2009 RL press review thread
3rd Gear
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: pennsylvania
yeah just hit 25,000 miles on my 2009 RL tech package black on black baby just took it to the dealer the airbag light had to be reset
and while i was there they were telling me 35,000 on a trade for a new TL damn i only had the car for a few months anyone hear had dealers trying to rip u off on a trade i'm putting mine on craigslist
and while i was there they were telling me 35,000 on a trade for a new TL damn i only had the car for a few months anyone hear had dealers trying to rip u off on a trade i'm putting mine on craigslist
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,845
Likes: 1,433
From: NC
RL Elite
The Acura RL and TL occupy the high-end echelon in the Acura sedan line-up. For the 2009 model year, both the RL and the TL have received extensive changes along with the rest of the Acura line-up. The TL Type-S has been replaced by the TL SH-AWD model, which has received the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. For both the RL and TL SH-AWD, the engine power has been bumped over the 300 hp mark. The 3.7-liter engines are a little bit on the high side of gas consumption.
The RL Elite is Acura's statement on how to build as much convenience and comfort into an executive-class vehicle in the $46,000 - $54,000 price segment. The TL SH-AWD is the embodiment of raw Acura driving emotion, packaged nicely in a matching level of luxury. Both vehicles have received drastic makeovers to the exterior for the 2009 model year, along with the rest of the Acura line-up. The new Acura fascia design with more aggressive sweeping lines and the solid-piece chrome grill, eliminates some cluttered lines and results in a clean, bold, and elegant image. I much prefer the new look for the RL over the previous design.
This aggression and boldness theme is pushed further in TL's new look. This drastic change, however, has drawn criticisms here and there. It may just take some time to get used to the new TL; it reminds me of my initial reaction when I first saw the current Toyota Camry design.
Except for the suspension, everything about the RL is described by words like "soft," "smooth," "cushy," and "fine." In contrast, words that describe the TL are "firm," "rigid," "bold," and "solid." Two cars built with very similar specs, but two different philosophies have shaped them far apart.
The interior of the RL is spacious, classy, and comfortable. The quality cushy leather seats are bordered in by gentle lines and wood trim. In contrast, the TL interior pursues the more modern and energetic perception with very firm and supportive leather seats, enclosed by aggressive curves and metal trim. Even the steering wheels demonstrate these differences: The RL is equipped with a wood-trim steering wheel with leather grips, while the TL is equipped with an extra-thick all-leather steering wheel.
It's a given that both cars would be loaded with all the electronic wizardry one would expect in a luxury car. GPS navigation system (with voice recognition), Bluetooth connections, reverse camera, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry, moon-roof, and premium audio system with USB connectivity and various audio format supports. The RL standard feature set and the TL Technology package further up the ante with GPS-linked sun-sensing climate control, and a comprehensive keyless access system, which links driver’s seat, mirror, steering wheel, and climate control settings to individual keys. Being Acura's pinnacle in luxury features, RL Elite tops it off with even more features like cooling front seats, power rear sunshade, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), and Active Noise Cancellation. CMBS uses radar to determine the speed of and distance from the vehicle ahead, and applies braking if the closing speed exceeds the programmed threshold.
Weighing in at 4,090 lb., the RL isn't light, but this is expected for luxury sedans in its class. This weight can be felt when accelerating and braking. The 300 horsepower engine does have the power to accelerate this car quickly, especially in Sequential Shift mode, but you would have to push on the gas pedal like you meant it. Driving casually in city traffic, the car accelerates in an easy and smooth fashion. To maintain this smooth ride, gently apply brakes early as well. The driver has a very good sense of the weight through various feedbacks, and the car corners fairly well thanks to the taut, sporty suspension and the SH-AWD drivetrain.
The SH-AWD is a very sophisticated mechanism that distributes torque over the four wheels independently. Accelerate lightly while turning, and the SH-AWD system kicks making it feel like the car is gliding along the curve. It is an interesting sensation. Even though it's no speed demon, the ride is smooth, refined, easy, and well-controlled. This ride complements the sheer comfort in the cabin.
The TL doesn't drive like it weighs 3,975 lb. kg. In contrast to the RL's highly cushioned and gentle feel, everything about the TL feels firm and solid, without feeling heavy. The leather seats are really firm and offer good support. The extra thick leather-wrapped steering wheel gives the driver a direct and linear connection to the drivetrain. The feedback from the automatic gearbox through the gas pedal is one of solidity. The taut suspension holds the car up around corners; and the brakes firmly clamp down on the rotors when you press the pedal.
