Acura: RLX News
#2922
#2923
370 HP...... is that V6 + Hybrid HP?
If that's just the V6 making that, WOW.
I like the shape, but it doesn't break any new ground. And that might be a good thing given the potential demographic might be older folks who want more unassuming than something like a BMW or Audi.
If that's just the V6 making that, WOW.
I like the shape, but it doesn't break any new ground. And that might be a good thing given the potential demographic might be older folks who want more unassuming than something like a BMW or Audi.
#2925
Press Release
04/04/2012
Acura today held the world debut of the Acura RLX Concept at the New York International Auto Show, providing luxury buyers with a first look at the design and engineering direction for its all-new Acura RLX flagship sedan, slated for launch at the beginning of 2013.
The RLX Concept employs an extraordinary array of new Acura technologies, including the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, in combination with sophisticated styling and smart packaging to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.
Utilizing highly efficient packaging, the RLX Concept delivers the interior space of a large luxury sedan with the footprint and agility of a midsize luxury sedan. The RLX Concept's all-new 3.5L direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, with three electric motors, combine to generate more than 370-horsepower, and are paired with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and lightweight body to deliver V-8 acceleration with four-cylinder fuel economy—with an estimated EPA (city/highway/combined) rating of 30/30/30 mpg.
"We have created a true luxury sedan based on our Acura DNA," said American Honda president & CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura. "This means achieving advanced performance through engineering efficiency to create a unique synergy between the vehicle and its driver. Inside and out, on the open road or city streets, the sophisticated and elegant Acura RLX will offer a level of connectivity, comfort and advanced performance demanded by today's luxury buyers."
Acura also announced that the production RLX will be offered in a 310-horsepower, front-wheel-drive version, which will also deliver superior handling performance through the application of another new Acura technology— Precision All Wheel Steer™.
Styling-Design
The RLX Concept styling builds on Acura's 'Keen Edge' design motif with its taut and aerodynamic shape, carefully tailored proportions, and sophisticated and distinctive detailing. Its athletic stance is accented by 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and 255/35 R20 high-performance tires. Dimensionally, the RLX Concept is approximately the same length as the current RL, but with a two-inch longer wheelbase and two-inch shorter front overhang. Both the track and vehicle width increase by approximately two inches.
Acura's exclusive new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps debut on the RLX Concept. The Acura signature Jewel Eye™ headlamps use a dual-stacked array with a total of ten separate 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 highly distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
Body and Chassis
Through engineering efficiency, including substantial use of high-strength steel and aluminum, the RLX Concept achieves an ultra-rigid and light body design, with the front wheel drive version to weigh in at well under 4,000 pounds. An all-new double wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, Amplitude Reactive Dampers and electronic power steering with a variable gear ratio team to provide the foundation for the RLX's precise and intuitive handling control — termed by Acura as "Inomama" or "at the will of the driver."
Front-wheel-drive versions of RLX will utilize Acura's all-new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. This system provides for independent control of the steering (toe) angle of the right and left rear wheels by utilizing electrically controlled actuators. Precision All Wheel Steer™ works in tandem with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision.
All-wheel-drive RLX models add even more handling performance with Acura's highly advanced Sport-Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive), recently introduced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show on the NSX Concept. The performance hybrid system utilizes a front-mounted electric motor, located within the dual clutch transmission, and a unique dual electric motor drive unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system to instantly generate negative or positive torque to the rear wheels during cornering. This provides a new level of agility and confidence to create an "on-the-rails-cornering" experience.
Safety
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 TOP SAFETY PICK status from IIHS.
Advanced Telematics
In keeping with the 'human-centered synergy' focus of Acura, the RLX will feature state-of-the-art communications, navigation and infotainment technologies with intuitive and easy-to-operate controls. Dual LCD screens (8-inch display and 7-inch touch screen) will provide easy and direct one-touch access to key functions — including audio, heating and cooling, navigation and voice-to-text SMS text message function.
The RLX will also feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver an array of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service.
An all-new, 14-speaker ultra premium audio system will be offered in addition to Acura's award winning ELS Surround® sound system. Both audio systems provide MP3 connectivity via USB along with integration of HD radio™, Pandora® internet radio interface and Aha Radio® interface via Bluetooth® smart phone pairing. Using Aha, RLX drivers can choose from thousands of web-based audio stations, including music, live news, podcasts, audio books, personalized points of interest, and audio newsfeeds from Facebook and Twitter. In addition, a new Acura-exclusive smart phone application integrates smart phone functions (such as email, text messaging and contacts) into the RLX's on-demand touch screen functions. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® calling and pre-loaded text message replies provide for easy two-way communication.
