2020 Acura RLX Review
2020 Acura RLX Review





+111
Acura RLX types
- Sedan
- Hybrid
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2020 Acura RLX Review

byRyan ZumMallen
Contributor
Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.
Pros
- Quiet, comfortable interior
- Spacious cabin and seating, especially for rear passengers
- Long list of standard safety and convenience features
Cons
- Dual-screen infotainment system is outdated and nonintuitive
- Interior design looks dated
- Subpar ride and handling for the class
- The hybrid fails to offer standout efficiency
What's new
- The RLX carries over unchanged for 2020
- Part of the first RLX generation introduced for 2014
Blingy crossovers may have taken over the landscape for the time being, but the luxury sedan still carries a certain savoir faire that cemented its place as a status symbol long ago. So it would seem there's room for a rival to the BMWs and Lexuses of the world, especially one from Acura, the company responsible for the exotic NSX, backed by Honda build quality and reliability.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.96 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$174/mo
RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD
vs
$209/mo
Avg. Large Car
Unfortunately, that sedan is the RLX. The flagship Acura sedan is well-made, offers a strong engine and comes with loads of standard features to undercut the competition. But its ride quality is not befitting of a luxury car, especially against heavy hitters from Audi, Cadillac and Genesis. The infotainment system is not only outdated but also confusing to use. An optional Sport Hybrid version offers dual electric motors but with slightly improved fuel economy, less trunk space and a smaller gas tank. It amounts to little considering the substantial leap in price.
Buyers looking for a good entry point to the luxury segment will find things to like. The interior is comfortable and spacious, with materials of a higher order than what's used in most sedans on the road. But the RLX doesn't stand out, and in many areas it falls noticeably short in a crowded field. The car hasn't been significantly updated since it first debuted in 2014. And it shows.
Which RLX does Edmunds recommend?
The entry-level RLX P-AWS has a reasonable starting price for its class and comes bearing a long list of standard features. It fits the bill for buyers in need of a spacious, comfortable sedan and not much else. Performance and fuel efficiency are comparable enough to the Sport Hybrid model that you're not missing out on much by opting for the base.
2020 Acura RLX models
Acura offers only two trim levels on the 2020 RLX. The first is the RLX P-AWS, a well-equipped front-wheel-drive sedan with all-wheel steering. The second is the RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, which upgrades to all-wheel drive and a hybrid powertrain, as well as a bevy of standard luxury and safety features to justify a big bump in price.
The entry RLX P-AWS offers an array of standard luxury features, coupled with a trick up its sleeve. The sedan is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (310 hp, 272 lb-ft) mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though it's front-wheel-drive, it also has rear-wheel steer, meaning the rear wheels will subtly turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels to help the back of the car swing around turns. Leather-trimmed, heated front seats that can be adjusted 12 ways are standard. So are navigation and a suite of driving safety aids.
One step above that is the RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, which adds a hybrid powertrain and front and rear electric motors, giving the car all-wheel drive. Though both trims are powered by the same engine, the lithium-ion battery in the Sport Hybrid model ups total output (377 hp, 341 lb-ft). Power is sent through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for better performance. A premium audio system and parking sensors are among the standard features on a long list of upgrades.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Acura RLX.
5 star(86%)
4 star(8%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(4%)
35 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Like driving an NSX
Hobart, 03/10/2018
2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
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.
5 out of 5 stars
Unfairly Overlooked and Ridiculously Underrated!
Acura host, 04/18/2017
2017 Acura RLX Technology Package 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
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!
5 out of 5 stars
Great value car - great safety features standard
Brian W Wiatrek, 08/04/2018
2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
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.
5 out of 5 stars
Such a great car.
FisherEdD, 11/26/2018
2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Acura RLX, so we've included reviews for other years of the RLX since its last redesign.
2020 Acura RLX Sedan Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $54,900
- MPG & Fuel
- 20 City / 29 Hwy / 23 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 10-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 310 hp @ 6,500 rpm
- Torque: 272 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 198.1 in. / Height: 57.7 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 74.4 in.
- Curb Weight: 3,977 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 14.9 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts like the RLX models:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lets you set a desired speed and maintain distance between you and the vehicle ahead, even bringing you to a complete stop.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Alerts you of obstacles detected ahead. Provides visual alerts first and will automatically brake if you don't react.
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Detects lane markings and will guide the car back to the middle if you begin to drift out of your lane.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9.7%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2020 Acura RLX
Used 2020 Acura RLX Overview
The Used 2020 Acura RLX is offered in the following submodels: RLX Sedan, RLX Hybrid. Available styles include Sport Hybrid SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 7AM), and P-AWS 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 10A). The Used 2020 Acura RLX comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual, 10-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2020 Acura RLX?
Price comparisons for Used 2020 Acura RLX trim styles:
- The Used 2020 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is priced between $40,590 and$46,990 with odometer readings between 8938 and31967 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2020 Acura RLXS are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Acura RLX for sale near. There are currently 2 used and CPO 2020 RLXS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $40,590 and mileage as low as 8938 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2020 Acura RLX.
Can't find a used 2020 Acura RLXs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used Acura RLX for sale.
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Should I lease or buy a 2020 Acura RLX?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Acura lease specials
Check out Acura RLX lease specials
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