2018 Acura RLX MMC (2018 spy pics pg 15, reveal pg 18)
#121
I believe with the gap between the 2014 Sport Hybrid and the 2016, it should be reasonable to expect more changes than the usual 2nd model year addition of a couple of small extras thrown in. That said, I agree that any significant visual change or more significant performance change will be at the MMC in 2017. My guess is that they add a few extra technology or convenience goodies and perhaps a 9-speed transmission to boost fuel economy and performance a little bit (although the latter might not happen until the production moves over to Ohio).
Purely my guess.
Purely my guess.
#122
#123
Agreed, since the Legend is being produced now it is quite plausible to start production of 2016 models right after that and ship them here. No car company could afford to miss two model years of a vehicle, talk about letting it die on the vine. When I test drove a Hybrid in October, the dealer whom I have purchased multiple cars from advised that the 2016 models would arrive in Spring 2015. There was no pressure put on me to obtain the 2014 model by saying these are the last cars you will see until calendar 2016. Maybe this is wishful thinking but I still believe we will see them much sooner than later.
#124
If the 2016 is coming in the spring, MMC or no, wouldn't dealers know they have allocation by now? What's going on is pretty unusual for Acura.
Further, Acura is being unusually tight-lipped. I mean, nothing. All the press drives lately are from Canada. Why? I even asked around at the NAIAS and it was like an "ain't snitching" convention over in the Acura booth about the Sport Hybrid.....or there was nothing for them to say.
I dislike that all we have is speculation.
Further, Acura is being unusually tight-lipped. I mean, nothing. All the press drives lately are from Canada. Why? I even asked around at the NAIAS and it was like an "ain't snitching" convention over in the Acura booth about the Sport Hybrid.....or there was nothing for them to say.
I dislike that all we have is speculation.
Last edited by neuronbob; 01-25-2015 at 06:05 AM.
#125
Except, perhaps, that it's a niche vehicle on which they make little money to start with. If you think about the price difference between the MSRP of the Sport Hybrid and the RLX P-AWS editions, it probably doesn't even make up for the content differences.
That'd be a nice surprise if you're right. It's great technology, and I hope they can get the Sport Hybrid into the hands of more people.
As for the RLX P-AWS versions, I wish they had a way to get through to people.
I was satisfied enough with my 2014 RLX Advance that I had to stop and think for a minute before I spoke with the dealer about the Sport Hybrid.
There's a modern prejudice against high powered front wheel drive cars. They're not going to be the ultimate this or that, but as I've said so many times, "P-AWS works." It's not going to give you the adhesion of all wheel drive, but if you're comparing a rear wheel drive sedan to the RLX, you're probably going to like the way that the RLX handles a little bit better.
It's just...a car. A good, solid Honda. Highly efficient (efficient at power delivery *and* fuel economy) for a high powered big sedan, and it's largely because it is your typical Honda front wheel drive vehicle.
And the financial efficiency of the drivetrain package allows them to give us quite a bit of content, and solid, high quality materials for the price of the vehicle, compared to other vehicles of similar price.
I don't know what's with all the anti-RLX prejudice.
I believe they've aimed the car at Accord and TL owners looking to move up, and that's why it's not appealing to the general public.
Maybe this is wishful thinking but I still believe we will see them much sooner than later.
As for the RLX P-AWS versions, I wish they had a way to get through to people.
I was satisfied enough with my 2014 RLX Advance that I had to stop and think for a minute before I spoke with the dealer about the Sport Hybrid.
There's a modern prejudice against high powered front wheel drive cars. They're not going to be the ultimate this or that, but as I've said so many times, "P-AWS works." It's not going to give you the adhesion of all wheel drive, but if you're comparing a rear wheel drive sedan to the RLX, you're probably going to like the way that the RLX handles a little bit better.
It's just...a car. A good, solid Honda. Highly efficient (efficient at power delivery *and* fuel economy) for a high powered big sedan, and it's largely because it is your typical Honda front wheel drive vehicle.
And the financial efficiency of the drivetrain package allows them to give us quite a bit of content, and solid, high quality materials for the price of the vehicle, compared to other vehicles of similar price.
I don't know what's with all the anti-RLX prejudice.
I believe they've aimed the car at Accord and TL owners looking to move up, and that's why it's not appealing to the general public.
