**OFFICIAL RLX THREAD** Update p.14: Prod. car to debut in LA 11/28
#81
It looks good. Nissan showed off the new 2013 Altima, which seems to be a pretty nice car for the mid-range sedan market. The question will be what will Acura put into this car for technology (other than the well known electric SH-AWD) to make it worth another 20-30k than the mid-range sedans...
I'll be anxiously awaiting 1:50pm today
Chris
I'll be anxiously awaiting 1:50pm today
Chris
#82
Drifting
What is CL?
I'm a bit sceptical since nothing has been posted on any other auto news sites, (LeftLaneNews, Jalopnik), and it's a little late for a leaked image considering the unveiling is in a few hours.
I really hope this isn't it just because it doesn't look like much more than a toned down and lengthened TL. After 8 production years of the current RL I hope Honda has more up their sleeves than this.
I'm a bit sceptical since nothing has been posted on any other auto news sites, (LeftLaneNews, Jalopnik), and it's a little late for a leaked image considering the unveiling is in a few hours.
I really hope this isn't it just because it doesn't look like much more than a toned down and lengthened TL. After 8 production years of the current RL I hope Honda has more up their sleeves than this.
#83
#84
Check vtec.net http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=1053050 The car does look like the picture above, all cover up. I guess Acura is right so far, it does look like a BMW 5 series. So far it is disappointing.
#85
It looks good. Nissan showed off the new 2013 Altima, which seems to be a pretty nice car for the mid-range sedan market. The question will be what will Acura put into this car for technology (other than the well known electric SH-AWD) to make it worth another 20-30k than the mid-range sedans...
I'll be anxiously awaiting 1:50pm today
Chris
I'll be anxiously awaiting 1:50pm today
Chris
#86
Senior Moderator
The Temple of VTEC is already set up at the news conference site.
You can see the car under the wraps. It is the same as the image TSX69 posted.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...rlx_tov-02.jpg
First glance says this look good! Acura may not have screwed up this time. My only issue is that there are too many cars already with the Hoffmeister kink (look at C-pillar). Reminds me of the Lexus LS400, which I like.
You can see the car under the wraps. It is the same as the image TSX69 posted.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...rlx_tov-02.jpg
First glance says this look good! Acura may not have screwed up this time. My only issue is that there are too many cars already with the Hoffmeister kink (look at C-pillar). Reminds me of the Lexus LS400, which I like.
#87
It looks an awful lot like the car under the sheer sheet. I don't think it looks bad if that turns out to be it; although I'm not thrilled to see the beak again. It still looks conservative (my taste) but that might drive prospective buyers away just like it did for the 2G, or current 2G buyers that waited so long for a redesign. It actually resembles the new 2013 GS imo.. I'm sure (and hope) those aren't the actual rims though.
Last edited by SSjTrunks112O; 04-04-2012 at 11:05 AM.
#88
Drifting
I don't expect the car to be polarizing. Cars in this class have a more elegant and timeless look to them rather than outrageous styling. I do expect it to be somewhat original and not just look like an extra large ILX though. For $60k the least Acura can give their prospective buyers is confidence that it doesn't look like the $25k entry-level sedan.
#89
Senior Moderator
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Better Neighborhood, Arizona
Posts: 45,634
Received 2,328 Likes
on
1,308 Posts
I like it. Hopefully Acura drops those rims though.
#90
The Temple of VTEC is already set up at the news conference site.
You can see the car under the wraps. It is the same as the image TSX69 posted.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...rlx_tov-02.jpg
First glance says this look good! Acura may not have screwed up this time. My only issue is that there are too many cars already with the Hoffmeister kink (look at C-pillar). Reminds me of the Lexus LS400, which I like.
You can see the car under the wraps. It is the same as the image TSX69 posted.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-image?...rlx_tov-02.jpg
First glance says this look good! Acura may not have screwed up this time. My only issue is that there are too many cars already with the Hoffmeister kink (look at C-pillar). Reminds me of the Lexus LS400, which I like.
#91
Senior Moderator
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Better Neighborhood, Arizona
Posts: 45,634
Received 2,328 Likes
on
1,308 Posts
Shocking prediction: It will look like a larger TL with ILX styling influences...
#92
Team Owner
iTrader: (1)
I don't expect the car to be polarizing. Cars in this class have a more elegant and timeless look to them rather than outrageous styling. I do expect it to be somewhat original and not just look like an extra large ILX though. For $60k the least Acura can give their prospective buyers is confidence that it doesn't look like the $25k entry-level sedan.
#93
Senior Moderator
at Ken!
But is that so bad? This time, the mashup actually looks decent, unlike the 4G TL, which should be killed with fire.
But is that so bad? This time, the mashup actually looks decent, unlike the 4G TL, which should be killed with fire.
#94
Drifting
To be fair, Audi has been doing the same thing lately (see the A4 and A8) and while sales are not huge for them, they have been doing okay. It is really dependent upon what the target market that Acura is looking to capture. They have clearly put the enthusiast buyers on the back burner and instead decided to focus on those buyers with more money.
