The 2020 Acura RLX is part of the same luxury-midsize-sedan class as Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. However, the RLX is little larger, and represent the main model from Honda’s deluxe brand. Back in the days, the RLX was in the shadow of German automakers. The Europeans offer better-looking vehicle, the performances were also much better than the Honda’s.
But, the recent update changes that picture. New RLX delivers astonishing design language, and one of the nicest cabin in the class. Moreover, the performance gets a boost, so the upcoming model can proudly stand before the competition. Especially if you look at the amazingly capable RLX Sport Hybrid model. The engine and driving abilities of the Sport Hybrid version will surely impress any motorhead out there.
2020 Acura RLX Redesign
The forthcoming 2020 Acura RLX takes a crisp design language from RDX and MDX crossover SUVs. Surely, the exterior redesign is a necessary thing to do. So, the new RLX will bring a more distinctive look. The new model is 198 inches long, more than rivals like BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
By dimension, new Acura RLX is somewhere between the mid-size sedan class, and a full-size correlative. The RLX exterior is inspired by the Acura Precision Concept. This design language highlight the dynamic sculpting, elegant shape, and distinctive look. Moreover, Acura’s famous Diamond grille shoes some intricate details, wrapped in bold, clean shape.
The rear fascia has a diffuser flanked by Dual Chrome Exhaust Outlets. Also, the additional chrome accents follow LED taillights designed with LED lighting for a more recognizable signature. The 2020 RLX will offer two premium color choices – Brilliant Red Metallic, and Majestic Black Pearl. If you want these astonishing colors, the additional cost is $400. The new RLX will roll on 19-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
New 2020 Acura RLX offers a roomy and nicely designed cabin. The new model can accommodate five passengers, technically. But, that configuration includes a smaller middle seat in the back. Furthermore, rear legroom offers 38.8 inches while the front seats are very supportive and comfortable.
Of course, the cabin is full of soft-materials. However, the company may reconsider updating the infotainment system. Sure, it’s very user-friendly, but it becomes a bit out of date. The base model offers 14.9 cubic feet of trunk space.
Not a bad amount of space, but competitors like Mercedes-Benz-E-Class offer a significantly more. The hybrid version of RLX reduces the trunk space to 12 cubic feet, because of the lithium-ion battery pack. The standard equipment includes leather upholstery, LED highlights, GPPS-linked tri-zone climate control, moonroof, and heated 12-way power-adjustable front seats.
Also, navigation with real-time traffic updates, a 14-speaker audio system, USB port, Bluetooth, and HD radio are also available. The AcuraWatch bundle of driver-aids comes as part of the standard equipment. This bundle consists of forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The lane-departure warning. lane-keeping assistance and multi-view camera system are included as well.
Additional Equipment
The special version of the new 2020 Acura RLX will bring significantly more features and equipment. That version is, of course, RLX Sport Hybrid. The Sport Hybrid adds Krell audio system, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and heated steering wheel. Moreover, a head-up display.
The LED fog lights, 360-degree camera, parking sensors at both ends, and upgraded climate control with air quality sensor are available as well. On top of that, power rear sunshade, different designs of 19-inch alloy wheels, and RLX-logo projecting puddle lights are all part of the additional equipment.
Colors
The 2020 Acura RLX delivers a total of seven color options for the exterior, and for interior colors. For the exterior, standard paints available for every trim level are Modern Steel Metallic, Fathom Blue Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Gilded Pewter Metallic, and
Platinum White Pearl.
We mentioned earlier in this review two premium colors – Majestic Black Pearl, and Brilliant Red Metallic. As four the interior, the customers may choose between Ebony, Graystone, Seacoast, and Espresso.
Engine
The upcoming 2020 Acura RLX comes with a refined 3.4-liter V6 engine, that can produce 310 hp and 272 lb-ft. This engine is connected to a 10-speed automatic gearbox, and the shift-paddles are mounted od steering wheel. The EPA city/highway fuel economy is 20/29 mpg.
However, the RLX Sport Hybrid version is by far more impressive version. The RLX Sport combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with two electric motors, one for each of the front wheels. This system produces a total amount of 377 hp and 341 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a 7-speed-dual-clutch automated manual.
The same principle of steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles is applied here as well. Moreover, the regenerative braking system simulates torque vectoring. That means that the outside wheels take a corner faster than the inside wheels. The EPA fuel economy for 3.5-liter V6/3-motor hybrid is 28/29 mpg.
2020 Acura RLX Release Date and Price
The MSRP of 2020 Acura RLX starts around $56,000. The $1,000 of destination charge is included in that price. The 2020 RLX Sport Hybrid carries a price tag of $63,000. The main rivals of the upcoming Acura, Mercedes-Benz E300 has a price of $55,000, and the BMW 5 Series is slightly below that.
But, those models come with 4-cylinder powertrains and far less of standard equipment. The release date of 2020 Acura RLX is scheduled for the second quartal of 2020.