**OFFICIAL RLX THREAD** Update p.14: Prod. car to debut in LA 11/28
#521
2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
My last three cars struck a chord in me when I first saw them that resonated with "I will own that car some day".
It was like that with the 2nd gen TL when it cam out (I had a 2001), the RL (I had an '06), and now with my current Cadillac CTS coupe.
Now before I'm criticized, that's just me.
The fact that C&D is saying that the RLX will be cross-shopped with the Cadillac XTS is telling. That car is being praised for it's interior and Tech (namely Cadillac CUE), but there has criticism over the FWD platform and the relatively tame performance numbers.
#522
I predict that the RL will continue to be a niche car. The people who buy it will be those who appreciate the car for what it brings to the table, a ton of technology, very good performance and a great value.
It will not though be spoken of in the same breath as a BMW 5 series, E-Class, Audi A6, and even the Lexus GS.
That's not a bad thing, it just is what it is.
It will not though be spoken of in the same breath as a BMW 5 series, E-Class, Audi A6, and even the Lexus GS.
That's not a bad thing, it just is what it is.
Bad, and unnecessary.
The "it's just a test bed" excuse gives Acura an easy cop-out for failing to market a car that's good enough on its merits to succeed, but whose bungled marketing dooms it to failure -- just like its predecessor.
Why can't people be persuaded to buy an innovative car that's also superb? I can't see a reason…at least, not a GOOD reason.
#523
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Acura better market the RLX, it is their creation. They whined that the 2nd Gen RL was forced upon them as a re badged LEGEND and treated like the red head step child. Now they have an Acura conceived and designed product, that will be built (if not initially) in the US.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
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#524
2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
Acura better market the RLX, it is their creation. They whined that the 2nd Gen RL was forced upon them as a re badged LEGEND and treated like the red head step child. Now they have an Acura conceived and designed product, that will be built (if not initially) in the US.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
I personally find it inexcusable that Acura did not embrace the2nd gen RL because itwasn't their idea. It's juvenile. In the end they just hurt themselves and the brand
The 2nd gen RL was and in many respects still is a very capable and competitive car. It is shameful that other car manufacturers are touting torque vectoring AWD and getting credit for it. In many early reviews, the RL beat out many of the established brands in head to head comparisons (albeit AWD models). That includes the 5 series.
That's a big deal, but Acura failed to run with it.
As I have said before, possibly in this thread, Acura needs to find it's identity again. They began as a more performance oriented luxury brand (remember "Precision Crafted Performance"), but shortly after that they began losing their way because they weren't outselling Lexus.
The reason why they weren't competing with Lexus is because they weren't building cars that properly competed with Lexus models.
Acura has yet to build a flagship that competes with the LS, and it's pretty obvious they have no intentiion of doing so.
If they want to compete with them, then they have to.build a RWD über luxury flagship. Whether they're succeeding or not, that's what Hyundai is trying to do.
If not, that's OK, they can try to be the alternate choice, kind of like a Japanese Volvo that we've mentioned here before.
....and finally, I am one of those examples of someone who went to another brand because of the designs, knowing full well that I am taking a risk from a quality perspective.
The Cadillac forums are full of stories from people who bought early models of the 2nd gen ('08 and '09) CTS models who have experienced a ton of quality issues, but even with that, people are still saying how much they loved the style. It does seem that the post bankruptcy model years are experiencing improved quality so I am keeping my fingers crossed.
Having said all that, I absolutely love the styling of my CTS coupe. It has an identity and it makes a statement. Fit and finish is so far comparable to my RL, but then again the car has only 6K miles.
I did have one minor issue with a faulty seat belt buckle that would intermittently flash that my seat belt wasn't buckled. It should gave been resolved easily if it were not for an idiot of a service manager at the dealership. That's a story for another thread. In the end it was resolved and all is good.
Again, the RLX will be a great car in the sense that the technology will work, it will provide great value and it will have competitive performance. The styling though, to me seems anonymous.
Acura has it in them, think of the 3rd gen TL, past Integras, the NSX and one of my all time favorites, the 2nd gen Legend Coupes. That car, to me at least is still beautiful today. If you can find one that isn't rusting away. It was simply beautiful.
They need to bring back the designers of those cars.