The RLX also will be available with Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™. This innovative system offers the driver a wide range of search options including Bing™ search functionality and the option for an AcuraLink® concierge to send a destination to the vehicle's navigation system. In addition, the RLX navigation system will feature AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Acura Brand
With a focus on 'human-centered synergy,' Acura is embarking on its next 25 years as a pioneering and innovative performance-luxury nameplate and is undertaking an aggressive revitalization of its Acura product and technology portfolio.
The RLX Concept is Acura's fourth new model debut since January 2012, when Acura took the wraps off its redesigned RDX Protoype crossover SUV, all-new Acura ILX Concept sedan, and next-generation Acura NSX Concept supercar, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Following the introduction of the production versions of the more powerful and fuel-efficient 2013 RDX in March, and the all-new 2013 Acura ILX and ILX Hybrid sedans in May, the production RLX will launch in early 2013. The next-generation Acura NSX, being developed by Honda R&D Americas in the U.S., will be produced in Ohio using domestically and globally sourced parts and launched within the next three years.
Acura today held the world debut of the Acura RLX Concept at the New York International Auto Show, providing luxury buyers with a first look at the design and engineering direction for its all-new Acura RLX flagship sedan, slated for launch at the beginning of 2013.
The RLX Concept employs an extraordinary array of new Acura technologies, including the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, in combination with sophisticated styling and smart packaging to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.
Utilizing highly efficient packaging, the RLX Concept delivers the interior space of a large luxury sedan with the footprint and agility of a midsize luxury sedan. The RLX Concept's all-new 3.5L direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, with three electric motors, combine to generate more than 370-horsepower, and are paired with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and lightweight body to deliver V-8 acceleration with four-cylinder fuel economy—with an estimated EPA (city/highway/combined) rating of 30/30/30 mpg.
"We have created a true luxury sedan based on our Acura DNA," said American Honda president & CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura. "This means achieving advanced performance through engineering efficiency to create a unique synergy between the vehicle and its driver. Inside and out, on the open road or city streets, the sophisticated and elegant Acura RLX will offer a level of connectivity, comfort and advanced performance demanded by today's luxury buyers."
Acura also announced that the production RLX will be offered in a 310-horsepower, front-wheel-drive version, which will also deliver superior handling performance through the application of another new Acura technology— Precision All Wheel Steer™.
Styling-Design
The RLX Concept styling builds on Acura's 'Keen Edge' design motif with its taut and aerodynamic shape, carefully tailored proportions, and sophisticated and distinctive detailing. Its athletic stance is accented by 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and 255/35 R20 high-performance tires. Dimensionally, the RLX Concept is approximately the same length as the current RL, but with a two-inch longer wheelbase and two-inch shorter front overhang. Both the track and vehicle width increase by approximately two inches.
Acura's exclusive new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps debut on the RLX Concept. The Acura signature Jewel Eye™ headlamps use a dual-stacked array with a total of ten separate 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 highly distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
Body and Chassis
Through engineering efficiency, including substantial use of high-strength steel and aluminum, the RLX Concept achieves an ultra-rigid and light body design, with the front wheel drive version to weigh in at well under 4,000 pounds. An all-new double wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, Amplitude Reactive Dampers and electronic power steering with a variable gear ratio team to provide the foundation for the RLX's precise and intuitive handling control — termed by Acura as "Inomama" or "at the will of the driver."
Front-wheel-drive versions of RLX will utilize Acura's all-new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. This system provides for independent control of the steering (toe) angle of the right and left rear wheels by utilizing electrically controlled actuators. Precision All Wheel Steer™ works in tandem with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision.
All-wheel-drive RLX models add even more handling performance with Acura's highly advanced Sport-Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive), recently introduced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show on the NSX Concept. The performance hybrid system utilizes a front-mounted electric motor, located within the dual clutch transmission, and a unique dual electric motor drive unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system to instantly generate negative or positive torque to the rear wheels during cornering. This provides a new level of agility and confidence to create an "on-the-rails-cornering" experience.
Safety
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 TOP SAFETY PICK status from IIHS.
Advanced Telematics
In keeping with the 'human-centered synergy' focus of Acura, the RLX will feature state-of-the-art communications, navigation and infotainment technologies with intuitive and easy-to-operate controls. Dual LCD screens (8-inch display and 7-inch touch screen) will provide easy and direct one-touch access to key functions — including audio, heating and cooling, navigation and voice-to-text SMS text message function.
The RLX will also feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver an array of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service.
