**OFFICIAL RLX THREAD** Update p.14: Prod. car to debut in LA 11/28
11-04-2012, 09:00 PM
#602
Burning Brakes
Nice pics Ichi!
I kind of like the looks of the car. Not sure if I can hold on long enough for the SH-SH-AWD version though. My 06 RL is close to 93k miles and I'm looking at a new set of PAX tires and the timing belt and water pump service in the next 8 months or so. Not sure if I want to sink that much $ into the current RL, though the alternatives aren't all that exciting either (A6, GS, 535).
I kind of like the looks of the car. Not sure if I can hold on long enough for the SH-SH-AWD version though. My 06 RL is close to 93k miles and I'm looking at a new set of PAX tires and the timing belt and water pump service in the next 8 months or so. Not sure if I want to sink that much $ into the current RL, though the alternatives aren't all that exciting either (A6, GS, 535).
11-04-2012, 09:19 PM
#603
What was wrong with Bose? They have a long history of car electronics and Acura. By the way, I have hear of Krell high end audio amps, but I would have thought maybe Carver would have been a better mix for Acura. They sure could use a superior radio tuner.
11-05-2012, 08:45 AM
#604
Safety Car
Thread Starter
MotorTrend
We first saw the 2013 Acura RLX in concept form at the 2012 New York auto show back in April. And with less than 2 months left in the year, Acura appears to be putting the finishing touches on its upcoming flagship sedan.
This black prototype was snapped earlier this week, wearing less camouflage than the test mule we caught during the summer. As with most Acura spy cars we’ve seen, the biggest give-away is up front where the automaker’s signature power plenum grille (notoriously referred to as the “beak”) is completely distinguishable. Acura stated the RLX would come standard with all-LED headlights, and those are visible in the photos, too. The side character lines are heavily disguised, so we can’t say for sure how the production car’s profile will compare to the concept. However, we do see rims that are much tamer than the large pinwheel-style design used on the concept. In back, things look pretty close to the concept, with similar, heavily stylized headlights.
Also unknown is what powertrain this prototype is packing. As previously reported, the new RLX will come with two drivetrain choices. The one most enthusiasts are excited about is the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, which will include a 3.5-liter V-6 and one electric motor at each rear wheel. At the rear axle, each wheel will have the ability to turn at different speeds, improving the RLX’s handling through corners. The technology is similar to what will be used in the upcoming NSX supercar. Details about the base powertrain are not out yet, but it’s rumored to be a front-drive 310-hp V-6.
Expect the RLX to come standard with a long list of tech goodies such as an infotainment system with two LCD screens, Collision Mitigation, and Acura’s first Lane Keep Assist system. Once the RLX arrives early next year, it will be Acura’s 2nd hybrid offering — the first being the compact ILX that went on sale a few months ago.
11-05-2012, 03:27 PM
#606
9th Gear
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It looks beautiful. The front grill frame is very euro-Honda-ish. But I can't imagine this car with anything but proper AWD. And according to their description the SH-SH-AWD is a front drive with some electric motors on the rear wheels, so all the 300+ hp will go on the front wheels. Doesn't sound like a 5 series beater 
11-05-2012, 03:34 PM
#607
ichi - great job
your pics look a lot better than the spy pics!
your pics look a lot better than the spy pics!
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ichi d (11-05-2012)
11-05-2012, 07:19 PM
#609
As an audiophile with a system worth a lot more than a new RLX, I've known Krell for a long time, but would never consider buying their products, as they have poor value. Good performance on basic stuff like amps, but you pay a lot for bling and their small production scale.
So I find it strange that Acura, who is all about value and high tech to go with a niche player. I'd rather see them go with a major player like Harman or such than can truly engineer an advanced automotive solution.
But frankly, I'd not be surprised that this is a 'badge engineering' effort were an OEM'd baseline product from Alpine is 'massaged' by the guys at Krell and their logo is slapped on it.
So I find it strange that Acura, who is all about value and high tech to go with a niche player. I'd rather see them go with a major player like Harman or such than can truly engineer an advanced automotive solution.