Last edited by GoHawks; 08-05-2012 at 02:26 AM.
#525
6th Gear
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: I live in the state of Maryland
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2013 rlx
Hey my fellow acura fans, I think the new RLX will be fine with a six , but it would be nice to have the option for a nice eight, or better a ten cylinder engine . Has anyone put a nice turbo charger on a late model RL? If so, what kind of horse power increase was obtained.
#526
Hey my fellow acura fans, I think the new RLX will be fine with a six , but it would be nice to have the option for a nice eight, or better a ten cylinder engine . Has anyone put a nice turbo charger on a late model RL? If so, what kind of horse power increase was obtained.
#527
I looked at those "patented" images and saw a TSX from the side view with very ugly rims, BMW 5 series from the back, a look I didn't like too much, and fancy headlights in the front on an otherwise boring nose.
I sure hope that leak is not what shows up on the lots or maybe some color will add it some sort of personality.
I'm all for technology but that's just too plain, rebadge and sell as Toyota.
I sure hope that leak is not what shows up on the lots or maybe some color will add it some sort of personality.
I'm all for technology but that's just too plain, rebadge and sell as Toyota.
#529
RLX SH²-AWD
A Look at Acura Future Products
FYI: I thought this article might be interesting to some.
http://editorial.autos.msn.com/blogs...0-a5da68cb8202
Acura is in the middle of a major product changeover, reflecting plans to challenge second-tier luxury rivals Audi, Buick, Infiniti and Volvo rather than Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus.
Acura has launched the ILX compact sedan and redesigned the RDX compact crossover. It will redesign the RL flagship this fall and make changes to the MDX crossover and TL mid-sized sedan in 2013.
Acura will lead the technology revolution for Honda Motor as the new Earth Dreams engine family is installed in all future vehicles. Also, Acura is moving toward increased use of seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions in addition to its basic six-speed automatic. More models also will get hybrid versions.
ILX: Acura returned to the entry-luxury sedan segment this spring. But already criticism that the base 2.0-liter engine is underpowered may lead to a mid-cycle swap-out for the 2.4-liter, 181-hp Earth Dreams engine, or an automatic transmission for the 200-hp 2.4-liter from the Civic Si. Company sources say, in response to rumors on the Internet, that there are no plans for a coupe variant.
TSX: Within Acura there is talk that the TSX will go away after its normal model cycle ends next year. But don't be surprised if limited production continues, because the TSX's V6 version doesn't cannibalize the ILX's four-cylinder offerings.
TL: A redesign comes next spring, still sharing the Accord's underpinnings. Because the TL is too close in footprint to the RL, expect a shorter wheelbase and overall length, moving it closer to the soon-to-depart TSX. The big change will be addition of the Earth Dreams engine, a 3.5-liter V6 with 310 hp and 265 pounds-feet of torque. This is 30 more hp and 11 more pounds-feet than the outgoing 3.5-liter engine in the TL. A hybrid version will also be available, sharing the same parts as the Honda Accord Hybrid and with a fuel economy rating of around 45 mpg.
RL: A redesign comes in fall, and the Earth Dreams V6 from the base TL is the base engine. It will be teamed with a front-wheel-drive transmission and a four-wheel-steering system. The base model is expected to weigh under 4,000 pounds thanks to extensive use of aluminum and high-strength steel.
The RL will have an optional 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine with variable valve timing, combined with Honda Motor's Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive system. The improved engine puts out more than 370 hp, using a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The redesigned car is about the same length as the current RL, but with a wheelbase two inches longer. Both the track and vehicle width will increase by about two inches.
RDX: The crossover was redesigned this spring. The big change: A V6 replaced the turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
ZDX: Sales are sliding for the MDX variant, but since it costs relatively little to produce it alongside the MDX, it might remain in the lineup as a special-order vehicle until the next MDX arrives.
MDX: The mid-sized crossover is scheduled for a redesign next fall and will stay on the Pilot/Odyssey platform. Don't expect much change in size, but definitely look for a dialing back of the "beak" grille. It will get the same Earth Dreams 310-hp V6 engine as the TL.
