2014 Acura RLX vs. Its Competition
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Acura sees the RLX's competition hailing from Germany in the form of the E-Class, 5-Series, and A6--but more realistically, given those brands' strong repeat business, we think the competition comes more from some other brands and some interesting vehicles.
The Cadillac XTS is a pick of the crop: the big sedan has unexpectedly nimble handling, an available adjustable suspension, and the touchpad CUE interface, if you're up for the cutting-edge learning experience.
The Lincoln MKS and Volvo S80 share a front-drive architecture and all-wheel-drive availability, but the MKS is the surprising choice for its optional 365-hp turbocharged engine and its discreetly American styling.
The Hyundai Genesis is a superb bargain among imported sedans; it's rear-wheel drive but doesn't have European road manners--and we'd steer downmarket to the V-6 version, not the stiff-riding 429-hp R-Spec edition.
Lastly, the Lexus GS has a lovely new shape and an equally stylish interior; opt up to the F-Sport and crisp handling is (finally) part of the package, too.
 2014 Acura RLXGet FREE Price Quote |  2013 Cadillac XTSGet FREE Price Quote |  2013 Hyundai GenesisGet FREE Price Quote |  2013 Lexus GS 350Get FREE Price Quote |  2013 Lincoln MKSGet FREE Price Quote |  2013 Volvo S80Get FREE Price Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | |||||
| Meta Rating | |||||
The 2014 Acura RLX leaves the bold ambition to other brands; it's a studied update that delivers smoother looks, quicker performance, and better fuel economy, but no more excitement. | The 2013 Cadillac XTS is everything a big comfort-oriented luxury sedan should be--plus a lot more, for the safety- and tech-focused. | The millionaire next door just might be driving a Hyundai Genesis; it's a luxury-car bargain, with a well-finished interior, plenty of power and good fuel economy. | The 2013 Lexus GS 350 gains a little confidence and connectivity, while its competition gains some weight and complexity. | The 2013 Lincoln MKS steers away from both traditional American luxury and German sport sedans--and ends up in a good place for those who want a distinctive, well-rounded big sedan. | The 2013 Volvo S80 is supremely comfortable, safe, and stylish sedan—and a great pick for fashion-conscious families—although those wanting a true performance edge should look elsewhere. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $48,450 | $44,075 | $34,200 | $47,250 | $42,870 | $39,150 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 20 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Premium Unleaded V-6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas I6 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Large Cars | Full Size | Large car | Mid-Size | Large Cars | Midsize |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4dr Sedan | 4dr Sedan FWD | 4dr Sedan V6 3.8L | 4dr Sedan RWD | 4dr Sedan 3.7L FWD | 4dr Sedan 3.2L |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | |||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic | Automatic |
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