So it's time for me to buy a new car and I'm stuck between a silver 2009 RL with Tech Pkg and 48k miles. The other car is a white 2012 TL Tech Pkg (FWD) with 60k. They are both the same price. I favor the exterior of the TL but I like the RL interior much more because of how luxurious it is. The downside to the RL is the 16/22 mpg (AWD isn't a must but it's nice). So I'm wondering what you guys think, and what the reasons were for you buying an RL/TL? Any feedback is much appreciated!

 

The differences have been discussed a number of times in other threads of you care to dig those up. In general, RL = luxury with sport and TL = sport with luxury. The aftermarket is MUCH larger for the TL. The RL has a better build quality, but reliability should be about equal.

I personally think the 4G TL is the ugliest car Acura has ever designed, and the RL is an undeniable value. For me it would be the RL.

 

as spy mentioned, they are TWO completely different classes of cars.

atl7 is going to have to figure what is more important to him.
either all out luxury or a sporty ride with a little lux thrown in

you also stated that MPG is important to you and it SHOULD play a major part in your consideration.

 

Like Justin said, it's really up to your opinion, not ours. The best thing you can do is test drive both cars and listen to yourself.

Please remember that both cars require premium fuel, so if a gas budget is a factor, that will only hurt the RL.

 

Also keep in mind the TL has better tech. The RL still uses the older DVD based navigation system and has the outdated 6 CD changer, while the TL has the HDD based navigation and music storage.

 

TL Advantages
1. much better performance with a 6 speed auto
2. handles better
3. slightly better tech (better dvd/back cam screen) HDD
4. much better fuel economy

RL Advantages
1. quieter more comfortable.
2. more luxurious interior
3. standard SH-AWD
4. air conditioned seats standard
5. rear and back window shades

Both great choices.

 

Thanks for all the feedback I really appreciate it! I think I'm leaning more towards the TL just because it's 3 years newer and 20/29 mpg would be really nice. IMO it looks newer but I love the RL interior so it'll be a tough decision

 

have you test driven both?

 

Interesting situation,

RL Pros:
-Luxo interior, wood, leather everywhere, feux-suede headliner, cooled seats, susnhades etc
-Smoother ride
-Quieter and very little vibration
-Superb build quality
-SH-AWD

TL Pros:
-Better looking design than 09 RL
-6 Speed, faster to 60
-Updated HDD nav system
-Better MPG

Both are great choices, but I'd go with the TL, if AWD isn't very important to you.

 

I just came from a 2006 RL Tech with ACC/CMBS to a 2012 TL SH-AWD Tech. For me personally, it's a win-lose situation. Despite the fact that I don't like the styling of the 09+ RL, I would say the RL wins this debate easily against a FWD TL. The TL is going to be faster, have updated tech features, get better gas mileage and be 3 years newer. The RL wins in every single other category. The biggest thing is the TL has NOWHERE NEAR the overall build quality of the RL, period. Every time I hear the empty sound of my 2012 TL's door shut I miss my RL. Find an SH-AWD TL and this will be more of an even match.

 

I just got rid of my 12 TL for an 08 RL. The RL is a much better car in my opinion. Its quieter and rides much smoother than the TL. If you like a rougher, more firm ride go for the TL.

I understand why these two cars are cross shopped but if they were not both Acura's I dont think they would be compared so closely, they really are much different.

 

I'm somewhat perplexed that you're ignoring, or minimizing, the value of SH-AWD.
Regardless of the terrain/weather in your locale the overall dynamics added by this feature is significant on any Acura model that offers it.
Personally, I wouldn't consider ANY car without it. Diminished fuel economy is a small price to pay compared to handling and safety