2009 pictures and comments from an 2006 owner
#1
Intermediate
Thread Starter
2009 pictures and comments from an 2006 owner
I recently had my 2006 RL in for service and was fortunate enough to spend a few days in the dealer's 2009 loaner.
Since I haven't seen too many 09 pictures or comments, I wanted to post a few of my thoughts along with some back to back pictures I took.
With that being said, keep in mind if you detect any bias towards my 06.
These are simply exterior comparison pictures:
2009 RL Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose.jpg)
2006 RL Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose_1.jpg)
2009 RL 3/4 Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose34.jpg)
2006 RL 3/4 Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose34_1.jpg)
2006 RL Side
![](http://cigors.com/rl/side.jpg)
2009 RL Side
![](http://cigors.com/rl/side_1.jpg)
2009 RL 3/4 Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear34.jpg)
2006 RL 3/4 Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear34_1.jpg)
2009 RL Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear.jpg)
2006 RL Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear_1.jpg)
Below are a few interior differences that I noticed:
2009 RL Headrest -- is this different in the CMBS Model?
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hr.jpg)
2006 RL Headrest
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hr_1.jpg)
2009 HVAC Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hvac.jpg)
2006 HVAC Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hvac_1.jpg)
2009 Roof Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/top.jpg)
2006 Roof Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/top_1.jpg)
2009 Seat Heat/AC Control
![](http://cigors.com/rl/switch.jpg)
2006 Seat Heat Control
![](http://cigors.com/rl/switch_1.jpg)
2009 Center Console Shifter
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shifter.jpg)
2006 Center Console Shifter
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shifter_1.jpg)
I'm sure there were other differences between 05+ and 09+ that I didn't notice, but my goal was to take some pictures of some obvious things I came across.
Regarding the additional power -- strangely, I felt that my 06 was quicker off the line. While I felt the additional 09 torque was evident at higher RPM's, I felt that my 06 was certainly quicker off the line.
Other than that -- the car is basically the same, so it drove extremely tight and accurate as expected. I am partial to the 09 rear, except for its taillights. I prefer the 06 front.
One final closing thought -- after returning the 09 and getting into my 06 for the first time in a few days, I must admit the 06 'felt' to be the older/dated car.
Overall, I'm completely satisfied with my RL -- love it. I can't say enough about this vehicle, still feel it's the best value in its class by far!
Since I had a few additional pictures, I'll include a few CMBS specific high resolution photographs:
Radar Control Sheild
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shield.jpg)
Steering Wheel CMBS Distance Button
![](http://cigors.com/rl/button.jpg)
--Nick
Since I haven't seen too many 09 pictures or comments, I wanted to post a few of my thoughts along with some back to back pictures I took.
With that being said, keep in mind if you detect any bias towards my 06.
These are simply exterior comparison pictures:
2009 RL Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose.jpg)
2006 RL Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose_1.jpg)
2009 RL 3/4 Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose34.jpg)
2006 RL 3/4 Nose
![](http://cigors.com/rl/nose34_1.jpg)
2006 RL Side
![](http://cigors.com/rl/side.jpg)
2009 RL Side
![](http://cigors.com/rl/side_1.jpg)
2009 RL 3/4 Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear34.jpg)
2006 RL 3/4 Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear34_1.jpg)
2009 RL Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear.jpg)
2006 RL Rear
![](http://cigors.com/rl/rear_1.jpg)
Below are a few interior differences that I noticed:
2009 RL Headrest -- is this different in the CMBS Model?
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hr.jpg)
2006 RL Headrest
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hr_1.jpg)
2009 HVAC Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hvac.jpg)
2006 HVAC Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/hvac_1.jpg)
2009 Roof Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/top.jpg)
2006 Roof Controls
![](http://cigors.com/rl/top_1.jpg)
2009 Seat Heat/AC Control
![](http://cigors.com/rl/switch.jpg)
2006 Seat Heat Control
![](http://cigors.com/rl/switch_1.jpg)
2009 Center Console Shifter
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shifter.jpg)
2006 Center Console Shifter
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shifter_1.jpg)
I'm sure there were other differences between 05+ and 09+ that I didn't notice, but my goal was to take some pictures of some obvious things I came across.