#126
#127
Just speculating based on some information from some time ago suggesting that the Sport Hybrid RLX production COULD be moved to the same facility as the NSX. I can't find the source of the information to determine if it was a poster providing the info or if it was from Honda. My recollection is that it was official Honda info but I can't confirm that. Again, I don't recall reading that the move was definite, just a possibility. The fumbled RLX Sport Hybrid launch complete with delays, rumored battery shortages and subsequent minute production and sales and the current focus on the Legend my have postponed any decision regarding moving production to Ohio. Just my guess.
#128
Not sure I agree with this statement. " the price difference between the MSRP of the Sport Hybrid and the RLX PAWS editions, it probably doesn't even make up for the content differences". Many other manufacture that have gas and hybrid, have a price difference of only an few thousand dollars. Acura RLX PAWS Advanced and the Sport Hybrid is around five thousand. Granted it a Sport Hybrid but I a not sure the few extra features it has and the Hybrid system is worth anything more than 5k. I think the RLX and the Sport Hybrid are just limited production slow moving cars. Acura Flagship car IMHO has never been a fast mover for many of the reason brought up in this forum.
#129
Not sure I agree with this statement. " the price difference between the MSRP of the Sport Hybrid and the RLX PAWS editions, it probably doesn't even make up for the content differences". Many other manufacture that have gas and hybrid, have a price difference of only an few thousand dollars. Acura RLX PAWS Advanced and the Sport Hybrid is around five thousand. Granted it a Sport Hybrid but I a not sure the few extra features it has and the Hybrid system is worth anything more than 5k. I think the RLX and the Sport Hybrid are just limited production slow moving cars. Acura Flagship car IMHO has never been a fast mover for many of the reason brought up in this forum.
In regard to the price difference between the PAWS and the Sport Hybrid all I can say is that for me the price wasn't the biggest reason I went with the Sport Hybrid. For me the difference was between a car I had little or no interest to a car that puts a smile on my face every time I open the door. For me the comparison was to other cars that offered the luxury, performance and handling of the Sport Hybrid rather than to the PAWS RLX. Based on that criteria I think the Sport Hybrid is a good "value". The German competition for comparablely equipped cars are significantly more $s.
Just my 2 cents.
#130
The interior materials and tech is stellar, but in that price point personally I would want a car that makes me smile everytime I walk up to it and justifies paying a high monthly payment. The RLX just doesn't evoke that kind of emotion from the general public. Even the 4G TL (hate it or love it) fared better because it was so different. I really tried to like the RLX styling and if the mid cycle refresh is keen on the eye, it still may be the next car in my garage.
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sooththetruth (01-27-2015)
#131
I agree that it would be nice, and it might improve quality.
#132
Not sure I agree with this statement. " the price difference between the MSRP of the Sport Hybrid and the RLX PAWS editions, it probably doesn't even make up for the content differences". Many other manufacture that have gas and hybrid, have a price difference of only an few thousand dollars.
Are they DCT that'll double downshift, and do they vector torque?
:-)
This is why I don't like this "RLXh" [sic] stuff. It's not that kind of hybrid.
#134
This is why I was saying they could/should piggyback on the 'self-marketing' NSX. I remember back when I first started, they spent a lot of training time pointing out the similarities between the NSX and Integra.
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neuronbob (01-26-2015)
#135
It continues to look to me like they've never been all that interested in getting the word out, at least not for the cars we are driving right now.
#136
I am a golfer, often traveling with friends for weekend trips and I decided the Sports Hybrid was out for me, because of the trunk. All that interior, and not enough trunk.
Then, the car is just ....dowdy. The MMC for the RLX really needs to be a better looking car. I am not a panache person, I now own a Hyundai Genesis that has all the space of the RLX PAWS and about the same gas mileage with lots of standard features.
The value of the RLX as compared to similar German brands is often discussed, but I see Genesis sales taking off, and the RLX's proving stagnant, and I don't think it's a lack of marketing, because I am seeing ACURA ads EVERYWHERE. On this forum people are admitting that the RLX PAWS doesn't effect emotional bliss about driving. It's described as a tool, not a good looking exterior, and isn't a driver's car. And then the Legend-ary reliability hasn't been there either.
I WANT to love the PAWS, because I want the interior space, and need it, and I want the passion back in my driving. I drove TLX's, and found more passion in driving the 4 cylinder TLX with Paws than the 6 cylinder SH AWD. But the TLX looks aren't great either. (The TLX is selling well, though). The ILX is the best looking of the ACURA's and only now will have the power and dynamics to sell better. The Sports Hybrid is a fantastic idea, but just doesn't fit everyone. I can't afford a back-up CTS V wagon for my golfing trips. (note, humorous and not intended snidely)
In any case, I do see an awakening at Acura. There may be more good to come. Someone above mentioned the excellent styling of the Accord, and I could not agree more. There is designing talent there. The NSX has killer good looks.
