2009 RL (press releases and pics pages 41-3)
#161
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The thing is, Mercedes was named after the guy's daughter who was named Mercedes. And we all love Mercedes Ruhl, right..?
Yes, people do name their kids Lexus. But how many brands had an Adam Sandler song about them?
"If you want to sex us better get a Lexus."
If I met someone named 'Acura' I'd think they had retarded parents!
Yes, people do name their kids Lexus. But how many brands had an Adam Sandler song about them?
"If you want to sex us better get a Lexus."
If I met someone named 'Acura' I'd think they had retarded parents!
Originally Posted by gavine
I was at a graduation last night and at least three kids were names "Mercedes". Proof that the brand has prestige about it. I didn't hear any kids named "Acura" by the way.
There were a couple named "Alexis" but that doesn't count for Lexus, does it?
There were a couple named "Alexis" but that doesn't count for Lexus, does it?
#162
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Originally Posted by CL6
If I met someone named 'Acura' I'd think they had retarded parents!
Check your mail CL6!
#164
CLS 6MT Navi
Don't forget Ford Edsel. Henry Ford's son, the car bombed.
and Vigor mortis.//
Prince had a song, that mentioned the Acura Legend, some of his unreleased stuff (when he was trying to rap).
and Vigor mortis.//
Prince had a song, that mentioned the Acura Legend, some of his unreleased stuff (when he was trying to rap).
#165
Safety Car
TOV has someone coming from a dealer meeting saying new RL in '10 with a possible V-10, and new sheet metal in 09. Sounds suspect, but interesting gossip, just like what started this thread
#166
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'08 Rl
Talked to my dealer last week and discussed RLs w/ the internet manager. Dealers already have their '08 allocations, but don't know any details about the cars save for their colors.
His understanding is that it's simply a carryover year. They're expecting delivery in July, I believe--don't remember exactly, just know that it seemed earlier than normal.
Now, IMHO, this would seem to imply that we should expect an early '09 release in '08 (maybe spring) with a MMC. Again, speculation, speculation, but this would seem to be logical given the '08 release soon.
His understanding is that it's simply a carryover year. They're expecting delivery in July, I believe--don't remember exactly, just know that it seemed earlier than normal.
Now, IMHO, this would seem to imply that we should expect an early '09 release in '08 (maybe spring) with a MMC. Again, speculation, speculation, but this would seem to be logical given the '08 release soon.
#167
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Originally Posted by SPUDMTN
Talked to my dealer last week and discussed RLs w/ the internet manager. Dealers already have their '08 allocations, but don't know any details about the cars save for their colors.
His understanding is that it's simply a carryover year. They're expecting delivery in July, I believe--don't remember exactly, just know that it seemed earlier than normal.
Now, IMHO, this would seem to imply that we should expect an early '09 release in '08 (maybe spring) with a MMC. Again, speculation, speculation, but this would seem to be logical given the '08 release soon.
His understanding is that it's simply a carryover year. They're expecting delivery in July, I believe--don't remember exactly, just know that it seemed earlier than normal.
Now, IMHO, this would seem to imply that we should expect an early '09 release in '08 (maybe spring) with a MMC. Again, speculation, speculation, but this would seem to be logical given the '08 release soon.
If the '08s are a month away, then Acura is just trying to get a jump on Lexus, Caddy and Infiniti. I doubt it's a short model year bump. If that was the case, they would forgo the '08 year (like Infiniti with the Q45) and the '09's would have a fresh face.
#168
CLS 6MT Navi
I know the 01-03 CL had unusual release dates -
Acura skipped the 2000 MY and brought the 01 CL out in Spring (May?) of 2000.
the 02 CL had a very short model year,
the 03 CL came out in spring (April?) of 2002.
in this case the 02 was not selling well. they added the much wanted 6 speed option in 03 and brought the 03 out early.
Acura skipped the 2000 MY and brought the 01 CL out in Spring (May?) of 2000.
the 02 CL had a very short model year,
the 03 CL came out in spring (April?) of 2002.
in this case the 02 was not selling well. they added the much wanted 6 speed option in 03 and brought the 03 out early.
