Used 2019 Acura RLX Consumer Reviews
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Like driving an NSX
The 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid feels like driving an NSX supercar. The hybrid gas / electric all wheel drive system offers an incredible combination of performance, traction and economy. It’s impressive and exciting to drive. Goes in snow like nothing else you’ve driven. Gas mileage can get well into the 30s. Even though it sips Gas, it will still come out of the hole like crazy with tons of horsepower and torque. Super quiet, super fun. A unique and impressive car.
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Great value car - great safety features standard
I was looking for a car that would provide some relief to a 52 mile round trip daily commute to work on very congested interstate (I-35 in Texas). I wanted a car that had good performance, fuel economy, and semi-autonomous driving features. I looked at BMW, Mercedes, Cadillac, and Acura. I choose the Acura RLX Hybrid because of Traffic Jam Assist, good fuel economy, and fantastic acceleration. I have had the car two months and have put on over 3,000 miles in that time. So far, I average 30 mpg. Occasionally, I put the car in Sport mode, but I usually leave it in the standard drive mode. In both modes, the car has very good acceleration; however, if you want the best acceleration put it in Sport mode. I use Traffic Jam Assist daily. It works best if you get in a freeway lane that does not have a lot of cars trying to merge in. The system sometimes is slow to respond to a car that darts in front of you. I have used the TJA to drive all the way from south Austin to north San Antonio and had to take control only once or twice. I highly recommend this car. I recommend that you ensure you are ok with the infotainment system and that you are fine with the small trunk before you buy.
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- Sport Hybrid SH-AWD SedanMSRP: $31,4508 mi away
- P-AWS SedanMSRP: $34,637256 mi away
- Sport Hybrid SH-AWD SedanMSRP: $28,000322 mi away
Unfairly Overlooked and Ridiculously Underrated!
I test drove just about every luxury sedan in this price range--BMW, Audi, Lexus, Infinity, Porsche (suv), and some midlevel sedans as well, and I can honestly say this is the best one out there. Why? Well,....it depends on what you want. I wanted Quality (I've always loved the way Acura's drive and last), Safety (NHTSA and IIS best ratings --with suite of safety features), Visibility (you can actually see out of the car and over your shoulder), Dependability (not one issue with it for over a year), and Ease of Driving (the smoothest engine and most maneuverability I've come across), ---(btw, the steering IS very connected to the road and incredibly sporty for a large sedan). Not to mention--- the roomy, rear seat, , the quiet cabin, the improved suspension, the way it climbs a hill and never downshifts, not to mention its' classic, elegant appearance. The RLX is a fantastic vehicle and it's a shame that it doesn't get more love in the press. Read reviews from actual owners!! Test drive it yourself, and you'll be extremely surprised in the best possible way. Pricing is high, but check around to get a good deal. They are out there. There is nothing sedate about this top notch sedan. It is thee hidden jewel at Acura!
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outstanding car
We bought this car about a month ago and it was certainly the most expensive car we've ever purchased. We did wind up test driving basically every car at the Acura dealership as well as checked out comprable Lexus sedans as well as the Accord (our historical default choice). Now that we've driven the car for about 5 weeks, our intial impression: its fantastic! I deliberately left the "value" category blank as its certainly in a very different class than other cars we've purchased in the past. (Frankly we'd consider that the Accord is a great "value".) Thus far, we've been thrilled with the RLX Hybrid. Its comfortable for long and short rides, quite sporty and, when driven a bit aggressively/sport mode, will certainly demand the driver's attention to keep the shiny side up. The safety features are amazing (CMBS,LKAS, etc). The safety features as well as the tech features did require some a bit of study, but now I find it very intuitive. Overall an outstanig car!
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Can't go back
After having driven this car (RLX hybrid) for the past year I can say I could never go back to a pure gas design ever. The sense of instant response (torque!) at the pedal has to be felt to be truly appreciated. And interestingly enough in city driving it is also quite noticeable making it an enjoyable experience rather than the usual drudge. Touch the pedal and you feel the car respond. An all electric car like the Tesla is not practical for me so the only cars I would consider as an alternative would be the Lexus or Volvo hybrids which are much more expensive. And they also have console shifters which I hate. As an audiophile I really love the Krell system which is special. Not leaps and bounds better than the ELS system in the TLX...but better. I was very happy to get the "old" infotainment system which has a CD player with a hard drive. I record all my favorite music without having to bother with any other gadgets or having to stow CDs in the car. For me, a joy to use. The ride and handling are wonderful. Overall the best car I have ever owned or driven. I have tested the GPS guidance system against Google maps on the Apple iPhone 7 and all I can say is that it's always better to have a good idea where you are going than to rely completely on either of them.
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Such a great car.