NSX: By 2014, Honda will hand-build the Acura sports car on a small-scale assembly line at the company's r&d facility in Ohio. The NSX will be as much about technology as performance. Instead of a monster engine, it will have a compact, direct-injection V6 teamed with a lithium ion battery pack. The "Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive" system uses two integrated drive units at the rear wheels connected to a motor-generator that delivers power.
The NSX will be developed at Honda r&d in Ohio.
http://editorial.autos.msn.com/blogs...0-a5da68cb8202
Acura is in the middle of a major product changeover, reflecting plans to challenge second-tier luxury rivals Audi, Buick, Infiniti and Volvo rather than Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus.
Acura has launched the ILX compact sedan and redesigned the RDX compact crossover. It will redesign the RL flagship this fall and make changes to the MDX crossover and TL mid-sized sedan in 2013.
Acura will lead the technology revolution for Honda Motor as the new Earth Dreams engine family is installed in all future vehicles. Also, Acura is moving toward increased use of seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions in addition to its basic six-speed automatic. More models also will get hybrid versions.
ILX: Acura returned to the entry-luxury sedan segment this spring. But already criticism that the base 2.0-liter engine is underpowered may lead to a mid-cycle swap-out for the 2.4-liter, 181-hp Earth Dreams engine, or an automatic transmission for the 200-hp 2.4-liter from the Civic Si. Company sources say, in response to rumors on the Internet, that there are no plans for a coupe variant.
TSX: Within Acura there is talk that the TSX will go away after its normal model cycle ends next year. But don't be surprised if limited production continues, because the TSX's V6 version doesn't cannibalize the ILX's four-cylinder offerings.
TL: A redesign comes next spring, still sharing the Accord's underpinnings. Because the TL is too close in footprint to the RL, expect a shorter wheelbase and overall length, moving it closer to the soon-to-depart TSX. The big change will be addition of the Earth Dreams engine, a 3.5-liter V6 with 310 hp and 265 pounds-feet of torque. This is 30 more hp and 11 more pounds-feet than the outgoing 3.5-liter engine in the TL. A hybrid version will also be available, sharing the same parts as the Honda Accord Hybrid and with a fuel economy rating of around 45 mpg.
RL: A redesign comes in fall, and the Earth Dreams V6 from the base TL is the base engine. It will be teamed with a front-wheel-drive transmission and a four-wheel-steering system. The base model is expected to weigh under 4,000 pounds thanks to extensive use of aluminum and high-strength steel.
The RL will have an optional 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine with variable valve timing, combined with Honda Motor's Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive system. The improved engine puts out more than 370 hp, using a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The redesigned car is about the same length as the current RL, but with a wheelbase two inches longer. Both the track and vehicle width will increase by about two inches.
RDX: The crossover was redesigned this spring. The big change: A V6 replaced the turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
ZDX: Sales are sliding for the MDX variant, but since it costs relatively little to produce it alongside the MDX, it might remain in the lineup as a special-order vehicle until the next MDX arrives.
MDX: The mid-sized crossover is scheduled for a redesign next fall and will stay on the Pilot/Odyssey platform. Don't expect much change in size, but definitely look for a dialing back of the "beak" grille. It will get the same Earth Dreams 310-hp V6 engine as the TL.
NSX: By 2014, Honda will hand-build the Acura sports car on a small-scale assembly line at the company's r&d facility in Ohio. The NSX will be as much about technology as performance. Instead of a monster engine, it will have a compact, direct-injection V6 teamed with a lithium ion battery pack. The "Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive" system uses two integrated drive units at the rear wheels connected to a motor-generator that delivers power.
The NSX will be developed at Honda r&d in Ohio.
#530
Senior Moderator
Acura better market the RLX, it is their creation. They whined that the 2nd Gen RL was forced upon them as a re badged LEGEND and treated like the red head step child. Now they have an Acura conceived and designed product, that will be built (if not initially) in the US.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
How can the market take the RLX seriously if Acura itself does not. Supposedly Acura is again reinventing itself on a 'smart luxury' identity. The marketing better start depicting that if they want consumers to believe.
The only time Acura tried to make an agressive impression on the market, they went overboard with the power phlegm design debauchery which impressed a lot of people who cannot afford an Acura, and sent a lot of die hard loyalists to other brand car lots.