The TL charges forward with power from the V6 engine. Step on the brake pedal, and the calipers firmly clamp down on the rotors, bringing the car to a stop in a linear and well-controlled manner. There is little body lean around corners, and the SH-AWD also improves cornering, although you don't get the same "gliding" sensation as the RL.
I was really intrigued when I first read about the 2009 TL receiving the SH-AWD option, putting the specs really close to the new RL. Built on top of SH-AWD and marginally different engine power, Acura's philosophies for different purposes in different price segments have produced two drastically different vehicles. The RL experience bathes the occupants in an exceptional level of ease and comfort, while the TL is the manifestation of the Acura driving spirit. Both are very solid entries to compete in their respective price ranges.
The RL Elite is Acura's statement on how to build as much convenience and comfort into an executive-class vehicle in the $46,000 - $54,000 price segment. The TL SH-AWD is the embodiment of raw Acura driving emotion, packaged nicely in a matching level of luxury. Both vehicles have received drastic makeovers to the exterior for the 2009 model year, along with the rest of the Acura line-up. The new Acura fascia design with more aggressive sweeping lines and the solid-piece chrome grill, eliminates some cluttered lines and results in a clean, bold, and elegant image. I much prefer the new look for the RL over the previous design.
This aggression and boldness theme is pushed further in TL's new look. This drastic change, however, has drawn criticisms here and there. It may just take some time to get used to the new TL; it reminds me of my initial reaction when I first saw the current Toyota Camry design.
Except for the suspension, everything about the RL is described by words like "soft," "smooth," "cushy," and "fine." In contrast, words that describe the TL are "firm," "rigid," "bold," and "solid." Two cars built with very similar specs, but two different philosophies have shaped them far apart.
The interior of the RL is spacious, classy, and comfortable. The quality cushy leather seats are bordered in by gentle lines and wood trim. In contrast, the TL interior pursues the more modern and energetic perception with very firm and supportive leather seats, enclosed by aggressive curves and metal trim. Even the steering wheels demonstrate these differences: The RL is equipped with a wood-trim steering wheel with leather grips, while the TL is equipped with an extra-thick all-leather steering wheel.
It's a given that both cars would be loaded with all the electronic wizardry one would expect in a luxury car. GPS navigation system (with voice recognition), Bluetooth connections, reverse camera, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry, moon-roof, and premium audio system with USB connectivity and various audio format supports. The RL standard feature set and the TL Technology package further up the ante with GPS-linked sun-sensing climate control, and a comprehensive keyless access system, which links driver’s seat, mirror, steering wheel, and climate control settings to individual keys. Being Acura's pinnacle in luxury features, RL Elite tops it off with even more features like cooling front seats, power rear sunshade, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), and Active Noise Cancellation. CMBS uses radar to determine the speed of and distance from the vehicle ahead, and applies braking if the closing speed exceeds the programmed threshold.
Weighing in at 4,090 lb., the RL isn't light, but this is expected for luxury sedans in its class. This weight can be felt when accelerating and braking. The 300 horsepower engine does have the power to accelerate this car quickly, especially in Sequential Shift mode, but you would have to push on the gas pedal like you meant it. Driving casually in city traffic, the car accelerates in an easy and smooth fashion. To maintain this smooth ride, gently apply brakes early as well. The driver has a very good sense of the weight through various feedbacks, and the car corners fairly well thanks to the taut, sporty suspension and the SH-AWD drivetrain.
The SH-AWD is a very sophisticated mechanism that distributes torque over the four wheels independently. Accelerate lightly while turning, and the SH-AWD system kicks making it feel like the car is gliding along the curve. It is an interesting sensation. Even though it's no speed demon, the ride is smooth, refined, easy, and well-controlled. This ride complements the sheer comfort in the cabin.
The TL doesn't drive like it weighs 3,975 lb. kg. In contrast to the RL's highly cushioned and gentle feel, everything about the TL feels firm and solid, without feeling heavy. The leather seats are really firm and offer good support. The extra thick leather-wrapped steering wheel gives the driver a direct and linear connection to the drivetrain. The feedback from the automatic gearbox through the gas pedal is one of solidity. The taut suspension holds the car up around corners; and the brakes firmly clamp down on the rotors when you press the pedal.
