Acura RLX 2016

A shockingly-new and high-tech model

By Farah Amin

The system includes things like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigating braking and blind spot information. This improved version adds a Cross Traffic Monitor and Road Departure Mitigation, which aid watches the lines on the road to help keep the car in its lane. If RDM detects a possible accident, it can even provide steering and braking assistance. Furthermore, the Advance Package now receives Acura’s Surround View Camera that places four cameras on the sedan to provide a 360-degree view when needed.

The 2016 Acura RLX is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard. Acura’s Precision All-Wheel Steer system, which allows the rear wheels to operate independently to improve maneuverability at low speeds and handling at high speeds, also comes standard.

The RLX Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system includes one front electric motor and two rear electric motors to increase power, improve fuel efficiency and significantly enhance handling. With the instant torque of electric power, 377 overall horsepower and the ability to send power to the outside rear wheels in a curve, the performance of this sedan shows why this system lies at the heart of the NSX supercar.

Standard features in the five-seat 2016 Acura RLX include Bluetooth, a 10-speaker audio system, satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, a USB port, a rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, tri-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, a power moonroof, leatherette trim and heated front seats. A 14-speaker Krell audio system, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a power rear sunshade, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring are available. A rear cross traffic monitor and Acura’s Road Departure Mitigation system, which can detect painted lines on the road and apply steering and braking assistance in order to keep the RLX on the roadway, are newly available for 2016. The 2016 Acura RLX starts at $50,950.

Inside the RLX, the seating surfaces and interior trim with remarkably soft, perforated Milano Leather. Both front seats have 12-way adjustment, which includes a lumbar support that adjusts up and down, as well as in and out. There are four distinct levels of softness and firmness are designed into the seats to provide an ideal combination of comfort and support.

While dual-level heating is standard, the Advance Package provides six levels of personal climate control, including three levels of heating and three of ventilation. The seats cool an occupant by drawing air across occupants and into the perforations in the leather, allowing you to quickly reach your desired comfort level.