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2019 Acura RLX

Used 2019 Acura RLX

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Hybrid Variation Available

Fuel Economy
23 combined mpg
Horsepower
310 hp
Engine
V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter
Cargo Volume
14.9 cu ft
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2019 Acura RLX Review

Colin Ryan

Updated December 02, 2019

Colin Ryan specializes in writing about new cars. He has done this for the Los Angeles Times, Variety, Kelley Blue Book, Autotrader, Popular Mechanics, Mazda and Lexus customer magazines, plus a bunch of enthusiast sites and publications. And he spent several years as a staff writer at BBC Top Gear magazine. During this zig-zag of a career trajectory, he has driven everything from budget Malaysian hatchbacks (yes, they exist) to scarily expensive Italian exotica.

Pros

Substance means more than status. The top-level 2019 RLX comes with an exceptionally well-engineered drivetrain, delivering impressive performance and fuel efficiency. Both models also provide high levels of equipment for relatively reasonable pricing.

Cons

It’s important to have choices. Where the RLX misses the mark is offering only two trim levels. Nor does it come with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration (which is fast becoming standard everywhere else). Yet Honda can put it in the Fit subcompact hatchback. And despite exemplary reliability, resale values are disappointing.

What's New?

The 2019 Acura RLX range comes into this new model year in exactly the same state as it left the previous one.

The 2019 Acura RLX swims in the same luxury-midsize-sedan waters as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and Lexus GS. But it’s a little larger and counts as the flagship model from Honda’s upscale marque. It started life at a disadvantage because it wasn’t interesting enough compared with the Germans, not in the design department or from the driver’s seat. Last year’s update shifted the momentum. It might still be tricky to discern Acura’s target audience for this car, but the Sport Hybrid variant is particularly intriguing. Its powertrain and driving abilities would appeal to someone who likes to nerd out on cutting-edge engineering. Audiophiles may also apply, since the RLX Sport Hybrid has an ear-tingling/caressing Krell system.

2019 Acura RLX Pricing

2019 Acura RLX pricing starts at $25,906 for the RLX Sedan 4D, which had a starting MSRP of $55,925 when new. The range-topping 2019 RLX Sedan 4D starts at $25,906 today, originally priced from $55,925.

Original MSRP
KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
$55,925
$25,906

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for used 2019 Acura RLX models in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly.

Driving the Acura RLX

The range-topping 2019 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid has what the company calls “super handling all-wheel drive” or SH-AWD. For once, this is not mere marketing. The handling really is super. Power comes in strong even at low engine speeds, thanks to the three electric motors, and apportioned to whatever wheels have the most traction. This allows the driver to take corners at sports-car speeds and not have the front tires gradually lose grip while squealing in complaint. The RLX Sport Hybrid goes where it’s pointed and feels like it would take an earthquake to shake it off line. Our only reservation is how important this commendable trait might be to the average buyer of a luxury sedan. Perhaps that’s the point, that the RLX Sport Hybrid isn’t average but comes with a distinct appeal. Luckily, the ride quality can also be supple. And all-wheel steering endows the lower-powered RLX with impressive agility.

Interior Comfort

Occupants in the new Acura RLX enjoy a roomy cabin. Technically, accommodation is for five, but that includes the smaller middle seat in the back. Rear legroom of 38.8 inches is expansive, while the front seats are comfortable and supportive enough for many hours of driving. Materials and build quality are equally superb, and although the dual-screen infotainment system is easy to use, it’s becoming dated. No smartphone integration in a 2019 luxury sedan is an oversight. The regular model’s trunk space is 14.9 cubic feet — not bad, but some rivals (like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class) do better. The RLX Sport Hybrid’s lithium-ion battery pack reduces that to 12 cubic feet, which also makes a pass-through unworkable.

Exterior Styling

Acura has embraced a fresh design language in vehicles like the RLX, and its RDX and MDX crossover SUVs. Subjectively speaking, it’s an improvement. The new RLX is too good to be saddled with anonymous looks. When we get out the tape measure, we find the car is, at 198 inches, longer than rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This puts it somewhere between the accepted classification of a midsize sedan and a full-size counterpart, meaning more space for the money.

Favorite Features

PUTTING THE SPORT IN HYBRID
Think of a hybrid and some slow-moving vehicle is probably the first image. The RLX Sport Hybrid isn’t that car. Its drivetrain (including an electric motor at each rear wheel) synchronizing in the service of exceptional traction and fuel efficiency is a prime example of engineering brilliance.

