Is Acura RL and RLX the same?
The short answer is no. The RLX is the successor to Acura’s older RL; RL and RLX are distinct model names that represent different generations of Acura’s flagship sedan.
The RL name has a longer history in Acura’s lineup, going back to the Legend-based flagship sold in North America in the 1990s and early 2000s. Acura introduced the RLX to replace RL as its modern flagship in the mid-2010s, bringing updated styling, chassis technology, and powertrain options to the table. In practice, RLX is the newer generation that inherits the RL lineage while offering substantial improvements in design and technology.
Origins and evolution of the RL name
RL’s lineage in brief
ACURA’s RL badge has its roots in the Legend-based flagship that served as the top-end model for several generations. Over the years, the RL underwent design and mechanical updates, but the nameplate remained the company’s premium sedan until a shift in strategy led to the introduction of RLX.
Timeline snapshot:
- Mid-1990s: RL debuts as Acura’s flagship sedan based on the Legend platform for the North American market.
- Late 2000s to early 2010s: RL continues through subsequent refreshes, maintaining its position as Acura’s top sedan until RLX is introduced.
- Early-to-mid 2010s: Acura unveils RLX to replace RL, signaling a move to newer styling and technology.
In summary, RL represents earlier generations of Acura’s flagship sedan, while RLX signals a new era with updated design and technology.
RLX: The modern flagship
What sets RLX apart
The RLX was developed as the contemporary successor to the RL, bringing a more refined look, upgraded interior quality, and newer engineering ideas. It established itself as Acura’s top sedan with a focus on comfort, technology, and performance.
Key features commonly highlighted across RLX versions include:
- Modern styling and higher-grade interior materials compared to earlier RL models.
- Advanced drivetrain options, including all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) for improved handling and stability.
- Hybrid technology in certain variants, notably the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD setup that emphasized efficiency alongside performance.
- Expanded safety and driver-assistance features integrated into the cabin and control systems.
Overall, RLX represents a substantial step forward over the earlier RL models in terms of technology, efficiency, and luxury amenities.
At-a-glance comparison
For readers seeking a quick contrast between the two generations, this side-by-side view highlights the main distinctions.
- Naming and generation: RL is an older generation; RLX is the newer flagship name that replaced RL.
- Technology: RLX offers more modern electronics, safety tech, and, in some variants, hybrid powertrains.
- Powertrain options: RL relied on established V6 configurations of its era; RLX introduced newer drivetrains, including hybrid options.
- Market positioning: RL served as Acura’s top sedan for earlier years; RLX carried that flagship role forward with modernization.
In short, RL and RLX are not the same model; RLX is the evolved successor that carries forward the RL lineage with updated features and technology.
Summary
Acura’s RL and RLX are distinct names tied to different generations of the brand’s flagship sedan. The RLX was designed to replace the RL, bringing a refreshed design, more advanced technology, and (in certain versions) hybrid powertrains. While they share lineage within Acura’s luxury sedan history, they are not the same model and should be considered separate generations within the same family.
What is the Acura RLX comparable to?
Cars similar to 2020 Acura RLX. The Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are the core of the mid-size luxury sedan segment along with the BMW 5-Series, and offer German quality and panache with tech superiority.
What does RL stand for on Acura?
Refined Luxury
About RL. Making its first appearance in 1996, RL has served as the flagship sedan for Acura for 14 years. Replacing the Legend, the RL acronym stood for “Refined Luxury”. From 1996 to 2004, the vehicle was known as the 3.5RL based on its 3.5-liter V-6 engine.
What car replaced the Acura RLX?
2020 was the final model year for the RLX as the market shifted towards SUVs and crossovers. As a result, the TLX became Acura's flagship sedan.
Did Acura discontinue the RL?
The RDX. And MDX crossovers. As well as the upcoming performanceoriented 2021 TLX so that will just leave four models in the lineup for Acura the ILX TLX the MDX. And the RDX.
