The front head restraints in the 2010 model are much different from the 2006 model I owned. In the 2006 the rests were adjustable forward and backward (a folding action that extended the padding). On my 2010 the restraints are fixed, not adjustable. I so miss that feature.

 

same change on my 2008 MDX, I think the fixed angle improved Acura's rear crash test score, but I like being able to adjust the pad on my 06 RL also.

 

This reflects the mandatory active head restraint (anti whiplash) regulation that went into effect for all 2009 models. 49 CFR 571.202a - Standard No. 202a; Head restraints; Mandatory applicability began on September 1, 2008, and applied to all models manufactured on or after that date.

So yes, the change did improve the safety rating for the RL to the highest G or Good level. The only place the 05-08 RL did not fare as well was in head restraint, where it received a not so good M or Marginal level. The scale goes from Good, to Acceptable to Marginal to Poor.

http://www.hldi.org/ratings/head_res...age.aspx?acura

 

just change it back to the old ones.. And you all must know that just because it is a new car model doesnt mean the car is better!!

 

The headrests are not interchangeable. There were new seats in the 2009+ models, and the headrest mounting holes are spaced differently.

 

The 2010 MDX has the new restaints and the supports go down the back of the seats so that a rear end push cantelevers the head restraint forward to allow for better whip lash protection for the neck.

 

You can search on how this works, but the basic principle is as your body is pushed back into the seat, the supports spoken of above, are pushed backwards and the head rest is pushed forward and upwards to mitigate the whiplash action. Totally mechanical, and an elegant solution, as opposed to earlier ones that used pyrotechnic charges, for example.

 

oh.. it looked like the same seat sorry. No Acura dealers here even have a 2010 RL in there show room here to see. Thats why i dont believe the sales records.

 

I guess it depends on the area and the dealer. Mine has 12 in stock, 11 Tech Pkgs and one CMBS model. Next closest dealer has 11 in stock, all Tech Pkgs

 

i think we would be lucky to see 10 in all of canada!! lol the dealers are very dumb here.