The TL charges forward with power from the V6 engine. Step on the brake pedal, and the calipers firmly clamp down on the rotors, bringing the car to a stop in a linear and well-controlled manner. There is little body lean around corners, and the SH-AWD also improves cornering, although you don't get the same "gliding" sensation as the RL.
I was really intrigued when I first read about the 2009 TL receiving the SH-AWD option, putting the specs really close to the new RL. Built on top of SH-AWD and marginally different engine power, Acura's philosophies for different purposes in different price segments have produced two drastically different vehicles. The RL experience bathes the occupants in an exceptional level of ease and comfort, while the TL is the manifestation of the Acura driving spirit. Both are very solid entries to compete in their respective price ranges.
2009 RL Elite
3.7-liter V6 engine
300bhp@6300rpm, 271lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 4,090 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 18 city / 26 hwy
Price as tested: $54,100
2009 TL SH-AWD Technology
3.7-liter V6 engine
305bhp@6300rpm, 273lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 3,975 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 19 city / 29 hwy.
Price as tested: $45,990
3.7-liter V6 engine
300bhp@6300rpm, 271lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 4,090 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 18 city / 26 hwy
Price as tested: $54,100
2009 TL SH-AWD Technology
3.7-liter V6 engine
305bhp@6300rpm, 273lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 3,975 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 19 city / 29 hwy.
Price as tested: $45,990
Safety Car
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 4,258
Likes: 88
From: NY
interesting...though I get the feeling the person was writing the same thing over and over again just to have enough to publish.
Maybe a drive in one of othese cars would have provided material for a write up?
Maybe a drive in one of othese cars would have provided material for a write up?
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,845
Likes: 1,433
From: NC
AutoChannel Review
A Legend is a tough act to follow, but that's what the first RL did in mid-1996 when Acura replaced its original Legend nameplate with the alphabetic designator. As Acura's flagship luxury-performance sedan, the RL has always combined a high degree of technology, both for passenger comfort and convenience and performance, with the most powerful V6 engine in the company's sedan inventory. Conservative styling was the norm, until a radical 2005 redesign. Now there is a new generation of RL.
It can be most easily told from its immediate predecessor by the newest version of the corporate grille, called "power plenum" by Acura, although there are further modifications to bodywork. Inside are all of the luxury appointments expected, plus state-of-the-art cabin electronics. The V6 engine now displaces 3.7 liters, up from the previous 3.5, for increased horsepower and torque. As before, that gets to all four wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission and Acura's high-tech "SH-AWD" all-wheel drive system, all the better to eliminate torque steer and improve control, stability, and handling. Driving characteristics are improved by revisions to the steering and to the suspension, and the SH-AWD system. A high level of standard safety equipment can be upgraded with the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS(tm)), which can warn the driver of the possibility of a collision and, in some circumstances, initiate braking.
As has been the Acura custom, the RL sedan is well-equipped, with a minimum number of option packages offered. Standard fare includes the new engine and SH-AWD system, a Bose® Surround Sound audio system, Bluetooth® phone connectivity, and a GPS-based solar-sensing climate-control system. The Technology Package adds a GPS navigation system with rearview camera, AcuraLink® real-time traffic and weather information, active front lighting, and interior upgrades. Above that is the Technology Package With CMBS, which adds the aforementioned CMBS braking-safety system, adaptive cruise control, and real wood interior trim.
And it was the fully-equipped RL with Technology Package With CMBS with which I spent the past week. It's a high-tech tour de force that just happens to also be a comfortable, quiet, and quick luxury sedan.
APPEARANCE: While the 2009 Acura RL has the same basic shape as the 2008 model, the new grille, hood, and lights -- both head and tail -- are much bolder. Love it or hate it, the huge aluminized "power plenum" grille is instantly recognizable. The aluminum hood reduces weight and improves weight distribution a bit, and careful attention to underbody and through-body airflow reduces both drag, for improved efficiency, and lift, for stability at speed. Discreet amounts of chrome imply luxury elegance.
