2020 Acura RLX Performance

There's good performance on offer from the only available engine (a hybrid model is available as well but this is reviewed separately). The RLX's 3.5-liter V6 engine does without turbocharging but still has acceptable outputs of 310 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a quick-shifting ten-speed automatic transmission, the combination is enough to see off the 0 to 60 mph dash in six seconds on its way to a 155 mph top speed. Sending power to the front wheels only, the RLX can't match the rear-wheel-drive thrills or the ultimate all-wheel-drive traction offered by several competitors. And, although the V6 engine is solid, there's simply more choice in rivals' model lines so the Acura's appeal remains limited.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine has been employed in several other Acura models and for good reason: it provides decent power, sounds good, and is reasonably efficient. The i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) unit has peak outputs of 310 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. Earlier RLXs used a six-speed automatic transmission, but this model gets a ten-speed auto that is not only 22 pounds lighter, but with a 68 percent broader ratio range. It works well, shifting through its many ratios smoothly and quickly, while high-speed cruising is a relaxed affair. The big Acura gets off the mark with enough vigor and the transmission's ability to execute four-gear direct downshifts (from tenth to sixth, for example) improves overtaking flexibility. While the naturally-aspirated engine has typically linear power delivery, you do occasionally miss the instant mid-range grunt you'd get with a turbocharged unit.

Providing decent gas mileage figures, the V6-powered RLX's EPA estimates work out to 20/29/23 mpg on the city/highway/combined cycles. The gas tank size is 18.5 gallons and when topped up with premium unleaded, should see the RLX managing a combined cruising range of around 425 miles. For more efficiency, the hybrid RLX will achieve an extra five miles-per-gallon in mixed driving conditions.