Best Car Reviews - 1999 Acura SLX

Introduction

The 1999 Acura SLX made its mark as a competent player in the highly competitive SUV segment of the late 90s. Designed to appeal to those who desired versatility, comfort, and a touch of luxury, the SLX was Acura’s offering in the burgeoning SUV market. Released in the final year of the 20th century, the SLX stood out with its blend of ruggedness and refinement, aiming to capture the interest of adventurous families and professionals alike.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1999 Acura SLX boasted a classic SUV silhouette that emphasized strength and utility. Its robust yet streamlined design featured clean lines and a well-proportioned body that conveyed a sense of durability. Standout design elements included a chrome-accented grille and stylish alloy wheels that complemented its off-road prowess. Compared to previous models, the 1999 edition refined its exterior with subtle tweaks that enhanced both its aesthetic appeal and aerodynamics.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Acura SLX offered a spacious cabin designed with comfort in mind. High-quality materials adorned the interior, with plush leather seating and wood grain accents creating an upscale atmosphere. The generous room inside provided ample legroom for passengers in both the front and rear seats, ensuring a comfortable journey. Additionally, the SLX featured conveniences such as automatic climate control and a premium audio system, catering to those who valued luxury features during their drives.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1999 Acura SLX housed a robust V-6 engine, delivering reliable power for various driving conditions. The automatic 4-speed transmission allowed smooth gear transitions, enhancing the driving experience. The SLX clocked a respectable acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, taking approximately 11 seconds. In city driving, the SLX provided a comfortable ride, while its 4-wheel drive capability ensured strong performance on highways and challenging terrains. The fuel consumption of approximately 19.834 miles per gallon reflected its efficiency in balancing power and economy.

Technology and Connectivity

The SLX offered a decent range of technology for its time, including a simple yet functional infotainment system. Though lacking modern connectivity options like Bluetooth 5.0 or large touchscreen displays, it compensated with reliable features that catered to the practical needs of drivers. Standard features included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Additionally, the vehicle featured basic driver assistance technologies, such as cruise control, enhancing long-distance travel comfort.

Safety Features

Safety was a priority for the 1999 Acura SLX, which included essential safety features such as dual front airbags and anti-lock braking system (ABS). Despite its era, the SLX provided a secure driving experience, although specific crash test ratings were not as prominently highlighted as in modern vehicles.

Pricing and Variants

At launch, the base price of the Acura SLX was positioned competitively at around $36,000 USD. While pricing was generally higher compared to some competitors, its luxurious features and trusted Acura reliability justified the cost for many buyers. The SLX offered different trim levels, allowing customers to choose the model that best suited their preferences and budget.

Pros and Cons

Advantages: High-quality interior materials, reliable off-road performance, spacious cabin.
Drawbacks: Less advanced technology, higher fuel consumption compared to modern standards.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The 1999 Acura SLX generally offered a manageable maintenance cost of around $900 USD annually. However, owners reported a few common issues:

Transmission problems
Oil leaks
Electrical issues with windows
Faulty fuel gauge
Suspension wear

Rating

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

Design: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 6/10
Technology: 5/10
Safety: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"Love the comfort and spaciousness for my family, though wish it had more modern tech features."
"Strong performance on rough terrains but had to deal with a few oil leaks."
"Great design and reliable, but fuel consumption isn't ideal for long daily commutes."
"A solid choice for those needing off-road capabilities with a luxurious touch."
"Maintenance can be a bit pricey but the comfort makes it worth it."

Best Cars in This Category

1999 Toyota Land Cruiser
1999 Ford Explorer
1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee
1999 Mitsubishi Montero
1999 Nissan Pathfinder

Summary

The 1999 Acura SLX stands as a testament to the blend of luxury and rugged performance in the late 90s SUV market. Best suited for those who prioritize comfort and off-road capabilities over cutting-edge technology, the SLX offers sound value with its reliable performance and durability. While modern conveniences may be sparse, its enduring quality makes it an appealing choice for enthusiasts of classic SUVs.