Acura's new RLX gets the pulse pumping

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews also can be seen on the Business page of The Sacramento Bee’s website – via the “GALLERY: Reviews of new cars” link at www.sacbee.com/business

Sacramento, California – You can get jaded in this business. A new car arrives for review every week.

I reckon it’s similar to the way Hugh Hefner feels about dating … but then, I wouldn’t know about that.

So, when an all-new 2014 Acura RLX sedan showed up looking like a freeway-tooled version of a stealth fighter jet, I’m happy to tell you that my pulse picked up big-time.

So, this is evolvement of the previous RL sedan, and oh my, evolution is a good thing.  Rounded at the top, nicely cut on the front end and boasting a stable, spread out look at all four corners, the RLX arrives looking ready to rumble.

And rumble it does with 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 rated at 310 horsepower.  Other sedans have more power, but I’m not sure any of them dish up the goods any sweeter than this RLX with a sequential sport shift transmission.

I was able to dust off most of the stragglers, pokes and cut-off crazies that ventured into my path on the roadways.  Steering was easy and firm, and the response from this front driver was impressive.

My ride had a generously equipped “Tech Package” (including blind spot monitor, rain-sensing windshield wipers and power folding side mirrors) and an “Advance Package” that included adaptive cruise control, a collision-avoidance braking system, ventilated front seats and parking sensors.

And the bottom line on the sticker was $61,345, which answers your question: Yes, luxury and technology do come at a price.

Personally, I had no problem with the fare.  Acrua has been working for years to establish a true standout flagship sedan, and this RLX certainly fits in that lofty niche of Honda’s luxury division.

Fuel mileage is a fair 20 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.  Not too bad for a 310-horsepower engine.

Oh, did I mention the “Jewel Eye” LED headlights?  So very, very cool.  Bring over the neighbors just to watch you turn on the headlights.  They’ll invite you over for drinks later, guaranteed.

Some Acura devotees are undoubtedly salivating over the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid AWD version of this ride, and I understand your desires.  Luxury, power and fuel economy will lure you behind the wheel most anytime.  Looking forward to getting into that one up the road.