2024 Honda Acura RLX 3.5L V6 Base – Fuel Economy & MPG Guide

EPA Fuel Economy: 24 MPG Combined

The 2024 Honda Acura RLX 3.5L V6 Base model delivers a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 24 MPG, making it a reasonably efficient choice in the luxury sedan segment. With a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the RLX balances performance capabilities with everyday fuel efficiency. This combined rating reflects typical driving patterns that blend city and highway miles, giving you a realistic expectation for fuel consumption across various driving conditions.

For a vehicle in this class with a naturally aspirated V6 engine, a 24 MPG combined rating is competitive. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays a key role in optimizing fuel economy by maintaining efficient engine RPMs across different speeds. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a longer road trip, the RLX provides the horsepower and torque expected from its engine class while maintaining respectable fuel efficiency numbers.

City vs Highway Performance

The EPA ratings for the 2024 Acura RLX Base show a notable difference between city and highway driving. In city conditions, the vehicle achieves 20 MPG, which accounts for frequent acceleration, deceleration, and idling typical of urban driving. Highway driving is more efficient, with an EPA rating of 29 MPG when maintaining steady speeds on interstate highways and open roads. This 9 MPG difference is typical for V6 engines, as steady-state highway driving allows the transmission to find optimal gear ratios and reduce engine strain.

Your actual mileage depends heavily on driving habits and conditions. If you spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic, expect results closer to the 20 MPG city figure. Conversely, highway-dominant driving patterns will push your fuel economy toward the 29 MPG rating. Mixed driving—a realistic scenario for most owners—should average around the 24 MPG combined figure, though individual results will vary based on factors like vehicle load, tire pressure, and driving aggressiveness.

Annual Fuel Cost

Based on EPA estimates, here’s what you can expect to spend annually on fuel for the 2024 Acura RLX 3.5L V6 Base:

Calculation: Annual miles driven ÷ Combined MPG × Fuel price per gallon = Annual fuel cost

15,000 miles ÷ 24 MPG × $3.50 per gallon = $2,187.50 per year

This estimate assumes you drive 15,000 miles annually and pay an average of $3.50 per gallon for gasoline. If you drive more miles or encounter higher fuel prices, your actual cost will increase proportionally. Conversely, lower annual mileage or cheaper fuel prices in your region will reduce this figure. Over a five-year ownership period, budget approximately $10,938 for fuel at these rates.

Real-World MPG Expectations

EPA ratings provide a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Most 2024 Acura RLX owners report fuel economy within 1-2 MPG of the EPA combined rating, meaning you’ll likely see between 22-26 MPG in actual driving. Several factors influence your results: aggressive acceleration reduces efficiency, while smooth, gradual acceleration improves it. Highway driving at consistent speeds will get you closer to that 29 MPG highway rating, while congested city driving will approach the 20 MPG city figure.

To maximize efficiency, maintain proper tire pressure as specified in your owner’s manual, keep your engine properly maintained with regular oil changes, and avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the trunk. Planning routes to minimize traffic congestion also helps, as stop-and-go driving dramatically reduces fuel economy. During winter months, expect slightly lower MPG due to colder engine operation and denser air, which increases fuel consumption by roughly 5-10% compared to summer driving.

How It Compares

Comparing the 2024 Acura RLX 3.5L V6 Base to similar luxury sedans reveals competitive positioning. The 2024 Lexus ES 350 with its 3.5L V6 achieves 23 MPG combined, slightly lower than the RLX. The 2024 Infiniti Q50 with a similar displacement engine delivers approximately 24 MPG combined, matching the RLX. The 2024 Cadillac CTS with a turbocharged four-cylinder achieves 27 MPG combined but with less horsepower than the RLX’s V6. Among full-size luxury sedans with V6 power, the RLX’s 24 MPG combined rating is respectable and competitive in its class.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

• Maintain Steady Speeds: Avoid rapid acceleration and sudden braking. Smooth, gradual throttle inputs keep the V6 operating at optimal efficiency.
• Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. Check pressure monthly and maintain the PSI specified on your driver’s door jamb.
• Use Premium Fuel: While the RLX doesn’t require premium, using the recommended fuel grade ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency.
• Plan Efficient Routes: Minimize time spent in traffic congestion. Highway miles deliver better economy than city miles, so plan routes accordingly.
• Keep Up with Maintenance: Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and proper wheel alignment all contribute to maintaining EPA fuel economy ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the 2024 Acura RLX require premium gasoline?
A: The 2024 RLX 3.5L V6 Base model runs on regular unleaded gasoline. Premium fuel is not required, though using premium may provide marginal performance benefits. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

Q: Can I improve the 24 MPG combined rating through modifications?
A: While aggressive modifications are unnecessary, keeping your vehicle properly maintained, using synthetic oil, and ensuring correct tire pressure can help you achieve or exceed EPA ratings. Avoid aftermarket parts that increase drag or engine load.

Q: How does the 10-speed automatic transmission affect fuel economy?
A: The 10-speed automatic provides more gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate at optimal RPM across a wider range of speeds. This contributes to the competitive 24 MPG combined rating compared to V6 sedans with fewer gears.

The 2024 Honda Acura RLX 3.5L V6 Base offers a balanced combination of luxury performance and reasonable fuel efficiency. With its 24 MPG combined rating, you can expect annual fuel costs around $2,187 at typical mileage and fuel prices, making it a practical choice for those wanting V6 power without excessive fuel consumption.