What year did Acura make RLX?
The RLX was introduced for the 2014 model year. Acura's flagship sedan served as the successor to the RL and remained in production through the 2020 model year before the name was retired in favor of the TLX.
In broader terms, the RLX marked Acura's push into full-size luxury during the mid-2010s, combining comfort, technology, and, later, hybrid efficiency. This article explains when it first appeared, how long it stayed in the lineup, and how Acura positioned itself afterward.
Timeline of the RLX
Below is a concise timeline of the RLX's market entry, production span, and retirement.
- 2014 model year: RLX launched as Acura's flagship luxury sedan, replacing the RL.
- 2014-2020: RLX remained in production in multiple configurations, including a Sport Hybrid SH-AWD variant.
- 2020 model year: RLX production ended as Acura shifted focus to the TLX lineup.
The RLX's lifecycle therefore spanned roughly six to seven years of on-sale availability, from 2014 to 2020, before the badge was retired.
Variants and positioning
Sport Hybrid SH-AWD
In its later years, the RLX included a Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version, combining a V6 engine with an advanced hybrid system to deliver enhanced power and efficiency.
Replacement by TLX
As part of Acura's broader product strategy, the RLX name was retired and the TLX positioned as the brand's flagship sedan in the following years, emphasizing performance, technology, and efficiency in a smaller footprint.
Summary
The RLX debuted for the 2014 model year and was produced through 2020, after which Acura retired the nameplate in favor of the TLX as its flagship sedan.
What Acura to stay away from?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.
What is the life expectancy of the Acura RLX?
Acura RLX – A Premium Sedan Built to Last
Many RLX owners report over 200,000 miles with proper care.
Which is bigger, TLX or RLX?
Step inside the RLX, and you're surrounded by luxury and refinement. 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. While you ride, the generous legroom makes it possible for everyone to stretch out.
Why was the Acura RLX discontinued?
The Acura RLX was discontinued in 2020 primarily due to very low sales, a general market shift away from sedans towards SUVs, and strong competition from the smaller TLX which was also more affordable. Acura also decided to focus on its core, higher-selling SUV models and the more popular TLX sedan instead of the underperforming luxury sedan.
- Poor sales performance: The RLX consistently had low sales figures, failing to attract a significant number of luxury car buyers. For example, only 1,019 units were sold in 2019, compared to 26,548 of the TLX and 62,876 of the RDX.
- Market shift to SUVs: The luxury vehicle market was increasingly moving towards SUVs and crossovers, leaving sedans with declining sales.
- Competition from the TLX: The mid-size TLX was similar in size and more affordable, leading many buyers to choose the TLX over the larger, more expensive RLX.
- Lack of buyer interest: Buyers did not seem interested in the RLX's offerings, such as its standard front-wheel drive or complex hybrid powertrain.
- Focus on core models: Acura decided to discontinue the RLX to focus its resources on its more profitable models, especially the RDX and MDX SUVs, and to revitalize the sedan lineup with the newer TLX.
