Acura RLX Hybrid Introduces Honda's 3-Motor Hybrid System

AcuraAcuraJapan, 1986 > present24 models
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unveiled its flagship RLXAcura RLXJapan, 2014 > present sedan at the beginning of the year, and it is finally adding the RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version at the LA Auto Show. It is promising that the car’s three-motor hybrid system with a V6 engine gives the car V8 power with four-cylinder fuel economy.

The RLX uses a 310hp, 3.5-liter V6 with a 47hp hybrid motor between the engine and transmission and two further 36hp electric motors powering the rear wheels to give the car all-wheel drive. The only available transmission is a new seven-speed dual clutch gearbox. The total system output is 377hp, and it is rated at 28mpg city, 32mpg highway and 30mpg combined. In addition to the three-hybrid motors to improve economy, the engine also has stop/start and variable cylinder management.

The rear electric motors balance rear traction by either driving the wheels individually or slowing them through regenerative braking. It can run purely on electric power, but Honda has not announced the distance yet.

The interior is identical in layout to the standard RLX, except that it comes with a standard head-up display, and the transmission is controlled via Park, Drive and Reverse push buttons, rather than a traditional gearshift. The driver can also select Sport or Normal driving modes. The head-up display shows hybrid system operation, turn-by-turn navigation, speedometer, compass and driver alerts.

One of the few options available on the car is a choice of two stereo systems. The Technology package adds a 14-speaker stereo, and the Advanced package has upgraded speakers and amplifiers

The RLX Hybrid will be on sale in the spring.