Well, Monday I was back at home and able to test drive the new RL while our RL was in the shop. The parentals are thinking a new RL to replace the existing one so a test drive seemed appropriate. Our sales rep pulled the new RL around and had it running for us and told us to enjoy the ride. It was very nice to not have a sales person in the car, and for it to just be my parents and I. Besides--I know a LOT about the car already, so I was able to point out most of the cool features new to us.

First things first: my expectations were greatly exceeded. I had sat in the car before and had inspected it some before, but this time I was able to take a very close look at everything. All of the materials were amazing...I'd say better than nearly all the competition out there. I'd go so far to say that the materials were right on par, if not better, than a Mercedes S-class. The leather is ultra soft, the dash material is wondeful, button movements are reassuringly firm and dampened, and the wood looks rich and deep. I also loved how the interior felt like a cockpit. This car is really big on the inside (bigger than the G1 RL) but seems to wrap around the driver and the passengers. I loved that feeling--it was like I was part of the car.

The exterior styling really grew on me, as well. The car has presence and just looks mean (especially from the front). I love the large chrome grill and the glaring headlamps--the projector beams are a nice touch. The side profile also looks good, though does not LOOK as long as the G1 RL. Its stance is sporty, aggressive, and muscular. The rear end especially surprised me...in pictures, the rear end of the RL is not terribly flattering. Inspecting it in person, however, this is definitely a great view of the car. I like the bulge of the trunk, and I like how the tail-lamps sweep upward as they wrap around the side of the car. Our demonstrator was Celestial Silver with Ebony interior, and this combination looked good...though our favorite was the Meteor Silver or the Premium White Pearl. Nearly all the RLs on the lot had the rear deck spoiler, and I'd have to say this is a definite must for the car--it really shows the sporting intentions of the RL and looks good with the dual exhaust.

But onto the drive...the car, again, exceeded my expectations. I was not the first one to drive the vehicle, so as a passenger, I can say that the RL rides amazingly. It was silky smooth over the majority of the road surfaces, but gave solid, hunkered-down feedback, much like a German vehicle. The ride probably is not quite as smooth as an S-class, but somewhat similiar, nonetheless. The power felt more than adequate, as it seemed the car accelerated rather effortlessly. What was very nice was that it did it so quietly. Road noise has been known to be an issue of the G1 RL, so the noise level is quite noticeable in the new RL. The engine let out just enough snarl to let you know it means business, and the thrust was enough to push you back into your seat--and that was not even full throttle. Everything about this car is so silky smooth.

When I got the chance to get behind the wheel, I once again noticed the cockpit feel. I loved it. Everything wrapped around me, and the sleek lines of the hood created a clean, un-interupted view of the road ahead (though did make it difficult to give some perspective as to how close I was to other things). I will admit that I was a little overwhelmed by all of the buttons. I was able to figure most everything out pretty easily, but the sheer number of buttons was somewhat intimidating--even for an 18 year old. But the layout was smart, as it only took a quick search to find what buttons did exactly what. The drive for me was absolutely great. Knowing more about the SH-AWD than my parents, and the great suspension tuning, I goosed it while turning at stop lights a few times. I was impressed by the grip and the stability of this thing. There was literally no roll and the grip gave great confidence (which is not so of the G1 RL). The power felt more than adequate for me, though I did not push it too much--demonstrator or not, the car had not been broken in, and there was too much traffic around me to do anything too fun.

But what really amazed me was all of the technology in this car. To see it all on paper is one thing, but to actually experience it is another. I used the voice commands a lot, and to experience them functioning is great. I know that they will be used frequently, since I can see my father and mother both using them to keep both hands on the wheel. My father was impressed by the shift-paddles on the steering wheel. The next generation nav system was a hit, and so was the central control knob...we're actually not going to update our current nav system, now. The seats were very comfortable...moreso than the G1 RL. Rearseat legroom was better than the G1. I really liked the remote retractable rear headrestraints, since it seems that my father is always putting rear headrestraints down in our vehicles. The sunshades were especially nice as well. And the keyless access and AcuraLink...enough said.

The RL has definitely exceeded my expectations, which were high to begin with. It is such an amazingly well-balanced vehicle that it is hard to disagree with. The build quality is staggering, bettering even the G1 RL which has been the pinnacle of Acura quality for quite some time. The performance is awesome, and perfectly plays the role of a sportsedan now. The technology is luxurious, convenient, and pretty darned cool, even if it gives a somewhat overwhelming first impression. In conclusion, the RL begs to ask the question, why even bother driving a European car? Further, the GS300 AWD and M35X are going to have to be pretty amazing to sway this family.

 

Nice post.

It's because of all the things that you said that we love the car and don't complain (at least not too much!) about some of the small "first year of a new generation" stuff that is bound to happen.

Thanks for taking the time to post your thoughts. Well done.

 

Spudmtn, thanks for your post. You really have to drive it to understand, don't you? What you experienced is what most of us RL owners have known for several months now.

BTW, if your writing is any indication you're a great example for other 18 year-olds everywhere.

