Appearance aside (I know most folks hate the power plenum on the 2009 and newer, the "beak") I'm thinking of buying a used 2008 or 2009 RL with Technology Package. I know the 2009 has a bit more horsepower and a fair more torque out of the 3.7 liter engine, but it also gets a bit worse gas mileage. One inch larger wheels, no more PAX. Dimensions seem exactly the same. I think I should be able to find a 2009 with some warranty left for only a bit more than a comparably equipped 2008. I'm interested in feedback about brakes, headlights, backup camera, NAV, iPhone connectivity. Also any problems endemic to these years.

Thanks in advance.
BTW, getting ready to trade up from 2001 CL type-S with Nav. with 129K miles

 

Brakes, headlights, backup camera, and Nav are identical.

Differences with a 2009:
- Bluetooth audio and USB/iPhone connectivity
- Larger engine
- Faster shifts
- Full time shift paddles
- 18" wheels
- Slightly stiffer suspension (but less than a 2008 ASpec package)
- Loss of stick shifts
- Loss of non-dual climate control, but addition of climate control mode and fan speed selection
- Different headrests

Both MYs selected should be considered bullet-proof. 2005-mid 2007 were the only problem years of the 2G RL.

I would personally buy the 2009 if the deals were identical. However, I personally wouldn't pay more than $250 more for the same cars but different MY.

 

2009 and up has a wood covered center console(around shifter and cup holders)while 2008 doesn't.I find the seats a little different,specifically the bolsters.

 

I vote for 2009 even though I'm a bit biased. In the end, I think you should choose what looks better to you, they are equally great vehicles.

 

I don't think the '09 actually gets worse real-world gas mileage than the '08. The EPA slightly tightened its standards for the MPG test in 2009, causing everyone's ratings to drop slightly. Despite the higher displacement, I think that was the reason for the dropoff in the RL's rated mileage, rather than actual deterioration in the fuel economy of the product.

 

Interior wise - 09, has slight upgrades here and there, but does make a big difference

Exterior wise - 08

 

Doesn't 09 have AC in seats, where 08 only had heated ...

 

Except in Canada.

 

 

 

Just went through this exact exercise and settled on the 2009 for a couple reasons...
1) resale is likely to be higher given it looks like the "new" design language
2) interior upgrades - real wood is less cheesy - I have the fake stuff on my MDX and not a fan
3) sport mode auto and 18inch wheels - drives quite sporty without need for paddles although chews through gas
I like the look of the 2009 minus the beak although it is smaller than on other models. I still think the 2005 is a nice and a cleaner design, but the look is aging fast given the entire Acura line-up design language switch.