2018 Acura RLX Gets Styling Makeover, 10-Speed Transmission

Honda Motor Co.’s Acura unit is updating its RLX sedan for the 2018 model year in a bid to jumpstart the performance model’s slumping sales.

Changes include an exterior facelift, more standard equipment and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Styling is highlighted by a “diamond pentagon" grille, which is shared with the latest TLX sedan and MDX crossover vehicle.

Among the other design updates are a more sculpted hood, LED headlights and taillights, new front/rear fascias and a gloss black rear diffuser. The interior gets new seats and upscale materials.

The car’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine doesn’t change. But the outgoing model’s 7-speed automated-manual transmission will be replaced with a 10-speed automatic, which Acura says will boost acceleration and passing performance. The RLX’s Sport Hybrid version will feature tuning upgrades to its powertrain and handling, according to the carmaker.

Acura is eliminating several trim packages on both the standard and hybrid models to simplify the lineup. The Technology and Advance packages now will be standard on the base RLX and Sport Hybrid, respectively.

Less than 1,500 RLXs were sold last year in the U.S., and sales through July this year are down 26%. The 2018 model is due to hit showrooms in November.