2016 Acura RLX review

1. Capacious cabin 

The 2016 Acura RLX is classified as a midsize sedan, and while that might be true on the outside, there’s nothing mid-size about the cavernous cabin on the inside. There’s seating for five passengers with plenty of space to stretch out — legroom measures at 42.3 inches in the front seats and 38.8 inches in the rear. There are also plenty of creature comforts to make the journey even more serene. Equipment like a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats and a ten-speaker ELS sound system are all included as standard. 

2. Practical standard engine 

Speaking of standard, there are two engine options available in the 2016 Acura RLX. The base engine is incredibly well-balanced for everyday driving. It’s a 310-hp 3.5L V6, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and powering the front wheels. It's also the thrifty choice too, as it can achieve an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway.

3. Standard features in abundance 

Given the lack of traditional trim levels, a lot of the RLX's features are actually included as standard. Alongside the aforementioned comfort accessories, other standard kit includes dual infotainment displays and Bluetooth^® connectivity. The Sport Hybrid model comes with even more standard features, with the Technology package (an option for the base model) adding leather upholstery, an enhanced 14-speaker sound system, and automatic windshield wipers.  

4. Sport Hybrid model boosts versatility 

On the Sport Hybrid get the same 3.5L V6 engine from the base model, but here it’s teamed with three electric motors; one integrated into the seven-speed automated manual transmission, with the other two powering the rear wheels. This makes the Sport Hybrid all-wheel-drive, which enhances traction and handling. Additionally, you not only get more power — 377 horsepower and 341 lb-ft of torque — but it’s also capable of achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined and 31 mpg on the highway.

5. Available driver convenience technologies  

The 2016 Acura RLX also includes numerous driver convenience technologies for added peace of mind behind the wheel. Forward collision warning and lane departure warning are present on all 2016 RLX models, while those equipped with the Technology package also get adaptive cruise control, lane and road departure intervention, forward collision mitigation (with automatic emergency braking), and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Finally, the Advance package includes a 360-degree top-down camera to make parking in tight spots a breeze.