To address the trend toward more powerful and luxurious vehicles, the 1999 SLX is once again available in a single lavishly appointed sport luxury model. The SLX features a performance-oriented powertrain with a sophisticated Torque-On-Demand four-wheel-drive system. The SLX provides a level of ride quality, comfort and luxury amenities typical of fine imported luxury sedans, combined with the ruggedness, utility, all-weather handling and off-road capability of a top-rank four-wheel-drive vehicle.
In addition to its state-of-the-art engineering, impressive performance, solid construction and overall quality, the Acura SLX also offers the high-end SUV buyer with a true luxury ownership experience from the courteous treatment offered by Acura dealers to the Acura TLC Customer Satisfaction Program, which provides 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, trip planning and many other owner benefits.
The Acura SLX is designed to compete with the Mercedes M-Class, Range Rover and Land Rover Discovery, Lexus LX470 and RX300, Infiniti QX4, and other luxury models, as well as the higher trim levels of domestic SUVs such as the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevy/GMC Blazer. The SLX is built for Acura by Isuzu Motors, Ltd., and is manufactured in Japan.
Concepts and Goals
The SLX is designed to provide:
- A remarkable level of comfort and luxury amenities.
- Ride and handling qualities more typical of a luxury sports sedan than an off-road vehicle.
- A powerful engine with abundant torque for impressive acceleration, effortless cruising, reliable towing, excellent performance and predictable response.
- Torque-On-Demand, shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive with the touch of the button.
- High level of safety performance with strong box-section frame construction, 4-wheel Antilock Braking System (ABS) disc brakes, dual air bags (SRS), and other safety features.
- Spacious, lavishly appointed interior and best-in-class cargo space and convenience.
- Contemporary exterior styling.
Overview
The Acura SLX is available exclusively in a 6-door body style, with 4 conventional passenger doors and convenient 70/30 double rear doors for ease of loading. Every SLX is equipped with an all-aluminum, 3.5-liter, double-overhead-camshaft V-6 engine with 4 valves per cylinder, producing 215 horsepower and 230 lb ft of torque. The lightened engine utilizes several features to maximize performance, including a variable length induction system.
A sophisticated Torque-On-Demand four-wheel drive system features a shift-on-the-fly function that is engaged with the touch of a button. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard on every SLX. A double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension deliver generous travel and compliance for smooth, controllable off-road driving and confident, comfortable highway response. Ventilated disc brakes are used all around, with a four-wheel Antilock Braking System(ABS) as standard.
The steel frame of the SLX uses box-section members for added strength and rigidity; these are much stiffer in torsion and bending rigidity than the V-channel members used on many competing SUVs. Overall, the Acura SLX offers a remarkably smooth, quiet ride and exceptional highway handling response, with the full complement of luxury amenities and safety features, such as dual air bags, expected in a luxury sedan.
The SLX also offers excellent off-road performance, with abundant ground clearance, double-wishbone front suspension, a full complement of skid plates for component protection and a powertrain engineered for highly usable power delivery.
The 1999 SLX is available in a single lavishly appointed model featuring amenities such as leather seating surfaces, heated power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, AM/FM/cassette/CD audio system, air conditioning, power moon roof, keyless entry and more.