#169
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The Accord is new this Fall and part of it is keeping that seperate. The TSX gets re-done before next October but I hadn't heard about the RL launching early. Going by Acura's 5 year plan the next gen RL is 09... I don't see that changing.
#170
Originally Posted by Chas2
TOV has someone coming from a dealer meeting saying new RL in '10 with a possible V-10, and new sheet metal in 09. Sounds suspect, but interesting gossip, just like what started this thread
How about a long wheel base flagship with the rumored 4.2L V8 or 5.0L V10? Now that would smack the competition.
#171
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Originally Posted by static808
Now a new RL with a V10 and new sheet metal would be nice in 2009
How about a long wheel base flagship with the rumored 4.2L V8 or 5.0L V10? Now that would smack the competition.
How about a long wheel base flagship with the rumored 4.2L V8 or 5.0L V10? Now that would smack the competition.
Maybe at least Nineteens with spinners for 08.
#172
Three Wheelin'
A full-sized flagship above the RL would be nice.
#173
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by static808
Now a new RL with a V10 and new sheet metal would be nice in 2009
How about a long wheel base flagship with the rumored 4.2L V8 or 5.0L V10? Now that would smack the competition.
How about a long wheel base flagship with the rumored 4.2L V8 or 5.0L V10? Now that would smack the competition.
All I'm asking for is a V6 with more low end torque. If Nissan can do it, Honda can do it better. A V8, as we all want, would be nice but not realistic for the company billing itself as the "most fuel efficient auto company in America".
With that said, a longer wheel base car w/gobs of power would be my idea of a flagship. That it would attract people to the brand.
#174
Go Big Blue!
A v10 in the RL?? Who would buy that? That would probably be a huge mistake. Even a v8 is going to have limited appeal. Most midsize sedan buyers want a v6. I could maybe see Acura buckling under the pressure and offering a v8 because the competion has it. But even then, how many M45's does Infiniti really sell?
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
#175
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Originally Posted by neuronbob
All I'm asking for is a V6 with more low end torque. If Nissan can do it, Honda can do it better.
A V8, as we all want, would be nice but not realistic for the company billing itself as the "most fuel efficient auto company in America".
A V8, as we all want, would be nice but not realistic for the company billing itself as the "most fuel efficient auto company in America".
Nissan favors the grunt (an engine noise) but do you see the same economy? From what I read an M35 has significantly lower avg mpg.
Honda follows a different philosophy. Higher revs, better economy.
Now Toyota does offer similar or better power and economy in their V6, but they also have trannies with better gearing (when they don't go *BOOM*).
I think the Honda clean diesels being launched will introduce the low end grunt and maintain economy that we all want in Honda engines. Hopefully it will be more ingenius than BlueTech, as I would expect from Honda. The campains are well under way in Europe for Honda passenger vehicle diesels.
#177
I would buy one. It's a little known fact that Acura hired one of Mercedes head designers about a year ago. His initial impression after coming into the company is that Acura has absolutely NO idea what a luxury full size sedan should be. He bought all of Acura's designers new C class, S class, LS, etc... to drive for 1 year. Their goal was to see what a flagship-like model should and could be.
Point being, when the RL is redesigned for the next generation, we will have a car to compete with the likes of these cars. One of the designs they have been tossing around is using a version of the next gen NSX V-10 engine in the next gen RL. I'd like to see a V-10 engined, Acura designed and built, M5 competitor. We all know that Acura can build cars like these. They have the means and the technology. The questions are will they? and/or when?
Point being, when the RL is redesigned for the next generation, we will have a car to compete with the likes of these cars. One of the designs they have been tossing around is using a version of the next gen NSX V-10 engine in the next gen RL. I'd like to see a V-10 engined, Acura designed and built, M5 competitor. We all know that Acura can build cars like these. They have the means and the technology. The questions are will they? and/or when?