14-SPEAKER KRELL AUDIO SYSTEM
Krell is one of those high-level audio brands that makes super-expensive home systems. The RLX Sport Hybrid is the only vehicle with a Krell setup. It makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the Vienna Philharmonic’s string section, only you’re holding a steering wheel instead of a violin.

Standard Features

The entry point into 2019 RLX ownership is the regular version with front-wheel drive, 310-horsepower V6 and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) setup. Its standard equipment includes leather upholstery, heated 12-way power-adjustable front seats, LED headlights, GPS-linked tri-zone climate control, moonroof, navigation with real-time traffic updates, 14-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, USB port, and HD radio. The AcuraWatch array of driver aids is also standard, including forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, Traffic Jam Assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning/lane-keeping assistance, and a multi-view camera system.

Factory Options

For more power, more driven wheels and more features, the 2019 RLX Sport Hybrid is the way to go. As well as the aforementioned Krell audio system, there are ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel, head-up display, LED fog lights, parking sensors at both ends, 360-degree camera system, upgraded climate control with an air quality sensor, power rear sunshade, remote start, windshield de-icer, and self-dimming side mirrors. Actual extras are limited to things like a trunk lid spoiler, different design of 19-inch alloy wheels, and RLX logo-projecting puddle lights.

Engine & Transmission

A refined 3.5-liter V6 propels the regular 2019 RLX with 310 horsepower. This drives the front wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission using steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. For undemanding luxury transport from home to office, gym and the in-laws, it’s fine. The RLX Sport Hybrid is far more remarkable. Up front are a 3.5-liter V6 and an electric motor, joined by two further electric motors, one driving each rear wheel. The transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual (think of it as an automatic), also with shift paddles. The whole system develops 377 horsepower with a healthy push available at low and not-so-low speeds. The regenerative braking also simulates torque vectoring (where the outside wheels take a corner faster than the inside wheels). To the driver, it all feels seamless.

3.5-liter V6
310 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
272 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/29 mpg

3.5-liter V6 + 3-motor hybrid (RLX Sport Hybrid)
377 horsepower (combined)
341 lb-ft of torque (combined)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 28/29 mpg


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2019 Acura RLX
KBB.com Consumer Reviews

83%Recommend this vehicle
5
74%
5
74%
4
14%
4
14%
3
3%
3
3%
2
3%
2
3%
1
6%
1
6%
Value
4.5
Performance
4.6
Quality
4.5
Comfort
4.9
Reliability
4.4
Styling
4.5

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2019 Acura RLX Styles

Style
Price
Combined Fuel Economy
Horsepower
Engine
Cargo Capacity
Torque
Curb Weight
Style
Price
Combined Fuel Economy
Horsepower
Engine
Cargo Capacity
Torque
Curb Weight
See Full Specs for All 2019 Acura RLX Styles
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2019 Acura RLX Depreciation

A 2019 Acura RLX has depreciated $12,229 or 34% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $23,253 and trade-in value of $19,773.

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2019 Acura RLX Annual Depreciation

Year
Vehicle Depreciation*
Resale Value
Trade-In Value
2022
$666
$35,482
$29,147
2023
$4,504
$30,978
$24,912
2024
$4,442
$26,536
$20,778
Now
$3,283
$23,253
$19,773
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2-Year Forecasted Depreciation

*Depreciation for the last 12 months of the private party resale value.

2019 Acura RLX Depreciation

Annual Depreciation is an estimation of what your vehicle's value might be over time based on an average of similar vehicles. Estimations are calculated by comparing Kelley Blue Book Private Party Values of vehicles similar to yours over time, as well as forecasts from Manheim Auction data comparing current and projected auction values against current Kelley Blue Book Private Party and Trade-In Values. This is not a guarantee of actual depreciation. Local weather conditions, market factors and driver performance will also impact your vehicle's actual depreciation.


