The Acura RLX
The Acura RLX was introduced for the 2014 model year as the successor to the long‑running Acura RL. Positioned as the brand’s flagship sedan, the RLX combined a spacious interior and advanced technology with Acura’s trademark reliability. Two distinct versions were offered: a front‑wheel‑drive model equipped with Precision All‑Wheel Steer (P‑AWS) rear steering, and a cutting‑edge Sport Hybrid that paired a direct‑injected 3.5‑liter V‑6 with three electric motors to create Super Handling All‑Wheel Drive (SH‑AWD). Despite its sophisticated powertrains and generous standard equipment, the RLX sold in modest numbers and was discontinued after the 2020 model year as Acura shifted its focus to the TLX sedan and a growing lineup of crossovers.
Acura RLX Sales Data & Trends
The RLX debuted with a 3.5‑liter direct‑injection V‑6 producing about 310 horsepower and 272 lb‑ft of torque, mated to a six‑speed automatic transmission. Its innovative P‑AWS system subtly steered the rear wheels for better agility, while the optional Sport Hybrid SH‑AWD model used a seven‑speed dual‑clutch transmission and three electric motors to deliver a combined 377 hp and 341 lb‑ft of torque. The RLX was praised for its smooth ride, roomy cabin and comprehensive safety suite, but it never matched German rivals for brand cachet. Sales peaked at just under 5,000 units in its first full year and slipped steadily thereafter as buyers gravitated toward SUVs. Acura freshened the RLX for 2018 with a diamond‑pentagon grille and updated interior, but the model remained a niche offering until its discontinuation in 2020 when the newer TLX assumed flagship duties.
First Generation (2014–2017)
The first iteration of the RLX showcased Acura’s commitment to precision engineering. The standard P‑AWS version employed the 310‑hp 3.5‑liter V‑6 and featured double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspension, Jewel Eye LED headlamps and a host of driver‑assist technologies. The Sport Hybrid, launched shortly after, mirrored the hybrid system used in the NSX, combining the V‑6 with an electric motor integrated into the transmission and twin rear electric motors to provide torque‑vectoring all‑wheel drive. With a net 377 hp, it offered V8‑like performance with impressive fuel economy. Even so, the RLX struggled to stand out in a segment dominated by European marques, and annual sales never cracked 5,000 units.
Facelift & Final Years (2018‑2020)
For 2018, Acura gave the RLX a major facelift with a new diamond‑pentagon grille, reshaped hood and lighting, and updated cabin materials. The base model adopted a more sophisticated 10‑speed automatic transmission, while the Sport Hybrid continued with its 377‑hp powertrain. Despite the improvements, the sedan’s sales volume remained modest; in May 2020 Acura announced that the RLX would end production after the 2020 model year as part of a shift toward SUVs and the next‑generation TLX. In Japan the RLX’s twin, the Honda Legend, lingered until 2021 before also being retired. Today, Acura’s sedan lineup is represented by the Integra hatchback and the performance‑oriented TLX, while crossovers like the MDX and RDX carry the sales torch.
Acura RLX U.S. Sales Data & Charts
To explore how the RLX compares with other Acura models, visit our pages for the Acura RL, Acura TLX, or Acura MDX.
Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 2013 | 5,014 |
| 2014 | 3,413 |
| 2015 | 2,195 |
| 2016 | 1,478 |
| 2017 | 1,237 |
| 2018 | 1,931 |
| 2019 | 1,019 |
| 2020 | 1,054 |
| 2021 | 214 |
| 2022 | 3 |
Annual Growth
Acura RLX Canada Sales Data & Charts
This section shows annual sales of the Acura RLX in Canada.
Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 2013 | 185 |
| 2014 | 243 |
| 2015 | 182 |
| 2016 | 107 |
| 2017 | 59 |
| 2018 | 64 |
| 2019 | 55 |
| 2020 | 19 |
| 2021 | 3 |
| 2022 | 0 |
Annual Growth
Data Notes: Acura began combining RL and RLX sales in U.S. reporting starting in May 2013 (Canada from June 2013), so early figures may include residual RL volume.