But frankly, I'd not be surprised that this is a 'badge engineering' effort were an OEM'd baseline product from Alpine is 'massaged' by the guys at Krell and their logo is slapped on it.
11-06-2012, 01:56 AM
#610
May be beating a dead horse
Good point.
Re-reading the article in Acura STYLE magazine,,,,
"A special bonus for audiophiles: the RLX will be the first-ever Acura to offer a premium audio system produced in collaboration with esteemed home audio maker Krell Industries".
"in collaboration" = cross branding.
Re-reading the article in Acura STYLE magazine,,,,
"A special bonus for audiophiles: the RLX will be the first-ever Acura to offer a premium audio system produced in collaboration with esteemed home audio maker Krell Industries".
"in collaboration" = cross branding.
First is that Acura was looking for a high end system for the NSX, NOT the RLX and decided to see if Krell would be willing to lend the name to the RLX to give it some cache "before" the introduction of the NSX and also to give some credence to the Krell brand before dropping into the supercar so they don't have to explain to NSX owners what Krell is.
Second, if Krell is that small a boutique company then they can probably make smaller production runs of a system, small enough to be profitable for the number of RLXs and NSXs that will be sold. Additionally if the specs are significant enough a departure from the old system, maybe ELS did not want to do the tooling required for such a small order. So, they find a new supplier
In other words, finding the right supplier for the product rather than trying to make a general product fit a specific design.
11-06-2012, 11:47 AM
#611
The Krell site does not even have a press release on teaming with Acura
11-06-2012, 04:11 PM
#613
11-06-2012, 11:47 PM
#617
Burning Brakes
Looks like the RL is officially dropped from the Acura website list of vehicles.
http://www.acura.com/
http://www.acura.com/
11-07-2012, 12:47 AM
#618
^ Cool story bro. Your a little late on that one.
11-07-2012, 08:10 AM
#620
Suzuka Master
iTrader: (1)
Looks like the RL is officially dropped from the Acura website list of vehicles.
http://www.acura.com/
http://www.acura.com/
Late to the party and bring no beer.
11-07-2012, 06:34 PM
#621
Burning Brakes
11-07-2012, 07:49 PM
#622
To be honest, I think Acura is just hedging their bets here. With Panasonic just bleeding money it wouldn't shock me if Acura is trying to come up with a backup plan. I agree that a major player makes more sense, but I have to wonder if Krell is something a stopgap until they know which direction Panasonic will break.
All these names on car stereos -- be they Lexicon, Rockford Fosgate, Fender, etc, etc -- are just brand licensing arrangements anyway. A handful of car stereo mass makers actually manufacture them all, just as one of the other posters suggested when he said it'll probably get produced by Alpine, Clarion or one of the usual suspects. (If I recall, the #1 manufacturer is a maker who's big but so obscure its name isn't even recognizable to consumers like me.)
11-07-2012, 10:41 PM
#623
11-08-2012, 12:11 PM
#624
11-09-2012, 07:25 AM
#625
Safety Car
Thread Starter
Tov
Acura Canada hosted a "focus group" to display the new 2014 RLX and to receive our feedback on what we saw.
They strictly forbid us to take photos.
Clearly looked like a ready for production model with all the factory stickers and vin and such in the usual places. Made in Japan according to the door jamb sticker.
This was the FWD version. 310hp, no AWD, but 4 wheel steering on this model.
The car looks very similar to the "concept", but the front lower fascia is slightly revised and looks better in person. The rear taillights are identical to the concept, but again, the lower fascia has hideous pieces of chrome surrounding the reflector lights. The wheels are 19" Michelin Primacy MXVs and have thin spokes as we've seen on Honda Accords.
Despite the pitchmans claim that it was a "mid size car, with a full size interior", to me and others I spoke with, the interior felt on the smaller and tighter than expected. The windshield definitely less expansive as in past hondas. The belt line felt higher. The rear seat wasn't exceptionally roomy either.
The leather felt absolutely fantastic, and they made a big deal about the "Krell" soundsystem, which I can confirm sounded absolutely amazing.
Overall, just felt like an upscale Accord.