An all-new, 14-speaker ultra premium audio system will be offered in addition to Acura's award winning ELS Surround® sound system. Both audio systems provide MP3 connectivity via USB along with integration of HD radio™, Pandora® internet radio interface and Aha Radio® interface via Bluetooth® smart phone pairing. Using Aha, RLX drivers can choose from thousands of web-based audio stations, including music, live news, podcasts, audio books, personalized points of interest, and audio newsfeeds from Facebook and Twitter. In addition, a new Acura-exclusive smart phone application integrates smart phone functions (such as email, text messaging and contacts) into the RLX's on-demand touch screen functions. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® calling and pre-loaded text message replies provide for easy two-way communication.
The RLX also will be available with Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™. This innovative system offers the driver a wide range of search options including Bing™ search functionality and the option for an AcuraLink® concierge to send a destination to the vehicle's navigation system. In addition, the RLX navigation system will feature AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
Acura Brand
With a focus on 'human-centered synergy,' Acura is embarking on its next 25 years as a pioneering and innovative performance-luxury nameplate and is undertaking an aggressive revitalization of its Acura product and technology portfolio.
The RLX Concept is Acura's fourth new model debut since January 2012, when Acura took the wraps off its redesigned RDX Protoype crossover SUV, all-new Acura ILX Concept sedan, and next-generation Acura NSX Concept supercar, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Following the introduction of the production versions of the more powerful and fuel-efficient 2013 RDX in March, and the all-new 2013 Acura ILX and ILX Hybrid sedans in May, the production RLX will launch in early 2013. The next-generation Acura NSX, being developed by Honda R&D Americas in the U.S., will be produced in Ohio using domestically and globally sourced parts and launched within the next three years.
#2928
I doubt 20" wheels would be standard on the production model period and if they are, Acura will have ruined a perfectly good car with those pepboys looking excuse for wheels.
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#2938
Hate to sound like Debbie Downer, but congrats Acura designers, you crossed a TL with an ILX. Another underwelming execution of design.
I'm not looking for a revolutionary impact, but they broke ground in 2001 with the MDX and in 2004 with the TL, they are capable of more than this.
Like the interior though...interesting...although it seems more upright for an SUV and not a sports sedan . ?
I'm not looking for a revolutionary impact, but they broke ground in 2001 with the MDX and in 2004 with the TL, they are capable of more than this.
Like the interior though...interesting...although it seems more upright for an SUV and not a sports sedan . ?
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honda_nut (04-04-2012)
#2939
Well it still looks to be a bit low in the dash, but pics can be deceiving.
Nice to see LESS buttons!!!
Nice to see LESS grey plastic!!!!
Probably one of the best Acura interiors in a very long time!
Now if only the exterior was less vanilla.
What worries me is that the interior (especially the front end) is pretty vanilla, you could mistake it for any mass market sedan at a glance.
Add to that we know Acura/Honda dumbs down the production models quite a bit from the concepts.
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CLtotheTL32 (04-04-2012)
#2942
that video sucks ass lmfao
the tech was cool but wtf with the song
http://youtubedoubler.com/3FdY
turn down the volume on the acura video
the tech was cool but wtf with the song
http://youtubedoubler.com/3FdY
turn down the volume on the acura video
#2943
Let me be the first to say Meh....
AWD drivetrain sounds good, FWD meh....
That front end is so vanilla. Reminds me of the previous gen Camry. Sorry, but I'm seeing another fail with this one.
AWD drivetrain sounds good, FWD meh....
That front end is so vanilla. Reminds me of the previous gen Camry. Sorry, but I'm seeing another fail with this one.
Last edited by dom; 04-04-2012 at 02:12 PM.
#2945
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civicdrivr (04-04-2012)
#2947
I'm with you, but this is upon quickly glancing at it from work. The front kind of reminds me of the 3G TL. lol. I like the headlights. The interior looks pretty good at first glance. Actually, that center stack looks like one of the best I've seen.
#2949
Acura has had trouble for quite some time in this area.
They either go too vanilla, or go way over board.
This time around they went too vanilla again.
I think they hit a home run on the interior, but failed on the exterior.
The exterior design of this car leaves a lot to be desired.
It will be "lost" in the parking lots if you will.
Add to that, a FWD V6 in this segment is a loser.
Sure they have an AWD Hybrid...which is good, but I think the price point for that one will leave many to look at other makers offerings.
I don't think we will see big success from this car.
#2950
I don't think the car is THAT vanilla, but I do think, and have said in other threads today, that the Hoffmeister kink is simply too common as we see it in so many cars.....G35.....LS400....VW CC.....etc.....
#2951
could someone chop some different wheels on there and make the car a different color? I suspect some of the dissonance I'm feeling is the fact that the wheels are outlandish and the rest of the car is vanilla, even in color.