Regarding the additional power -- strangely, I felt that my 06 was quicker off the line. While I felt the additional 09 torque was evident at higher RPM's, I felt that my 06 was certainly quicker off the line.
Other than that -- the car is basically the same, so it drove extremely tight and accurate as expected. I am partial to the 09 rear, except for its taillights. I prefer the 06 front.
One final closing thought -- after returning the 09 and getting into my 06 for the first time in a few days, I must admit the 06 'felt' to be the older/dated car.
Overall, I'm completely satisfied with my RL -- love it. I can't say enough about this vehicle, still feel it's the best value in its class by far!
Since I had a few additional pictures, I'll include a few CMBS specific high resolution photographs:
Radar Control Sheild
![](http://cigors.com/rl/shield.jpg)
Steering Wheel CMBS Distance Button
![](http://cigors.com/rl/button.jpg)
--Nick
#2
Burning Brakes
![what](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/what.gif)
Great pictures! Everything in the 06 just seem to flow better, where the 09 just looks forced? (could be bias too, 05 RL owner
![Tomato](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/tomato.gif)
#4
Safety Car
The headrests are the new active head restraints mandated by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. They distinctly improved the safety scores in the RL for head restraints.
#5
Safety Car
I also meant to say to True, thanks for doing this! These are great illustrative photos!
Any driving impressions vs your CMBS model?
The voice recognition is supposed to be improved with the new comparative microphone set up, the handling better with stiffer suspension, bigger anti-roll bars. I have to believe the AC controls are easier to work. The engine should be more responsive, especially with the fatter and higher torque curve.
I am particularly curious as to how you feel the car is without PAX. Not from a comfort standpoint so much as the lack of unsprung weight. As I have droned on like a broken record, when I de PAXed, I lost 92 lbs in unsprung weight and the car really feels different, much more lively. Until the DBW got used to the new driving patterns, the throttle was almost described as touchy, put your foot down, and you got too much acceleration.
Thanks
Any driving impressions vs your CMBS model?
The voice recognition is supposed to be improved with the new comparative microphone set up, the handling better with stiffer suspension, bigger anti-roll bars. I have to believe the AC controls are easier to work. The engine should be more responsive, especially with the fatter and higher torque curve.
I am particularly curious as to how you feel the car is without PAX. Not from a comfort standpoint so much as the lack of unsprung weight. As I have droned on like a broken record, when I de PAXed, I lost 92 lbs in unsprung weight and the car really feels different, much more lively. Until the DBW got used to the new driving patterns, the throttle was almost described as touchy, put your foot down, and you got too much acceleration.
Thanks
#6
Trending Topics
#10
The 09's Climate Control panel is about $250. Not sure if it would work with the older cars though. I wish someone who knew their parts guy well would give it a shot
I agree having the MODE and FAN buttons is nice.
Chris
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Chris
#11
Unlike others, I did not have a big problem with the nose on the 09 when it first came out. I am warming up to it the more I see it, but the RL may go away before I get a chance to buy another one.
#12
Safety Car
Acura has not, to my knowledge, released info about how the RL active restraint works, but a clue can be found in this 2005 press release about the 2006 Civic design. Here is one case where the flagship does not get everything!
http://world.honda.com/news/2005/4051205.html
The 2006 Civic marks the introduction of Honda's new Active Head Restraint front seat design that enhances the seat's ability to minimize the potential for neck injuries caused by rear end collisions. In the event of a rear collision, a person's body is pushed against the seatback. The pressure from the seatback is transmitted mechanically from the lumbar plate via links that push the head restraint upward and forward to help to equalize the forces acting on the head, neck and spine.