I have no constructive comments on how to make the PAWS RLX a joyful car to drive, for more people. But I bet there is an answer.
#137
Oh, I am coming off stronger than I intended. The sports hybrid is an incredible car, but it isn't a car I can have now. I do think the interiors are underrated, compared to the Germans. However I am not sure what to expect from the MMC, but if it did have surprising improvement in looks, I would really been tempted to drive one, and risk the "the grip".
#138
I could probably tell you what NOT to expect. Should MMC happen for '16, it's highly unlikely you'll see any changes to the sheetmetal or glass. Normal changes are molded plastic parts like lights and bumpers. Whether this changes styling enough to suit your needs is debatable.
Last edited by Colin; 01-27-2015 at 08:19 PM.
#139
Hey sooththetruth, I concur I would not have been happy with the PAWS RLX except for the trunk space. I'm glad to have the backup V wagon for golfing trips, LOL! That will hold four sets of golf clubs and everyone's baggage, too.
The new Genesis is a pretty good car with lots of features. Enjoy in good health! Hopefully Acura will swing and connect with the next RLX, should they choose to remain in the mid-lux space (and my gut says they probably will not on the long term). I agree with Colin that the MMC is likely to be less than what people expect, and I think it will probably be later than we expect, too.
The new Genesis is a pretty good car with lots of features. Enjoy in good health! Hopefully Acura will swing and connect with the next RLX, should they choose to remain in the mid-lux space (and my gut says they probably will not on the long term). I agree with Colin that the MMC is likely to be less than what people expect, and I think it will probably be later than we expect, too.
#140
You know, I am not so naive to believe that reviewers are without bias, and that some of them may even be "influenced" by perks of some kind when reviewing a vehicle. But the reviewers have not routinely loved the Sports hybrid. They REALLY snoozed over the PAWS RLX, and the problems with the suspension with the front driver have really made me take pause, over PAWS. (sorry, couldn't help myself).
I am a golfer, often traveling with friends for weekend trips and I decided the Sports Hybrid was out for me, because of the trunk. All that interior, and not enough trunk.
Then, the car is just ....dowdy. The MMC for the RLX really needs to be a better looking car. I am not a panache person, I now own a Hyundai Genesis that has all the space of the RLX PAWS and about the same gas mileage with lots of standard features.
The value of the RLX as compared to similar German brands is often discussed, but I see Genesis sales taking off, and the RLX's proving stagnant, and I don't think it's a lack of marketing, because I am seeing ACURA ads EVERYWHERE. On this forum people are admitting that the RLX PAWS doesn't effect emotional bliss about driving. It's described as a tool, not a good looking exterior, and isn't a driver's car. And then the Legend-ary reliability hasn't been there either.
I WANT to love the PAWS, because I want the interior space, and need it, and I want the passion back in my driving. I drove TLX's, and found more passion in driving the 4 cylinder TLX with Paws than the 6 cylinder SH AWD. But the TLX looks aren't great either. (The TLX is selling well, though). The ILX is the best looking of the ACURA's and only now will have the power and dynamics to sell better. The Sports Hybrid is a fantastic idea, but just doesn't fit everyone. I can't afford a back-up CTS V wagon for my golfing trips. (note, humorous and not intended snidely)
In any case, I do see an awakening at Acura. There may be more good to come. Someone above mentioned the excellent styling of the Accord, and I could not agree more. There is designing talent there. The NSX has killer good looks.
I have no constructive comments on how to make the PAWS RLX a joyful car to drive, for more people. But I bet there is an answer.
I am a golfer, often traveling with friends for weekend trips and I decided the Sports Hybrid was out for me, because of the trunk. All that interior, and not enough trunk.
Then, the car is just ....dowdy. The MMC for the RLX really needs to be a better looking car. I am not a panache person, I now own a Hyundai Genesis that has all the space of the RLX PAWS and about the same gas mileage with lots of standard features.
The value of the RLX as compared to similar German brands is often discussed, but I see Genesis sales taking off, and the RLX's proving stagnant, and I don't think it's a lack of marketing, because I am seeing ACURA ads EVERYWHERE. On this forum people are admitting that the RLX PAWS doesn't effect emotional bliss about driving. It's described as a tool, not a good looking exterior, and isn't a driver's car. And then the Legend-ary reliability hasn't been there either.
