2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid - First Drive and Pictures

A car with a stylish and sophisticated look makes this car look impressive. This car is perfect for those of you who like the city streets and friendly environment. In early 2013, Acura introduced the 310-horsepower RLX luxury-performance sedan with a new 3.5-liter all-aluminum, direct-injected VTEC V-6 engine, a number of signature Acura technologies and Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS™), creating a new value proposition with superior cabin space and outstanding driving performance in Acura's flagship sedan. Acura is again raising the bar with the introduction of the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD™, the most powerful and technologically advanced Acura sedan yet and the first to apply Acura's groundbreaking new three-motor Sport Hybrid system with electric SH-AWD (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD).

The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is a much-needed new player on a struggling team. It faces an uphill battle for reasons we shall explain later, but its revolutionary powertrain and other innovative technologies nevertheless deserve attention and even praise. If the RLX Sport Hybrid is at the very least a glimpse into Acura's future, there is plenty of light on the horizon. It starts with the same 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 with i-VTEC and cylinder deactivation found in the regular, front-wheel-drive RLX. Output is almost identical at 310 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The road forks from there.

 

The RLX Sport Hybrid 3.5-liter VTEC® V-6 has a smooth-firing 60-degree V-angle and compact overall dimensions. The V-6 has a die-cast lightweight aluminum alloy block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. The first ever application of direct injection in an Acura vehicle combines with i-VTEC and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) to give the RLX a potent blend of power and fuel efficiency.

 

The aluminum-alloy 24-valve engine produces 310 horsepower at 6,500 and generates 273 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm. Torque is markedly improved vs. RL in the lower ranges, where the engine typically operates. Along with the increased horsepower, the updated V-6 also contributes to increased fuel efficiency, due in part to internal friction reduction features, including an oil-ring ion-plating treatment, and plateau honing. A new tumble-type intake port design improves combustion efficiency.