Prior to owning the RLX Hybrid I owned an A6 4.2 and an M35X both great cars but not comparable to the Acura. The Acura is a dream to drive and is super quiet, extremely fun to drive and the exeleration is amazing. Plus the gas mileage is amazing, and I like being eco friendly. The tech is great and the safety features are incredible. I won’t be shopping for another car for a little while but when I do it will be another RLX sport hybrid. *** update its 2019 and I’m still in love with this car. In 2022 I’m still delighted with the car. Its performance is unparalleled and truly exhilarating. The reliability has be stellar and I get 30 mpg due to the hybrid engine. I’m truly sad Acura discontinued the vehicle. I will struggle when it’s time ti replace the car.
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Great Car
Traded in a 2012 Acura TL . The 2017 Acura RLX is just a perfect Car. It is quiet has a lot of power and a great car for the price. Tested a Lexus GS350 but the Acura RLX is much better.
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Liked the 2014 model and this is even better
Entertainment system may not be intuitive or showy but it works really well when you get used to it and the sound is awesome! Same for navigation - not showy but it does the job. The driving aids (lane keeping etc.) and ride are outstanding, and it is fast when you want it to be. Excellent value but I bought it because I liked it better than the Audi S5 I was considering. Great car for mid-west mixed driving. Way under-rated model.
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Rlx time
I am on my 3 Rd rlx .recently got the 2020. I was hoping a 2021 would arrive but Acura discontinued the rlx.the rlx had a CD player.other cars do not.it takes too long to Put cd into computor then on a flash drive then into car. The car handles great and is very comfy. I do wish the infotainment was more modern .the Navi system is a little redundant asking to confirm things. overall a great car.
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Not perfect, but plenty good enough
Traded 2015 RLX w/ 95k, for 2018 SH-AWD w/ 35k. AWD was the draw, plus the HUGE depreciation hit on the '18. Techo wizardry, you can take it or leave it. Great seats for long rides. Acceleration good, put in Sport to really put a smile on your face. Only Toyota can match Honda/Acura reliability - had zero issues in 4 years with the '15 RLX, expect the same experience here.
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smooth ride
By far the best car i have every owned. Does all the bells and whistles in outstanding manner. Cons a bit pricey for most folks.
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Forbes writer is an idiot. This car is awesome
First, any "Expert" that is paid to write an article about a car should have to drive one of the cars for a month, then write their opinion. This clown who was an independent writer for Forbes, says the 2016 Acura RLX is one of the worst 10 cars to buy. Seriously? A 5 Star safety rating in every category, phenomenal company (Acura makes a lemon?) incredibly smooth, quiet, has great acceleration, is sexy, sleek, but doesn't have the perception as a racecar like a BMW ( had one, and it sucked, unless you LIKE being in the repair shop all the time), so it gets hammered before it is even proven? This Acura RLX is so fun to drive, whether a short jaunt or a multiple hour trip, it is outstanding in spite of what a non-owner tries to tell you. Expect to but it $10K under MSRP. The technology package is nice, the visibility is great, and I'd rather have a DEPENDABLE, SAFE car like this than a slightly faster BMW that will break down, or Mercedes (Turbo charged 4 cylinders are stupid if you want a car long-term) sedan unless you buy 500. Acura has a reputation as dependable and reliable, and this is still true.
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Ordered My Second RLX!
This is a very underrated car. I just ordered my second RLX after finishing a three-year lease. Initially, I was quite surprised at how much I liked this car. It has comfort, value, a killer stereo, reliability, and quality materials throughout. Unfortunately, Acura has chosen not to aggressively market this model. That's too bad, because it's a real jewel!
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Hidden gem
I’ve owned my 2016 for 5 years, 120k miles and love the car. There is a reason why all of the 5 star reviews. The ride is smooth, confident and just a pleasure to drive. My only gripe is the transmission flush needed about every 60k miles. Evidently with quick shift points it breaks the fluid down faster. Hiwevper, it’s not a big deal
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RLX Understated Value
This car is a understated value, Had a BMW prior to buying this car. This car is a lot quieter, rides better/smoother, has better visibility, and interior materials. The BMW hype is just that! I love this Acura RLX Advanced.
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Unfair Reviews / Great Luxury and Drive
Check the RLX Hybrid in detail against any other car in its class before buying. You will be very impressed. Accord has suffered from a very bad marketing team resulting in lax market recognition of this magnificent vehicle.
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Deserves consideration
If you want a car that gives you a lot for your money and most people are impressed by give this car a look. And, you can get a great deal!
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Electric Motors Accelerate Schmooooooth!!!!