 

Yep, agree with you. Nice post

Oh and I def agree that people need to drive the car before they make a conclusion on it. Also agree that the car (both exterior and interior) looks much better in person than in pics.

 

Well said. Thanks for your post.

IMO, I won't think GS300 AWD would have too much influence in performance category but popularity, I'd expect M35 a little more.








Edit: We try to collect all precious review out of you prestigious members and make them visible to all the members. Sticky for a few days...

 

Woa...is this really sticky material?

BTW--thanks for all the compliments...but they aren't necessary...just wanted to post my experience

 

Hello,
I hope I am placing my post in the correct spot, if not please forgive me.
After picking up my 05 RL from my dealer I was happy as can be until I started to drive between 50 and 80 mph on the freeway, this car is very loud at these speeds. I have been driving Lexus 400 and 430 for the past 10 years, until now I understand what a quiet car means.
Immediately I checked out the OEM Michellins at Tirerack.com and found that the OEM tires produced a high noise level. Tirerack suggested Michellin Pilot Sport A/S which I had installed for the past 1500 miles.
Noise level of tires can be barely heard and my RL feels 500 lbs lighter. I have test driven at over 100 mph without getting a ticket and the tire noise is at this speed is lower than the OEM at normal speeds.
I now believe that, not only Lexus can make a real car but Acura's RL is not only real but execiting too. I LOVED my 400 and 430, but the RL does make me feel 10 years younger.
And to those who commented about the engine power and transmission, please do not be fooled, the GS 430 or LS 430 are not capable in propellsion as the RL (SH-AWD might have something to with this) and I think both cars have app the same weight. Haven't you sensed as if a ten ton truck has been pushing your RL from behind and how does feel when you are driving in a heavy down pour of rain I live in Miami and love to drive this car when it rains, what a feel of power and precise control.
The tires have made a greal deal of differance with the car noise.

 

Good to hear feedback from a previous LS430 owner with respect to the noise level in the RL. I too dont find it all that quiet (on the OEMs) as I have much experience with the LS430.

I think I really need to change the tires because these OEMs piss me off and it is good to hear they are seemingly responsible for the noise in the car at highway speeds.

How is the ride with the pilot sports? Is it harsher? I wish the RL's ride wasn't so harsh. My friends Mazda 3 with 17s has a softer ride than the RL...that ain't right.

 

I switched my OEM tires out at 3,000 miles and it sure made a BIG difference in the noise level and ride smoothness. I even increased the wheel size from 17" to 18" and they are still a lot quieter and smoother than the OEMs. The tires I chose were the Nitto Extreme ZRs which is a high performance tire that my local tire store recommended since these tires were known for providing great performance, in addition to a smooth and quiet ride. That being said, there are several tires that are known for these characteristics (i.e. Pirelli P-Zero Nero M+S, Goodyear F1 GS-D3, Michelin Pilot Sport A/S).

As for the driving performance, I feel that the OEMs might have a slight edge over my currrent setup, since I believe the new bigger rims/wheels combined, are heavier, which has affected the unsprung weight "balance" just a bit. But for me, this was a compromise that I could definitely live with, since the very noisy and somewhat harsh OEMs were something that had to go (IMHO).

 

If I want to just change tires and keep the stock rims is there anything that needs to be done with the tire pressure system or will it work fine? I'd guess the system is built into the rim so changing just the tire shouldnt matter but I may be wrong...

All I know is I need new tires because I am tired of feeling every damn little road imperfection when driving and it seems the OEM tires are a big reason for this....

 

"All I know is I need new tires because I am tired of feeling every damn little road imperfection when driving and it seems the OEM tires are a big reason for this...."

Rob L - my '02 Tbird has exactly the same tires and I don't feel the expansion strips the way I do in my RL. As far as the RL is concerned, I'm convinced it is the suspension itself that is to blame. Driving 35-45 over concrete in the RL isn't much fun. It is one thing several of the reviews have commented on. But I wouldn't mind a new set of Pilot Sport A/S for either car!

 

Just my ...

I'm on my second set of Michelin Pilot Sport A/S on my 1997 E420, and I don't think I'd consider any other tire. I got about 35K miles out of the first set. I've always been a Michelin fan, and I think this is the best tire (all-around) that they make. I always get mine from Tire Rack, but I just joined Costco last month, and noticed you can special order them there as well, but I didn't check the price yet.

So, anyway, I give a big to the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S.

(sure, you could do better with summer performance tires, and a separate set of wheels and tires for the winter, but I hate the hassle - plus, on the RL, you'd have to buy another set of tire pressure monitors)

Randy

 

An excellent post. Not bias fair and square. I can't wait to take it for a spin. The euro legend won't come out until september, but I'm going to the states in july. Thanks for the post.

 

randy,

how are the pilot sports a/s tires in snow? That is the biggest concern I have since the OEMs on the RL are IMO complete crap in snow. I had my RL almost skid out twice this past winter because the tires just magically lost traction...and I was not going fast or doing anything out of the ordinary when these two occurances happened.