The new TL has a similar, more detailed description, and is probably similar to the RL system:
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/735/releases/4675
The 2009 TL is fitted with new active front head restraints designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. The head restraint is mechanically linked to a lumbar plate located inside of the front seatback. In a rear impact, the passenger's body pushes against the seatback, causing the head restraint to move forward in a carefully prescribed arc. This motion helps equalize the impact forces transmitted to the head, neck and spine as the occupant's head moves backward during the collision. Effectively managing and dispersing this energy is critical to help minimize the potential for injuries. For 2009, the Active Head Restraint System is specifically tuned to further reduce forces imparted in a rear impact.
The new TSX has a less detailed description
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/742/releases/4435
The 2009 TSX features active front headrests for the first time. The new Active Headrest Restraint System has been designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. In a rear impact, the driver and front passenger's bodies are pushed against the seatback, causing the head restraints to move forward in a carefully prescribed arc. This action helps equalize the forces transmitted to the head, neck and spine throughout the collision, a critical factor in helping to minimize potential injuries.
http://world.honda.com/news/2005/4051205.html
The 2006 Civic marks the introduction of Honda's new Active Head Restraint front seat design that enhances the seat's ability to minimize the potential for neck injuries caused by rear end collisions. In the event of a rear collision, a person's body is pushed against the seatback. The pressure from the seatback is transmitted mechanically from the lumbar plate via links that push the head restraint upward and forward to help to equalize the forces acting on the head, neck and spine.
The new TL has a similar, more detailed description, and is probably similar to the RL system:
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/735/releases/4675
The 2009 TL is fitted with new active front head restraints designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. The head restraint is mechanically linked to a lumbar plate located inside of the front seatback. In a rear impact, the passenger's body pushes against the seatback, causing the head restraint to move forward in a carefully prescribed arc. This motion helps equalize the impact forces transmitted to the head, neck and spine as the occupant's head moves backward during the collision. Effectively managing and dispersing this energy is critical to help minimize the potential for injuries. For 2009, the Active Head Restraint System is specifically tuned to further reduce forces imparted in a rear impact.
The new TSX has a less detailed description
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/742/releases/4435
The 2009 TSX features active front headrests for the first time. The new Active Headrest Restraint System has been designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. In a rear impact, the driver and front passenger's bodies are pushed against the seatback, causing the head restraints to move forward in a carefully prescribed arc. This action helps equalize the forces transmitted to the head, neck and spine throughout the collision, a critical factor in helping to minimize potential injuries.
#13
Burning Brakes
you forgot the inner door panels also.... the 09 have the grab-on handle / coin tray where the 05-08 is flat arm rest![Tongue](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif)
active head retrain or not, I still prefer the softer, plush pillow that 05-08 have.... If I do have an 09, (hard pillow) that's the first to go.....
![Tongue](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif)
active head retrain or not, I still prefer the softer, plush pillow that 05-08 have.... If I do have an 09, (hard pillow) that's the first to go.....
Last edited by psheu; 05-26-2009 at 01:57 PM.
#16
Burning Brakes
i think the active head restrain is embedded in the back of the seat.... if you swap out the pillow/head rest, will that affect the system in anyway? compared to the 05-08, the 09 head rest is like a rock..... I mean, all active head restrain is, is that it move forward to catch passenger's head so it won't get throw back as much..... won't softer pillow be more ideal to catch the passenger's head?
#17
Thanks for that nice photo comparison. Very helpful.
In regard to the active head restraints, Honda/Acura worked very hard to remedy its only mediocre score (shared by many other brands) in past collision tests by coming up with this system. It works. The crash test dummies like it. I certainly wouldn't tinker with it in any way.
As Chas's detailed info states, it is a pivot system that couples and uses the rearward motion of ones lower body being driven into the seatback during a rear collision to create a forward and upward motion of the headrest. You can demonstrate it easily by firmly pushing into the lower seatback of any recent honda car and watching the headrest move forward.
In regard to the active head restraints, Honda/Acura worked very hard to remedy its only mediocre score (shared by many other brands) in past collision tests by coming up with this system. It works. The crash test dummies like it. I certainly wouldn't tinker with it in any way.
