Considering the segment that comes to compete, Acura has decided to use a formula unusual in its revamped 2014 Acura RLX : is a front whee...
Indeed, in the segment of luxury sedans with prices averages 50 to $ 60,000, usually turning to platforms with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive 4-wheel. Only the Audi A6 and Volvo S80 veteran already have versions in their range with front, although both versions offer a choice of four-wheel drive 4-wheel. And there's good reason for all manufacturers reject such mechanical configuration: traditional pulls in the direction the front traction with higher powers.
So we faced this test to answer a fundamental question: Got Acura solves the equation to integrate the power and torque of a six-cylinder 3.5-liter with 310 horsepower in a front-wheel without destroying the dynamic behavior? Or will the new 2014 Acura RLX a monster affected by the famous 'torque steer' the front traction not well resolved? Before concluding and our response, remember that the 2014 RLX is the range-topping Japanese brand, competing in a market where the Germans dominate (the traditional Mercedes E class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6) but where there are interesting alternatives from other countries (Jaguar XF, Infiniti M and Lexus GS).
Given this remarkable group of competitors, the 2014 Acura RLX has it hard, and it does not provide any way to really shine. Its 310 horsepower V6 engine is powerful and effective, well coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Its exterior design is not particularly original, but not without a good presence and image, the result of its size and its classic proportions. Inside would say that things are improving, with excellent interior space and very good level of completion. While not the best (that place is for Audi and BMW in our opinion), the interior is definitely very well done and finished. One detail that caught our attention for its absence is the termination button for the trunk, which is common in competitors and adds a touch of practicality undeniable.
But beyond this level of equipment is excellent and everything is included in the price of this version ADVANCE: Navigation, Bluetooth, high fidelity audio equipment, power seats, ventilated, electronic driving aids several does the car comes really complete. And the interior finishes are very good, combining leather and plastic timber very good finish.
Returning to the driving sensations, we must discuss the most remarkable and original in the mechanical configuration of the car: the steering system on all 4 wheels. While not a new technology, the reality is that few cars incorporate this solution today. Will this be the secret weapon of 2014 Acura RLX to compete in the dynamic aspect? To find the answer for a week drove the car in the conditions normally found in the hands of the potential buyer of this type of cars. The commute? Daily commute, Drop off and pick up children at school, go shopping at the supermarket, and the occasional out to dinner in town. And even before the test had some skepticism about the mechanical configuration, in practice runs smoothly. Without abusing the throttle, front wheel drive is almost undetectable and the car offers a ride quality and comfort level worthy of the category.
But we could not test the car in a little more demanding conditions, to see if it offers the dual representation sedan with good dynamic performance, such as merit its 310 horsepower. So we looked for a clear morning traffic, a route with some interesting curves and braking, and no kids, no shopping, no ma'am, we released our inner pilot to see which offers the 2014 Acura RLX sportier driving.
And to our surprise the car exceeds the test with flying colors. The 4-wheel steering is noted to give the car an unexpected agility and cornering safety with conviction, and though the suspensions are more geared to comfort, do not let you support the car without having too many unnecessary swings. The engine pushes decision because not rabid sports, and the front wheels smoothly transmit power without significantly affecting the direction of the car. In short, tests passed. Dynamically is better than our reference in the segment, the Audi A6 3.0T? No, but neither is hook considering normal use is expected of a car of this type.
Priced for $ 48.450 base version, the full version of the range, the Advance, rises to $ 61.345. For those looking for a reliable car, comfortable and spacious, equipped with lots of technology and offers discreet look, the 2014 Acura RLX is a very good option.
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