#2952
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CarbonGray Earl (04-04-2012)
#2953
We'll see. Whether it's another fail ultimately depends on whether Acura actually properly markets the car. The marketing division failed miserably with the 2G RL. It was a great car that deserved better than it got.
I don't think the car is THAT vanilla, but I do think, and have said in other threads today, that the Hoffmeister kink is simply too common as we see it in so many cars.....G35.....LS400....VW CC.....etc.....
I don't think the car is THAT vanilla, but I do think, and have said in other threads today, that the Hoffmeister kink is simply too common as we see it in so many cars.....G35.....LS400....VW CC.....etc.....
You can't be serious.
#2954
Not necessarily, the Prius's gas and electric motors add up to more than the combined HP since it's the corresponding total peak at a certain RPM is what matters. So in hybrids you can't just add up the electric and gas motors.
#2955
Oh yeah, it sold only 38 copies in March.
It appears Acura has learned a few lessons about what features are expected in a luxury sedan. How well they've learned those lessons we won't know until the production model is ready.
#2956
I like it - Acura has done a much better job with the beak for the ILX and RLX. Its too bad the current generation didn't look more like this, otherwise I might have bought a TL instead
Oh - yeah, agree with what everyone said about the wheels. Thank goodness this is the concept and the wheels will likely change.
I really don't like any of the iDrive type implementations - so the lower screen being touchscreen instead seems cool to me. Also agree that I like the idea of less buttons - hopefully that doesn't translate into pouring through tons of menus on that touchscreen to do everyday things though.
Guessing the starting price for the FWD RLX will be around the current price of the RL ($48K) - unless they decide they can lower the price of the FWD RLX below the current RL ... but then it'd get close to the TL SH-AWD price.
Oh - yeah, agree with what everyone said about the wheels. Thank goodness this is the concept and the wheels will likely change.
I really don't like any of the iDrive type implementations - so the lower screen being touchscreen instead seems cool to me. Also agree that I like the idea of less buttons - hopefully that doesn't translate into pouring through tons of menus on that touchscreen to do everyday things though.
Guessing the starting price for the FWD RLX will be around the current price of the RL ($48K) - unless they decide they can lower the price of the FWD RLX below the current RL ... but then it'd get close to the TL SH-AWD price.
#2957
It was a little small but when the 2G RL came out it beat out the Europeans and Lexus in many comparison reviews. The competition moved onward Acura didn't pretty simple tale, but yeah part of the problem was marketing since it still was only selling a fraction of 5/E numbers when it was better in reviews.
#2958
Utilizing highly efficient packaging, the RLX Concept delivers the interior space of a large luxury sedan with the footprint and agility of a midsize luxury sedan. The RLX Concept's all-new 3.5L direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, with three electric motors, combine to generate more than 370-horsepower, and are paired with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and lightweight body to deliver V-8 acceleration with four-cylinder fuel economy—with an estimated EPA (city/highway/combined) rating of 30/30/30 mpg.
"We have created a true luxury sedan based on our Acura DNA," said American Honda president & CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura. "This means achieving advanced performance through engineering efficiency to create a unique synergy between the vehicle and its driver. Inside and out, on the open road or city streets, the sophisticated and elegant Acura RLX will offer a level of connectivity, comfort and advanced performance demanded by today's luxury buyers."
Acura also announced that the production RLX will be offered in a 310-horsepower, front-wheel-drive version, which will also deliver superior handling performance through the application of another new Acura technology— Precision All Wheel Steer™.
"We have created a true luxury sedan based on our Acura DNA," said American Honda president & CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura. "This means achieving advanced performance through engineering efficiency to create a unique synergy between the vehicle and its driver. Inside and out, on the open road or city streets, the sophisticated and elegant Acura RLX will offer a level of connectivity, comfort and advanced performance demanded by today's luxury buyers."
Acura also announced that the production RLX will be offered in a 310-horsepower, front-wheel-drive version, which will also deliver superior handling performance through the application of another new Acura technology— Precision All Wheel Steer™.
#2960
From the press release:
Under the assumption that the gas engine is the same between the two versions of the cars (which seems a pretty safe assumption), it would seem to imply that the 60hp difference is all attributable to the removal of the electric motors on the FWD version. How those three motors add up to the 60hp difference is unknown, but it's doesn't seem too far afield to speculate that they produce 20 each.
Under the assumption that the gas engine is the same between the two versions of the cars (which seems a pretty safe assumption), it would seem to imply that the 60hp difference is all attributable to the removal of the electric motors on the FWD version. How those three motors add up to the 60hp difference is unknown, but it's doesn't seem too far afield to speculate that they produce 20 each.
Prius's are good examples of this.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Prius_%28XW20%29