As Chas's detailed info states, it is a pivot system that couples and uses the rearward motion of ones lower body being driven into the seatback during a rear collision to create a forward and upward motion of the headrest. You can demonstrate it easily by firmly pushing into the lower seatback of any recent honda car and watching the headrest move forward.
#18
Senior Moderator
That's the best photo comparo of the 2005-08 to the 2009 we've seen to date. Thank you very much!
#19
Intermediate
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by Chas2
Any driving impressions vs your CMBS model?
1) This is unrelated to the 09, but I actually did not like the wood steering wheel, which really suprised me. I've wanted one for some time and was happy that the 09 had it. I thought that the clear coating on the wheel made it slippery and gave it a feeling of cheap material. I was expecting a nice solid, almost heavy feeling, but it almost felt like a toy to me. I did like the new shape with the better grips, but I am no longer planning on adding this to my 06.
2) On my 2006, I have to switch into Manual mode in order for the paddle shifters to do anything. On the 09 RL, once in drive, the paddle shifters ALWAYS work, and I didn't see any way to disable this behavior.
Originally Posted by Chas2
The voice recognition is supposed to be improved with the new comparative microphone set up..
I am particularly curious as to how you feel the car is without PAX. Not from a comfort standpoint so much as the lack of unsprung weight. As I have droned on like a broken record, when I de PAXed, I lost 92 lbs in unsprung weight and the car really feels different, much more lively. Until the DBW got used to the new driving patterns, the throttle was almost described as touchy, put your foot down, and you got too much acceleration.
Thanks
I DE-PAXed the car shortly after I got it and I could immediately tell when flooring the 09 that it didn't feel any faster at all -- potentially slower. So when I got my 06 CMBS back after driving the 09 for about a week, I immediately noticed the quicker acceleration. (I didn't accelerate much past ~40 MPH, so again, not a good test case, no material evidence to back this up, may really be slower 50+, etc..)
Interestingly, non CMBS owners might rightfully so think we are losing it, but I felt compelled to research a little further. According to Acura OEM parts, just about all of the part numbers between the CMBS/PAX and non-CMBS/PAX electrical components are the same, EXCEPT for the Engine Control Module! I'm sure it has additional logic to work the radar and other things, but I have to wonder if maybe Acura tweaked the ECU have more aggressive engine timing to make up for the unsprung weight gain. Sounds possible, but also very likely that the weight savings alone could be the reason. In the Honda/Acura world, we all recognize weight loss is often one of the best modifications. (I have a fully built turbo CRX too...) Since we don't have spare tire kits and the wheel weights of the PAX system is so heavy, this may warrant the increased feeling of pep.
--Nick
Last edited by true; 05-27-2009 at 01:54 AM.
#20
Any changes, by the manufacturer, to the ECU involve a re-certification by the EPA so I seriously doubt that Acura changed anything associated with their engine certification. This certification takes months and costs in excess of $100K per engine type.
If CMBS makes a perceived difference to your performance then you could really add some horsepower by removing the trunk tray!
If CMBS makes a perceived difference to your performance then you could really add some horsepower by removing the trunk tray!
#21
Safety Car
true,
Thanks for the comparison! Great work!
The 2006 RL, even with PAX is slightly lighter than the 2009 RL.
2006 (equiv to 2007+ Tech Pkg trim) is 4012
2006 with CMBS/PAX is 4074
2009 without Tech. Package is 4083
2009 with Tech. Package is 4085
2009 with Tech. & CMBS/ACC Packages is 4110
The transmission ratios are unchanged between 2005-2009. So if you DePAX and lose 92 lbs (in my case, not sure on your weights, but it should be close) in unsprung weight...that might make the difference you feel.
Even if you add back 40 + lbs with the spare, that would be sprung weight, and you are still riding and estimated 50 or 60 lbs less than the 2009 Tech Pkg
But you are right, without instrumentation, it is all just speculation...is 50 lbs less weight that significant? Probably not....but 90 lbs of unsprung weight loss may be, especially when overcoming inertia from stopped...
but it is entertaining to speculate!
