How many miles per gallon does a 2015 RLX hybrid get?
The 2015 RLX Hybrid typically returns about 30 miles per gallon combined, according to EPA estimates. Real-world mileage can vary based on driving style and conditions.
In this report, we break down the official fuel economy figures, how the hybrid system works, factors that influence mpg in everyday use, and practical tips to help you maximize efficiency.
Official EPA fuel economy figures
The following numbers come from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s tests for the 2015 RLX Hybrid (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD). They provide a baseline for expected efficiency during typical driving scenarios.
- City: 28 mpg
- Highway: 32 mpg
- Combined: 30 mpg
These EPA figures translate to roughly 30 miles per gallon in mixed driving, with actual results varying by climate, route, and how the vehicle is driven.
How the RLX Hybrid operates (and why mpg matters)
The 2015 RLX Hybrid blends a gasoline V6 with electric propulsion to improve efficiency. In everyday use, the car can operate on electric power at lower speeds and low loads, switch to gasoline power when more performance is required, and use regenerative braking to recharge the battery. This seamless blending aims to optimize efficiency across a range of speeds and conditions.
Drive modes and energy management
Drivers may notice different feel and responsiveness depending on the selected mode, but the system’s overall goal remains to reduce fuel consumption by prioritizing electric propulsion when appropriate and optimizing engine use during steady cruising or acceleration.
Real-world mileage: factors that influence mpg
Actual fuel economy in daily driving often deviates from EPA numbers. Several variables influence how many miles per gallon a RLX Hybrid delivers on the road.
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration, steady cruising, and gradual braking tend to improve mpg compared with aggressive acceleration and rapid braking.
- Traffic and trip length: City congestion and short trips generally yield different results than long highway drives.
- A/C and electrical load: Air conditioning use and other electrical systems can reduce mpg, especially in hot weather.
- Terrain and wind: Hills, headwinds, and heavy roof loads can lower efficiency.
- Maintenance and tires: Proper tire inflation, regular maintenance, and a light vehicle load help sustain better economy.
In practice, owners commonly report a broad range of around the upper 20s to low 30s mpg, depending on conditions and driving habits.
Tips to maximize mpg in the RLX Hybrid
Small changes in behavior and routine maintenance can help you approach the EPA figures more consistently.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures.
- Avoid prolonged idle and use efficient driving habits—gentle acceleration and gradual braking.
- Use cruise control on highways when appropriate to maintain steady speeds.
- Precondition the cabin while the car is still plugged in if possible, reducing the need for harsh HVAC usage after starting.
- Schedule regular maintenance and ensure the battery and hybrid system are functioning correctly.
Following these practices can help you realize closer to the stated EPA rating in typical use.
Summary
The 2015 Acura RLX Hybrid is EPA-rated at about 30 mpg combined (28 city, 32 highway). Real-world results vary with driving conditions, climate, and habits, but careful driving and proper maintenance can help you maximize efficiency. For buyers and owners, understanding the hybrid system’s behavior and adopting fuel-saving habits is the key to getting the most from this early luxury hybrid.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Acura RLX hybrid?
The cost to replace an Acura RLX hybrid battery can vary significantly, from around $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on whether you choose a new, remanufactured, or aftermarket part and where you have it installed. For a new, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) battery, you can expect a price closer to the higher end, while remanufactured options are generally more affordable.
Estimated cost breakdown
- New, OEM: A new factory-installed battery will likely be the most expensive option, with some sources citing new hybrid battery costs from $2,000 to over $10,000, not including labor.
- Remanufactured: Remanufactured or rebuilt batteries are a popular, more budget-friendly alternative. Prices for these can range from roughly $1,690 to $4,290, with some companies specializing in remanufactured hybrid batteries and including installation options and warranties.
- Aftermarket: Aftermarket and used batteries can be a more affordable option, but quality and reliability can vary.
Factors that influence the cost
- Battery type: The cost can depend on the type of battery chemistry (e.g., NiMH vs. Li-ion) and the size of the battery pack.
- Labor: The cost of labor will add to the final price. Some companies offer installation as part of their package.
- Warranty: The type of warranty offered on the battery can impact the initial price.
- Source: Prices will differ depending on whether you buy from a dealership, a specialized hybrid battery company, or an independent mechanic.
How many miles per gallon does a 2015 Acura RLX hybrid get?
The EPA rates the RLX at 24 mpg combined (20 city/31 highway), which is essentially average for a six-cylinder luxury sedan.
How many miles per gallon does a 2015 Lexus RX hybrid get?
32/28 mpg city/highway
Acceleration and Power
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard. The RX Hybrid gets up to an EPA-estimated 32/28 mpg city/highway, which is excellent for the class, and better than the ratings of most other diesel and hybrid SUVs in the class as well.
How many miles per gallon does the RLX hybrid get?
The Acura RLX hybrid has a combined EPA-estimated MPG of around 28 to 30 MPG depending on the model year. Specifically, the 2014-2017 models were rated at 28 city/32 highway/30 combined MPG, while 2018 and later models saw a slight decrease in highway and combined ratings to 28 city/29 highway/28 combined MPG.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid's fuel economy: 53sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jan 13, 2023
- 2014-2017 Models: 28 city / 32 highway / 30 combined MPG
- 2018 and later Models: 28 city / 29 highway / 28 combined MPG
This video provides a test drive of the 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid, including comments on its fuel economy: 40sEdmunds CarsYouTube · Nov 14, 2017
