Is Acura part of Honda Motors?
Yes, Acura is a luxury vehicle division of Honda Motor Company. Acura was launched in 1986 as Honda's luxury brand, offering premium vehicles and a higher level of customer service compared to the mainstream Honda brand.
Acura's Relationship with Honda
Acura was established by Honda in 1986 as its luxury vehicle division, similar to how Toyota created the Lexus brand. Acura vehicles are designed, engineered, and manufactured by Honda, but are marketed and sold as a separate premium brand. This allows Honda to compete in the luxury vehicle segment while maintaining its mainstream brand identity.
All Acura models are based on Honda platforms and share many components with their Honda counterparts. However, Acura vehicles typically have more powerful engines, more upscale interiors, and additional luxury features compared to their Honda-branded equivalents.
Acura's History and Lineup
When Acura was first launched in 1986, its initial lineup consisted of just two models - the Legend sedan and the Integra sports car/hatchback. Over the years, Acura has expanded its lineup to include SUVs, crossovers, and a range of sedans and coupes.
Some of Acura's current and recent models include:
- Sedans: TLX, ILX, RLX
- SUVs/Crossovers: MDX, RDX, ZDX
- Sports Cars: NSX
While Acura is primarily sold in North America, it also has a presence in other markets like China. However, Acura vehicles are not sold in Japan, where Honda's luxury offerings are marketed under the Honda brand name.
Which is better, Acura or Honda?
Neither is objectively "better"; it depends on your priorities. Acura is the luxury division, offering more performance, premium features, and a more refined interior, while Honda is the mainstream brand focused on practicality, fuel efficiency, and lower costs. Honda is generally more affordable for both purchase price and maintenance, while Acura provides a more upscale experience.
Choose Acura if:
- You prioritize a more luxurious interior and premium materials.
- You want higher performance, with more powerful engines and sportier handling.
- You desire more standard advanced features like enhanced safety systems and cooled seats.
- Your budget can accommodate a higher purchase price and slightly higher maintenance costs.
Choose Honda if:
- You are looking for a reliable, practical, and fuel-efficient vehicle.
- Lower upfront cost and cheaper maintenance are major factors.
- You need a versatile vehicle for everyday transportation without the need for high-end luxury features.
- You want a great value for the money and a car that will handle your transportation needs reliably.
Who builds Acura engines?
Honda makes Acura engines. While Acura is Honda's luxury brand, they share many engine platforms and core components, though Acura engines are often tuned for higher performance. Honda's Anna Engine Plant in Ohio is a major facility for producing Acura engines and drivetrain components.
- Parent company: Honda is the parent company of Acura.
- Shared components: Acura engines are built on the same platforms as Honda engines and share many core mechanical parts.
- Performance tuning: Acura engines are frequently tuned for enhanced performance, power, and a more luxurious driving experience.
- Manufacturing: A key facility for producing both Acura and Honda engines is the Anna Engine Plant.
Is Acura just a luxury Honda?
Yes, Acura is the luxury division of Honda, and it was the first Japanese premium car brand in the U.S.. Acura vehicles are designed with more performance-oriented features, a higher level of luxury, and more sophisticated styling compared to standard Honda models.
- Brand identity: Honda created Acura to compete with other luxury brands, positioning it as the more upscale and performance-focused marque.
- Features and performance: Acura vehicles typically have more powerful engines, sportier handling, and premium features like higher-quality materials and advanced technology. For example, an Acura MDX is significantly more expensive than a Honda Pilot, offering a higher trim level.
- Vehicle platforms: While many Acura models share platforms and components with their Honda counterparts, the luxury division adds enhancements that distinguish them from standard Honda models.
Are Acura and Honda engines the same?
Acura and Honda share many of the same core mechanical components, including: Engines and Transmissions: Many Acura models utilize the same engine platforms as their Honda counterparts. The Acura MDX and Honda Pilot, for instance, have a very close connection in their powertrain components.
