Acura has long recognized that the greatest level of contact you have with a car is through the seats. Engine downsizing touches the RLX, but only by 0.2 liter. The naturally aspirated, direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 feeds the front wheels 310 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque, up 10 and 1, respectively, from the old 3.7-liter. Fuel efficiency should be very competitive in the class, at 20/31 city/highway, figures we’re inclined to trust as they’re derived from a naturally aspirated engine.

The RLX overcompensates for the old car’s biggest failing. It’s full-figured, with a 2.0-inch-longer wheelbase and 1.7-inch-wider body than the outgoing RL’s. The cabin is far airier and roomier than before, with lots of clearance for occupants’ extremities.