I WANT to love the PAWS, because I want the interior space, and need it, and I want the passion back in my driving. I drove TLX's, and found more passion in driving the 4 cylinder TLX with Paws than the 6 cylinder SH AWD. But the TLX looks aren't great either. (The TLX is selling well, though). The ILX is the best looking of the ACURA's and only now will have the power and dynamics to sell better. The Sports Hybrid is a fantastic idea, but just doesn't fit everyone. I can't afford a back-up CTS V wagon for my golfing trips. (note, humorous and not intended snidely)
In any case, I do see an awakening at Acura. There may be more good to come. Someone above mentioned the excellent styling of the Accord, and I could not agree more. There is designing talent there. The NSX has killer good looks.
I have no constructive comments on how to make the PAWS RLX a joyful car to drive, for more people. But I bet there is an answer.
#141
The great thing about this country is we are entitled to our opinions, even if we disagree. I wanted the RLX-SH since I first saw it at the New York Auto Show. I can understand some of the criticisms that the styling is not exotic enough, or that the interior is the corporate standard for the brand and that there are very few differences between the RLX, MDX and the TLX regarding layout and content now. I really think that if the SH was the only model and the P-AWS model never existed, the RLX model would have sold much better because more people would have test drove it, ultimately buying it. I just don't understand how someone can drive the SH and not feel compelled to buy it. It is just that good. I drove an Audi A8 and although it was very powerful and rode very nicely, I could never justify paying around $105,000 for something like that. Not that an MSRP of $62-66k for the RLX Sport Hybrid (model dependent) before discounts is chump change, but even if they were priced the same, I would still choose the RLX-SH. I would respectfully ask that before any of us criticize any other model car, that we should have first hand experiences to relate to.
#142
All I can say to folks who have formed an opinion of the car without a test drive is that they really should hold their judgement until they can drive it.
Yes, it seems this car is like cocaine. There have been warnings on this board not to test drive it, lest your children become homeless, your wife leaves you for the more reliable street hot dog vendor downtown, your ex -friends point you out to their children as an example as to what happens when you give in to temptation. Your dog will turn down the pork chops you offer it because they are from Wal-mart, and inedible even for a dog.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
(I really want one)
Yes, it seems this car is like cocaine. There have been warnings on this board not to test drive it, lest your children become homeless, your wife leaves you for the more reliable street hot dog vendor downtown, your ex -friends point you out to their children as an example as to what happens when you give in to temptation. Your dog will turn down the pork chops you offer it because they are from Wal-mart, and inedible even for a dog.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
(I really want one)
#143
#144
Here's a dumb question, however.
Do you really believe that the RLX Sport Hybrid would appeal to the majority of the sedan buying public?
Or was it never designed for that kind of mass appeal?
It continues to amaze me that they never gave Saiyama the room to produce but so many of any kind of RLX, Sport Hybrid or not.
It's either a 250-car beta test ahead of the NSX Sport Hybrid and other cars using the technology, or they're just trying to keep a handful of people in Hondas instead of gravitating away from the brand and into Mercedes or some other more expensive car.
Do you really believe that the RLX Sport Hybrid would appeal to the majority of the sedan buying public?
Or was it never designed for that kind of mass appeal?
It continues to amaze me that they never gave Saiyama the room to produce but so many of any kind of RLX, Sport Hybrid or not.
It's either a 250-car beta test ahead of the NSX Sport Hybrid and other cars using the technology, or they're just trying to keep a handful of people in Hondas instead of gravitating away from the brand and into Mercedes or some other more expensive car.
#145
All I can say to folks who have formed an opinion of the car without a test drive is that they really should hold their judgement until they can drive it.
Yes, it seems this car is like cocaine. There have been warnings on this board not to test drive it, lest your children become homeless, your wife leaves you for the more reliable street hot dog vendor downtown, your ex -friends point you out to their children as an example as to what happens when you give in to temptation. Your dog will turn down the pork chops you offer it because they are from Wal-mart, and inedible even for a dog.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
(I really want one)
Yes, it seems this car is like cocaine. There have been warnings on this board not to test drive it, lest your children become homeless, your wife leaves you for the more reliable street hot dog vendor downtown, your ex -friends point you out to their children as an example as to what happens when you give in to temptation. Your dog will turn down the pork chops you offer it because they are from Wal-mart, and inedible even for a dog.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
(I really want one)
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wstr75 (01-28-2015)
#147
Well. They're glad to hear that, I'm sure.