I know, must be the 2006 Cd of 0.29 vs the 2009 Cd of 0.30!
Thanks for the comparison! Great work!
The 2006 RL, even with PAX is slightly lighter than the 2009 RL.
2006 (equiv to 2007+ Tech Pkg trim) is 4012
2006 with CMBS/PAX is 4074
2009 without Tech. Package is 4083
2009 with Tech. Package is 4085
2009 with Tech. & CMBS/ACC Packages is 4110
The transmission ratios are unchanged between 2005-2009. So if you DePAX and lose 92 lbs (in my case, not sure on your weights, but it should be close) in unsprung weight...that might make the difference you feel.
Even if you add back 40 + lbs with the spare, that would be sprung weight, and you are still riding and estimated 50 or 60 lbs less than the 2009 Tech Pkg
But you are right, without instrumentation, it is all just speculation...is 50 lbs less weight that significant? Probably not....but 90 lbs of unsprung weight loss may be, especially when overcoming inertia from stopped...
but it is entertaining to speculate!
I know, must be the 2006 Cd of 0.29 vs the 2009 Cd of 0.30!
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#22
Burning Brakes
#23
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
In fact....yes.
The nose of the 09 RL is higher and more blunt. The hood has less slope, being shortened and the fenders are slightly higher, all increasing the drag. Honda is an industry leader with pedestrian impact design. Acura needs to better style it, IMHO.
The primary pupose was to make the RL comply with pedestrian impact regulations. As a result you see more blunt front ends on new vehicles as not to slice a pedestrain in half, but instead have the front of the vehicle absorb the impact and lessening the physical trauma.
Further, Acura made claims that this more blunt front end gives the car more visual presence, which I guess the schnoz alone was not enough.
Last edited by TampaRLX-SH; 05-28-2009 at 12:57 PM.
#24
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
A few other differences, if not subtle....
The rear seat bottom is slight different to aid ingress and egress.
I believe the metallic look trim of the center stack is more bronze colored than the previous silver finish.
And mostly I would be curious if the SHAWD logic tweeks are noticeable? It may be difficult to isolate along with the wheel size changes, engine change and suspension tuning.
The rear seat bottom is slight different to aid ingress and egress.
I believe the metallic look trim of the center stack is more bronze colored than the previous silver finish.
And mostly I would be curious if the SHAWD logic tweeks are noticeable? It may be difficult to isolate along with the wheel size changes, engine change and suspension tuning.
#25
2005 Acura RL ASpec
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Ajax, Ontario, Canada
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The 09 interior looks more like our 05 - 09 Canadian versions now with the Onstar missing and the cooled seats :-)
This should pretty up the front of the 09's though.
http://www.automotiveconcepts.net/st...duct_863.html#
This should pretty up the front of the 09's though.
http://www.automotiveconcepts.net/st...duct_863.html#
#30
#31
well yeah I asked what does it do..
so I gather from 037's post it is part of the self adjusting cruise control system and collision avoidance system..
nicer looking than the bullet holes they use on the Chrysler's (they use the same style radar for the self adjusting cruise control that they use for the back up sensors)..
though it probably makes aftermarket grille choices minimal..
#32
Instructor
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Location: Carson City, Nv
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It senses that you are too close to the vehicle in front of you and applies light brake pressure and gives you a warning in the MID. Also, if somebody cuts in front or sudden brakes it will apply full pressure which should get your attention by that time.
#34
Safety Car
well yeah I asked what does it do..
so I gather from 037's post it is part of the self adjusting cruise control system and collision avoidance system..
nicer looking than the bullet holes they use on the Chrysler's (they use the same style radar for the self adjusting cruise control that they use for the back up sensors)..
though it probably makes aftermarket grille choices minimal..
so I gather from 037's post it is part of the self adjusting cruise control system and collision avoidance system..
nicer looking than the bullet holes they use on the Chrysler's (they use the same style radar for the self adjusting cruise control that they use for the back up sensors)..
though it probably makes aftermarket grille choices minimal..
