knv8

Just wanted some opinions, thinking bout trading in my 06 RL for a 2010 RL.

mbostic20

I love the updated body style, but the interior is the same with some minor differences.

schen72

I don't see any point in upgrading to the "new" body style. It's only minor cosmetic changes. Some argue that the new grill looks worse than the old one.

oo7spy

For the 2010, you only get minor updates like full time paddles, quicker shifts, cooled seats, USB and BT audio streaming, and updated climate controls. You lose the ability to shift from the gear selector. I would look for a 2011 or 2012 to get the 6-speed transmission

To answer you question though, the KB2 was out-dated compared to the competition even when it was new.

Megatron

I'm with 007spy... I'd look for a 2011 or 2012. The 6th speed tranny is well worth it!

HEAVY_RL

iTrader: (1)

Ditto #addingvalue

knv8

Is there that big of a diff with the six speed? My 06 tranny feels fine to me, plus I feel the grill and rims got uglier for the 2011 version. Finding these newer RL's are not easy either.

Blues Legend

We never got the KB2, unfortunately.

Audio streaming & 6-spd (and the +200cc!) sound good, the uglification looks bad.

Not enough of an upgrade for me. But mine is low-mileage anyway.

oo7spy

The six speed helps with MPGs just a bit and should get a touch faster 0-60.

knv8

dug up an old thread, and heres a full list of upgrades for 2009. There may be more for 2010 and up.

I've taken the liberty of compiling a lengthy, yet thorough list of the changes Acura has made on the 2009 RL. (Please let me know if you think I've missed anything)

-AcuraLink with Real-Time weather reports & servive appointment scheduling
-Newly incorporated Traffic Rerouting
-Increased levels of Zagat reviews
-XM Note Feature which allows the recording of up to ten seconds of music along with the name of the artist, song title, and even the XM channel name that can be referred to at a later time
-New Smart Entry keyless entry and start system
-New Active Sound Control, which is more advanced than the old Active Noise Cancellation system. Whereas ANC dealt specifically with the elimination of low decibel noise entering the cabin, the new ASC system has a much broader range including the elimination of unwanted high frequency noise. In addition, ASC is linked to throttle position and engine rpm to provide a quieter cockpit during normal cruising while still allowing the 3.7L's muscular sound to be enjoyed during spirited, high rpm driving
-New high-directional array microphone for improved coverage area and voice "pick up" during noisy conditions, such as when the windows are down
-Revised Bluetooth Audio and HandsFreeLink that now features over 700 voice commands along with substantially improved voice recognition
-Revised steering rack components designed to create a more responsive and linear steering feel. Changes include: new diameter steering valves, improved design of the steering rack guide, an all-new compact noise isolation (CNI) steering joint, and revised electronic control parameters.
-Upgraded, higher-rate coil springs & revised dampers
-Stiffer subframe mount bushings
-Larger diameter rear stabilizer bar
-New 18" wheels w/ more aggressive tires
-New 3.7 liter V6 with the first ever SOHC use of VTEC valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves developing 300 hp & 271 lb-ft of torque
-New engine surround panel designed to give the engine bay a more upscale appearance
-Revised 5-Speed Sequential SportShift Automatic w/ larger counter shafts, revised gearing, improved clutches along with a new torque converter replete with an improved lock-up assembly. The new transmission is operated via a new straight-gate style console-mounted shifter or by way of a new "smart" F1®-style steering wheel paddle shifter system that now works when the transmission is in Drive (formerly the paddles only operated when in Manual mode).
-New steering wheel and gear shift knob with wood appearance trim standard on models with Tech Package (real wood w/ CMBS Package)
-Revised center stack color/appearance (now a dark gunmetal silver)
-Increased use of the wood patterned trim which is improved in quality and has a richer appearance
-Reprogrammed SH-AWD designed to more quickly redistribute engine torque
-Revised HVAC controls with larger, clearer lettering/graphics and easier actuation of climate control functions
-Redesigned A/C vents
-5 new exterior colors and a new pearl pigment paint process delivering increased luster/shine
-Increased rear passenger seat room
-Easier to use front seatbelts
-New front door mounted pull pockets (located just aft of the power window controls)
-Softer armrests
-Upgraded gauges that incorporate brushed metal accents for enhanced appearance
-More sound insulation throughout the cabin
-A more high-tech design of Acura's acustic glass windshield
-Heated & Cooled (first for the U.S.) seats w/ 6 levels of adjustment
-Front passenger seat now has 10-way adjustment
-New USB connectivity port
-New Headrests/Active Headrest Restraint System
-New, bolder exterior styling (Approx. 80% new, with only the doors and roof remaining unchanged)

Source: Acura Media Newsroom - Headlines - 2009 Acura RL - Introduction

oo7spy

Yeah, when they say "new wood pattern trim", they mean they completely threw out the wood and just used plastic everywhere.

