Acura

Acura

Industry	Automotive
Founded	March 27, 1986 (1986-03-27)
Headquarters	Minato, Tokyo, Japan
Key people	Jon Ikeda (Senior VP and General Manager) Erik Berkman (Executive VP, Acura Business Planning Office)
Products	Luxury vehicles
Services	Automotive financing
Owner	Honda
Website	Acura.com Acura.ca

Acura (アキュラ, Akyura) is the luxury vehicle marque of Japanese automaker Honda.^[1] The brand was launched in the United States and Canada in March 1986, marketing luxury, performance, and high-performance vehicles. It was introduced to Hong Kong in 1991, Mexico in 2004, China in 2006, Russia in 2014 and Kuwait in 2015. Honda's plan to introduce Acura to the Japanese domestic market (JDM) in 2008 was delayed, due to economic reasons,^[2] and later withheld as a result of the 2008 financial crisis.^[3]

Acura holds the distinction of being the first Japanese automotive luxury brand.^[4] The creation of Acura coincided with the introduction of a JDM Honda dealership sales channel, called Honda Clio, which sold luxury vehicles, joining previously established Honda Verno, followed by Honda Primo the following year. In its first few years of existence, Acura was among the best-selling luxury marques in the US. Though sales were down in the mid-to-late 1990s, the brand experienced a revival in the early 2000s, due to drastic redesigns and the introductions of new models.^[4]

Since its inception, Acura has been a trailblazer in the automotive industry. In the late 1980s, the success of the company's first flagship vehicle, the Legend, inspired fellow Japanese automakers Toyota and Nissan to launch their own luxury brands, Lexus and Infiniti, respectively. The 1990 launch of the NSX, a mid-engine exotic sports car, offered a reliable and practical alternative to exotic European sports cars, and introduced Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system to the North American market. The 1993 Legend coupé featured Honda's first use of a six-speed manual transmission, mated to a Type II engine. In the late 1990s, Acura produced a Type R version of its compact Integra coupé, which featured a reduced curb weight, a stiffer and lower suspension, and a high-output VTEC engine.

In the early 2000s, Acura introduced new models, including the company's first all-original SUV, the MDX, and two models which replaced the Integra coupé and sedan, the RSX and TSX, respectively. Type-S versions of the RSX, CL, and TL were added to the brand's lineup during that decade. Acura's 2005 RL flagship introduced SH-AWD, a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system. The 2007 RDX, a crossover SUV, featured the first North American use of a turbocharged Honda engine. In the 2010s, Acura debuted more new models, including the ILX, TLX, and RLX, the latter of which introduced Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights. A second generation NSX was launched in 2015 and features a twin-turbocharged mid-engine, a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission, and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD.

History

1980s: Introduction of the Acura brand

Following a decade of research, Honda opened 60 new dealerships in North America by 1986, to support its Acura automobile division. Acura was the first Japanese luxury brand, introduced under the slogan, "Acura. Precision Crafted Automobiles."^[1] Its initial offering consisted of two models: the executive class Legend and the compact class Integra, available as a five-door and three-door hatchback. The Legend was the result of Project XX, a joint venture Honda entered into with the UK's Austin Rover Group. It was mechanically related to the Rover 800 series, while the Integra was an improvement of the Honda Quint hatchback.^[5]

The success of these models, particularly the Legend, led to competing Japanese luxury brand ventures (Toyota's Lexus that began development in 1983 as the F1 project, and Nissan's Infiniti who began development in 1985 by revising their Japan-only flagship Nissan President; in the late 1990s Mazda planned but never launched its own Amati luxury division). The goal of the Legend was to compete with rivals Toyota Crown and the Nissan Cedric and Gloria, but due to its 1986 introduction worldwide, Toyota, Nissan and other companies like Lincoln took notice of the markets reaction to the Legend and later the Vigor and offered vehicles that addressed the executive size car. Toyota introduced the Lexus ES, Nissan introduced the Infiniti J30 and Ford utilized the Taurus platform and named their new sedan the Lincoln Continental.