COMFORT: Get in, and you'll receive a "Welcome" message on the message center in the instrument cluster. When you leave, the car will say "Goodbye". Smart Entry means never needing to insert a key into the dash to start the car, or remove the fob from your pocket to lock or unlock. Standard fare in the mid-luxury class these days, but in the top-level RL Acura adds pretty much all possible cabin electronics, with a well-integrated, simple to use interface. With Bluetooth connectivity, think of the Technology Package RL as a smartphone with four wheels. It has voice-activated navigation, real-time weather and traffic information, a 10-speaker surround-sound audio system with AM/FM/XM radio, 6 CD or DVD-Audio, an auxiliary jack and USB port (for iPods), calendar, and note-taking ability. It's also a top-notch mid-luxury sedan, with very comfortable perforated leather power front seats ( heated and cooled with the Technology Package) and a more spacious rear seat. Bright backlit LED instruments aid the driver, as does a tilt and telescope power-adjustable steering wheel. Light and GPS sensors in the climate control system sense the sun's position and adjust temperature and ventilation to compensate for asymmetrical solar heat. The new Active Sound Control system improves on the old Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system and now reduces high as well as low-frequency drivetrain and road noise. (Arthur C. Clarke is down at the White Hart smiling about this...) There are convenient storage spaces around the cabin, and a ski passthrough to the large trunk.
SAFETY: The RL's "Advanced Compatibility Engineering(tm)" unibody structure is designed to protect passengers with controlled-deformation front and rear structures and a strong passenger safety cell. Front-seat active head restraints are new this year. Dual front, front side, and side-curtain airbags are standard, as are four-wheel antilock disc brakes and the Vehicle Stability Assist system. The Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which uses a radar sensor in the front grille and sophisticated computer control to monitor closing speeds to vehicles in front and warn the driver or even initiate braking, is available.
RIDE AND HANDLING: The RL's fully-independent double-wishbone front, multilink rear suspension utilizes aluminum control arms, steering knuckles, and subframes to reduce both sprung and unsprung weight. For 2009 the electric power steering system has been upgraded, and stiffer springs, dampers, and bushings and a larger rear stabilizer bar give sportier response with no decrease in comfort. The "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(tm)" system not only splits torque front-to-rear for optimum traction and torque steer elimination, it also distributes torque side-to-side for improved cornering. It's been enhanced this year to reduce understeer ("push", the tendency of a car to resist turning) by rotating the outside rear wheel faster than the front wheels. The result is a comfortable, responsive, and (thanks to ANC) quiet high-tech car.
PERFORMANCE: Numbers don't tell all. While the new RL's 3.7-liter V6 has more horsepower and torque than last year's 3.5 -- 300 hp at 6300 rpm vs 290 hp at 6200 and 271 lb-ft at 5000 rpm vs 256 at 5000 -- the increase may not seem to be all that much. More important than peak numbers is low- and mid-range torque, and it is there where the new engine shines. It's lighter in weight than the old 3.5, and sees the first use of Honda/Acura's VTEC variable valve timing and lift control on exhaust as well as the intake valves in a single overhead cam (SOHC) engine. It's matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with normal and sport modes, and Sequential SportShift manual shifting via paddles on the steering column. With the copious low-end torque, D is perfectly fine in everyday use, as the transmission shifts quickly and smoothly and Grade Logic Control keeps it from shifting at inopportune times. Sport mode holds gears longer, usually keeps the car in a gear lower than D and so closer to the torque peak for quicker response at the expense of fuel economy. Manual shifting allows the driver complete control, for a more satisfying driving experience.
CONCLUSIONS: The 2009 Acura RL combines technology with luxury and performance.
SPECIFICATIONS
2009 Acura RL CMBS
Base Price $ 54,100
Price As Tested $ 54,860
Engine Type sohc 24-valve aluminum alloy V6 with
VTEC variable valve timing
and lift system
Engine Size 3.7 liters / 224 cu. in.
Horsepower 300 @ 6300 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) 271 @ 5000 rpm
Transmission 5-speed electronically-controlled
automatic with manual-shift mode
Wheelbase / Length 110.2 in. / 195.8 in.
Curb Weight 4110 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower 13.7
Fuel Capacity 19.4 gal.