Real wood did come back for the 2011+ Advance trim.

Terry RL

Being a 2011 RL Advance owner; the KB2 is very dated in my opinion for the following reasons(all my RL gripes):
-OLD Nav system
-No IDS
-No BSI
-Cabin Buttons aren't LED backlit
-Horrible Rear Cam
-LKAS(Available in Japan MY2008+) never shipped in US
-No Power Open/Close Trunk(Available in Japan MY2008+)
-No Heated Rear Seats(Canadian Cars have them)
-No stitching on dashboard or top of door panel
-Somewhat cheap plastics on dash and top of doors(compared to TLX)
-No 4-Way Adjustable Lumbar
-No Screen Shield over Nav system to battle glare(Present on 4G TL)
-Lack of rear-seat room

Gripes aside, the 2009+ RL is a very nice, car with some improvements for 2011. If I were you, I'd go for a 2011 Advance to get all the features. However, the RL is a one hell of a stealth machine. Here are just a few things love about mine. FYI, I bought mine in mid-2013 for $35,000 the car GLM RL Adv. was in mint condition CPO.

A few things I love about the RL:
-Love the exterior design(wheels, grille, body shape, rear-end, all of it), very stealthy
-Quality of materials in cabin really superb
-Very comfy seats
-Easy to use controls(unlike RLX)
-Real Wood
-Power Fold Mirrors
-Audio Input Sources, BT, USB, iPod, Aux
-Real time Weather
-Sunshades
-Power Fold Headrests
-Very quiet(increases insulation, noise reducing wheels, more advanced ANC)
-More fun to drive than my 05
-6 Speed Transmission is worlds better than 5 speed
-21.5MPG is decent fuel economy 50/50 City/HWY
-5.9sec 0-60 sprints
-Lots of exterior presence
-Backup sensors(very useful)
-CMBS, ACC, e-pretension seat belts(SAVED MY LIFE BEFORE)

stagefoursurvivor

Since I'm trying to focus on an '11 or '12 RL, rather than the RLXh, does anyone have a similar list on the differences between the 2 years?
CBP/Taupe/Seacoast w/Advanced is my first choice

Megatron

2011 and 2012 is pretty much the same.

usdmJON

I dont know man. If given the choice I like the body style you own more than the 2010... The RLX is a different story for me.
KA9>KB1>KB2... I'd throw the RLX in there as second. Love me a 1st gen RL!!

knv8

One thing I am getting sick of is the aspec suspension which is too stiff for me. I might do a trade in this weekend, I'm taking a couple of test drives and might just jump.

There may be a 2006 Acura Rl for sale soon if they dont give me a fair trade in. Aspec suspension and aspec wheels, 93k miles.

stagefoursurvivor

Thanks.
I suspected as much but, wanted to be sure I didn't miss something.

hotchi11

Is SH-AWD something extra/ standard or come in the tech page? Don't know where i can post this, thankx

oo7spy

The drivetrains are standard across all trims from '05-'13.

Alltezza

In my opinion the newer ones were already outdated to begin with, I think you're better off keeping your KB1 as I think those models are sexiest ones.

Or you can look into the Infiniti Q50 or the new Lexus IS models.

FredS

I was right where you are now. I had a 2007 silver RL that I sold with 170,000 miles. Did not have one problem with it and enjoyed every mile. The car looked brand new and the first one to see it bought it after 5 minutes. In January of 2012 I bought a 2010 RL in white with 20,000 miles for a great price. I always use the Ipod instead of the CD's, think the back and front lights look much better and the wood trim interior looks much nicer. IMO the 2010 is well worth it plus the price they are going for is incredible for what you get. Now matter how well you take care of a car they will not last forever. I lost 150,000 miles in my exchange.

knv8

My 06 is up for sale in the black market if anyone is interested, thanks!

FredS

EPA rates the six speed with two more mpg on the highway.

mag1119

Do you lose the ability to shift from the console in all models KB2, or just 2010?

oo7spy

All KB2 have paddle shifting only.

Alltezza

In my own personal opinion, I think a lot of these newer acura cars are terribly ugly. I think every Acura made below 2008 are the sexiest Acuras ever made. I love the TLs, the RSX, Integras, TSX, RL the entire Acura Line up was just sexy and bad ass in general. It makes me sad that if I was to look into a lux type car that I wouldn't buy a new 2015 Acura because of the looks =\

I'd probably look at an Infiniti or Lexus. I'd say keep your sexy RL I don't think the 06 has battery problems like the 05 ones do

oo7spy

Sea creatures and predators are sexy?!?