kssod

Why would anyone buy an 09RL instead of a 09 TL SH-AWD. I just compared the dimensions specs on the Acura site and the TL is within 1 inch of all RL specs, and is even a little wider and is lighter by about 200 lbs. The interior dimensions are essentially identical and passenger volume is .9 cu ft less in the TL. Unless the leather and interior is inferior the TL is a "winner" compared to the RL.
subjectively, the TL also looks better.
The 2010 RL would need to be a huge leap in looks, features and performance, and keep the AWD, for me to consider trading my 06 RL.
Otherwise, the TL SH-AWD, or G37x with seven speed, or the M when they make it with the 3.7l will be the lead contenders

foam4me

Guess you answered your own question.

cai06

..or maybe why buy a 09' SH-AWD TL when you can buy a 09 RL' for few thousands more, since youre already spending >$40K. You get better fit and finish, Made in Japan, more upscale interior, less flashy on your face exterior, cooled seats, etc. I read somewhere else that the SH-AWD in the TL is similar to the MDX and RDX but not quite the same as int the RL (with up to 5% rotation increase per rear tire side as opposed to 1.7%) FWTW. The TL is more sporty though..

The 09' RL is just a transition MMC, the 2011 should definitely be bigger..

AMGala

iTrader: (4)

test

Mizouse

test for astro

db22

If after all of the threads regarding the RL and TL then maybe you should consider the Chevrolet Impala. That is also very similar in size, performance etc.. If you can't tell the difference between an American made machine and an RL then you could save a lot of money.

kssod

please lets not get testy. I own a 2006 RL, I also own a 08 MDX, and at the time there were many features that separated the RL from the TL. My point is that Acura is now essentially building 2 vehicles that are identical, and has spent millions to retool the RL. The TL and RL will be very similar in quality and material, I don't believe OH vs Japan construction will be a major factor, it hasn't been in the past. Why not stop RL production instead of a 1 or 2 year MMC, and spend the money on the new flagship with a total "wow" package of exterior and interior design that truely separates it from the TL. I enjoy every feature on my RL and it is vastly superior in refinement and comfort compared to the numerous 07 and 08 TLs that i have driven. I just expect the new TL to match or exceed the RL benchmark, and feel that the MMC RL will be a flop in sales, and will fail to improve Acura's image.

CL6

You're just saying that because the RL is getting old and the TL will soon be new. Happens all the time. When the new RL comes out nobody will be saying that. In the meantime, buy a TL or, better yet, buy an 08 RL or a used one.

jhr3uva90

The 2009 RL might be a flop in sales? You mean the 2008 wasn't a flop in sales?

neuronbob

My prediction is that the RL will continue to sell slowly as the value in purchasing one is not as much there now that the new TL is basically the same size and has about 90% of the features.

I think the RL will sell mostly to those who a) don't want to try a first-year product like the TL, b) don't like the look of the new TL--frankly, as much as the front of the MMC 2009 RL has been panned, it's definitely NOT as polarizing as the 2009 TL, or c) those to whom Japanese manufacture is better than American. The RL still has a niche at Acura.

We'll see what happens when the SH-AWD TL appears in a couple of months.

TSX69

Ventilated seats, obviously.

Oh & maybe active noise cancellation since I have not yet seen that listed for the TL.

DoctorTuna

I found no compelling reason to buy the 09 RL, especially since they ruined the exterior design, IMO. The TL will sell very well, it'll almost be like buying a discounted RL, for all intensive purposes. One major change not mentioned about the 09 RL is that they have severely restricted supply of the vehicle, this is the only way they will even come close to getting what they're asking for it with the new TL on the way. Otherwise they'd be selling the RL discounted below the price of the new TL, complete oxymoron!! Acura, what have you done!!

db22

The RL/Legend is marketed in numerous countries, do the other countries get the 09 looks and features or will they wait 'till the new 3G?