Everything about the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid appears ordinary at first glance. Yet, beneath the surface lies a surprisingly unconventional and sophisticated engineering approach. Turning the often-overlooked Acura RLX into the RLX Sport Hybrid involves a complex interplay of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a front electric motor, and an innovative all-wheel-drive system utilizing two additional electric motors at the rear wheels. This unique configuration sets the Rlx Hybrid apart in a crowded market.
• USD As-Tested Price: $66,870
• Total System Horsepower: 377 @ 6400 rpm
• Observed Fuel Economy: 21.8 mpg
It’s understandable if the RLX’s understated exterior doesn’t immediately captivate, or if its dual-screen infotainment system feels somewhat dated. Perhaps the leisurely engagement of reverse gear or the compromised trunk space and snug rear middle seat aren’t winning points. However, the RLX Sport Hybrid serves as a compelling showcase of Honda’s engineering prowess, executed in a manner distinct from any other vehicle bearing the Honda badge. This isn’t a repurposed powertrain from the new NSX, nor does it borrow the transmission-less hybrid system of the latest Accord Hybrid. The RLX hybrid operates on a different plane, embodying Honda’s innovative spirit in a unique way.
The Unique RLX Hybrid Powertrain
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the 2015 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid isn’t a traditional sports sedan, nor does it excel as a spacious family car. Furthermore, its real-world fuel economy didn’t quite meet expectations. The RLX Sport Hybrid exists in a peculiar space – strangely engaging to drive, yet somewhat disappointing in practical terms, and undeniably unpopular in the market. Perhaps the defining characteristic of the RLX hybrid is simply its strangeness. And in a world of automotive conformity, maybe that isn’t entirely negative.
From a market perspective, this approach hasn’t translated to success. While it’s often said hyperbolically, “nobody buys [underperforming car],” the RLX’s sales figures do approach that reality. A significant 32.5% year-over-year sales decline in the U.S. meant the RLX struggled to reach even 300 monthly sales in 2014. These figures are comparable to niche sports cars like the Porsche Cayman, while mainstream competitors in the same luxury sedan category, such as the Audi A6, consistently achieve around 2000 monthly sales.
One could argue that the RLX Sport Hybrid’s exclusivity adds a certain allure. It’s a rare variant of an already uncommon car, likely to go unnoticed or misunderstood by the average observer.
Performance and Handling of the RLX Hybrid
The rear electric motors significantly enhance the RLX hybrid’s power output, contributing to its already brisk acceleration. They also provide a form of torque vectoring, effectively acting as four-wheel steering. This system allows the RLX hybrid to confidently enter corners with minimal understeer. Despite the benefits, the sensation of torque steer in an all-wheel-drive luxury sedan, even a Sport Hybrid, can be unsettling, especially for those accustomed to rear-wheel-drive dynamics. While not a snow-conquering machine, the RLX Sport Hybrid reveals its capabilities on winding roads. With judicious throttle control, it becomes surprisingly agile, feeling more nimble than its size would suggest, allowing for confident cornering and power application.
Brake pedal feel in the RLX hybrid, like many hybrids, lacks the consistent feedback desired by driving enthusiasts. The steering, while typical for a car of this class, offers limited feedback, reminding the driver of the vehicle’s 4354-pound weight despite its dynamic capabilities. However, when viewed as a large sedan with sporting aspirations, the RLX hybrid provides a surprising degree of driving enjoyment when pushed, though it doesn’t reach the aggressive performance level of sportier rivals like the Cadillac CTS Vsport.
Interior Comfort and Refinement
In terms of refinement, the RLX hybrid boasts a remarkably quiet cabin. However, it doesn’t quite achieve the expected serenity on rough road surfaces for a vehicle of its weight and wheelbase (112 inches). This slight compromise in tranquility might be attributed to the low-profile Michelin X-Ice winter tires (245/40R19) fitted to the test vehicle.
Compared to the Acura TLX, the RLX hybrid offers a more serene interior environment. Simple, button-operated controls for features like heated seats, located conveniently on the dashboard, offer a welcome contrast to the often-frustrating touchscreen-dependent interfaces found in modern vehicles. In the RLX hybrid, basic functions like activating the heated seats are immediately accessible without navigating complex menus, a notable advantage, particularly in cold weather.
Practicality and Fuel Economy Considerations
Despite its length of 196.1 inches – only slightly shorter than a Chevrolet Impala and longer than Acura’s own TLX – the RLX hybrid doesn’t fully deliver on the promise of big-car spaciousness. The rear seat is best suited for two occupants, as the prominent center floor hump and elevated middle seat cushion make the center position uncomfortable for adults. While outboard rear passengers enjoy ample space, the RLX Sport Hybrid effectively functions as a four-seater in terms of optimal comfort. Furthermore, the trunk capacity is reduced in the hybrid model, shrinking from the standard RLX’s 14.9 cubic feet to a meager 11.6 cubic feet – even smaller than the trunk of Acura’s compact ILX sedan. Long road trips with five occupants and luggage would be impractical.
Fuel economy, a key consideration for hybrid buyers, proved to be a point of disappointment in the RLX Sport Hybrid test. Despite EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, the test vehicle, driven in cold weather with winter tires and a mix of city and highway driving, returned an observed 21.8 mpg. While respectable for a genuinely quick car, this figure fell short of hybrid fuel economy expectations.
Market Position and Final Verdict on the RLX Hybrid
Perhaps the most significant drawback of the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is its lack of distinctive styling. However, as the test week progressed, the driving experience became increasingly enjoyable. With supremely comfortable seats, a potent 377 horsepower hybrid powertrain, surprisingly sharp turn-in reminiscent of the Integra Type-R, a generous equipment list, and an anonymous design that avoids unwanted attention, the RLX hybrid possesses undeniable merits.
However, the as-tested price of USD $66,870 raises questions about its value proposition in a segment filled with more attention-grabbing and arguably more desirable competitors. Acura needs to empower its designers to match the innovation of its engineering department in creating vehicles that are both technologically advanced and aesthetically compelling. Combining these strengths, particularly if the RLX hybrid could truly deliver on its stated fuel efficiency alongside its impressive power, could significantly improve its market appeal.
In its current form, the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid remains a niche vehicle with limited market traction.