In 1987, Acura's first full year of sales, they sold 109,000 cars with the flagship Legend sedan accounting for 55,000 sales and the rest were of the smaller Integra. By 1990, Acura was selling 138,000 vehicles, including 54,000 Legends, compared to Mercedes-Benz's 78,000 cars and 64,000 each for BMW and Lexus.^[4]

1990s: NSX, updates

In 1990, five years after the debut of the Legend and Integra, Acura introduced the NSX, a midship V6 powered, rear-wheel-drive sports car. The NSX, an acronym for "New Sports eXperimental", was billed as the first Japanese car capable of competing with Ferrari and Porsche. This vehicle served as an "image car" for both the Honda and Acura brands, heralding the introduction of Honda's VTEC technology. The NSX was the world's first all-aluminum production car, and was also marketed and viewed by some as the "Everyday Supercar" thanks in part to its ease of use, quality and reliability, traits that were unheard of in the supercar segment at the time. With the release of the NSX, Acura introduced the "A-badge", a stylized pair of calipers—a tool used for exacting measurements to imply that Acura vehicles are built to precise and demanding standards.

Despite a strong start in market acceptance for the Acura brand, sales suffered in the mid-to-late 1990s. Some critics attributed this decline in part to less inspiring designs, which were re-branded Japanese-spec Hondas, such as the Acura Vigor in 1992. Additionally, during this time Acura switched to an alphanumeric nomenclature formula, dropping the Legend, Vigor and Integra titles, following the lead of the NSX sportscar. The 1996 3.5 RL, which replaced the popular Legend, and the Vigor became the 2.5 TL and 3.2 TL, and was regarded by many as the epitome of this problem, namely because the alphanumeric designations were more anonymous than the former Legend, Vigor and Integra titles, which had grown into their own cult followings.^[6]

The parent company, Honda, was also feeling the results of the decline of the Japanese economy, due to the Japanese asset price bubble that took place during the 1990s and into the 2000s. This period is known in Japan as The Lost Decade.

During this time, the NSX also lost sales as Acura made few changes from its original 1990 trim. A year later, the Integra sedan was withdrawn from the Canadian market, replaced by the market-exclusive Acura 1.6 EL, a rebadged Honda Civic/Domani. The Integra sedan continued to be sold in the United States until 2001 (in name only, the model it was replaced with, the RSX, was simply a rebadged left-hand-drive version of the JDM DC5 Honda Integra).

Despite these letdowns, Acura gained prominence in the 1990s with a young group of customers: "tuner" enthusiasts. Parent company Honda's reputation with this demographic as a maker of "easy-to-tune" and "rev-happy" engines rubbed off onto Acura, and the Integra became a popular tuner car.

2000–2003: TL, RSX, MDX

Beginning around the year 2000, Acura experienced a rebirth which was catalyzed by the introduction of several redesigned models. The first of these models was the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL, an upscale sedan. Critics suggested that although 3.2 TL did not outdo its competition in any one area of luxury cars, it offered a well-rounded blend of sportiness and luxury.^[7] These characteristics, combined with the TL's competitive price, proved very popular with consumers. Subsequent Acura models have followed a similar philosophy of offering lots of standard equipment and very few options.

Another refreshed Acura introduced in the early 2000s was the MDX, a popular three-row crossover SUV based on the Honda Odyssey minivan. The MDX replaced the slow-selling SLX, which was little more than a rebadged Isuzu Trooper. The MDX was a car-like crossover SUV with limited off-road capability that catered to the demands of the luxury SUV market. It was given top honors by Car and Driver in its first comparison test against seven other SUVs.^[8] Other cars in Acura's line-up during this time included the 3.2 TL, 3.2 CL, RSX (formerly the Integra hatchback), and the NSX. By the late 2000s, Acura had dropped the inclusion of engine displacement numbers in its vehicle designations, retaining a simpler, two- or three-letter designation instead (e.g. 3.5 RL became RL). The 1999-2003 TL have been plagued by transmission and other problems.^[9]

In 2001, a new coupe, badged as the RSX was introduced to the Acura line up. It was a replacement for the outgoing Integra. The RSX is a rebadged Honda Integra (DC5) from the Japanese market. As a result, the RSX is technically a new generation of the outgoing Integra. Much like the Integra, the RSX was a hit in the tuner market. However, at the end of 2006, the RSX was taken out of the Acura line up, subsequently in the Japanese market as well. It is not known why the RSX did not continue to be sold as the Integra in Japan, however, the reason that Acura gave for the cancellation of the RSX is that Acura wishes to move up in the luxury brand, thus cannot sell a car that is mostly driven by teenagers.