Fuel Requirement 91 octane unleaded premium gasoline
Tires P245/45R18 96V Michelin Pilot HX MXM4
Brakes, front/rear vented disc all around, ABS and VSA standard
Suspension, front/rear independent double wishbone /
independent multilink
Drivetrain transverse front engine, all-wheel drive
PERFORMANCE
EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon
city / highway / observed 16 / 22 / 18
0 to 60 mph 6.5 sec
OPTIONS AND CHARGES
Destination and Handling $ 760
2009 Acura RL CMBS
Base Price $ 54,100
Price As Tested $ 54,860
Engine Type sohc 24-valve aluminum alloy V6 with
VTEC variable valve timing
and lift system
Engine Size 3.7 liters / 224 cu. in.
Horsepower 300 @ 6300 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) 271 @ 5000 rpm
Transmission 5-speed electronically-controlled
automatic with manual-shift mode
Wheelbase / Length 110.2 in. / 195.8 in.
Curb Weight 4110 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower 13.7
Fuel Capacity 19.4 gal.
Fuel Requirement 91 octane unleaded premium gasoline
Tires P245/45R18 96V Michelin Pilot HX MXM4
Brakes, front/rear vented disc all around, ABS and VSA standard
Suspension, front/rear independent double wishbone /
independent multilink
Drivetrain transverse front engine, all-wheel drive
PERFORMANCE
EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon
city / highway / observed 16 / 22 / 18
0 to 60 mph 6.5 sec
OPTIONS AND CHARGES
Destination and Handling $ 760
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,845
Likes: 1,433
From: NC
Another
Acura Sedan is All the Luxury You Need
Bob English
Globe and Mail Update, Wednesday, Jun. 24, 2009 11:09PM EDT
Bob English
Globe and Mail Update, Wednesday, Jun. 24, 2009 11:09PM EDT
Acura's luxury flotilla leader, the RL, received a surprisingly comprehensive mid-cycle makeover for the 2009 model year. Perhaps it was to give the sedan some additional showroom staying power while we wait to see whether the rumour mill is correct – that a possibly larger, even more upmarket V-8-powered 2011 model will appear mid-next year.
“It's an interesting rumour,” is as far as a Honda Canada spokesperson would go, but auto website Edmunds.com says the company is finally bowing to luxury ranks peer pressure and developing an all-new approach to the RL with a rear-drive-biased, but still all-wheel-drive-equipped, platform that will be powered by a 420-horsepower, 4.8-litre V-8.
The product cycle timing is about right for a new RL to appear for 2011, as the current second-generation RL hit the streets as a 2005. I'll bet, though, that Acura still won't be bringing to market a rival for the heavyweight premium-class Audi A8, BMW 7-Series, Jaguar XJ Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Lexus LS 460. Rather, in keeping with its all-the-luxury-you-really-need philosophy, it will be a variation on the mid-level theme it currently hums along to, accompanied by rivals such as the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, Cadillac STS, Lincoln MKS and Lexus GS. Not regal, in other words, but real-world.
In the meantime, the changes to the current RL improve what was already a very pleasant and technologically up-to-the-minute vehicle, adding a little presence with revised styling and 56 millimetres of length, along with some additional power, extra rear-seat legroom, new equipment, more high-tech electronic gadgetry and improvements to the AWD system, steering, suspension and wheels.
A base, and already comprehensively equipped, RL goes for $63,900, but our tester came with the Elite package that adds a collision-mitigation braking system (that measures the closing rate with a vehicle ahead and slows or brakes to avoid running into it), adaptive cruise control (which can maintain distance to the car ahead), an active (swivelling) front lighting system, heated and cooled front seats, and real curly-maple-wood trim – which ups the ante to $69,500.
The new front-end treatment adds a sportier touch to this luxury/performance sedan with its revised air intakes, and arguably some additional elegance with the new grille and headlamps.
The rear lights and bumper were also altered. The added length brings it within a hand's breadth of some of those premium-class cars mentioned, but it still maintains a more svelte look and carries considerably less weight.
Changes to the interior include the seats, which are covered in soft leather and hold you in place comfortably (the passenger seat is now 10-way power-assisted), a new straight-gate shifter, a wood-trimmed steering wheel and heated rear seats. The Acura/Bose sound system now includes Bluetooth audio, and there's upgraded XM satellite radio and a USB port. Plus, sound insulation has been increased, the hands-free phone system is able to listen to you better and the Smart Key allows push-button starts.
This is a very pleasant interior, light and airy, fairly roomy, quiet at cruising speeds and, despite handling upgrades, offers a ride that's firmly supple. Trunk space at 371 litres is considerably less than some in the class offer.
