Acura’s Evolutionary Path: A Complete History of All Acura Cars

Acura has established a reputation for integrating precision engineering, luxury, and sportiness throughout its range of sedans, SUVs, and supercars. Since its inception in 1986, Acura has transitioned from a brand emphasizing reliability and affordability to one recognized for high-performance cars, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious craftsmanship.

In this detailed exploration, we’ll take a deep dive into every Acura model ever produced, covering its legendary sedans, best-selling SUVs, and groundbreaking supercars. Plus, if you read this detailed guide till the end, you will explore one of the best Acura accessories on the market.

Who makes Acura cars?​

Honda manufactures Acura cars. Acura is Honda’s luxury and performance division, producing high-end sedans, SUVs, and supercars. While Acura cars share some technology with Honda models, they are distinct in styling, performance, and branding. More specifically, if you ask who owns Acura, the answer is that Honda Motor Company owns Acura. So, the brand was launched by Honda in 1986 to compete in the luxury car market, particularly in North America.

Does Acura make a hybrid car?

Acura does not have a hybrid car on its 2025 roster right now. Acura has, however, historically developed hybrid versions, including the Acura MDX Sport Hybrid and Acura RLX Sport Hybrid. Acura is focusing more on electric cars going ahead than on hybrids.

Does Acura have an electric car?

Yes, Acura offers an electric vehicle, the 2025 Acura ZDX. Acura's inaugural all-electric SUV, developed in partnership with General Motors, boasts outstanding performance, luxury, and state-of-the-art technology.

Is Acura a luxury car?

Yes, Acura is a luxury car brand. It is Honda’s premium division, offering high-end features, refined interiors, advanced technology, and strong performance. In the luxury car market, Acura competes with brands like Lexus, Infiniti, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. Now, let’s explore what kind of luxury Acura cars we’ve had through time!

Acura Sedans: A Legacy of Luxury and Performance

Both luxury buyers and aficionados have embraced Acura sedans since they have always combined comfort, performance, and technology. The most important Acura sedans over time are broken out here:

Acura Legend (1986-1995): The Beginning of Luxury

Launching the brand in the U.S., the Acura Legend was the first vehicle to sport the Acura badge in 1986. Set the standard for Acura's premium appeal, this opulent, tech-forward sedan is accessible in both sedan and coupe models; the Legend had V6 power, leather inside, and cutting-edge safety measures.

Acura Vigor (1992-1994): The Short-Lived Sporty Sedan

Positioned between the Legend and Integra, the Vigor was a unique offering with a longitudinally mounted 5-cylinder engine. It was sportier than the Legend but didn’t last long due to overlapping models in Acura’s lineup.

Acura TL (1996-2014): The Best-Selling Luxury Sedan

Replacing the Vigor, the TL became Acura's most often used sedan because of its dependability, performance, and luxury styling. It brought more power and sharper handling with Type S versions.

• Acura TL Type S (2002-2003, 2007-2008): Featured a high-output V6 engine and sportier suspension.
• Acura TL 4th Gen (2009-2014): Introduced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), making it a capable sedan. 

Acura RL & RLX (1996-2020): The Flagship Sedans

Originally Acura's premium sedan, the RL (later renamed RLX), was supposed to replace the Legend. It battled German competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The RL and RLX had all-wheel drive, V6 power, and premium luxury. As SUVs gained popularity in 2020, Acura stopped the RLX.

Acura TSX (2004-2014): The Sporty Compact Sedan

Essentially a rebadged Honda Accord Euro, the TSX was a smaller, sportier alternative to the TL. With a high-revving 2.4L i-VTEC engine and sharp handling, it attracted enthusiasts who wanted a fun-to-drive luxury sedan.

Acura TLX (2015-Present): The Modern Sports Sedan

Replacing both the TL and TSX, the TLX was designed to compete in the mid-size luxury market. 

• Acura TLX Type S (2021-Present): A return to high-performance sedans, featuring a 355 hp turbocharged V6 and SH-AWD.
• Acura TLX 2nd Gen (2021-Present): Longer, wider, and more aggressive, with a double-wishbone suspension for better handling.

Acura Integra (1986-2001, 2023-Present): The Icon Returns

The Integra was Acura’s first compact sports sedan, known for its rev-happy engines and sharp handling.

• Acura Integra Type R (1997-2001): Considered one of the best front-wheel-drive sports cars ever built.
• Acura Integra (2023): Reviving the five-door liftback design, featuring a turbocharged engine and an available 6-speed manual transmission.

Acura SUVs: A Blend of Luxury and Practicality

When Acura joined the SUV market in the late 1990s, it quickly became a strong rival with models that successfully balanced luxury, dependability, and performance.

Acura SLX (1996-1999): Acura’s First SUV

The SLX, Acura's initial SUV endeavor, was a rebadged version of the Isuzu Trooper. It did not, however, really reflect Acura's luxury and character. Notwithstanding its flaws, the SLX set Acura's future supremacy in the SUV market.

Acura MDX (2001-Present): The Flagship Luxury SUV

When it first came out in 2001, the Acura MDX quickly became the most popular SUV in the Acura lineup. It has high-end features, three rows of seats, and Acura's advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX has grown into a high-end, highly capable SUV that can compete with the Lexus RX and BMW X5. Over the years, this change has happened.

• Acura MDX Type S (2022-Present): This version is targeted at performance and is the strongest MDX to date. The enthusiast's choice in the MDX lineup, it has a 355-hp turbocharged V6, an adaptive air suspension, and sportier handling dynamics.

Acura RDX (2007-Present): The Sporty Compact SUV

Designed to compete with premium small SUVs like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, the Acura RDX combines daily utility with athletic ability. It stands out in the category with its tech-forward inside, turbocharged engines, and sharp styling.

• Acura RDX 2nd Gen (2013-2018): Transitioned to a more powerful V6 engine, emphasizing smoothness and luxury over sportiness. 

• Acura RDX 3rd Gen (2019-Present): Marked a return to Acura’s performance roots, featuring a turbocharged engine, SH-AWD, and a tech-heavy interior with a True Touchpad Interface and premium materials. 

Acura ZDX (2010-2013, 2024-Present): The SUV Coupe and EV Pioneer

The first-generation Acura ZDX was a daring experiment—a coupe-style SUV with a premium cabin and a sleek fastback form. One of Acura's rare mistakes, though, was the ZDX's unusual style and limited practicality, which resulted in low sales.

• Acura ZDX (2024): Revived as Acura’s first all-electric SUV, built on General Motors’ Ultium platform. This new iteration repositions the ZDX as a cutting-edge EV, offering a high-tech, high-performance alternative in the luxury electric SUV market.

Acura Supercars: Pushing the Limits of Performance

From the groundbreaking first-generation NSX to the high-tech hybrid successor, Acura has pushed the limits of supercars twice, with a decade-long break in between. Let’s look at how the Acura NSX redefined high-performance cars:

Acura NSX First Gen (1991-2005)

When the original NSX launched in 1991, it redefined what a supercar could be. With a lightweight aluminum chassis, a mid-mounted 3.0L V6 engine (later upgraded to a 3.2L), and Honda’s VTEC technology, it delivered precision handling and impressive reliability—something rare among supercars of the era. Developed with input from Ayrton Senna, the NSX set a new benchmark for balance and drivability.

Acura NSX Second Gen (2016-2022)

Acura brought back the NSX in 2016 with cutting-edge hybrid technology after a ten-year break. The second-generation model had an all-wheel drive 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine paired with three electric motors. It made 573 horsepower. With the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, lightning-fast launches, and precise cornering, the NSX turned into a modern performance masterpiece that could still be used in everyday life.

Though production ended in 2022, the NSX remains a symbol of Acura’s engineering excellence, proving that supercars don’t have to be temperamental to be thrilling.

What’s New for Acura Cars in 2025?

Acura has announced many major changes and new models for 2025, with an emphasis on increased performance, innovative technology, and a shift toward electrification. Here’s an overview of what’s new for Acura cars in 2025:

2025 Acura ADX

Acura is adding a new SUV to its lineup: the 2025 ADX, a small luxury crossover that sits below the RDX. The Acura ADX is likely to share its base with the Honda HR-V and Civic. It will also likely have a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine like the ones in the Honda Civic Si and Acura Integra. This new model is meant to draw people who want to buy a luxury car for the first time. It will be released early this year.

2025 Acura RDX

The 2025 Acura RDX has received several changes to improve its desirability. These include a redesigned frameless Diamond Pentagon grille and new wheel designs, including standard 19-inch Berlina Black wheels. Inside, a new center console provides more storage and larger cupholders. Higher trim levels include complete leather upholstery and ambient lighting with 27 color selections. The powertrain remains a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional SH-AWD.

2025 Acura MDX

The 2025 Acura MDX has received a significant redesign, replacing its touchpad-based infotainment system with a more intuitive 12.3-inch touchscreen that includes Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The exterior has a revamped front fascia, redesigned grille patterns, new wheel designs, and two new color options: Canyon River Blue Metallic and Urban Gray Pearl. Under the hood, the 2025 Acura has a 290-hp 3.5L V6 with optional SH-AWD, while the MDX Type S has a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0L V6 with standard SH-AWD.