2004–2006: RL, TSX, RDX

A new TL debuted for the 2004 model year, featuring sharp, Italianate styling and a 270 hp (200 kW) V6^[10] measured by the then-current SAE standards. The new TL increased sales dramatically to 70,943 American units in 2005.

Also around the same time the Acura TSX was introduced. It was essentially a re-badged European and Japanese market Honda Accord loaded with features. This model became the only 4-cylinder sedan in Acura's line-up (with the exception of the Canadian market Acura CSX, which replaced the EL in 2006).

In 2005, a new RL was introduced with a 300 hp (220 kW) V6, improved styling, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), a system capable of sending almost all of the RL's power to just one wheel in a turn. The second-generation RL appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 2005, and also garnered an CNET.com "Editor's Choice" When the RL was introduced, it did not perceive Acura as being on par with its German rivals and expected more value from the Japanese marque. The damage from Honda Japan's alleged hubris was done, even though Honda Canada has since reduced the RL's price.^[11]

Acura's new models—particularly the TL and TSX—were well received by the motoring press and became Acura's top selling vehicles. The TSX was on Car and Driver's Ten Best list from 2004–2006.

In 2006 Acura introduced a small SUV which was based on its own unique unibody chassis called the RDX with models becoming available to U.S. consumers in August 2006. It is powered by a turbocharged 240-hp 4-cylinder engine and, like the RL, uses Acura's SH-AWD system. The model is available in two versions: Premium (the standard offering), and Technology Package (an upgraded offering with a GPS navigation system). A completely redesigned MDX became available in the fall of 2006 with a 300 hp (220 kW) V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.

2007–present: ILX, TLX, RLX, RDX, MDX, ZDX

Acura re-introduced the TL Type-S for the 2007 model year. 2009 marked the all new TL and TSX models as well as a mid-year model update for the RL; all three made their debuts in the 2008 calendar year. Acura planned on redesigning the RL by 2011 as well as announced the creation of a brand new luxury crossover vehicle called the ZDX, previewed by the concept of the same name.

The ZDX was the first Acura designed in Acura's design studio located at Torrance in Southern California. The ZDX was designed by Michelle Christensen and based on the Acura MDX using that vehicles 3.7 litre V6 engine (300 bhp) and SH-AWD system. A common misconception is that it is based on the Honda Crosstour which was based on the Honda Accord rather than the bigger and more complex underpinnings of the MDX. It is also the first Acura to be completely built in North America. The production model of the ZDX made its debut in the Orange County Auto Show in Southern California on October 15, 2009. The concept behind the ZDX is that it is a "four door coupe," and the design emphasis of the body of the car is like a "pulled back slingshot." Another prominent design aspect of the ZDX is the wide rear shoulders above the rear wheels. The ZDX went on sale in December 2009.

Acura initially had plans for the third generation of RL to be a rear wheel drive V8 sedan for its flagship, but shelved the plans in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn.^[12]

Acura announced new TSX wagon in the 2010 New York Auto Show and the car is due to go on sale in Fall of 2010. The wagon version of the TSX is based on the wagon version of the Euro-spec Honda Accord which has been in the European market for some time. However, Acura did not announce any plans for the third-generation RL.

For the 2010 model year the MDX models received some slight exterior changes and increased equipment levels. Mechanically the engine remained unchanged but the transmission was updated from the previous 5-speeds to 6-speeds including steering column mounted shift override paddles. This new transmission was shared with the ZDX.

In 2012, Acura introduced a new model called the ILX which is based heavily on the Honda Civic platform. It shares the same 3 power train variants from the Civic: the 2.0L, 2.4L VTEC and a 1.5L Hybrid. It also unveiled the Acura RLX Concept, a replacement for the RL sedan, at the New York International Auto Show. The ILX went on sale in May 2012 in the United States as a 2013 model.

