It may not have the bulletproof branding of some competitors, but the RLX is not without charms. Its old beak grille has finally been replaced by a prettier pentagonal nose, and a sharp 10-speed automatic now pairs to the standard 310-hp V-6 engine. Our choice is the Sport Hybrid, which uses a 377-hp powertrain derived from the one used in the NSX and has Acura’s SH-AWD system to aid handling. We like driving the RLX, but the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto still stings.
Pros Strong performance, comfortable seats, standard driver aids, high value.
Cons Invisible styling, slow navigation system, complex two-screen infotainment interface, subpar paint quality.
The 2018 Acura RLX ranked #9 in Luxury Large Cars. Currently the Acura RLX has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 38 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable, spacious seats Refined, fuel-efficient powertrains Lots of standard safety features
Cons Small trunk and no folding rear seats Unexciting handling and firm ride Dull interior styling
The Acura RLX receives a variety of updates for 2018. They include new front-end styling, new front seats, an upgraded suite of driver safety aids, a retuned suspension, a new 10-speed transmission for the front-wheel-drive trim (called P-AWS), and a slightly smaller battery in the Sport Hybrid. Acura has simplified the RLX's trim levels as well.
PROS Sport Hybrid model offers fast, fuel-efficient acceleration Long list of standard safety and convenience features Spacious cabin and seating, especially for rear passengers
CONS Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't available Steering feels disconnected from the road Interior design looks dated Dual-screen infotainment system isn't intuitive to use
The 2018 Kia Cadenza has matured greatly, and offers exceptional room and polish.
Pros Premium cabin Quiet, hushed driving Lots of storage space Big back seat Simple infotainment system
Cons Evolutionary styling Middling gas mileage Rivals have sharper handling Base model lacks safety tech
The 2018 Kia Cadenza ranked #3 in Large Cars. Currently the Kia Cadenza has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 20 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale cabin Lots of features
Cons Touch screen unresponsive at times Below-average trunk space
For 2018, the Cadenza is essentially unchanged. There's only a minor rejiggering of feature content: Namely, the Luxury package now includes a panoramic sunroof and interior LED lighting.
PROS Well-equipped for the price, especially in the base Premium trim Vast amount of legroom allows all passengers to stretch out Generous warranty coverage Lots of available advanced safety features
CONS From acceleration to handling, the Cadenza isn't much fun to drive Trunk is smaller than rivals, and rear seats don't fold down The ride isn't as composed as in segment leaders Headroom is a bit tight for tall occupants (especially with sunroof)