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/2718
COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM™ (CMBS™)The 2006 RL is the first Acura vehicle to offer an optional Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™). This revolutionary safety technology monitors potential rear-end collisions, uses audio, visual and tactile signals to alert drivers to the risk of collision, assists brake operation and tensions the front seatbelts to help reduce impact on occupants and vehicle damage should a collision become unavoidable. Unlike pre-collision systems on competitive vehicles, CMBS automatically applies the brakes to mitigate the severity of a collision.
Using a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the front grille, the CMBS system monitors the distance between the RL and the car directly in front of it up to a distance of 300 feet and the rate of closure between the two vehicles. When that closing rate increases to a point where a collision is likely to occur (based on relative vehicle speeds and following distance) the system uses visual, and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventative action. If, based on the driver's response, the system determines that the likelihood of a collision has decreased to an acceptable level, the CMBS system will disengage. If, however, the driver's response does not sufficiently reduce the risk of a collision, the system will issue a secondary warning, consisting of audible, visual and tactile elements as well as light braking, to alert the driver to take action. If the closing rate increases so much that a collision becomes unavoidable, CMBS can initiate hard braking to reduce the vehicle's speed, and tension the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts to help reduce the severity of the crash.
Stage one: When there is a risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead or if the distance between the vehicles has dropped below the pre-set level, a buzzer sounds and the message "BRAKE" appears on the Multi-information display.
Stage two: If the distance between the two vehicles continues to diminish, CMBS applies light braking, and an electric motor activates the driver's seat belt E-pretensioner, retracting the seatbelt gently two or three times, providing the driver with a tactile warning. The buzzer sounds again and the word "BRAKE" appears again on the Multi-information display.
Stage three: If, after issuing the primary and secondary warnings, the system determines that a collision is unavoidable, the E-pretensioner retracts the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts with enough force to compensate for seatbelt slack or baggy clothing and activates the brakes forcefully to reduce the speed of impact and mitigate the effects of the collision on the RL and its occupants.
The CMBS system functions only when the RL is traveling at over 10 miles per hour and when the speed differential between the RL and the car directly in front it is 10 mile per hour or more. It can be turned off by depressing a switch located on the left hand side of the instrument panel.
#36
Burning Brakes
Here is the press release in 2005 introducing the new capability for 2006
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/2718
COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM™ (CMBS™)The 2006 RL is the first Acura vehicle to offer an optional Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™). This revolutionary safety technology monitors potential rear-end collisions, uses audio, visual and tactile signals to alert drivers to the risk of collision, assists brake operation and tensions the front seatbelts to help reduce impact on occupants and vehicle damage should a collision become unavoidable. Unlike pre-collision systems on competitive vehicles, CMBS automatically applies the brakes to mitigate the severity of a collision.
Using a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the front grille, the CMBS system monitors the distance between the RL and the car directly in front of it up to a distance of 300 feet and the rate of closure between the two vehicles. When that closing rate increases to a point where a collision is likely to occur (based on relative vehicle speeds and following distance) the system uses visual, and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventative action. If, based on the driver's response, the system determines that the likelihood of a collision has decreased to an acceptable level, the CMBS system will disengage. If, however, the driver's response does not sufficiently reduce the risk of a collision, the system will issue a secondary warning, consisting of audible, visual and tactile elements as well as light braking, to alert the driver to take action. If the closing rate increases so much that a collision becomes unavoidable, CMBS can initiate hard braking to reduce the vehicle's speed, and tension the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts to help reduce the severity of the crash.
Stage one: When there is a risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead or if the distance between the vehicles has dropped below the pre-set level, a buzzer sounds and the message "BRAKE" appears on the Multi-information display.
Stage two: If the distance between the two vehicles continues to diminish, CMBS applies light braking, and an electric motor activates the driver's seat belt E-pretensioner, retracting the seatbelt gently two or three times, providing the driver with a tactile warning. The buzzer sounds again and the word "BRAKE" appears again on the Multi-information display.