I felt that way about my 2010 4G TL 6-6 SH-AWD, for close to five years before I decided to go the direction of the RLX.
With that 6-6 and with the Sport Hybrid, I'll find myself just randomly thinking, "What a nice car."
#149
Well. They're glad to hear that, I'm sure.
I felt that way about my 2010 4G TL 6-6 SH-AWD, for close to five years before I decided to go the direction of the RLX.
With that 6-6 and with the Sport Hybrid, I'll find myself just randomly thinking, "What a nice car."
And again we live in a great country where we can voice our opinions without fear of persecution about this or any other topic.
Wind noise issues (for some) aside, or perceived "rattles" in the front end suspension design, it is an extreme privilege to enjoy such a machine. The average person in Russia would be considered wealthy to own any of these cars. A quick YouTube search will show the crap people drive in that country. We go to great lengths to discuss and analize car waxes, tire dressings and gas mileage while in most of the rest of the world are concerned about simply getting from here to there and not dying on the way. Gives some perspective.
#150
Yes, it seems this car is like cocaine. There have been warnings on this board not to test drive it, lest your children become homeless, your wife leaves you for the more reliable street hot dog vendor downtown, your ex -friends point you out to their children as an example as to what happens when you give in to temptation. Your dog will turn down the pork chops you offer it because they are from Wal-mart, and inedible even for a dog.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
I mean, I haven't driven the SH AWD. What if I were to like it? Maybe I should buy test drive insurance? Is there Sports Hybrid rehab; people sitting in circles discussing the day they went out to lunch, and ended up in Montana, after suffering a 2 day Sports Hybrid induced fugue state? And the policeman who was to drive the POSSESSED VEHICLE back to the station disappears?
Oh, the humanity.
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sooththetruth (02-13-2015)
#151
Excellent! Thank you, sooththetruth, for beautifully describing the way the Sport Hybrid has ruined my life in a way that my spouse and friends will finally be able to understand. All of the symptoms you list have happened to me since I got my SH-AWD. And yet... I cannot resist the urge I feel every day to drive it again and get one more fix. And, like a true druggie, I keep touting the high to everyone who will listen. Was it all worth it? Absolutely!
To quote Jim Cramer....Bu ya!!!! Time for another "hit". No Betty Ford Clinic for either of us.
#152
Latest Thoughts
I am fairly impressed with the 2016 Acura ILX & RDX refreshes, which gives me hope for the eventual RLX MMC.
It may be a little less dramatic as the RLX already has jewel eyes & I am not so sure how Honda's shuriken-esque rims will look on it but I feel confident that they will make it look sportier. They typically do not do much to the interiors other than upgrade materials so not expecting much there.
It has already been stated that the 3-dimensional grille will make its way across the lineup so that is a given.
It may be a little less dramatic as the RLX already has jewel eyes & I am not so sure how Honda's shuriken-esque rims will look on it but I feel confident that they will make it look sportier. They typically do not do much to the interiors other than upgrade materials so not expecting much there.
It has already been stated that the 3-dimensional grille will make its way across the lineup so that is a given.
#153
I like Acura's frontal appearance way more than Lexus's recent gaping look. Acura's beak in those shots seems to be returning to the understated look of its grills during the late 90s early 00s. Understated = integrated form and less jarring
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KeithL (02-13-2015)
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#156
#157
1. didn't know about the RDX refresh. nice to see that along with the ILX refresh, and agree it's encouraging for what may come with the RLX refresh.
2. good lord they really need to do something about their wheel designers. this is the single biggest design problem they have at the moment. everything else is shaping up really nicely with the new design language, but oof...fire the wheel design team immediately, it's detracting from the newly improved styling and keeps the cars from hitting a higher level of luxury appearance. Seriously, the wheels make me instantly think "Ford", "Chevy", "GM", when I see them...
2. good lord they really need to do something about their wheel designers. this is the single biggest design problem they have at the moment. everything else is shaping up really nicely with the new design language, but oof...fire the wheel design team immediately, it's detracting from the newly improved styling and keeps the cars from hitting a higher level of luxury appearance. Seriously, the wheels make me instantly think "Ford", "Chevy", "GM", when I see them...
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neuronbob (02-15-2015)