Acura has a lot to prove with the RLX, on multiple levels. They have to show the brand is growing out of the juvenile designs of the past few years. They have to promote the RLX as a true brand flagship (to the dismay of TL SHAWD and ZDX owners who try convince themselves they own the Acura flagship) and they have to maintain the exceptional Honda engineering / Acura content and value that has made they brand respectful.
Seriously, well said. I don't think the exceptional Honda engineering has gone away. It's the wrappers of the technology that have sucked abysmally.
If you look at the new RDX and ILX, I'd say the designers have learned their lesson. They are handsome. The RLX is not bad, either.
#531
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Pitchforks up everybody! RAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!
Seriously, well said. I don't think the exceptional Honda engineering has gone away. It's the wrappers of the technology that have sucked abysmally.
If you look at the new RDX and ILX, I'd say the designers have learned their lesson. They are handsome. The RLX is not bad, either.
Seriously, well said. I don't think the exceptional Honda engineering has gone away. It's the wrappers of the technology that have sucked abysmally.
If you look at the new RDX and ILX, I'd say the designers have learned their lesson. They are handsome. The RLX is not bad, either.
I do like the RLX concept, and agree it is conservative. I am not exactly lusting for it as I did with my RL and former TL designs. But it is proportioned, elegant, flowing and honestly it looks like an Acura-ized Lexus LS to me....which is OK.
When I look at other flagships....the 7 BMW no longer works for me, odd proportions. The Infinity M...same thing, odd proportions. The new Lexus grill is too Predator for me, aggressive but not sophisticated on the LS. Merc S is OK, but never warmed to Mercs. That leaves Audi.....my likely brand to defect to should the RLX not pass my butt test. I do lust for the A8 and A6...even somewhat the A7....but I absolutely HATE the pop up NAVI.
So in light of that...the RLX has a lot more going for it with uber conservative styling.
Still, I want a written apology from Acura.....or an NSX.
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#532
Three Wheelin'
I'm glad someone mentioned the Infiniti M and the Lexus GS. Lexus made the new GS more agressive looking. Although new GS sales have improved drastically, its sales are still a fraction of the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes E-Class.
Meanwhile, Infiniti has done everything people claim they want Acura to do. Available V8 engine? Check. Unique styling? Check. Rear wheel drive? Check. Yet the M's sales are a fraction of the Lexus GS, which is a fraction of the big boys.
The simple fact is, the $50,000 (U.S.) sedan market belongs to BMW and Mercedes. Everyone else is going to be an also ran, regardless of what they do. So I'm glad Acura is using their $50K sedan as a test mule for technology that will most likely trickle down to the other Acuras.
Meanwhile, Infiniti has done everything people claim they want Acura to do. Available V8 engine? Check. Unique styling? Check. Rear wheel drive? Check. Yet the M's sales are a fraction of the Lexus GS, which is a fraction of the big boys.
The simple fact is, the $50,000 (U.S.) sedan market belongs to BMW and Mercedes. Everyone else is going to be an also ran, regardless of what they do. So I'm glad Acura is using their $50K sedan as a test mule for technology that will most likely trickle down to the other Acuras.
#535
Summer is Coming
New Accord has the RLX Lights?
Looks like the new Accord has a set of the new headlights the RLX is going to have. Not sure why they would put these on the Accord before the new RLX even debuts. But this is certain then to show up on the TLX as well.
From Honda Canada...
http://www.honda.ca/future-vehicles
From TOV...
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...cord_fg-01.jpg
From Honda Canada...
http://www.honda.ca/future-vehicles
From TOV...
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...cord_fg-01.jpg
#536
Drifting
Looks like the new Accord has a set of the new headlights the RLX is going to have. Not sure why they would put these on the Accord before the new RLX even debuts. But this is certain then to show up on the TLX as well.
From Honda Canada...
http://www.honda.ca/future-vehicles
From TOV...
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...cord_fg-01.jpg
From Honda Canada...
http://www.honda.ca/future-vehicles
From TOV...
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...cord_fg-01.jpg
Of course this is completely backwards from the way they need to market the RLX when it comes out. How are you supposed to market a $60k flagship sedan and tout its impressive new technology when your lower brand's average family sedan has already sported some of those technologies for a year. I guess the only saving grace is that I'm pretty sure you have to buy the top of the line Touring model before you get the LED headlights.