I honestly think Acura won't light the sales charts on fire with this model.
11-09-2012, 09:33 AM
#627
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Thanks TSX...
It is good to see initial impressions. I think the RLX will just be one of those cars that needs personal assessment, especially for us who 'get' the RL.
For me, the good is there is nothing offensive to me with what I see in the RLX. The bad is I am not lusting for it, especially as my current RL continues to offer me my personal sweet spot in a car. If the RLX is not much different, that can be a good thing, yet will I surrender my current RL to have one? Dunno.
And like many of us have experienced with the RL, it was not so much a car we 'got' by initial impressions. It was a car that was comfortable and intuitive and continues to do so without wear, either physically or intangibly. I for one, am still enchanted with my RL...and it is a gamble to expect the same from the RLX. I will have to experience in person and hopefully these uber refined filters my RL has bestowed upon me will be apparent (or not) when I experience the RLX. Only thing certain to me is that it will not be an easy decision, whether that is to part with my RL or if the RLX is an appropriate replacement. Noting on the market currently would make me surrender my RL.
As far as focus groups...they have value. But again, was it not a focus group that gave Acura the ideal the power phlegm grill was a good idea?
It is good to see initial impressions. I think the RLX will just be one of those cars that needs personal assessment, especially for us who 'get' the RL.
For me, the good is there is nothing offensive to me with what I see in the RLX. The bad is I am not lusting for it, especially as my current RL continues to offer me my personal sweet spot in a car. If the RLX is not much different, that can be a good thing, yet will I surrender my current RL to have one? Dunno.
And like many of us have experienced with the RL, it was not so much a car we 'got' by initial impressions. It was a car that was comfortable and intuitive and continues to do so without wear, either physically or intangibly. I for one, am still enchanted with my RL...and it is a gamble to expect the same from the RLX. I will have to experience in person and hopefully these uber refined filters my RL has bestowed upon me will be apparent (or not) when I experience the RLX. Only thing certain to me is that it will not be an easy decision, whether that is to part with my RL or if the RLX is an appropriate replacement. Noting on the market currently would make me surrender my RL.
As far as focus groups...they have value. But again, was it not a focus group that gave Acura the ideal the power phlegm grill was a good idea?
Last edited by TampaRLX-SH; 11-09-2012 at 09:35 AM.
11-09-2012, 11:04 AM
#628
and a Thanks to TSX as well
What does a focus group tell them this late in the game?
What does a focus group tell them this late in the game?
11-09-2012, 01:02 PM
#629
Senior Moderator
I remember in 2004 when Acura announced a 300 hp Legend with torque vectoring AWD. I was lusting (albeit from a very strong bias to Legends). And then, I remember the first time I saw one on the road. Highway 290E, NW of Houston, I came up behind one. I could see from 1/4 mile away that this car caught my eye (again, heavy Acura bias means that wasn't a surprise). As I got closer, I kept gazing, wondering what car it was. When I was close enough to see the badge on the trunk, it all made sense. That was what I had lusted over for 4 years.
Now you tell me that I can have a 370 hp, 400+ ft*lb, AWD, hybrid Legend with 30 mpg combined... I get it. I enjoy cars enough to spend the money on it (someday). Others will just wait until the features trickle down to the TL, MDX, and other models, and sure enough, Acura will continue to be successful.
The funny thing about all the people who say that Acura "doesn't get it" is that they wouldn't buy one if Acura did "get it", and while they have said the same thing time and time again for the past 4 years, Acura keeps doing just fine.
11-09-2012, 06:17 PM
#630
Burning Brakes
I got it.
I remember in 2004 when Acura announced a 300 hp Legend with torque vectoring AWD. I was lusting (albeit from a very strong bias to Legends). And then, I remember the first time I saw one on the road. Highway 290E, NW of Houston, I came up behind one. I could see from 1/4 mile away that this car caught my eye (again, heavy Acura bias means that wasn't a surprise). As I got closer, I kept gazing, wondering what car it was. When I was close enough to see the badge on the trunk, it all made sense. That was what I had lusted over for 4 years.