Also in 2012, Acura "reinvented" another model, The RDX concept. For the new model, Acura dropped the 4 cylinder turbo for a 3.5L V6. When the official 2013 Acura RDX was released, it was relatively similar to the concept but had changes in wheels, taillights, and some other cosmetics. A lot of this Acura looks like its brother the ILX. The 2013 RDX doesn't have the SH-AWD system instead it has "AWD with intelligent control", similar to the CR-V's AWD system. The RDX is now available with BASE, BASE AWD, TECH., and TECH AWD.

In 2013, Acura showed a 2014 Concept of the MDX. Shortly after, it was released to the public. The MDX competes with the Lexus RX, Audi Q7, and many others. For the first time, American buyers of the 2014 MDX didn't have to get the SH-AWD model since Acura released the FWD model of the MDX. However the Canadians will have SH-AWD with the standard model of the MDX due to weather conditions. This model also gets the Jewel Eye LED lights similar to the RLX. The trim levels are BASE, TECH, TECH AND ENTERTAINMENT, and ADVANCE AND ENTERTAINMENT. All of these can be equipped with SH-AWD.

For the 2014 model of the RDX. Acura drops color Amber Brownstone which was really popular for Kona Coffee Metallic from the CR-V. The new color is a little darker. Changes for the 2014 ILX include the 1.5L engine being dropped and leather now being standard on all trims.

In December 2013, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Acura unveiled a Sport Hybrid SH-AWD version of the flagship RLX sedan. It will be the most powerful and technologically advanced vehicle in Acura's history. This high-end vehicle will come standard with a 310-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine and a pair of electric motors (one for each axle) that generate a combined 377 horsepower through a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Acura technology firsts on the 2014 RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD also include an electronic gear selector that replaces the conventional, center console-mounted shift lever with an efficiently packaged push-button array allowing the driver to easily select the desired mode—Park, Drive and Reverse, as well as Sport and Normal driving modes. The new RLX Sport Hybrid will go on sale in mid-2014.

In January 2014, at the Detroit Auto Show, Acura unveiled the all-new 2015 TLX sports sedan. This new vehicle will replace the soon to be discontinued TSX and TL sedans. The TLX in the 2.4-liter comes with Acura’s all new eight-speed dual clutch DCT transmission. Meanwhile, the high-end 3.5-liter V6 model will come with the new nine-speed transmission and Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The TLX went on sale in the Summer of 2014.

In 2015, Acura redesigned the ILX for the 2016 model year. Now with a 2.4L 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) instead of the 2.0L 5-speed and 2.4L manual. Added is the signature Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights, LED taillights, updated wheels, suspension modifications, bumper redesign, and new packages such as AcuraWatch Package (includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, lane keeping assist system, road departure mitigation, and forward collision warning) and A-Spec (sportier appearance). Replacing the color Fathom Blue is Catalina Blue Pearl.

Also redesigned is the 2016 RDX. Featured with the same 3.5L 6-speed automatic with some slight adjustments for efficiency and hp/torque boosts. The RDX gets the Acura Jewel Eye LED treatment as well. A new suspension is added to "solve" the shock failures of 2013-2015 models. A new Advance Package is being offered with the inclusion of upgraded wheels, parking sensors (front and rear), rain-sensing windshield wipers, auto-dimming side mirrors, remote start, ventilated seats, and foglights. Acura is making foglight an option for those lower trims such as Technology Package and Premium. AcuraWatch is also now being offered throughout the line.

Racing

Almost since its inception, Acura has been involved in American motorsports, specifically in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and IMSA GT Championship series. Starting in 1991, Acura reached an agreement with Comptech Racing to use the V6 motor of the all-new Acura NSX in Comptech's Camel Lights Spice prototype. Acura would go on to take the Lights championship in its initial year, including a class win at the 24 Hours of Daytona. Acura and Comptech would take the Lights championships again in 1992 and 1993, as well as another Daytona class win in 1992 and a class win at the 12 Hours of Sebring for 1993.

