2018 Acura RLX Gets New Looks and Nearly 400 Horsepower

The Acura RLX has had major issues for many years, as it’s long pulled up the rear in terms of sales in the Acura lineup and in its class. The Japanese automaker hopes to fix this with a thorough refresh in 2018.

The 2018 Acura RLX, while not officially a redesign, has enough changes to easily be mistaken for one. Its body is updated with the new diamond pentagon grille, a more sculpted hood, new wheel designs, newly designed LED taillights, dual exhaust tips, and a gloss-black rear diffuser. It also gains two new exterior hues: Brilliant Red Metallic and Majestic Black Pearl.

Inside, the looks will remain the same, but its feel will be more upscale. The 2018 RLX receives upgraded materials on touchpoints, redesigned seats with high-contrast piping, and a new Espresso color option.

Under its hood, the base 2018 RLX will continue with the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 310 horsepower, but it will gain a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The Sport Hybrid model, however, sees its power skyrocket. From the hybrid model’s 3.5-liter V-6 and three-motor hybrid system, the RLX milks 377 horsepower — a 67-horsepower increase over 2017. This 377 horsepower heads through an all-wheel drive system that enhances traction and handling.

2018 Acura RLX (Credit: © Acura )

On the safety side of things, the 2018 RLX will come standard with AcuraWatch. This safety system includes the first-ever Traffic Jam Assist, adaptive cruise, automated front braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more.

The 2018 Acura RLX will make its in-the-metal debut on Aug. 15 at Monterey Automotive Week. Stay tuned for updates.