Stage three: If, after issuing the primary and secondary warnings, the system determines that a collision is unavoidable, the E-pretensioner retracts the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts with enough force to compensate for seatbelt slack or baggy clothing and activates the brakes forcefully to reduce the speed of impact and mitigate the effects of the collision on the RL and its occupants.
The CMBS system functions only when the RL is traveling at over 10 miles per hour and when the speed differential between the RL and the car directly in front it is 10 mile per hour or more. It can be turned off by depressing a switch located on the left hand side of the instrument panel.
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/2718
COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM™ (CMBS™)The 2006 RL is the first Acura vehicle to offer an optional Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™). This revolutionary safety technology monitors potential rear-end collisions, uses audio, visual and tactile signals to alert drivers to the risk of collision, assists brake operation and tensions the front seatbelts to help reduce impact on occupants and vehicle damage should a collision become unavoidable. Unlike pre-collision systems on competitive vehicles, CMBS automatically applies the brakes to mitigate the severity of a collision.
Using a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the front grille, the CMBS system monitors the distance between the RL and the car directly in front of it up to a distance of 300 feet and the rate of closure between the two vehicles. When that closing rate increases to a point where a collision is likely to occur (based on relative vehicle speeds and following distance) the system uses visual, and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventative action. If, based on the driver's response, the system determines that the likelihood of a collision has decreased to an acceptable level, the CMBS system will disengage. If, however, the driver's response does not sufficiently reduce the risk of a collision, the system will issue a secondary warning, consisting of audible, visual and tactile elements as well as light braking, to alert the driver to take action. If the closing rate increases so much that a collision becomes unavoidable, CMBS can initiate hard braking to reduce the vehicle's speed, and tension the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts to help reduce the severity of the crash.
Stage one: When there is a risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead or if the distance between the vehicles has dropped below the pre-set level, a buzzer sounds and the message "BRAKE" appears on the Multi-information display.
Stage two: If the distance between the two vehicles continues to diminish, CMBS applies light braking, and an electric motor activates the driver's seat belt E-pretensioner, retracting the seatbelt gently two or three times, providing the driver with a tactile warning. The buzzer sounds again and the word "BRAKE" appears again on the Multi-information display.
Stage three: If, after issuing the primary and secondary warnings, the system determines that a collision is unavoidable, the E-pretensioner retracts the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts with enough force to compensate for seatbelt slack or baggy clothing and activates the brakes forcefully to reduce the speed of impact and mitigate the effects of the collision on the RL and its occupants.
The CMBS system functions only when the RL is traveling at over 10 miles per hour and when the speed differential between the RL and the car directly in front it is 10 mile per hour or more. It can be turned off by depressing a switch located on the left hand side of the instrument panel.
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#37
Safety Car
![ugh](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/ugh.gif)
Stage 1, 2 and 3 can blend into an almost continuous escalating event. I believe this system has saved me from an accident because not only does it start to brake for you, you automatically stand on the brakes when you are beeped, flashed and tugged at, before you may be able to fully take in the whole situation (when you are not paying attention
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#38
Chas...I don't want to drive with you.
I've never got hit with stage 3 and I don't see how one can manage it without crashing.
I have done stage 2 when switching lanes with a car less than 10 feet away, but all that is controlled, light tap on the brake disingages the system.
I've never got hit with stage 3 and I don't see how one can manage it without crashing.
I have done stage 2 when switching lanes with a car less than 10 feet away, but all that is controlled, light tap on the brake disingages the system.
#39
Burning Brakes
Chas...I don't want to drive with you.
I've never got hit with stage 3 and I don't see how one can manage it without crashing.
I have done stage 2 when switching lanes with a car less than 10 feet away, but all that is controlled, light tap on the brake disingages the system.
I've never got hit with stage 3 and I don't see how one can manage it without crashing.
I have done stage 2 when switching lanes with a car less than 10 feet away, but all that is controlled, light tap on the brake disingages the system.