A Closer Look at the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid
The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD was recently unveiled to the public at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, with a promise to deliver a fresh dynamic to the luxury-performance sedan category. This model showcases Acura's innovative three-motor hybrid system, making it the first vehicle to deploy such technology from the brand. With its bold design and advanced engineering, the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is a clear statement of Acura's ambitious intentions in the hybrid market.
Delving into the Powertrain and Drivetrain
At the heart of this exciting model is a 3.5-liter, 310-horsepower i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™), further enhanced by an idle-stop feature for improved fuel efficiency. This unit pairs with an Acura-designed, 7-speed dual clutch transmission integrated with an electric motor. This duo delivers impressive power, precise handling, and smooth gear transitions, providing the driver with a uniquely enjoyable driving experience.
Noteworthy is the model's electric SH-AWD system, which substitutes the conventional drive shaft and rear differential with two robust 27-kilowatt electric motors. The benefits of this approach are twofold: it assists in cornering by dynamically distributing torque and facilitates the regenerative braking process. Supplementing this setup is a 35-kilowatt front electric motor that adds to the engine's torque and helps charge the car's 260-volt lithium-ion battery pack.
Exploring the Body and Chassis
Despite its mid-size luxury sedan label, the RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD offers a generous interior space, closely rivaling full-size sedans. The careful design and extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum in the body construction contribute not only to its fuel efficiency but also its superior handling agility and compelling performance.
The RLX Sport Hybrid is equipped with double-wishbone, lower double-joint front suspension with Amplitude Reactive Dampers, promoting handling agility, driver confidence, and sophisticated ride experience. The multi-link rear suspension is optimized for a flat ride during cornering, ensuring confident turning capabilities and a smooth ride across varying driving scenarios.
The Technology Angle
Acura's 2014 RLX Sport Hybrid includes a number of firsts for the brand, notably the electronic gear selector and the Head-Up Display System. The gear selector replaces the traditional center console-mounted shift lever with an intuitive push-button array, offering the driver a more streamlined driving experience. The Head-Up Display System projects essential driving information onto the windshield, thus minimizing distraction.
This model also introduces Acura's signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights, promising superior light distribution and illumination. These innovations are complimented by a user-friendly 8-inch color screen that combines audio/information and navigation functions and a 7-inch color On Demand Multi-Use Display™ (ODMD) touchscreen for additional controls.
Audiophiles and Connectivity
The RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD continues Acura's tradition of superior audio performance. The model features two premium audio systems: the Acura/ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with a 14-speaker array (available with the Technology package) and a top-of-the-range 14-speaker Krell system for the Advance package, promising a new benchmark in automotive audio performance.
The next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system further enhances the RLX's tech offerings, providing an array of media, convenience, and security services via embedded two-way communications and web-enabled devices.
Safety Measures and Driver-Assistive Technologies
The new RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD integrates a comprehensive range of advanced safety, visibility, and driver-assistive technologies, reinforcing Acura's commitment to safety. Key features include a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW), among others.
Thanks to Acura's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and seven airbags (including a driver's knee airbag), the RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is expected to achieve top-level safety ratings, making it a strong contender in the luxury-performance sedan category.
Final Impressions
With its innovative powertrain technology, advanced safety features, and luxurious appointments, the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD represents a bold stride forward for Acura. This model's blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury certainly creates an enticing package for any prospective hybrid buyer seeking a high-end, performance-oriented vehicle. Acura's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automotive technology is commendably demonstrated in the RLX Sport Hybrid.
-Ed
2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid
