At the 2012 New York International Auto Show, Acura released its new concept — the Acura RLX. It is only a concept, and is actually the replacement for the excellent, yet ultimately forgettable RL. Acura claims the most important specification of the new RLX is its powertrain – powered by a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 engine, and three electric motors that will generate a combined 370 horsepower, and come mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. A 310-horsepower, front-wheel drive RLX will also be available. The Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system first seen on previous Acura NSX Concept will also be included in RLX. Acura expects the RLX to get 30 mpg city and 30 mpg highway respectively. However, since it still remains a concept EPA hasn’t confirmed these estimates. If the company statements are correct, the RLX will surely be noted for its fuel efficiency, as hybrid rivals like the 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid get 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Acura RLX tops the charts even when it comes to safety, by providing optional features such as forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems. Even though a collision mitigation braking system and a lane-assist system are included, Acura doesn’t mention whether they’re standard or optional. It will also have front, side and side curtain airbags, as well as a driver’s knee airbag. Moving to the interior, the features included in the RLX are extensive. A 7-inch LCD touch-screen infotainment system provides the stereo, climate, navigation and voice-to-text messaging systems along with a 14-speaker stereo or an ELS Surround sound system will also be available. Both stereos will have HD radio, a USB port, Bluetooth, Pandora Internet Radio and Aha Radio. All these tech specifications can be comparable to similar features available on luxury large cars like the Audi A7, Infiniti M and BMW 5-Series.

The 2012 Acura RL will go on sale in early 2013 will cost $48,200.