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
A v10 in the RL?? Who would buy that? That would probably be a huge mistake. Even a v8 is going to have limited appeal. Most midsize sedan buyers want a v6. I could maybe see Acura buckling under the pressure and offering a v8 because the competion has it. But even then, how many M45's does Infiniti really sell?
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
#178
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Originally Posted by White92
It's a little known fact that Acura hired one of Mercedes head designers about a year ago. His initial impression after coming into the company is that Acura has absolutely NO idea what a luxury full size sedan should be. He bought all of Acura's designers new C class, S class, LS, etc... to drive for 1 year. Their goal was to see what a flagship-like model should and could be.
Mmmmm......very insteresting!!!
#179
Three Wheelin'
A V10 is a good idea, if they use it in multiple models. For example, Lexus' 4.3 liter V8 was used in the LS, LX (SUV), SC, and GS models. Perhaps the V10 can be used in Acura's upcoming GT car, a full-sized flagship, and as options in the RL and MDX. Maybe there can be an SUV above the MDX as well.
#180
Go Big Blue!
Originally Posted by White92
I would buy one. It's a little known fact that Acura hired one of Mercedes head designers about a year ago. His initial impression after coming into the company is that Acura has absolutely NO idea what a luxury full size sedan should be. He bought all of Acura's designers new C class, S class, LS, etc... to drive for 1 year. Their goal was to see what a flagship-like model should and could be.
#181
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
But the RL isn't a full size sedan. Come out with a model to compete with the 7 series, S class, or LS and put the v10 in that. What a shakeup that would cause. But don't put a v10 in my 4000lb midsize RL. I'm pretty confident that will be a mismatch.
Obviously if they went this route, the RL wouldn't be a midsize car anymore. They are looking at going full blown, full size, full luxury sedan.
Think about it. The TL will be getting SH-AWD for the fall of 08's full redesign. It will also get some new technology as well. That's pretty much the current RL (with some other details obviously.) They HAVE to redesign the RL soon after that. They can't have the 2 cars be that similar. The RL can only go upscale in every way.
#183
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
I certainly do not fit the mold of flagship buyers. I like the size of the RL. It feels substantial, but not too long for my tastes. I like the power and economy the current V6 has, and unless a V8 or V10 can offer the same econony, no less, I would not opt for it. I think the mid 40K pricepoint is appropriate for this car and I like the fact it is the current brand flagship. My brand snobbery is tempered by the attributes of the vehicle.
If Acura had a bigger car, bigger engine (with less economy) and exceed the 50K+ pricepoint, I would not buy it. If the current RL was offered below a bigger flagship, I would buy the current RL.
Do I care it is not a match for other premium / luxury brand flagships....nope. Do I cross shop appropriately priced & similar content vehicles...yup.
The TL was not enough for me. The RL is just right. If I wanted a larger, more expensive, higher powered less fuel efficient vehicle I expect I would be in a premium SUV.
If Acura had a bigger car, bigger engine (with less economy) and exceed the 50K+ pricepoint, I would not buy it. If the current RL was offered below a bigger flagship, I would buy the current RL.
Do I care it is not a match for other premium / luxury brand flagships....nope. Do I cross shop appropriately priced & similar content vehicles...yup.
The TL was not enough for me. The RL is just right. If I wanted a larger, more expensive, higher powered less fuel efficient vehicle I expect I would be in a premium SUV.
#184
I agree. The RL has always done what it's supposed to and done it well. One thing to not though is that if they if they do go bigger, better, faster route, the V-10 version shouldn't be the only engine offered.
Originally Posted by TampaRL
I certainly do not fit the mold of flagship buyers. I like the size of the RL. It feels substantial, but not too long for my tastes. I like the power and economy the current V6 has, and unless a V8 or V10 can offer the same econony, no less, I would not opt for it. I think the mid 40K pricepoint is appropriate for this car and I like the fact it is the current brand flagship. My brand snobbery is tempered by the attributes of the vehicle.
If Acura had a bigger car, bigger engine (with less economy) and exceed the 50K+ pricepoint, I would not buy it. If the current RL was offered below a bigger flagship, I would buy the current RL.