#537
Senior Moderator
I did not see "LED headlight" in either of those links, and this
does not look like this.
In fact, the first link says "deeply set multi-reflector headlights". For the RLX, "It also gets Acura’s new Jewel Eye LED headlights, which are in a dual-stack array and include 10 high-intensity LED nodes."
The Accord is just two side by side low beams with an led strip DRL. Not the same.
does not look like this.
In fact, the first link says "deeply set multi-reflector headlights". For the RLX, "It also gets Acura’s new Jewel Eye LED headlights, which are in a dual-stack array and include 10 high-intensity LED nodes."
The Accord is just two side by side low beams with an led strip DRL. Not the same.
#538
Drifting
http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2...ooks-like.html
"Honda also says LED running lights, headlights and taillights will be available on some trim levels"
"Honda also says LED running lights, headlights and taillights will be available on some trim levels"
#539
Three Wheelin'
The new Accord looks like the 2005 Acura RL to me.
#540
#541
Senior Moderator
http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2...ooks-like.html
"Honda also says LED running lights, headlights and taillights will be available on some trim levels"
"Honda also says LED running lights, headlights and taillights will be available on some trim levels"
#542
Does anyone know if the production version is still supposed to be unveiled at the LA auto show?
#543
Drifting
http://www.leftlanenews.com/honda-to...next-week.html
#544
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Nope. It goes into production next week and will be in showrooms within a few weeks. The production model is being unveiled at a Honda plant next week. By the time the LA Auto Show comes around people will already be driving them around on the street.
http://www.leftlanenews.com/honda-to...next-week.html
http://www.leftlanenews.com/honda-to...next-week.html
Concerning the LED headlights.....
I can understand Honda offering them on the Accord, even prior to the RLX launch. First, the Accord has much more at stake than the RLX. It is a bread and butter model for Honda and needs anything to succeed in the most hotly contested car segment....midsize family sedans. It will add to what appears to be a successful attempt to make the Accord more sophisticated than the main rivals being Camry and Altima. LEDs are the buzz in the market and Honda for once, is attempting to lead a segment.
But second, they are not as unique as the RLX's 'jewel eye' look that Acura will launch. RLs have never been major competitors in the their segment, and more a niche vehicle. So for bang for the buck, LEDS on the high volume Accord can do much more for Honda than 'jewel eye' LEDS will do for the RL, and possibly they entire Acura brand.
In a similar scenario....Honda will be launching the new HondaLink infotainment / telematics with the Accord before Acura launches it's next generation AcuraLink infotainment / telematics system.
Keep in mind the RLX was delayed and re-think from the original plan for a next generation RL RWD V8. The Acura flagship would have been prior to the next generation Honda Accord. That change of direction for the RL to now RLX now slots the launch behind the newest Accord.
#545
Senior Moderator
When I see pictures of the new Camry, I have to look close to tell if it's a Carolla or Camry. Toyota took a step back in styling on that one IMO. It looks much more juvenile than it should for it's class.
I don't have a problem with LED low beams. Audi started it, and very soon most models will have them. There are reasonable power savings to be had.
It's also comical to think, "Oh, your Audi has LED headlights? So does my Accord." I don't think there is a good reason to delay a top selling model's new generation because a model no one will ever care about could have unveiled similar features first.
I don't have a problem with LED low beams. Audi started it, and very soon most models will have them. There are reasonable power savings to be had.
It's also comical to think, "Oh, your Audi has LED headlights? So does my Accord." I don't think there is a good reason to delay a top selling model's new generation because a model no one will ever care about could have unveiled similar features first.
Last edited by oo7spy; 08-16-2012 at 09:42 PM.
#546
Yes - RLX production
#547
Drifting
Gotcha. In that case, I'm not totally sure but given patent images being leaked I would assume they will. If you're a car manufacturer you would probably prefer to unveil models under your own terms rather than sit back and let a bunch of leaked photos and such steal your thunder. The longer they wait the more likely the public is going to be introduced to the new RLX via a bunch of leaked pictures on Jalopnik rather than by Acura themselves.
