There is a lot that goes into any car buying decision – initial cost, ongoing cost, depreciation, safety, and style, to name a few. While the actual car you end up buying is of obvious importance, the dealership you buy the vehicle from may be more important than it seems at first blush. A reputable dealer can make everything about the car buying, and car owning process easier. A good dealership should have the right selection of new and used vehicles as well as salespeople who value customers over sales, and a service team ready to care for your car for years to come. When looking for an ownership experience that combines luxury vehicles and outstanding service, turn to your local Acura dealership.
When examining the current car market, it’s easy to see why over 150,000 people a year choose to get behind the wheel of a new brand-new Acura. Few brands combine luxury and reliability in the same way as the Tokyo-based automaker. As the luxury marquee for Honda, Acura has an inherent reputation for build quality and reliability; although most hardware and sheet metal are different, many of the most important components in Acura vehicles are also found in their Honda brethren. The connection to such a large manufacturer also comes in handy when it comes to pricing. Many Acura vehicles undercut their European competition by thousands of dollars. The Honda relationship delivers one final gift that elevates Acura over the competition – when it times to service your vehicle or replace parts, cheaper Honda parts may fit the bill.
The Current Line-up
Acura’s current SUV line-up matches up directly with the competition. The RDX five-seat crossover will do battle with the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Lexus RX among others. The three-row MDX will compete with the Audi Q7, Infinity QX60, and Land Rover Discovery in the intense mid-size SUV sector. The sedans are a little bit of a different story. The compact ILX contends with the Mercedes CLA, Audi A3, and BMW 2-series. The mid-size TLX and full-size RLX, however, kind of float between categories. The TLX falls somewhere between the compact and mid-size Europeans while the RLX fits in between the mid-size and full-size sedans. Despite this, no matter what Acura you choose, you’ll be looking at a terrific combination of luxury, speed, and style.
RDX
The RDX made its debut in 2006 as a 2007 model. In the two full redesigns since, the RDX has grown considerably, from 180 inches to 187 inches in total length and 104 inches to 108 inches in wheelbase. For the 2018 redesign, Acura moved the RDX to its own platform – it had previously shared its architecture with the Honda CRV and Civic. Today, the RDX is an edgy, modern vehicle inside and out. The sharp angles on the exterior carry through to the luxurious, leather-lined interior. Tech wise, all of the things you would expect are there, including Apple CarPlay compatibility and a beautiful 10.2-inch infotainment screen. The most intriguing feature is the true touchpad interface. Located just below the shift levers, this touchpad corresponds directly with the infotainment screen. Instead of having to reach forward to touch an item in the top-right corner, drivers can simply tap the top-right of the touchpad without having to move their wrist.
MDX
There are few SUVs more visually striking than the full-size RDX. Many three-row SUVs sacrifice style for size, not the MDX. Acura’s signature pentagonal grille and LED headlights look especially at home on the MDX’s front-end. Inside, leather and wood trim abound. Unlike some competitors, the MDX’s third-row is both easy to reach and comfortable. The second seats slide forward with a single touch to provide easy access, and third-row occupants get their own climate control. Second-row occupants are not forgotten, however. The MDX makes sure to coddle them with the optional heated captain’s chairs. With an MSRP below $45,000, the MDX drives a strong bargain for the class.
ILX
Although based on the mass-marketed Civic, the ILX is no normal compact sedan. For a car that starts at a little above $25,000, it packs a lot of features. Every ILX comes with two infotainment screens. The lower touch screen offers audio and climate controls while the larger screen up top syncs with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also standard on all ILX models is the AcuraWatch safety suite. AcuraWatch features include Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System and Road Departure Mitigation. Miserly drivers will appreciate the ILX’s excellent fuel economy, rated at 24 mpg city and a terrific 34 mpg highway. Although small in size, the ILX definitely hits above its weight class.
TLX
The TLX debuted in 2014 as a replacement intended to blend the sportiness of the departing TSX and the comfort of the (also discontinued) mid-size TL. This car threads the line between the two with ease. Speed demons will want to opt for the 3.5-liter V6 engine, which packs 290 horsepower. Also of interest in the TLX is the integrated dynamics system, which tunes everything from noise level to A/C strength to maximize performance or economy. When it gets cold, TLX drivers enjoy an optional heated steering wheel while pampering backseat passengers with heated seats.
RLX
The RLX serves as Acura’s range topper and has the luxury and technology to justify its place. Leather truly fills the cabin, from the instrument panel to the seats accented by high-contrast piping and stitching. Wood flows through the cabin as well, giving the doors, center console and dash and elegant feel. When in reverse, the back-up camera and a 360-degree surround view camera fill the infotainment screen to give drivers a complete view of the world around them. In front of the driver, a full-color head-up display projects pertinent information, including speed and turn-by-turn navigation, onto the windshield. While competitors charge well over $70,000 for cars with this kind of refinement, the RLX starts at just above $55,000.
Used and CPO
If a new Acura isn’t the vehicle for you, Acura dealerships also have an extensive used and certified pre-owned (CPO) selection. While all used vehicles are inspected and deemed safe and reliable, CPO vehicles go through a stringent set of test and inspections before they can earn the title. Acura CPO vehicles check all of the following boxes:
- Passed 182-point inspection
- Under 80,000 miles of use
- Under six years old
- Come with a limited warranty
- Come with roadside assistance
- On-demand concierge service
Whether new, used, or certified pre-owned, there is no wrong way to go when shopping at your Acura dealership.
Service
With the exception of mechanics and gearheads, there are likely very few people who find vehicle service and maintenance exciting. Despite this, it’s critical that you keep up with your Acura’s regular service schedule. While it might be easy to blow off a tire rotation or oil change in the short term, regular service visits can prevent costly repairs down the road. Your Acura dealership will know your vehicle like the back of their hand, as their service techs are trained specifically for Acura vehicles. Even if you bought your Acura from another dealer, they’ll be happy to help. Non-Acura dealerships and auto shops simply can’t match their expertise.
Ready to join the Acura family? Drop by a dealership today to learn more about getting your journey started with this amazing brand. You won’t regret it!