However a change in the IMSA rules would lead to the demise of the Camel Lights, and so Acura moved to touring car racing, joining Realtime Racing in the SCCA World Challenge with the NSX in 1996, winning the final two races of the season. In 1997, Acura added Acura Integras to the lower classes, and were successful in taking the championship in both of these classes. Realtime took the touring championship with the Integra again in 1998, and came within a few points of winning it again in 1999 only to lose it in the final race, then coming back to retake the title in 2000.

Although Realtime had abandoned the NSX program in 1998, the NSXs returned to the top class in 2001. Although the NSX squad suffered mechanical woes and were unable to take the title, the Integras of the touring class once again took the teams championship. By 2002, Acura replaced the aged Integra with the new Acura RSX in the final races of the season, scoring good finishes in their debut. At the same time, Acura finally retired the NSXs from the top GT class. The RSXs would later be joined by new Acura TSXs in 2004. Realtime continues to campaign the RSX and TSX in the SCCA Speed World Challenge. Acura also currently races RSXs and TSXs in the Grand American Road Racing Association's KONI Challenge Series for touring cars.

At the Detroit Auto Show in 2006, Acura announced their plans to enter the American Le Mans Series with multiple teams of Le Mans prototypes in the LMP2 class starting in 2007 season. The cars would be purchased chassis from existing manufacturers, but use American-built Acura V8s (a first for Acura and Honda). Acura also announced their initiative to take the cars to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2008 and eventually move to the superior LMP1 class with cars built by Acura themselves in 2009. Later in 2006, Acura announced that the three factory teams would be Andretti Green Racing, Fernández Racing, and Highcroft Racing, and that the chassis would be built by Lola Cars of the UK and Courage Compétition of France.

The three Acura-powered prototypes debuted at the 2007 12 Hours of Sebring, which was the opening round of the ALMS season, and were successful in their debut. Andretti Green's Acura took second place overall and first in the LMP2 class, while Fernández Racing took third overall, and Highcroft sixth, beating a series of established Porsche teams in their class. At the same time, Acura began development of their own chassis by heavily modifying their purchased Courage chassis. The cars now have been so radically changed from their original orientation that they are now named Acura ARX-01a. Acura will introduce evolved B-spec cars in the 2008 season, with Gil de Ferran launching a fourth Acura team in the ALMS.

In 2009, Acura produced its very first LMP1 car, the Acura ARX-02a.

In 2010, Honda rebadged all Acura prototypes as Honda Performance Development (HPD) cars, and announced that all future prototypes (such as the HPD ARX-03) would be constructed under the HPD name.

Acura did not participate in motorsports again until 2013, where an Acura ILX was unofficially entered in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill by Honda engineers. The car would retire from the race due to engine problems.

The Acura ILX returned to Thunderhill for the 2014 25-hour race. This time the car won its class and finished 8th overall.

Marketing

The Acura logo, introduced in 1990 for the 1991 model year, is a stylised "A" (for Acura) that can also be interpreted as a skewed "H" (for Honda). The logo that was originally authorized without approval by Soichiro Honda did not contain the small horizontal bar joining the two vertical pillars—thus, it did not form the letter "H". Soichiro Honda ordered the 5,000 badges already produced to be destroyed, including prying off the emblems applied to 309 cars already (US-spec Integra, Legend, and NSX models).^[13]

Acura's current marketing slogan is "Advance."^[14] Recent models include Technology, Advance, Type-S, and SH-AWD trim levels. Technology and Advance models typically come with the latest hi-tech features such as keyless start and a blind spot information system. Type-S and SH-AWD models are performance-oriented, with a substantial increase in horsepower compared to the lower trim levels. Some models, such as the TL, also combine trim levels (i.e. "SH-AWD with Advance").^[15]

Acura began an association with Marvel Entertainment in 2010, upon release of the film Iron Man 2, which featured a ZDX after the ending credits. On April 20, 2011, Acura and Marvel announced a promotional campaign, making Acura the official brand of Marvel's fictional S.H.I.E.L.D. organization.^[16] Soon thereafter, several Acura models—such as the MDX, ZDX, RL, and TL—appeared in the films Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger. In the 2012 film, The Avengers, Iron Man (played by Robert Downey, Jr.) drove an exotic sportscar by Acura, made specifically for the film,^[17] rather than the Audi R8 he previously drove. It was rumored that the car spotted during filming was a concept for the second generation NSX,^[18][19] however, a different-looking 2012 Acura NSX Concept was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show, on January 9, 2012.