Overall very satisfied with this purchase. Currently at 29k miles. No major glitches. Controls are intuitive and easy to master. However, Playing XM stations are glitchy and very slow to load, for scrolling; as are obtaining music from your USB FlashDrive. Push Button shifting, especially reverse, is slow to engage (1+ sec) on press of accelerator. Hybrid system is absolutely awesome, but comes with sacrifice of trunk space. Engine is very quiet when switching between electric motors and engine running; transfers between each completely unnoticed except for the RPM needle moving, ......this hybrid is much different than those gas saving German models which "die" at a stop sign, then restart. Very comfortable and rides well. Power distribution lives up to the "rides on rails" marketing motto. Controls are within ergonomic arm reach, very well thought out. Remains a comfortable and joy to drive. Sport mode is a definite power boost with intelligent tranny reset Would definitely buy again, and recommend.
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I hope they don't cancel this model!
Great car only thing i did not like was trade in value on my last car. Comfortable, great handling ,powerful ,reliable,great gas mileage! Bought the Hybrid and get great gas mileage in the city and highway. Have driven the car for over four years and am still quite impressed.Greatly that Acura discontinued this model. I am still driving this car and have no plans to trade it!
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Amazing car that did not sell - overpriced msrp
After driving this car for a while now, I have concluded that this review by Edmunds.com was to say the least HARSH ... with the commentary included here I can find at least 80% of ALL cars they provide reviews where they over-glorified some of the Korean made cars without any common sense or expertise applied - I simply do not agree with their review. I will agree on following however: MSRP was way too high - too overpriced (62k-65k is just beyond any sense) Infotainment is pretty non-intuitive and half-baked The Interior is fairly dated The drive is AMAZING given SH-AWD. They are forgetting this car weighs over 4000lbs... As far as specs go, you will be paying for a german similar spec'd car over 65-70-75k and will still have headaches whenever car needs to go to the shop - germans are NOT reliable cars... they are a society statement "I have money, and I can afford it..."
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Ok, just not up to the other luxury brands
Overall I like the car. Had challenges with the transmission not shifting from 2nd to 3rd under heavy acceleration. Dealer, Hunt Valley Acura is Maryland is horrible. Could not fix the issue even though they could recreate it. Service Manager told me to bring back the car when the transmission completely fails. The car has a rough ride and is much noisier than expected. Was not as noticeable in Atlanta since the roads are better there than in Baltimore. Krell stereo is great and the seats are comfortable, especially on long road trips. Purchased the car due to the out the door price and expected reliability. The dealer has ruined it though and will not purchase another Acura.
BETTER THAN WHAT THEY SAY
Love driving this car!!! Been a fan since '88 legend (ie. "88 legend, 96 rlx premium, 98 rl premium, 16 rlx tech). Ride is smooth. Reliable. makes me grin when i look it. stereo is great. Good power, it'll get up when stomped. I just love this car! I know, i know, mb, lexus, genesis may be better in some categories. Had a chance to get an e350 and like the gs/ls models, however i'm sprung. Gettin' a nsx when i hit the lottery :-)
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A Red RLX is Fiyer!!!!!
Bought this '16 RLX last Spring. Loved the color (get compliments all the time) good powetr and it makes me grim from all angles. I've driven RLs/RLXs since '88 Legend. I LOVE these cars! Some of critics have Haterade. But it is smooth, comfortable, and the engine roars on acceleration. just drive one for yourself.
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Amazing car
High Quality vehicle!
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Great Car
I love this car.
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Lousy electronics
The electronics on this car are awful. Ask it for directions and it tells you today's date. Imports my address book from iPhone in a jumbled mess. Ask it to dial number and it dials someone else. Cannot control my iPhone music with info system. Called Acura and they said "You can if you pay us $154 a year". Are you kidding me? Why not Apple Play like Honda Civic? Paid too much for this car for third class info entertainment system.
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What a looker!
I have read many reviews online and in magazines. Some were nice, some were not. I purchased a used 2016 with 27000 miles on it. I have not regretted it. One thing that absolutely every reviewer has failed to mention is driving this car with the sport button activated. You are driving an entirely different vehicle that seems incredibly connected to your right foot! It's a blast, a whole lot of fun. I do not regret my purchase. When I do not have the car on the sport mode, my miles per gallon on freeway driving can slide easily up to 28 and 29 miles per gallon. This is great for an RLX with the advance package, this is a very heavy car. Sometimes, when I feel like driving slow and in the right hand lane, (62 to 65 mph by LA standards), the car will get me 30 miles per gallon in a 15 mile trip with low traffic on the freeway. I'm saving money on gas and I loved every minute of it. It has cylinder deactivation to assist in saving gasoline as well. I am blessed to drive this car. I'm not trying to make pretend I'm Speed Racer or somebody from a Furious franchise. I like to roll calmly, and comfortably. My money needs to stay in my pocket not at the dealer. Accessorizing your RLX with manufacturer spec options and added privacy glass where legal only makes this car even more sophisticated. A True Value leader!
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Best Acura ever purchased
Love everything about the Acura RLX hybrid!
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Love at first site
Great deal! Saw it on a Tuesday, got it on A Friday!