The RL features a broad array of safety equipment to help you avoid accidents, such as electronic stability control, ABS brakes, swivelling adaptive headlights, a collision-mitigation braking system and adaptive cruise control (well, actually this is just annoying), plus the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, and active head restraints.
Mechanical changes centre on the single-overhead cam V-6 engine, which now displaces 3.7 litres (up from 3.5 litres) and is fitted with a variable valve timing system that operates on both the intake and exhaust valves, a higher compression ratio and a new intake system.
Power has been increased by 10 hp to 300 hp at 6,300 rpm, and torque jumps from 256 lb-ft to 271 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm. It still gets to all four wheels – through the very clever and improved Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system – via a five-speed automatic, however, which seems a little low-tech given the proliferation of six-speed units in this class. This can be shifted with reprogrammed Formula One-style steering-wheel paddles.
Weight doesn't appear to have gone up and Acura claims the restyled RL is more aerodynamic, so it must be the added displacement and power that are to blame for the poorer fuel economy numbers. The 2009 RL is rated at 13.1 L/100 km city and 9.0 highway, while the 2008's ratings are 12.9 city/8.4 highway.
In driving terms, the car feels more than quick and lively enough, as it always has, if possibly a little more responsive owing to the broader spread of torque. An extra gear in the transmission would likely have had the same effect, though, while maintaining or even improving fuel economy.
The up-rated engine likely knocks a few tenths off acceleration times, but improving the car's sporting character even more are higher-rate springs, revised shock absorbers, stiffer rear anti-roll bar, new suspension bushings, larger wheels (now 18-inchers rather than 17s fitted with P245/45 R18 tires) and a power steering system recalibrated to produce a more linear feel, which it does.
On the road, the RL feels light, stiff in its bones and well muscled.
All in all, the RL is a delightful car – quick, agile, safe with its AWD and electronic-handling aids, roomy and comfortable inside, and stylish without being flashy.
***** ***** ***** ***** *****
2009 ACURA RL ELITE
Type: Luxury/performance sedan
Base Price: $63,900; as tested, $69,500
Engine: 3.7-litre, SOHC, V-6
Drive: All-wheel-drive
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Horsepower/torque: 300 hp/ 271 lb-ft
Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 13.1 city/9.0 highway; premium gas
Alternatives: Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, Lincoln MKS, Lexus GS, Cadillac STS
Like
* The refreshed styling works
* The handling improvements are worthwhile and the interior has been made a little more user-friendly and comfortable
Don't like
* A six-speed automatic transmission is overdue
* Worse fuel economy is a far-from-laudable exchange for a marginal gain in performance
globeauto@globeandmail.com
2009 ACURA RL ELITE
Type: Luxury/performance sedan
Base Price: $63,900; as tested, $69,500
Engine: 3.7-litre, SOHC, V-6
Drive: All-wheel-drive
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Horsepower/torque: 300 hp/ 271 lb-ft
Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 13.1 city/9.0 highway; premium gas
Alternatives: Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, Lincoln MKS, Lexus GS, Cadillac STS
Like
* The refreshed styling works
* The handling improvements are worthwhile and the interior has been made a little more user-friendly and comfortable
Don't like
* A six-speed automatic transmission is overdue
* Worse fuel economy is a far-from-laudable exchange for a marginal gain in performance
globeauto@globeandmail.com
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,845
Likes: 1,433
From: NC
Hidden Gem
The current generation Acura RL has largely been overlooked. And with stiff competition from the likes of the Infiniti M35 it is no surprise.
As it has been said, you only get one chance to make a first impression. One possible reason the RL has not set the automotive world on fire is exactly this.
When introduced, the Acura RL lacked the visual impact that its competition had. Most successful luxury flagships reflect a certain presence, one that instantly communicates its place atop the proverbial food chain.
Similar to the current Volvo S80, the first version of the 2010 Acura RL just did not project the size and style of a premium sedan. That version of the Acura RL had the visual feel of a “jazzed-up” Honda Accord. Many buyers never bothered to see if there was more to the RL than its plain Jane style.
But a recent refreshening of the RL’s design has spiced things up a bit. It raised the Acura’s nose; incorporated a new chevron, Transformers-emblem like grill; enlarged its headlights; broadened its shoulders and defined its hips along with more prominent taillights.