From 1995 to 2007, Acura sponsored two WTA Tour tennis tournaments, both named the Acura Classic.

In 2012, Acura was the presenting sponsor and official vehicle of the Sundance Film Festival.^[20]

Acura also has a 'Mobility Program' that ensures drivers who are disabled are safe in their vehicles. The program offers cash reimbursement towards the cost of adaptive equipment for disabled drivers.^[21]

Timeline

1986

Acura debuts in North America as the first Japanese luxury marque.

1990

Acura dealerships in the US win their fifth consecutive first-place ranking on the Customer Satisfaction Index by J. D. Power and Associates

Acura announces that it will expand research and development in the US

The second-generation Integra is introduced

1991

The Legend coupe wins Motor Trend's "Import Car of the Year" trophy

Honda's VTEC technology is introduced in the NSX

Acura is introduced in Hong Kong by Reliance Motors

1992

The Legend and Integra are joined by the Vigor

1994

The third generation Integra is introduced

1995

Acura SLX (re-badged Isuzu Trooper) is introduced

1996

The CL is introduced as a 1997 model

The Legend is replaced by the RL and the Vigor is replaced by the TL

1997

The Integra Type R is introduced

The NSX receives 20 more horsepower with a larger 3.2 L V6 engine and a new six-speed manual transmission

The Civic-based 1.6 EL replaces the Integra sedan in the Canadian lineup, while the Integra sedan continued U.S. sales until 2001

1999

Acura SLX is discontinued

2000

The MDX is introduced as a 2001 model along with a new CL

2001

The MDX wins the Motor Trend "2001 Sport/Utility of the Year" award

Civic-based 1.7 EL launched, replacing the 1.6 EL, in the Canadian lineup

2002

The Integra is replaced by the RSX, which is a left-hand-drive version of the fourth generation Honda Integra

The TL Type-S is introduced

The NSX receives a cosmetic face-lift, with the retractable headlights being replaced with fixed ones. The suspension is also slightly revised, and an automatic transmission becomes optional

2003

The CL receives a new six-speed manual transmission, before being discontinued later that year

2004

Acura is introduced in Mexico by Honda de Mexico

Third generation Acura TL is introduced

The TSX is introduced and becomes a very competitive choice against popular BMW 3-series

The MDX receives a mid-model change with more horsepower

2005

The NSX is discontinued

The RSX receives a mid-model change and more horsepower in the Type-S

The new Acura TL wins "Consumer's Most Wanted Vehicle" at Edmunds.com

Acura RL is introduced with the SH-AWD system

Acura drops engine size from 1.7 EL model name

2006

Acura is introduced in China

Acura RDX is introduced with SH-AWD

Acura introduces CSX to replace EL, and is only sold in Canada

The RSX (as well as the Honda Integra) is discontinued

The TSX gets mid-model change with 5 more horsepower

2007

Acura MDX receives a redesign

Acura TL Type-S is reintroduced, and the CSX Type-S is introduced in Canada

2008

Acura leaves the Hong Kong market

Acura introduces the new RL, which receives a mid-model change redesign

Acura introduces new TSX at the New York Auto Show

2009 model year

Acura TSX receives a redesign.

Acura TL receives a redesign

Acura RL receives a mid-model change

Acura CSX receives a mid-model change

2010 model year

Acura introduces all new ZDX

Acura MDX receives a mid-model change

Acura RDX receives a mid-model change

Acura TSX receives an optional V6 engine from the TL and a minor mid-model change

2011 model year

Acura TSX Sport Wagon is introduced

Acura CSX is dropped

2012 model year

Acura TL gets mid-model change

Acura TSX Special Edition is introduced

2013 model year

Acura ILX is introduced

Acura RDX receives a redesign

Acura RLX is released to the market.

