I have a reliable source who works as a purchaser for Honda Norh America; she is under the impression the RL should be in showrooms in early Oct. To help separate my take from her exact words, below is what she emailed me this morning:

Based on some part release info I have for glass, this "rolling" release for the parts is mid-September. Since we typically do parts release two weeks before unit release, I would say the '06 RLs should debut on showroom floors in the first week of October.

 

D'oh!

If I'm just thinking of purchasing right now, should I get the 05s or wait for the 06s. Any word on what's new as far as options?

 

I do not think there is any definitive or reliable information on changes to the '06 at this point. My guess is minor tweaks and creature comfort things?? Assuming my source is correct, then the '06 is still 10-12 weeks away. If you're wanting to buy now, then the prices are pretty good; I doubt anyone can say for certain if it is "worth the wait" at this point in time.

 

Unless you HAVE to have the car now I say wait until the 06 RLs are on the lot so you can see if they have any upgrades that you want. If not, I'd think in Oct that a 05 RL could be had for a very nice price.

 

2005 was the first year for this RL version, so I would not expect to see anything too radically different from Honda for the second year-only minor tweaks and such. This seems to be their corporate style, and it allows me to use some goodies from 02 and 03 Odysseys on my 01 Odyssey (I'm currently considering a DVD unit from the 02/03 models for the dash to replace the Honda accessory iVES VCR, since my kids are too old to watch their "antique" Disney video tapes any more). OTOH, Honda added a 5 speed auto (4 speed in the 01), 4 wheel disk brakes (rear drums on the 01) and 30 hp (same VTEC V6, but "tuned") to the 02 Ody, so if you are unhappy with the current RL features or performance, you might want to wait a few more weeks. I seriously doubt if any "tweaks" for 06 would include a V8, but I guess anything is possible. It's kinda like buying a computer-the next model will be better and have more features, but is it worth the wait and/or the extra bucks compared to today's model? It is unlikely that the 06 will be as discounted at first, and if the improvements are that substantial, it may never go below MSRP-that should also be in your trade space.

 

I currently have a deposit down on an 06 RL. Price was 500.00 over invoice. For me I could have easily bought an 05 now, but for me I figured many of the common "bugs" would have been addressed and there may be a few more goodies offered. If you can wait do it, but if not, I am sure you will not be disappointed.

Decisions, decisions,

 

Hasn't it already been stated that the '06 RL would have a new system? I'm thinking a precollision brake and seat belt system? Maybe it was lane departure but I do remember hearing something being said during the intoduction of the RDX concept.

 

What does this source look like?

 

I gotta' ask....what dealer gave you a 500 over invoice deal on an 06 RL????
I cannot get 1k over invoice on an 05 here in NY!!!
Steve C.

 

Steve C. Try the dealers in the Chicago area. It will take some haggling, but can be done if you take your time. You also may want to also check into the Costco Auto Buying Program if you are a Member. Still $1K over invoice is still a great deal!!

 

Better yet, try dealers here in Texas. Most are willing to go below invoice (when leasing).

 

Spoke with the Sales Manager during lunch today. He said the '06 will be on his lot in early October and it will have (or offer?) a Technology Package. The only component of this tech package he was certain of is Laser Guided Cruise Control.

Can't say for certain, but Tech Package sounds like an option.

 

It may also include a prebraking system like the Legend, Inspire, and Accord have in Japan and else where.

I would be impressed if Acura saw fit to offer the in-vehicle entertainment system like the one offered on the TSX.

 

I suspect you are right; most cars with a Laser Cruise include PreView Braking.

 

Which in turn braces the car for impact by applying full braking power, tighting up the seat belts and having the air bags on "stand by".