Do I care it is not a match for other premium / luxury brand flagships....nope. Do I cross shop appropriately priced & similar content vehicles...yup.
The TL was not enough for me. The RL is just right. If I wanted a larger, more expensive, higher powered less fuel efficient vehicle I expect I would be in a premium SUV.
If Acura had a bigger car, bigger engine (with less economy) and exceed the 50K+ pricepoint, I would not buy it. If the current RL was offered below a bigger flagship, I would buy the current RL.
Do I care it is not a match for other premium / luxury brand flagships....nope. Do I cross shop appropriately priced & similar content vehicles...yup.
The TL was not enough for me. The RL is just right. If I wanted a larger, more expensive, higher powered less fuel efficient vehicle I expect I would be in a premium SUV.
#185
If its true that Acura hired a designer away from Mercedes, then we should see a new "S" Class competitor in 2009 or 2010. This kind of fits the "global" launch of the Acura nameplate in that timeframe.
Will the RL be that car or will the Legend reappear is anybody's guess. The challenge is as mentioned. The 2008/2009 TL will be close to an RL in every way.
Mercedes has C/E/S Class. BMW has 3/5/7 series. Acura has TSX/TL/RL. Only Lexus uses that strange configuration of IS/ES/GS/LS, where the ES/GS = TL/RL.
Hypothesis: Most likely the RL will be moved upscale and the TL will be pitted against the E and 5 series sedans...that's a tall order if the TL wants to keep its mid-30's price range..and 70,000+ annual car sales. It can be done..I guess
I can only see this happen if Acura's gameplan is to go head-on with Mercedes and BMW. They can definitely notch themselves between a E Class (luxury) and 5 series (Sport) with the TL. The new flagship RL would need to WOW everybody and most likely have the S Class luxury and a serious engine (V8/V10) and configuration (SH-AWD).
Now imagine the new RL is $55,000 base and loaded at $65,000. Who wouldn't buy that? I would.. If it was a S class competitor with a V10 or V8 and SH-AWD.
Will the RL be that car or will the Legend reappear is anybody's guess. The challenge is as mentioned. The 2008/2009 TL will be close to an RL in every way.
Mercedes has C/E/S Class. BMW has 3/5/7 series. Acura has TSX/TL/RL. Only Lexus uses that strange configuration of IS/ES/GS/LS, where the ES/GS = TL/RL.
Hypothesis: Most likely the RL will be moved upscale and the TL will be pitted against the E and 5 series sedans...that's a tall order if the TL wants to keep its mid-30's price range..and 70,000+ annual car sales. It can be done..I guess
I can only see this happen if Acura's gameplan is to go head-on with Mercedes and BMW. They can definitely notch themselves between a E Class (luxury) and 5 series (Sport) with the TL. The new flagship RL would need to WOW everybody and most likely have the S Class luxury and a serious engine (V8/V10) and configuration (SH-AWD).
Now imagine the new RL is $55,000 base and loaded at $65,000. Who wouldn't buy that? I would.. If it was a S class competitor with a V10 or V8 and SH-AWD.
#186
Three Wheelin'
Of course, it depends on if Acura USA is really designing the next RL. All the previous RLs have been Japanese productions and I would assume the next RL would be as well.
#187
Originally Posted by static808
If its true that Acura hired a designer away from Mercedes, then we should see a new "S" Class competitor in 2009 or 2010. This kind of fits the "global" launch of the Acura nameplate in that timeframe.
Will the RL be that car or will the Legend reappear is anybody's guess. The challenge is as mentioned. The 2008/2009 TL will be close to an RL in every way.
Mercedes has C/E/S Class. BMW has 3/5/7 series. Acura has TSX/TL/RL. Only Lexus uses that strange configuration of IS/ES/GS/LS, where the ES/GS = TL/RL.
