The 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is the most technologically advanced sedan in the history of the brand. In fact, the three-motor Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel drive configuration is the same one found on the incredibly powerful NSX.
The 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is available in two grades: the RLX Sport Hybrid with Technology Package and range-topping RLX Sport Hybrid with Advance Package. Both trims are designed to deliver premium levels of technology and comfort.
Power & Performance
The 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC V6 with Variable Cylinder Management is at the heart of the 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid. Through a broad torque curve and the instant response of three different electric motors, this new Acura is quick and efficient, especially when mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.
Power is dispersed through a built-in motor-generator powering the front wheels, and two rear electric motors for the rear wheels. The combined system generates 377 horsepower. The 3.5 liter V6 by itself creates 310 horsepower.
The 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid maximizes fuel efficiency through an automatic idle-stop setup. EPA ratings are impressive at 29/30 city/highway and 29 combined mpg.
Ride & Handling
Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, an exclusive Acura technology, gives the car its signature feel. Acura engineers went for an “on the rails” feel, calibrating the torque vectoring characteristics accordingly.
A similar approach is taken with the NSX.
Safety & Security
The 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid features a detailed array of safety and driver assistance technologies including Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Blind Spot Information, and Cross Traffic Monitor.
The entire grouping is known as AcuraWatch and is standard on all trims.
The car is wrapped in the automaker’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering II body structure, or ACE II. ACE uses high tensile strength steel to disperse crash energy away from occupants. It also reduces misalignment (under ride/over ride) with vehicles of other sizes and shapes during a frontal collision. ACE differs from traditional designs in that it directs impact energy to both upper and lower structural elements.
This new generation of ACE earns the 2017 Acura RLX Hybrid Sport a 5-star rating from the New Car Assessment Program and a top safety pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Pricing & Availability
The 2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is available now. The RLX Sport Hybrid with Technology Package starts at $59,950 USD while the RLX Sport Hybrid with Advance Package starts at $65,950.
The vehicle is manufactured in Japan using local and globally-sourced parts.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2017 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid Gallery
Photos & Source: Honda North America.