#95
Drifting
One of my biggest concerns is the drivetrain. Now that the rear wheel torque vectoring is completely unattached from the front wheels there may be a very unatural feeling to the power transfer. Considering the difference in power delivery between a combustion engine and electric motors I wonder how it will feel to drive. Hopefully Honda did a lot of testing with the system to ensure the power delivery will be linear and transition well from front to back.
#96
Senior Moderator
43 minutes to go.
#97
Burning Brakes
If that's the picture, I see a roofline from the new Lexus GS (saw my first one in person this weekend -- very understated from the outside).
I also get a little New Passat vibe in the doors and area below the window in the "shoulder crease". Not sure about the front fender upward character line.
I don't see any "RL" heritage in the picture. Looks somewhat derivative, especially the rear and trunk, but not without gravitas.
Will be interested to see the full 360 view.
I also get a little New Passat vibe in the doors and area below the window in the "shoulder crease". Not sure about the front fender upward character line.
I don't see any "RL" heritage in the picture. Looks somewhat derivative, especially the rear and trunk, but not without gravitas.
Will be interested to see the full 360 view.
#98
Senior Moderator
#99
Senior Moderator
Funny RDX ad first.
Acura's MO is now "Human Centered Synergy". "We want people to desire being seen in an Acura."
Dude, get to the point!
Acura's MO is now "Human Centered Synergy". "We want people to desire being seen in an Acura."
Dude, get to the point!
#101
enough already - raise the curtain
ok - well at least it doens't have the TL backend
ok - well at least it doens't have the TL backend
#102
Senior Moderator
Just unwrapped.
Yup, looks good. Grille not perfect but much better than before.
Yup, looks good. Grille not perfect but much better than before.
#103
Randy is the Future
I definitely LIKE this. Just not the wheels but man that thing looks good.
Holy shit.... 370hp????
Holy shit.... 370hp????
Last edited by nore03; 04-04-2012 at 01:05 PM.
#104
Senior Moderator
New Acuralink with Facebook, Pandora, etc. on touch screen. Navi/radio has HD radio.
Sport Hybrid SH-AWD confirmed.
Sport Hybrid SH-AWD confirmed.
#105
Senior Moderator
370 hp in a DI V6 engine!
Now THAT's what I'm talking about. Acura is not fscking around this time!
All wheel steering!
It may be time to start saving for one.
Available beginning of 2013.
Not ready to announce pricing yet.
Now THAT's what I'm talking about. Acura is not fscking around this time!
All wheel steering!
It may be time to start saving for one.
Available beginning of 2013.
Not ready to announce pricing yet.
Last edited by neuronbob; 04-04-2012 at 01:06 PM.
#106
Safety Car
Thread Starter
Specs
371+ hp
30/30/30 mpg
30/30/30 mpg
#107
370 HP
30/30/30 mpg
Sign me up!
30/30/30 mpg
Sign me up!
#109
In Search Of Sunrise....
Too bland, way too conservative for me... especially for a concept flagship model! After seeing what they did with the NSX (which blew the world away), I was expecting A LOT more and unfortunately Acura failed to deliver with this one.
I'll reserve full judgement until I drive this thing, but based on what I've seen today, I am not impressed.
I'll reserve full judgement until I drive this thing, but based on what I've seen today, I am not impressed.
#110
Senior Moderator
No interior shot yet but I thought I saw one on the Acura site. Working + monitoring press release FTL.
Official info:
http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-...ut-in-new-york
Official info:
http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-...ut-in-new-york
Originally Posted by Acura
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 is projecting an annual sales volume of 180,000 vehicles for the brand in 2012, which would represent a nearly 50 percent increase over 2011 sales results.
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 is projecting an annual sales volume of 180,000 vehicles for the brand in 2012, which would represent a nearly 50 percent increase over 2011 sales results.
#113
Safety Car
Thread Starter
#114
Burning Brakes
I kind of like it, except for the rims. I'll be ready for a new car around then, but I'm not sure I want to jump in with the first year of a new model. They've definitely made the grille palatable.
#116
Burning Brakes
It has certainly gone "upscale". Somehow it reminds me of the 1G RL when it came out -- sort of a Honda take on the competitive luxury sedans of the time (and by "Honda take", I mean somewhat understated and not V8).
It has generally familiar "luxury cues", certainly more so than the current RL.
It has generally familiar "luxury cues", certainly more so than the current RL.
#117
Honda executive just told me the RLX will debut in early 2013 as a 2014 model with FRONT. WHEEL. DRIVE. Hybrid AWD will only come later in 2013. I told him be careful not to be seen as a Toyota Avalon competitor ! The RLX pics on their investor slides look bland. Still like my 2006 better.
#118
I just saw the video on youtube, and I have to say it looks sexy! It looks like the headlights are LEDs and the back is very similar to the 7 series. Not bad, I like it.
#120
Senior Moderator
Honda executive just told me the RLX will debut in early 2013 as a 2014 model with FRONT. WHEEL. DRIVE. Hybrid AWD will only come later in 2013. I told him be careful not to be seen as a Toyota Avalon competitor ! The RLX pics on their investor slides look bland. Still like my 2006 better.
The FWD will sell better to the masses, anyway. Any enthusiast worth their salt will want the SH-SH-AWD model, however.
At least they are making TWO drivetrains available this time. Acura is learning from its mistakes with the 2G RL.