Now you tell me that I can have a 370 hp, 400+ ft*lb, AWD, hybrid Legend with 30 mpg combined... I get it. I enjoy cars enough to spend the money on it (someday). Others will just wait until the features trickle down to the TL, MDX, and other models, and sure enough, Acura will continue to be successful.
The funny thing about all the people who say that Acura "doesn't get it" is that they wouldn't buy one if Acura did "get it", and while they have said the same thing time and time again for the past 4 years, Acura keeps doing just fine.
I remember in 2004 when Acura announced a 300 hp Legend with torque vectoring AWD. I was lusting (albeit from a very strong bias to Legends). And then, I remember the first time I saw one on the road. Highway 290E, NW of Houston, I came up behind one. I could see from 1/4 mile away that this car caught my eye (again, heavy Acura bias means that wasn't a surprise). As I got closer, I kept gazing, wondering what car it was. When I was close enough to see the badge on the trunk, it all made sense. That was what I had lusted over for 4 years.
Now you tell me that I can have a 370 hp, 400+ ft*lb, AWD, hybrid Legend with 30 mpg combined... I get it. I enjoy cars enough to spend the money on it (someday). Others will just wait until the features trickle down to the TL, MDX, and other models, and sure enough, Acura will continue to be successful.
The funny thing about all the people who say that Acura "doesn't get it" is that they wouldn't buy one if Acura did "get it", and while they have said the same thing time and time again for the past 4 years, Acura keeps doing just fine.
Last edited by dwboston; 11-09-2012 at 06:20 PM.
11-09-2012, 06:51 PM
#631
I'm with Boston, 007 and Tampa. My 2006 RL is a sweet, sweet ride and the best car I've owned going back to 1968. I'm looking forward to buying an AWD RLX for the reasons 007 stated. Regarding a previous post about the AWD having 300+ hp going to the front wheels, we previously owned a Lexus 400h AWD and it had awesome power delivered through the rear electric motors. The RLX will likely have awesome power released through the rear electric motors, particularly at take-off & low speeds where an electric motor's torque excels.
11-09-2012, 07:30 PM
#633
Senior Moderator
Stop making RLX threads, and go read the RLX thread! 
Japan for now. Coming to a state near you. The Yen is strong. The dollar... well, it isn't.
Japan for now. Coming to a state near you. The Yen is strong. The dollar... well, it isn't.
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HEAVY_RL (11-10-2012)
11-09-2012, 07:54 PM
#634
Real talk
11-09-2012, 07:59 PM
#635
Senior Moderator
11-09-2012, 08:18 PM
#636
I'm with Boston, 007 and Tampa. My 2006 RL is a sweet, sweet ride and the best car I've owned going back to 1968. I'm looking forward to buying an AWD RLX for the reasons 007 stated. Regarding a previous post about the AWD having 300+ hp going to the front wheels, we previously owned a Lexus 400h AWD and it had awesome power delivered through the rear electric motors. The RLX will likely have awesome power released through the rear electric motors, particularly at take-off & low speeds where an electric motor's torque excels.
But why do we have to wait so long?
Just turned 160K on my 2005. Most miles I have ever put on a car
11-09-2012, 10:25 PM
#637
Senior Moderator
Because in 2008 the RL was set to get a V8 and possibly a rear wheel platform. Then, people who were all set to buy it realized they couldn't afford their life, and everything went to shit. Honda stopped dead in it's tracks and regrouped. They asked themselves what they believed in (the answer wasn't V8s and V10s), and they started over innovating instead of renovating used design models.
A four year model cycle is the norm. An 8 year model cycle is unheard of. What they couldn't tell in the future set them back, and they lost a lot of faithful customers. Frankly, in 4 years I don't think any of it will matter, though.
A four year model cycle is the norm. An 8 year model cycle is unheard of. What they couldn't tell in the future set them back, and they lost a lot of faithful customers. Frankly, in 4 years I don't think any of it will matter, though.
11-12-2012, 11:24 AM
#638
Is there any info out on pricing?
11-12-2012, 12:36 PM
#640
^ interesting write-up. I'd say very luke warm on the FWD.