English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Acura RLX: 2013–2020 luxury sedan and hybrid
Acura RLX — the flagship of Honda's luxury brand Acura, produced from 2013–2020. We look at what sets it apart, its engines, particularly the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version, and what buyers need to know.
RLX in brief
The RLX replaced the previous RL and was Acura's flagship sedan, primarily sold in the USA and Canada. In Japan, the equivalent car was the Honda Legend.
This is a front-wheel-drive (or all-wheel-drive with hybrid) luxury sedan with a smooth ride, plenty of kit and cutting-edge safety tech. It was never officially sold in Europe.
Which version to choose
The base version has a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, while the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD features a hybrid system with three electric motors and all-wheel drive. The hybrid is more powerful but more complex and expensive.
If you prioritise easier maintenance, opt for the petrol RLX. If power and technology are key, go for the Sport Hybrid, but make sure to check the battery and hybrid system condition.
Engines and gearboxes
The petrol RLX has a 3.5-litre V6 engine with around 310hp and an automatic gearbox. Drive is to the front wheels.
The Sport Hybrid SH-AWD has a 3.5-litre V6 with three electric motors and a combined output of around 380hp, with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
What to check when buying a used RLX
Since the RLX was not officially sold in Europe, these are usually imported from the USA. Check the history, mileage, accident records and whether the car meets your country's requirements.
Request a high-voltage battery condition report for the hybrid. Test all the auxiliary systems, screens, and transmission operation.
Finding parts and specialists can be tricky, although some components are shared with Honda and Acura models.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we describe versions by engine.
RLX 3,5 V6
2013–2020The main petrol version.
- 3.5-litre V6
- Around 310 hp
- Often – front-wheel drive
RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD
2014–2020The hybrid version.
- 3.5-litre V6 with three electric motors
- Combined power of around 380 hp
- All-wheel drive
Comparison of versions
| 3,5 V6 | Sport Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|
| Who's it for? | For easier maintenance | For power and tech enthusiasts |
| Engine | 3.5-litre V6 | 3.5-litre V6 + 3 electric motors |
| Transmission | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the simplest choice is the petrol RLX; the hybrid suits those who value technology and power.
Pros
- Luxurious, quiet and comfortable
- Generous equipment
- Hybrid version with all-wheel drive
- A rare and distinctive sedan
Cons
- There is no official servicing in Europe
- Repairing a hybrid can be expensive
- Finding parts and specialists is more challenging
Frequently asked questions
Is the RLX sold in Europe?
Officially, no, so RLXs in Europe are usually imported from the USA.
What is the equivalent of the RLX in Japan?
The Honda Legend.
What sets the Sport Hybrid apart?
It features a three-motor hybrid system with all-wheel drive and significantly more power.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
