Is the Acura RLX coming back?

There is no official plan to bring back the RLX as of today. Acura has not announced a RLX revival, and the brand continues to lean on the TLX as its flagship sedan while accelerating its electrified lineup.

Context: RLX history and Acura’s current strategy

The RLX debuted in 2013 as Acura’s top-end sedan, offering refined comfort, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid option. It faced slow sales and was effectively discontinued in the U.S. after the 2019 model year, with production ending around 2020. Since then, Acura has positioned the TLX as its main sedan and has pushed performance variants (like the Type S) and electrified options on that platform, rather than pursuing a RLX revival. The broader shift toward SUVs and crossovers also shapes the math behind reviving a large sedan badge.

Is Acura signaling a RLX revival?

What Acura has publicly said

There has been no official confirmation of a RLX revival. Acura executives have described the TLX as the brand’s flagship sedan and have emphasized ongoing development of performance and electrified variants on that platform.

Rumors and industry chatter

Speculation has circulated about a RLX reappearance, and trademark activity can spark chatter, but without a formal announcement or production plan, such rumors remain unverified.

Possible signs of a RLX revival to watch

Industry observers will look for concrete indicators that the RLX could re-enter Acura’s lineup.

1. Official roadmap hints from Acura or Honda leadership.


2. Trademark filings naming RLX for cars in key markets.


3. New patent filings or design registrations that reveal a large Acura sedan under RLX branding.


4. A flagship-sedan program hinted at within Acura’s broader product strategy.


5. Public confirmation of a new long-wheelbase, rear-drive or hybrid platform suitable for a large sedan.

Even if these indicators emerge, a formal announcement with a production timeline would still be required. Until then, the RLX’s return remains speculative rather than confirmed.

What a modern RLX revival could look like

If Acura decides to bring back the RLX, industry observers expect a model that aligns with today’s luxury standards: a spacious, tech-rich interior, advanced driver aids, and a balance of comfort and performance. Here is a plausible outline of what such a model might include.

1. Platform and architecture: likely a development off an updated Acura platform, potentially sharing DNA with TLX variants or using a new large-sedan architecture tailored for front-mid or rear-drive layouts.


2. Powertrain options: a turbocharged V6 as the base engine, with a hybrid or plug-in hybrid option for efficiency and performance, and possibly an all-electric variant in later years as part of Acura’s electrification push.


3. Technology and features: contemporary infotainment, digital instrument cluster, premium materials, active safety tech, and performance-oriented options that echo current Type S styling cues.


4. Brand positioning: a true flagship sedan with competitive luxury features to contend with BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus, while emphasizing value for money.


5. Production and availability: a North American production plan with a clear rollout, price range, and dealership network aligned to Acura’s broader strategy.

Any revival would depend on market demand, cost considerations, and how Acura balances heritage with its evolving portfolio, especially as the brand pivots toward electrification.

Summary

At present, Acura has not announced a return of the RLX. The automaker continues to center its sedan strategy on the TLX, with ongoing emphasis on performance (Type S) and electrification. Rumors persist, but without an official plan or timeline, the RLX remains a possibility rather than a confirmed comeback. Followers of Acura should watch for formal statements or roadmap updates that would signal a definitive path for the RLX badge.

Is the RLX bigger than the TLX?

The first thing you'll notice is the space; the RLX is larger than the TLX, so you can carry a full load of adult passengers in style.

Is the Acura RLX discontinued?

And go through in detail. Each one of them the ILX the TLX. And the RLX. The ILX joined Acura's lineup for the 2013. Model year as their entry-level. Model in Canada the ILX replaces the CSX.

Will Acura ever bring back the RLX?

2020 was the final model year for the RLX as the market shifted towards SUVs and crossovers.

What is the 2026 Acura coming out?

The main 2026 Acura models are the refreshed Integra and the updated MDX and RDX SUVs, with the TLX sedan being discontinued. The Integra receives a mid-cycle refresh with standard technology upgrades, while the MDX is a new luxury SUV available in various trims. The RDX is also part of the SUV lineup. An all-new, all-electric RSX EV is expected to launch in late 2026.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the pricing and features of the 2026 Acura MDX: 57sGold PonyYouTube · Sep 10, 2025
2026 Acura Integra

• Refresh: Features updated styling and technology, including a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad that are now standard on all trims. 
• Engine: Comes standard with a 200-HP VTEC Turbo engine, with an optional 6-speed manual transmission available on some trims. 
• Type S: The performance-oriented Integra Type S offers a 320-HP engine, a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, and performance-focused components. 

2026 Acura MDX

• Redesign: A completely new luxury SUV with a redesigned exterior, including a more aggressive front fascia. 
• Engine: Most models are powered by a 290-HP 3.5L V6 engine, while the Type S trims feature a 355-HP 3.0L turbocharged V6. 
• Trims: Available in various trims, including the Type S, A-Spec, and Advance. 

This video provides an overview of the 2026 Acura Integra Type S: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Oct 19, 2025
2026 Acura RDX

• The RDX continues to be part of the lineup, with a base model starting around $45,100. 

Other models

• TLX: The TLX sedan will be discontinued for the 2026 model year. 
• RSX EV: Acura plans to release an all-electric RSX in late 2026, which will be the brand's first new EV model.