Home > News & Blogs > 2018 Acura RLX Hybrid Gets Major Price Reduction – Luxury for Less

2018 Acura RLX Hybrid Gets Major Price Reduction – Luxury for Less

2018 Acura RLX: Redesigned Luxury Sedan with Hybrid Power & Advanced Tech | MotorVero

2018 Acura RLX: A Luxury Sedan Revolution with Hybrid Performance

2018 Acura RLX

The redesigned 2018 Acura RLX represents a significant evolution in Acura's flagship luxury sedan, offering buyers a compelling combination of refined styling, advanced technology, and improved value proposition—particularly in the high-performance Sport Hybrid variant.

2020 Lincoln Aviator Image
2020 Lincoln Aviator

$40843

Gas

25714 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD Image
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD

$61488

diesel

54487 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

Tesla Model X 75D AWD Image
Tesla Model X 75D AWD

$48000

electric

18036 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)


Streamlined Model Lineup with Strategic Pricing

Acura simplified the 2018 RLX offerings while delivering substantial value improvements:

  • Gasoline Model: Single configuration at $55,865 (including $965 destination)
  • Sport Hybrid: Now exclusively with Advance Package at $62,865 - a $4,050 reduction

Comparative Pricing Analysis

Model 2017 Price 2018 Price Difference
RLX Base $55,415 $55,865 +$450
Sport Hybrid (with Advance) $66,915 $62,865 -$4,050

Powertrain Innovations and Efficiency

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Gasoline Model: 10-Speed Transmission Breakthrough

The conventional 3.5L V-6 model received a major mechanical upgrade with Acura's all-new 10-speed automatic transmission. This advanced gearbox features:

  • Wider ratio spread for optimal performance
  • Quick-shifting capability (30% faster than previous 6-speed)
  • Improved EPA ratings of 20/29/23 mpg (city/highway/combined)

Sport Hybrid: Performance-Oriented Efficiency

The RLX Sport Hybrid continues to deliver exceptional power with its innovative three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system:

  • 377 total system horsepower (3.5L V-6 + electric motors)
  • 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
  • Revised EPA estimates of 28/29/28 mpg
  • 2021 Lincoln Aviator Image
    2021 Lincoln Aviator

    $37520

    Gas

    52920 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)

    2008 Tesla Roadster Image
    2008 Tesla Roadster

    $180000

    electric

    33000 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)

    Porsche 911 Image
    Porsche 911

    $124900

    Petrol

    10,283 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)


Design Evolution: From Beak to Diamond

The 2018 RLX showcases Acura's new design language with several notable exterior updates:

  • Signature "diamond pentagon" grille replacing previous beak design
  • Redesigned front and rear bumpers for improved aerodynamics
  • Sculpted hood with more pronounced character lines
  • Revised LED lighting front and rear

Technology and Safety Enhancements

Acura significantly upgraded the RLX's tech offerings for 2018:

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

AcuraWatch Plus with Traffic Jam Assist

The expanded suite of driver assistance features now includes:

  • Low-speed follow capability (0-25 mph)
  • Enhanced adaptive cruise control
  • Improved lane keeping assist
  • Collision mitigation braking system

Premium Interior Amenities

2018 Acura RLX Hybrid

The RLX Advance Package includes:

  • Ultra-premium Milano leather seating
  • 16-way power adjustable front seats
  • 4-mode heated and ventilated front seats
  • Krell premium audio system with 14 speakers
  • 2021 Lincoln Aviator Image
    2021 Lincoln Aviator

    $37520

    Gas

    52920 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)

    2008 Tesla Roadster Image
    2008 Tesla Roadster

    $180000

    electric

    33000 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)

    Porsche 911 Image
    Porsche 911

    $124900

    Petrol

    10,283 mi

    Good Deal   Good

    0 (5)


Competitive Positioning in Luxury Segment

The 2018 RLX competes effectively against rivals like:

  • Lexus GS 350
  • Infiniti Q70
  • Cadillac CT6
  • Lincoln Continental

Key advantages include:

  • Superior hybrid performance in Sport Hybrid model
  • More standard features at lower price points
  • Acura's reputation for reliability

Ownership Experience and Value Retention

Acura enhanced the ownership proposition with:

  • Competitive 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty
  • 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain coverage
  • Above-average predicted resale values
  • Complimentary maintenance program
  • --SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Driving Dynamics and Comfort

Journalists praised the 2018 RLX for:

  • Exceptionally smooth ride quality
  • Precise handling with available Precision All-Wheel Steer
  • Quiet, well-insulated cabin
  • Responsive hybrid powertrain in Sport Hybrid model

Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2018 RLX?

The 2018 Acura RLX presents an compelling option for:

  • Luxury buyers seeking value without sacrificing features
  • Tech-focused drivers wanting advanced safety systems
  • Performance enthusiasts preferring hybrid efficiency with power
  • Discerning buyers appreciating understated elegance

With its significant price reduction on the well-equipped Sport Hybrid model and thoughtful updates throughout, the 2018 RLX represents one of Acura's strongest luxury sedan offerings to date.

--FOURTH CAR LIST HERE--

proImg

Motorvero G-queen

Last Updated On Apr, 12-2025

Share Now: