2016 Acura RLX Gets AcuraWatch & Reduced Trims

Acura is looking to simultaneously simplify and revitalize their lineup. They’ve been systematically revamping some of their low-performing models like the ILX and TLX, both of which have done quite well since their respective upgrades. The 2016 Acura RLX is next on the list with under 200 sales in January of this year. But, Acura believes they can boost performance by injecting more bang-for-your-buck into their flagship sedan.

The biggest upgrade Acura is adding to the RLX is the addition of their new AcuraWatch safety suite. AcuraWatch is, as the name implies, a collection of electronic driver aids including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Pre-Collision Braking
• Lane Departure and Forward Collision Warnings
• Lane Keep Assist
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Monitoring
• Road Departure Mitigation (which will also debut in the new 2016 Acura MDX and Honda Pilot)
• Surround-view monitor, which gives you a birds-eye view of your RLX (Advance trim only)

As you can see, that’s quite an extensive range of safety features! It should be noted that AcuraWatch is available on all trims, but only included as standard on Technology and Advance RLX models.

The other change that will apply to all trims is a slightly re-tuned suspension. The 2016 Acura RLX will run on a softer rear stabilizer bar, lower spring rates, new front and rear shocks and new spring mounts. All in all, these changes are aimed at improving overall ride quality with lower levels of road noise nad vibration.

Under the hood, the 2016 Acura RLX remains exactly the same. That means you’ll get a 3.5L V6 that outputs a very decent 310 horsies paired with a FWD 6-speed automatic. Or, you can opt for the RLX Sport Hybrid and get an AWD 7-speed dual-clutch transmission hooked up to three extra electric motors – one in the front, two in the rear – which together increase total system output to 377 hp.

Note: This is the same type of hybrid system as used in the new Acura NSX supercar.

Despite all of this, the biggest change that most average consumers will notice is the removal of last year’s base trim, since navigation is now standard on all models. Acura has gone the minimal route with just three trims for 2016, down from five for the previous model year.

On sale now, the starting price is $50,950 for the Acura RLX, then $54,450 for the Technology Package and $60,450 for the Advance Package. The Acura RLX Sport Hybrid will start at $60,450 when it hits showroom floors later this spring.

Japanese Car Auction Find – 2015 Honda Vezel HybridZ

Now here is a car from Honda which needs no updating. It’s one of Honda’s newest models, having been on the market for a mere three years since its launch near the end of 2013.

Under that pearl white hood you’ll find Honda’s next-gen sport hybrid i-DCD system that combines a 130 hp 1.5L direct-injection engine with a 30 hp motor and Honda Real Time AWD. That mouth-full of technology gets you a staggering 63.5 mpg by US standards.

We love the sporty black accents that dot the car’s exterior, and it’s hard to argue with those eye-catching gunmetal alloys. Learn more about this pristine Japanese car auction find below the official auction sheet:

“Grade S, interior A, exterior condition A, FAT, AAC, safety package, LED headlights, DVD video, CD, Bluetooth, SD audio, USB, auxilliary at front and rear, rear view reversing camera, power steering, power windows, original AWs, ABS, airbags, marks as per map”