I don't have an RL today but am thinking of getting one. I have a few radio/navigation questions ...

Does the RL (or any Acura) come equipped with HD Radio, or can that option easily be added?

Does the navigation system announce street names, or is that even planned?

How often do the mapping updates come out, and how much do they cost when they do?

Does the factory satellite radio have a buffer for the sound, so that rewind and fast forward are available? That option is available today on most after market satellite radios, but I don’t see it discussed anywhere on the factory installed one. If not, do aftermarket radios integrate into the Acura navigation system so that selecting satellite stations can be done via the displays, whiile having the advantage of a playback buffer?

 

I've tried several nav systems and concluded the Honda/Acura system is by far the best (all things considered). I think most would agree, even those who own somethign else. Here's some answers to your questions as I know them;

Does the RL (or any Acura) come equipped with HD Radio, or can that option easily be added? No. Also not sure if it can be integrated after market.

Does the navigation system announce street names, or is that even planned? Yes, when you are following a route it will say things like "Take next left turn at Main Street". It does not announce streets as your driving along without a route calculated.

How often do the mapping updates come out, and how much do they cost when they do? Seem to be once a year. They are $189. Go to the Alpine website to learn more https://store.alpine-usa.com/Acuradv.../naviorder.php

Does the factory satellite radio have a buffer for the sound, so that rewind and fast forward are available? No

If not, do aftermarket radios integrate into the Acura navigation system so that selecting satellite stations can be done via the displays, whiile having the advantage of a playback buffer? Don't know, but I doubt it.

 

Mikey answered the other questions so well, I can only add to this one. There's no buffer. You CAN add an aftermarket system, but there are none I know of that integrate with the installed navi system. Even Acura's own iPod integration solution doesn't integrate with the installed navi in terms of allowing song choice from the navi screen.