Hypothesis: Most likely the RL will be moved upscale and the TL will be pitted against the E and 5 series sedans...that's a tall order if the TL wants to keep its mid-30's price range..and 70,000+ annual car sales. It can be done..I guess
I can only see this happen if Acura's gameplan is to go head-on with Mercedes and BMW. They can definitely notch themselves between a E Class (luxury) and 5 series (Sport) with the TL. The new flagship RL would need to WOW everybody and most likely have the S Class luxury and a serious engine (V8/V10) and configuration (SH-AWD).
Now imagine the new RL is $55,000 base and loaded at $65,000. Who wouldn't buy that? I would.. If it was a S class competitor with a V10 or V8 and SH-AWD.
Will the RL be that car or will the Legend reappear is anybody's guess. The challenge is as mentioned. The 2008/2009 TL will be close to an RL in every way.
Mercedes has C/E/S Class. BMW has 3/5/7 series. Acura has TSX/TL/RL. Only Lexus uses that strange configuration of IS/ES/GS/LS, where the ES/GS = TL/RL.
Hypothesis: Most likely the RL will be moved upscale and the TL will be pitted against the E and 5 series sedans...that's a tall order if the TL wants to keep its mid-30's price range..and 70,000+ annual car sales. It can be done..I guess
I can only see this happen if Acura's gameplan is to go head-on with Mercedes and BMW. They can definitely notch themselves between a E Class (luxury) and 5 series (Sport) with the TL. The new flagship RL would need to WOW everybody and most likely have the S Class luxury and a serious engine (V8/V10) and configuration (SH-AWD).
Now imagine the new RL is $55,000 base and loaded at $65,000. Who wouldn't buy that? I would.. If it was a S class competitor with a V10 or V8 and SH-AWD.
#188
Go Big Blue!
Just saw this article. Fits into what we have been jawing about with the next RL. Maybe a v10 would be an option, but, I still think it's a mistake unless they go fullsize (over 200in)
http://www.motortrend.com/future/con...a_ridgeline_v8
http://www.motortrend.com/future/con...a_ridgeline_v8
#189
Instructor
I'd buy it!!!
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
A v10 in the RL?? Who would buy that? That would probably be a huge mistake. Even a v8 is going to have limited appeal. Most midsize sedan buyers want a v6. I could maybe see Acura buckling under the pressure and offering a v8 because the competion has it. But even then, how many M45's does Infiniti really sell?
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
Maybe if they came out with a long body sedan they might put the rumored v10 in it. But, who are we kidding. They're not going to do that. At least not as a "next step" from here. I agree with Bob, it would be too risky
#190
Go Big Blue!
Originally Posted by Shotgun
A Honda designed/engineered V10 with cylinder shut-off technology would rock! I'd be first inline to buy...
If the RL still came with a standard v6 I suspect the majority would not buy the 8cyl. There's lots of real life examples to support that assumption (e.g. M35/M45). Power is great, but it has to be needed. Most people buying a 4 door sedan are practical consumers. This is not an NSX buyer who can A) afford the gas, and B) probably uses it as a "weekend" car -- not their primary ride.
I'll say it again. Putting a v10 450hp engine into a 4000lb midsize sedan is a mismatch. Honda knows that. I can't imagine them doing that because they'd probably sell 100 per year. 20 of those would probably be bought from the guys on this site
#191
Originally Posted by CL6
I just learned... NO changes for 08 RL. It says something like: "The RL continues into 08 with timeless styling and class leading performance."
The only outstanding question is how long and how much marketing support money will be on the vehicle until the new model in 09 or 10.
#192
Originally Posted by static808
Hypothesis: Most likely the RL will be moved upscale and the TL will be pitted against the E and 5 series sedans...that's a tall order if the TL wants to keep its mid-30's price range..and 70,000+ annual car sales. It can be done..I guess
I can only see this happen if Acura's gameplan is to go head-on with Mercedes and BMW. They can definitely notch themselves between a E Class (luxury) and 5 series (Sport) with the TL. The new flagship RL would need to WOW everybody and most likely have the S Class luxury and a serious engine (V8/V10) and configuration (SH-AWD).