Acura MDX is redesigned.

2014 model year

Acura is introduced in Russia.

Last year for both TSX and TL.

Acura ZDX is discontinued.

RDX little changes

Last year for ILX hybrid, leaving Acura with the RLX Sports Hybrid (that will be coming soon)

2015 model year

Acura is introduced in Kuwait in April 2015.

The 2015 Acura TLX is introduced and was expected to go on sale in summer 2014.

The TL and TSX are retired, with the TLX taking its place.

The ILX hybrid is dropped, leaving only the 2.0 and 2.4 engines.

2016 model year

Acura leaves Russian market^[22]

A new generation NSX is introduced.

Honda Motor Company filed a trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office to register the ‘CDX’ name, which is rumored to be for a sub-RDX Acura vehicle.

Current models

• 2013-present ILX (compact sedan, successor to the Integra^[23])
• 2000-present MDX (luxury SUV)
• 2006-present RDX (crossover SUV)
• 2013-present RLX (full-size luxury sedan, replaces RL)
• 2014-present TLX (mid-size sports sedan, replaces TL and TSX)
• 2017-present NSX (exotic sports car, successor to 1st-gen NSX)
• 2017-present CDX (Luxury CUV)

Discontinued models

• 2005-2011 CSX (compact sedan, replacement for the EL; only available in Canada, replaced by the ILX)
• 1997-2005 EL (compact sedan, replaced Integra sedan; only available in Canada, replaced by the CSX)
• 1986-2001 Integra (sports coupe and sedan, replaced by the RSX and EL)
• 2002-2006 RSX (sports coupe, replaced by the TSX)
• 1986-1995 Legend (luxury sedan and coupe, renamed RL for 1996)
• 1992-1994 Vigor (mid-sized sedan, replaced by the TL)
• 1997-1999, 2001-2003 CL (luxury coupe, discontinued after 2003 model year)
• 1996-1999 SLX (SUV, re-badged Isuzu Trooper, replaced by the MDX; only available in the United States)
• 1990-2005 NSX (exotic coupe, in production until 2005; revived in 2015)^[24]
• 1996-2012 RL (full-size sedan, discontinued after 2012 model year, replaced by the RLX)
• 2009-2013 ZDX (crossover SUV, discontinued for 2014 model year due to low sales and a $50,000 pricetag)
• 1996-2014 TL (mid-size sports sedan, replaced by the TLX)
• 2003-2014 TSX (compact sports sedan, sport wagon, replaced by the TLX)

See also

• Honda
• RPA (Rubin Postaer and Associates)
• Mullen Advertising
• Sterling

US sales

Calendar year	Total US sales[25]
1986	52,868
1987	109,470
1988	128,238
1989	142,061
1990	138,344
1991	143,708
1992	120,100
1993	108,291
1994	112,137
1995	97,451
1996	107,908
1997	108,143
1998	110,392
1999	118,006
2000	142,681
2001	170,109
2002	165,552
2003	170,915
2004	198,919
2005	209,610
2006	201,223
2007	180,104[26]
2008	144,504[26]
2009	105,723[27]
2010	133,606[27]
2011	123,299[28]
2012	156,216[28]
2013	165,436[29]
2014	167,843
2015	177,165[30]

References

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Acura.

• Acura USA
• Acura Canada
• Code Error Acura

Acura, a division of Honda, road car timeline, 1986–present
Type		1980s				1990s										2000s										2010s
		6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6
Entry-level luxury car	Coupé	Integra				Integra				Integra								RSX
	Sedan												EL				EL					CSX							ILX
		Integra				Integra				Integra										TSX					TSX
Mid-size luxury car	Coupé	Legend					Legend						CL				CL
	Sedan							Vigor				TL			TL					TL					TL						TLX
Full-size luxury car		Legend					Legend					RL									RL									RLX
Crossover																							RDX						RDX
																	MDX						MDX							MDX
																										ZDX
SUV												SLX
Sports car							NSX																									NSX
Note		Vehicle sold only in Canada.