjunkie9237]

Just like the car your tired ha ha.

[@166vene]

Don’t bye this car Acura don’t know how to make luxury car

[@steven19767]

This is one of the worst Acuras ever made.

[@lijoima]

Why would you say that?