Now imagine the new RL is $55,000 base and loaded at $65,000. Who wouldn't buy that? I would.. If it was a S class competitor with a V10 or V8 and SH-AWD.
It will be interesting to watch how Hyundai does with the Genesis next year. They are aiming at the LS, 7 and the S. Will see if they do dent E and 5 sales. Now I think Acura is way ahead of Hyundai in perception, but they still have their work cut out for them.
#193
Go Big Blue!
Originally Posted by noobie
It will be interesting to watch how Hyundai does with the Genesis next year. They are aiming at the LS, 7 and the S. Will see if they do dent E and 5 sales. Now I think Acura is way ahead of Hyundai in perception, but they still have their work cut out for them.
If they want to go upscale then they will need to rebrand it. Very few people will be willing to spend $50k on a Hyundai even if it's worth $70k. However, they'd be willing to spend $70k on a Mercedes that's really worth $50k. That's just human nature.
#194
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
Very few people will be willing to spend $50k on a Hyundai even if it's worth $70k. However, they'd be willing to spend $70k on a Mercedes that's really worth $50k. That's just human nature.
LOL, Spicey, that is so true...sad but true.
#195
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Originally Posted by noobie
Well I guess it just confirms that Acura has given up on this gen RL. I'm guess they figure that it would take a major refresh to boost sales and that kind of money would best be spent on the next gen.
The only outstanding question is how long and how much marketing support money will be on the vehicle until the new model in 09 or 10.
The only outstanding question is how long and how much marketing support money will be on the vehicle until the new model in 09 or 10.
As long as Honda is reasonably satified with the global sales for the model, they will not retool for major changes prematurely. And since sales in the US are nowhere near target projections, why would they respond to the US desires if they can sell it elsewhere? Why risk the producton costs if they cannot offer the almighty V8 yet?
#196
AcurAdmirer
I'm still going with the neronman on this one. Honda is just too conservative a company to do something goofy like slap a V-10 into a luxury sedan. Even with cylinder deactivation, it represents the "wrong" image for a company that has dedicated itself to economical transportation.
Now, a smallish V-8 (like the 4.2 liter in the story) - especially with cylinder deactivation - is a reasonable way for Honda to cover both bases (it's a six ... it's an eight!), and it might actually appear in the next-gen RL.
But I still don't see Acura trying to compete with the M-B S-class. That's too much like VW's failed attempt with the Phaeton. Honda just doesn't even want to operate in that rarified atmosphere ... it ain't their turf. Heck, they're uncomfortable enough with the current RL!
.
.
Now, a smallish V-8 (like the 4.2 liter in the story) - especially with cylinder deactivation - is a reasonable way for Honda to cover both bases (it's a six ... it's an eight!), and it might actually appear in the next-gen RL.
But I still don't see Acura trying to compete with the M-B S-class. That's too much like VW's failed attempt with the Phaeton. Honda just doesn't even want to operate in that rarified atmosphere ... it ain't their turf. Heck, they're uncomfortable enough with the current RL!
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#197
Originally Posted by TampaRL
Acura has little to no say in the matter. Honda is JUST beginning to introduce the LEGEND is certain global markets. In some cases it will be introduced as an Acura RL. Changing assembly lines to accomodate anything more than content and cosmetic changes per market would not be wise for Honda. So Acura will have to bear with it as is for the model run.
As long as Honda is reasonably satified with the global sales for the model, they will not retool for major changes prematurely. And since sales in the US are nowhere near target projections, why would they respond to the US desires if they can sell it elsewhere? Why risk the producton costs if they cannot offer the almighty V8 yet?
As long as Honda is reasonably satified with the global sales for the model, they will not retool for major changes prematurely. And since sales in the US are nowhere near target projections, why would they respond to the US desires if they can sell it elsewhere? Why risk the producton costs if they cannot offer the almighty V8 yet?
With the introduction of the Acura nameplate in Japan in 2009/2010 timeframe, I would imagine the next set of refreshed sedans (TSX, TL, RL/Legend) will be the same in Japan and globally. In Japan, Acura will need to be redefined since the Euro Accord = TSX, TL is U.S. made and only shipping to China/Hong Kong and the RL = Honda Legend.