The Future of Acura Cars: What’s Next?

Acura’s future is all about powerful EVs, smarter technology, and thrilling performance. Whether it’s an electric NSX, high-tech SUVs, or a return to hybrid sports sedans, the brand is poised for an exciting transformation. The road ahead is electrified, and Acura is charging forward.

Are Acuras reliable?

Yes, Acuras are usually regarded as dependable cars. In its luxury division, Acura benefits from Honda's reputation for dependability, solid engineering, and durability. Models such as the Acura MDX and RDX have well-built engines and transmissions that typically last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, resulting in high-reliability ratings. Acura is still a great option for dependability, particularly when weighed against other luxury brands that sometimes call for more frequent repairs.

Are Acuras good cars?

Yes, Acuras are good cars that offer strong engine options, sporty handling, and high-quality interiors. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhances driving dynamics, and features like ELS Studio premium audio and AcuraWatch safety tech add to the overall experience. While Acura cars excel in reliability and performance, they could still be improved in certain areas thanks to a wide range of Acura accessories!

What are the best Acura accessories?

Compared to aftermarket offerings, Acura’s factory accessories are limited, particularly in aesthetic enhancements and performance upgrades. Let’s look at the best Acura accessories:

Door Edge Guards & Side Moldings

Door edge guards and side moldings are among the functional Acura accessories. The door edge guards protect the edges of your doors from chips, dings, and scratches caused by parking lot mishaps or tight spaces. Side moldings also add an extra layer of protection against minor impacts while giving your Acura a refined, stylish look.

Wheel Locks

One of the most essential Acura accessories is wheel locks, which help prevent theft by requiring a unique key to remove the wheels. They’re a small but effective investment, particularly for Acura models with premium alloy wheels.

Dash Cam

Dash cams are among the best Acura accessories. A high-quality dash cam records your driving in real time, providing valuable footage in case of accidents, insurance claims, or unexpected road incidents. Some advanced models offer night vision, parking mode, and motion detection, adding an extra layer of security when your Acura is parked.

All-Weather Floor Mats

One of the useful Acura accessories is all-weather floor mats. Designed to withstand dirt, mud, snow, and spills, these mats keep your Acura’s interior clean and protected. Custom-fit options ensure a perfect match for your model, while raised edges prevent liquids from seeping into the carpet.

Cold Air Intake System

Cold air intake kits fall into the category of Acura performance parts. An aftermarket cold air intake replaces the factory airbox with a system designed to bring in cooler, denser air, improving horsepower, throttle response, and fuel efficiency. This upgrade is ideal for performance enthusiasts looking to unlock more power from their Acura’s engine.

Performance Brake Pads & Rotors

Performance brake pads and rotors are among the functional Acura accessories. For those who drive aggressively or want enhanced stopping power, performance brake pads and rotors offer improved braking response, reduced fade, and more extended durability. They’re a must-have for spirited driving or if you frequently travel in hilly or high-speed areas.

Throttle Response Controller

One of the best Acura accessories is the throttle response controller. This device eliminates the throttle lag found in many modern vehicles, allowing for quicker acceleration and a more responsive driving feel. Here is the best throttle response controller on the market:

How to Improve Acura Cars with Pedal Commander?

No matter which Acura car model you have or choose, you can make your car’s performance better with Pedal Commander. As the most practical and versatile throttle controller on the market, Pedal Commander is among the best Acura accessories and unlocks your vehicle's full potential. How? Let’s look at what Pedal Commander does:

• Instant Throttle Response: Pedal Commander offers lightning-quick acceleration by eliminating throttle lag from your accelerator pedal.
• Effortless Installation: Pedal Commander boasts an effortless plug-and-play setup in minutes without needing technical expertise for immediate benefits.
• Customizable Settings: Pedal Commander allows you to fine-tune your vehicle's response to match your preferred driving style with its four adjustable modes: ECO, CITY, SPORT, and SPORT+.
• Better Off-Road and On-Road Control: Pedal Commander enhances off-road driving with its Sport and Sport+ modes, which give a more aggressive throttle response, while its City mode offers smooth acceleration on paved roads.
• Fuel Efficiency: Pedal Commander Eco mode reduces throttle sensitivity for better fuel economy during long road trips or stop-and-go traffic, perfect for daily road use.
• Versatile Compatibility: Pedal Commander is designed to seamlessly integrate with a wide array of vehicle makes and models, electric or internal combustion, for an exceptional driving upgrade.
• Anti-Theft Feature: When activated, Pedal Commander’s anti-theft feature renders your vehicle’s throttle system completely unresponsive, ensuring no one can steal your car. Enjoy this feature for the first 14 days, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year!