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Specifications

Dimensions, Weights & Capacities

Curb Weight
3977 lbs.
EPA Passenger
102.1 cu.ft.
Fuel Capacity
18.5 gallons
Front Head Room
37.6 inches
Front Leg Room
42.3 inches
Max Seating Capacity
5
Minimum Ground Clearance
4.5 inches
Overall Length
198.1 inches
Front Shoulder Room
59.6 inches
Trunk or Cargo Capacity
14.9 cu.ft.
Turning Diameter
40.5 feet
Wheel Base
112.2 inches
Payload Capacity
850 lbs.
Width with mirrors
74.4 inches

Exterior

Alloy Wheels
Available
Fog Lights
Available
Moon Roof/Sun Roof
Available
Number of Doors
4 doors
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Available
LED Headlights
Available
Rear Spoiler
Available

Fuel Economy

City
20 mpg
Highway
29 mpg
Combined
23 mpg

Mechanical

Drivetrain
FWD
Transmission Type
Automatic
10 speed
Available
Recommended Fuel
Premium
Hill Start Assist
Available

Performance

Horsepower
310 @ 6500 RPM
Torque
272 @ 4500 rpm
Engine
V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter

Warranty

Basic
4 years / 50000 miles
Powertrain
6 years / 70000 miles
Corrosion
5 years / Unlimited miles

Comfort & Convenience

  • Climate Control Air Conditioning
  • Integrated Garage Door Opener
  • Interior Ambient Lighting

Entertainment

  • Premium Radio
  • Satellite Radio
  • Bluetooth Streaming Audio

Interior

  • Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Window Defroster
  • 12V Power Outlet
  • Power Outlet
  • Steering Wheel Controls
  • Tilt Steering Wheel
  • Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel

Seating

  • Leather Seats
  • Heated Seats
  • Dual Power Front Seats
  • Power Driver's Seat

Security

  • Alarm System

Technology

  • Bluetooth Wireless Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Hands Free Phone
  • Navigation System
  • Remote Keyless Entry
  • Audible Text Messaging
  • Proximity Sensing Keyless Entry
  • Push-Button Engine Start
  • Smartphone Interface
  • Voice Recognition System
  • Real-Time Traffic Information

2019 Acura RLX Safety

2019 Acura RLX Safety Technology

  • Child Door Locks
  • Child Seat Anchors
  • Driver Airbag
  • Passenger Airbag
  • Stability Control
  • Traction Control
  • Blind-Spot Alert
  • Collision Warning System
  • Collision Warning System with Auto Brake
  • Driver Knee Airbag
  • Front Head Curtain Airbag
  • Front Side Airbag
  • Lane Departure Warning System
  • Rear Head Curtain Airbag
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side View Cameras
  • Top View Camera
5.0

Crash Test Rating

Provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Frontal Crash
5.0
Side Barrier
5.0
Rollover Rating
5.0
Side Crash
5.0

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Price
$25,906
$21,429
$29,195
$23,877
KBB.com Rating
4.0
3.9
4.0
3.7
Consumer Rating
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.7
Fuel Economy
City 20/Hwy 29/Comb 23 MPG
City 20/Hwy 30/Comb 24 MPG
City 20/Hwy 29/Comb 23 MPG
City 20/Hwy 28/Comb 23 MPG
Fuel Type
Gas
N/A
Gas
N/A
Safety Rating
5.0
5.0
5.0
N/A
Seating Capacity5555
Basic Warranty
4 years or 50000 miles
4 years or 50000 miles
4 years or 50000 miles
4 years or 50000 miles
Horsepower
310 @ 6500 RPM
310 @ 6800 RPM
310 @ 6500 RPM
335 @ 5500 RPM
Engine
V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter
V6, 3.6 Liter
V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter
6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter
Drivetrain
FWD
FWD
FWD
AWD

2019 Acura RLX Rankings

FAQs

Is the 2019 Acura RLX a good vehicle?

Yes, the 2019 Acura RLX is a good car. Its Kelley Blue Book rating of 4 out of 5 is within 10% of our average rating.

What is the MPG for a 2019 Acura RLX?

The 2019 Acura RLX is rated to return city/highway fuel economy of 20/29 mpg.

How much should a 2019 Acura RLX cost?

Used 2019 Acura RLX prices currently range from $25,906 for the Sedan 4D to $25,906 for the Sedan 4D when purchasing from a dealership, depending on a range of factors like equipment, mileage, and condition.

What's the cheapest Acura RLX?

The cheapest 2019 Acura RLX is the Sedan 4D, with a Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price of $25,906.

Is the 2019 Acura RLX reliable?

The 2019 Acura RLX is part of the 1st-generation RLX, which our owners give an above-average reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5.

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