This could mean a Mercedes S Class competitor labeled as an Acura RL, with the TSX and TL launched as "new" sedans in Japan.
Lexus was introduced in the Japan market this year with the IS/GS/LS and SC coupe. I would imagine Honda is watching how Lexus is being judged in Japan and will follow a similar path.
Now where are those V8, V10 and V6 Turbo Diesel engines....
#198
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Originally Posted by static808
TampaRL, its true that the Legend is making the rounds globally as a Honda.
With the introduction of the Acura nameplate in Japan in 2009/2010 timeframe, I would imagine the next set of refreshed sedans (TSX, TL, RL/Legend) will be the same in Japan and globally. In Japan, Acura will need to be redefined since the Euro Accord = TSX, TL is U.S. made and only shipping to China/Hong Kong and the RL = Honda Legend.
This could mean a Mercedes S Class competitor labeled as an Acura RL, with the TSX and TL launched as "new" sedans in Japan.
Lexus was introduced in the Japan market this year with the IS/GS/LS and SC coupe. I would imagine Honda is watching how Lexus is being judged in Japan and will follow a similar path.
Now where are those V8, V10 and V6 Turbo Diesel engines....
With the introduction of the Acura nameplate in Japan in 2009/2010 timeframe, I would imagine the next set of refreshed sedans (TSX, TL, RL/Legend) will be the same in Japan and globally. In Japan, Acura will need to be redefined since the Euro Accord = TSX, TL is U.S. made and only shipping to China/Hong Kong and the RL = Honda Legend.
This could mean a Mercedes S Class competitor labeled as an Acura RL, with the TSX and TL launched as "new" sedans in Japan.
Lexus was introduced in the Japan market this year with the IS/GS/LS and SC coupe. I would imagine Honda is watching how Lexus is being judged in Japan and will follow a similar path.
Now where are those V8, V10 and V6 Turbo Diesel engines....
Acura is being launched in several Asian countries, along with Japan and the Middle East, and some additional European countries. Some in 2007, 2008 & 2009. It is my understanding that, initially the TL & RL will be the only Acura models. Perhaps when the next TSX / EuroAccord is launched, it will be under the Acura brand only? In countries where the Honda LEGEND is already offered, it will be rebadged as Acura RL with appropriate content for that market. Apparently the LEGEND is too much car for the Honda brand perception in most markets. Therefore is a marketing hocus pocus, Honda introduces the Acura premium brand and can upmarket the LEGEND as RL. Funny, as we in North America are screaming for the return of the LEGEND model name!
Lexus has similar issues. In countries where Lexus is unknown, some Lexus models are sold as Toyotas. Now they want to introduce the Lexus brand and rebadge the same cars and sell as Lexus...likley asking for more sticker money too.
GO figger.
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Hm Acura hired someone from Mercedes? That doesnt seem totally right to me. Caranddriver rated the RL better then the E class. The C class is 5k more then a base TL with a lot less options. I have also heard Mercedes Navi systems are horrible. Maybe they drive better but that is about it. I mean how many more cars a year does Mercedes sell then Acura? Also dont forget they have more cars to sell.
#200
Originally Posted by Trackruner228
Hm Acura hired someone from Mercedes? That doesnt seem totally right to me. Caranddriver rated the RL better then the E class. The C class is 5k more then a base TL with a lot less options. I have also heard Mercedes Navi systems are horrible. Maybe they drive better but that is about it. I mean how many more cars a year does Mercedes sell then Acura? Also dont forget they have more cars to sell.
Take for example the CLS from Mercedes. Its a cramped 4 door coupe but it outsells the RL and is priced between the $65K to $80K.
Mercedes sells alot of cars, or better put, leases alot of cars...Having somebody from Benz working for Acura will add some of the finer details luxury owners want. Something Honda and Acura might be missing. Who knows..but Benz is a powerhouse in sales....