#548
Suzuka Master
iTrader: (4)
I believe getakey was referring to the RLX production model?
Concerning the LED headlights.....
I can understand Honda offering them on the Accord, even prior to the RLX launch. First, the Accord has much more at stake than the RLX. It is a bread and butter model for Honda and needs anything to succeed in the most hotly contested car segment....midsize family sedans. It will add to what appears to be a successful attempt to make the Accord more sophisticated than the main rivals being Camry and Altima. LEDs are the buzz in the market and Honda for once, is attempting to lead a segment.
But second, they are not as unique as the RLX's 'jewel eye' look that Acura will launch. RLs have never been major competitors in the their segment, and more a niche vehicle. So for bang for the buck, LEDS on the high volume Accord can do much more for Honda than 'jewel eye' LEDS will do for the RL, and possibly they entire Acura brand.
In a similar scenario....Honda will be launching the new HondaLink infotainment / telematics with the Accord before Acura launches it's next generation AcuraLink infotainment / telematics system.
Keep in mind the RLX was delayed and re-think from the original plan for a next generation RL RWD V8. The Acura flagship would have been prior to the next generation Honda Accord. That change of direction for the RL to now RLX now slots the launch behind the newest Accord.
Concerning the LED headlights.....
I can understand Honda offering them on the Accord, even prior to the RLX launch. First, the Accord has much more at stake than the RLX. It is a bread and butter model for Honda and needs anything to succeed in the most hotly contested car segment....midsize family sedans. It will add to what appears to be a successful attempt to make the Accord more sophisticated than the main rivals being Camry and Altima. LEDs are the buzz in the market and Honda for once, is attempting to lead a segment.
But second, they are not as unique as the RLX's 'jewel eye' look that Acura will launch. RLs have never been major competitors in the their segment, and more a niche vehicle. So for bang for the buck, LEDS on the high volume Accord can do much more for Honda than 'jewel eye' LEDS will do for the RL, and possibly they entire Acura brand.
In a similar scenario....Honda will be launching the new HondaLink infotainment / telematics with the Accord before Acura launches it's next generation AcuraLink infotainment / telematics system.
Keep in mind the RLX was delayed and re-think from the original plan for a next generation RL RWD V8. The Acura flagship would have been prior to the next generation Honda Accord. That change of direction for the RL to now RLX now slots the launch behind the newest Accord.
When I see pictures of the new Camry, I have to look close to tell if it's a Carolla or Camry. Toyota took a step back in styling on that one IMO. It looks much more juvenile than it should for it's class.
I don't have a problem with LED low beams. Audi started it, and very soon most models will have them. There are reasonable power savings to be had.
It's also comical to think, "Oh, your Audi has LED headlights? So does my Accord." I don't think there is a good reason to delay a top selling model's new generation because a model no one will ever care about could have unveiled similar features first.
I don't have a problem with LED low beams. Audi started it, and very soon most models will have them. There are reasonable power savings to be had.
It's also comical to think, "Oh, your Audi has LED headlights? So does my Accord." I don't think there is a good reason to delay a top selling model's new generation because a model no one will ever care about could have unveiled similar features first.
In addition if you are buying a car just because of it's headlights you need to reevaluate your purchasing decisions.
The jewel, Acura LED headlights are much more unique and while the Accord will have class leading LED headlights, they arent quite as attractive or upscale as the RLX ones.
#549
Gotcha. In that case, I'm not totally sure but given patent images being leaked I would assume they will. If you're a car manufacturer you would probably prefer to unveil models under your own terms rather than sit back and let a bunch of leaked photos and such steal your thunder. The longer they wait the more likely the public is going to be introduced to the new RLX via a bunch of leaked pictures on Jalopnik rather than by Acura themselves.
#550
Genesis R-Spec vs RLX
Don't get me wrong because I am a RL owner but I just did a Genesis R-Spec test drive and I can tell you it's a hell of a car at a better price than the RL. It just received a J.D. Power award. Living in the Northeast where AWD drive is almost a must, is the only thing for me lacking in the Genesis.
Anyone else considering the Genesis?
Anyone else considering the Genesis?
#551
Senior Moderator
I am delurking long enough to announce:
Production RLX to debut at LA Auto Show in November.