 

Not exactly confidence inspiring posts for those contemplating an RL Lots of concrete roads where I live.

 

I'm with Rob on this one. The OEMs are just plain damned scary in the snow.
I will be putting on some dedicated snow tires next winter.

 

I have the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S on my RL. My memory of the OEM tires is faint, but I think the main difference is in the stopping distance. With the OEM's, it took a scarrily long distance to stop. The current tires are pretty low in noise. But then, all these are subjective comparisons, and the only current car I drive for comparison has run-flat tires.

 

I also think your post was very well laid out and reminds me of some of the mags. with how detailed you are. The RL is a remarkable car and I agree with you in almost everything you said, but still in the performance category mainly acceleration the RL is still a little sluggish to me (at least fom my test drive on street and highway). Just my opinion. Coming from the G1 RL to the G2 RL it should feel like a rocket. But if your daily driver is a TL or G35 and you loved either of these cars and you are ready to step your class up the M45 or GS430 might be more of someones thing. The RL handles well and even brakes well (at least brand new, I'm not too fond of Acura/Honda brakes. They heat up and fade too fast) which are two essential parts of performance but you still can not leave out the acceleration. To me the RL has almost all the goods to take the sport sedan category by storm. Maybe an updated version or the G3 RL will run through this category like the potential it has to do. But anyway enough about my opion great post and I hope you'll get a new RL soon.

 

Interesting observation; of course the G2 RL is so new it will be at least 2 years before any significant tweaks and a true G3 is way into the future. Acura's conservative nature will of course preclude quicker changes.

 

I'm already hearing rumors of a HP bump to 320 and torque bump to 275. Honda's probably going to tweak the RL's engine much sooner than we think possible.

 

I hope Honda makes a 2 million HP and 1.5 million ft-lb torque V24 (both figures being reached at idle RPM) for the next gen RL so some members who continually complain about the acceleration will stop since their point has been made...repeatedly.

I think for my next luxury car I wont settle for anything less than 0-60mph in under 4.3 seconds. After all, that quick acceleration is needed for me in my city driving.

Just my opinion of course....

 

They have been great in the snow, but I could easily slide if I wanted to -- this of course in my rear-drive E420 with 295 ft-lbs of torque... Overall though, I think they'll be fine in the snow, especially on the RL with AWD.


One comment on the whole joke that is made about the importance of 0-60 times: It's not like you actually make 0-60 runs often. It's just a standard test to gauge overall performance potential. Just like slamming on the brakes to go from 80 MPH to 0 isn't a realistic "how we use the cars" kinda test. They are just standard tests for comparison purposes. Coming from a torquey-V8 that does 0-60 in about 6.1 seconds, I'm not all that disappointed in the 6.7 seconds it takes Acura, but I *wish* it was faster...

Randy

 

Thank you very much for the compliments...and I think I agree with you about the performance. I have not test driven the competition yet, so I can't speak from experience, but I'd agree with you in that the RL will probably have a bump in HP and torque, real soon. If Acura means business, which I sure hope they do, they'll boost the torque (and because of it, the horsepower) and give the suspension a few little tweaks, and the V6 powered RL will be trampling all over the V8 competition. To see it fair so well against the V8 powered bad-boys is REALLY making a statement. The RL is an incredible package.

BTW--Bitium, you have to testdrive when you're back over here. I don't expect it to be too popular over there. The Germans sure are loyal to their own product (and all the power to them--they make some amazing automobiles, and with the WIDE range of engines, trims, and options, there's no reason not to be). My guess is that it will be the true enthusiasts who check out the Legend. However, I think it would be cool to see a CDI Legend for added variety. Wishful thinking, I know BTW, do you know if Honda will be offering packages or and options for the Legend?

 

The Pilot Sport A/S are not as harsh the OEM it's is more forgiving but not mushy or sticky on the road, cornering is notch more firmer, driving on wet roads and noise level are light years ahead of the OEM.

I have kept the factory rims and puchased my Sport A/S from my Acura dealer to prevent any warranty confusion. Also, my dealer, advised against the larger rims and low profile tires, because these will generate more noise and harshnes, but cornering is perfected.

The RL ride is very sweet with these tires and of course it is not that of the LS 430, which I do not expect it to be.

 

I have about 10,000 miles on my 05 RL now and every time i drive it, i love it a little more.. I drive a S500 for work a lot and personally i feel that the RL is actually a more comfortable car to drive.. of course, the tires were swapped out for better ones before i even drove the car off the lot, i had already noticed the OEM's not being quite up to par during an extended test drive before i bought it.

i WOULD like a _little_ more 'push' on the freeway from the engine.. acceleration is fine, the RL isn't a race car after all (i have a souped up S2000 for those things).. Honda has said that they *might* consider a V8 if the Ridgeline sells well.. so we can only hope for a V8 engine for the RL (that too would help the noise level a bit, as the engine would have to do less RPM for the same speeds).

Tracer

 

Sign me up. I'll take two!!!!!