As it is with most first impressions, there is much more to the RL than meets the eye. Once inside, the driver and passengers are faced with stylish dash and center console, featuring a forward sloping angle, accented by long arching lines. The steering wheel, which features cruise, stereo and voice controls feels great with buttons ideally placed.
Overall, the RL has a solid upscale, luxury feel, but does not feel as spacious as say the Hyundai Genesis sedan. And speaking of the rear-wheel drive Hyundai Genesis sedan, one of my biggest issues with Acura has been the lack of a rear wheel drive model, along with the absence of a V8 power plant.
It is these two primarily features that have elevated the status of the first generation Hyundai Genesis sedan. However, Acuras “g-wiz” engineers developed the Super Handling All-Wheel drive system to give the RL less of a front wheel drive nature and more of a near, rear-wheel drive feel. This all-wheel drive system is so advanced that under cornering it can transfer power to just one, two, three or four wheels in any combination -- front left and right rear, front right and rear right, etc. This gives the RL a higher than normal cornering ability for a mid to full sized sedan.
The combination of this and the RL’s 3.7 liter, 300 horsepower V6 give it a much better feel than I initially thought. While power is not great, it is potent enough for most road going situations.
The brakes were good and the ride had a nice touch of luxury, laced with good levels of performance. If you are considering the Volvo S80, you definitely want to check out the Acura RL, it is one of those rare hidden gems that will impress many.
Larry Cornwell is an automotive journalist with Speedracer Syndication. He is based in the Charlotte area.
Price Range: $47,000-$55,000
Engine: 3.7-liter four cylinder, producing 300 horsepower and 271 pounds feet of torque
Fuel Economy: 16 miles per gallon city / 22 mpg highway
As it has been said, you only get one chance to make a first impression. One possible reason the RL has not set the automotive world on fire is exactly this.
When introduced, the Acura RL lacked the visual impact that its competition had. Most successful luxury flagships reflect a certain presence, one that instantly communicates its place atop the proverbial food chain.
Similar to the current Volvo S80, the first version of the 2010 Acura RL just did not project the size and style of a premium sedan. That version of the Acura RL had the visual feel of a “jazzed-up” Honda Accord. Many buyers never bothered to see if there was more to the RL than its plain Jane style.
But a recent refreshening of the RL’s design has spiced things up a bit. It raised the Acura’s nose; incorporated a new chevron, Transformers-emblem like grill; enlarged its headlights; broadened its shoulders and defined its hips along with more prominent taillights.
As it is with most first impressions, there is much more to the RL than meets the eye. Once inside, the driver and passengers are faced with stylish dash and center console, featuring a forward sloping angle, accented by long arching lines. The steering wheel, which features cruise, stereo and voice controls feels great with buttons ideally placed.
Overall, the RL has a solid upscale, luxury feel, but does not feel as spacious as say the Hyundai Genesis sedan. And speaking of the rear-wheel drive Hyundai Genesis sedan, one of my biggest issues with Acura has been the lack of a rear wheel drive model, along with the absence of a V8 power plant.
It is these two primarily features that have elevated the status of the first generation Hyundai Genesis sedan. However, Acuras “g-wiz” engineers developed the Super Handling All-Wheel drive system to give the RL less of a front wheel drive nature and more of a near, rear-wheel drive feel. This all-wheel drive system is so advanced that under cornering it can transfer power to just one, two, three or four wheels in any combination -- front left and right rear, front right and rear right, etc. This gives the RL a higher than normal cornering ability for a mid to full sized sedan.
The combination of this and the RL’s 3.7 liter, 300 horsepower V6 give it a much better feel than I initially thought. While power is not great, it is potent enough for most road going situations.
The brakes were good and the ride had a nice touch of luxury, laced with good levels of performance. If you are considering the Volvo S80, you definitely want to check out the Acura RL, it is one of those rare hidden gems that will impress many.
Larry Cornwell is an automotive journalist with Speedracer Syndication. He is based in the Charlotte area.
Price Range: $47,000-$55,000
Engine: 3.7-liter four cylinder, producing 300 horsepower and 271 pounds feet of torque
Fuel Economy: 16 miles per gallon city / 22 mpg highway
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Yumcha
Automotive News
1
Sep 17, 2015 09:01 PM