Acura's press release here:
http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-...eles-auto-show
TOV article here:
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=1097206
Now bring out the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD model please.
Should be on sale in March, according to Colin.
Production RLX to debut at LA Auto Show in November.
Acura's press release here:
http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-...eles-auto-show
TOV article here:
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=1097206
Now bring out the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD model please.
Should be on sale in March, according to Colin.
Originally Posted by Acura
The production model of the all-new 2014 Acura RLX will debut on November 28, 2012, the first press day of the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, it was announced today. The new Acura flagship sedan will employ an array of new technologies unique to Acura, including the Precision All Wheel Steer™ system, the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, and the all-new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.
The front-wheel-drive version of the 2014 RLX will utilize Acura’s new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. This system automatically makes slight adjustments to the relative rear wheel (toe) angles by utilizing electrically controlled actuators to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision. The front-wheel-drive RLX will come equipped with an all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower (SAE net).
The RLX will feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink®, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver a variety of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service. Acura’s exclusive Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps use a dual-stacked array of multiple high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim, to provide powerful down-the-road illumination, while simultaneously giving the RLX a distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
The Acura RLX will offer an extensive array of passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and the first application of Acura’s Lane Keep Assist System. In addition, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning will be offered as standard equipment on the RLX. Passive safety features will include front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver’s knee airbag. The RLX also incorporates the second generation of Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further enhanced frontal crash energy management. The RLX is expected to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA and the new TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS status from IIHS.
Press materials will be posted on www.acuranews.com immediately following the press conference.
The front-wheel-drive version of the 2014 RLX will utilize Acura’s new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. This system automatically makes slight adjustments to the relative rear wheel (toe) angles by utilizing electrically controlled actuators to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision. The front-wheel-drive RLX will come equipped with an all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower (SAE net).
The RLX will feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink®, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver a variety of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service. Acura’s exclusive Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps use a dual-stacked array of multiple high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim, to provide powerful down-the-road illumination, while simultaneously giving the RLX a distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
The Acura RLX will offer an extensive array of passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and the first application of Acura’s Lane Keep Assist System. In addition, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning will be offered as standard equipment on the RLX. Passive safety features will include front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver’s knee airbag. The RLX also incorporates the second generation of Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further enhanced frontal crash energy management. The RLX is expected to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA and the new TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS status from IIHS.
Press materials will be posted on www.acuranews.com immediately following the press conference.
Last edited by neuronbob; 09-20-2012 at 09:31 PM.
#554
Senior Moderator
You are missing the All-Wheel Steering for this FWD model.
You would also have SH-AWD, though, on a current RLegendo, so you'd actually be down a feature if you buy the FWD version of the RLX.
Again....wake me up when the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version with 370 hp is available.
You would also have SH-AWD, though, on a current RLegendo, so you'd actually be down a feature if you buy the FWD version of the RLX.
Again....wake me up when the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version with 370 hp is available.
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gman44116 (09-21-2012)
#555
Senior Moderator
You would also be missing:
- Precision All Wheel Steer with your 10 HP (at the flywheel. The FWD will have a considerable amount of more HP at the wheels.)
OR
- Sport Handling SH-AWD with your 70 HP and GOBS of torque
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Dual screen Navigation and information displays
- Increased interior space
- Two-way cellular communication
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY!!!
- Push to start. (You know, since this DEFINES luxury vehicles. )
You are acting like the current RL is running DOS Shell and needs an upgrade to OSX 7. There is room for improvements, but not that much.
Last edited by oo7spy; 09-21-2012 at 11:52 AM.
#556
Not even a mention of the AWD Hybrid date?
#557
Senior Moderator
#558
#559
Burning Brakes
Looks like it's time to look elsewhere. I looked at an AWD Cadillac XTS. It's a nice car if a bit underpowered. Audi A6/A7 might be an option but I'm not sold on the reliability. I'm really disappointed in Acura. I've had 5 Acuras in a row, but they dragged their feet on the RLX and it's time to go.
#560
Senior Moderator
I wish Acura would release the top model first to act as a halo. The fact is, though, that the FWD version will be the volume seller and Acura wants to earn some money by releasing it first. As usual, enthusiasts have to wait. .