Overview & Reviews
The RL is completely redesigned for 2005, and now sports a 300-horsepower V6 and standard all-wheel drive.
- Quiet cabin, handles well for a large sedan, excellent build and materials quality, unique all-wheel-drive system, innovative navigation system offers real-time traffic information.
- Lacks the low-end grunt of a V8, still lacks the prestige of its European competition.
User Reviews:
Showing 11 through 20 of 208.00-
RL and Star Wars - 2005 Acura RL
By Bill Kowalski - March 23 - 10:26 amThe quality and overall technology put into this vehicle is outstanding. The voice recognition features and use of technology is the best Ive seen in any vehicle. Ive owned BMWs, an Audi A6 (Quattro) and Mercedes. I and have test driven Infinitis M35. Based upon my experience the Acura is the most user friendly vehicle Ive encountered. While it is quick, the Acura could use more low end torque to get it off the line quicker and a little more responsive, such as Infiniti has done with the M35.
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Good Value? Yes. Great Car? Hmmmmm... - 2005 Acura RL
By Beltway Bandit - August 23 - 11:30 amI am a BMW 7-series and Benz S class owner. Also had Escalade previously. The RL looked unique in design and the interiro was impressive at first. Factory refuses to address design flaw...exhaust stains the rear fender and no response provided. Stereo system about the best Ive ever heard in a car...first-class. Like the 6- cylinder performance and road mileage. Tends to rumble in low gear early in the day. Dealer hasnt fixed yet. Lots of interiro rattle from rear window shade. Dealer has not fixed. With MSRP arounds 50 or a little less, a good value. But I dont know I would get another.
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Nice but not perfect - 2005 Acura RL
By David - May 12 - 10:03 amThis care is really comfortable and has some great technology that could use just a bit of tweaking. Love the sound system. Mine came with loose battery cable, sunroof & door gasket damage, and a problem with the starter switch that left me stranded in my garage and still is not resolved after 3 visits to dealer. Bluetooth phone is great but not fully functional with Verizon phones. Turning radius a bit wide. Rear visibility is not terrible compared to other new models, but overall visibility is still a bit restricted. Lots of the features (auto door lock, displays, etc) are easily programmed to suit your prefs. Overall I love this car -- its a pleasure to get in and drive somewhere!
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RL Thoughts - 2005 Acura RL
By Mike - April 12 - 10:13 amThe car is a very nice blend of luxury and performance. While it lacks the handling of a BMW 5 series, it also has better real world driving characterisitcs. It has a very well integrated approach to technology and I love the features, all of which are standard; Navigation, XM radio, OnStar, All Wheel Drive. Add the beautiful interior, refinement and the fact they are willing to significantly reduce the price and you have a great combination.
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So far, just worries - 2005 Acura RL
By AcuraRLBlue - March 13 - 3:03 pmMy 2005 RL came with diagnostic codes indicating problems with the AWD and emission systems. The dealership just deleted the codes and explained that it was just "temporary codes" for other issues. This is hardly assuring, and further inquiries to the sales person/his service manager are being ignored. No one should be expected to have to worry about a $50K+ car. To be fair, the car is fun to drive, and my rating is "temporary" in nature until I get to the bottom of what it really means to have these diagnostic codes. If there were real problems with my car that were ignored by the dealership before handing the car over to me, I expect the dealership and Acura to make it right.
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Acura RL 2005 Model - 2005 Acura RL
By John Owings - January 17 - 6:23 pmThe 05 RL is a fine automobile. The main complaint I have is on the transmission. The car does not downshift when slowing down to corner. As a result, the car will shudder at low speeds until you begin to accelerate and the transmission and the engine finally get back in sync. I have taken the car back to the dealer several times for the problem, they have installed the new software patch to solve the problem. But it does not work any better. I have called Acuras national service organization and had them review it and they say it is working per "specifications". It was a nice way to say they have blown it on the spec.
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Very nice car - 2005 Acura RL
By Doug in NYC - November 16 - 12:36 amThis is a wonderful car. However, prior to accepting it, please ensure that the dealer handles all service bulletins, because otherwise several things may not work as well as you wish. Definitely sit in the drivers seat and try to get comfortable. I was never able to get completely comfortable, but close enough to be happy. After 1,000 miles, Im still happy.
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Excellent Value Give it a shot - 2005 Acura RL
By snrub1 - November 8 - 6:19 pmHaving test driven the competition, I feel the RL stands up to all comers. The car rides very well, is packed with features (the stereo is incredible) and, though lacking a bit in the excitement department, the car does everything very well. Dollar for dollar, the RL was by far the best value in the class. Thus far we are delighted by our purchase of the RL. Give the RL a shot if looking for a luxury sedan.
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Love the Car! - 2005 Acura RL
By tegman - September 16 - 7:19 pmAlthough I bought my RL in July of 05, Im still finding new reasons to love it here in Sept 05. The styling is great, the interior is 1st rate and the amenities are top notch, i.e., the steering wheel tilts up when the engine is turned off to allow free access out of the car. Although the city gas mileage is not great (I get about 22mpg freeway driving), I know its because I have heavy foot and demand performance from my vehicles. When I hit the gas to go around a suddenly braking car in front of me I need my car to respond and the RL does, admirable. Also, the real time traffic on the NAVI is great for my commuting in the mornings. I am a satisfied customer.
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Great, but needs improvements - 2005 Acura RL
By taitando - August 10 - 9:44 pmThe Good: The RL is a technological marvel that offers a superb value in its segment. Most of the options that you would pay extra for in other makes are standard in this car. Keyless Access, Navigation, Surround Sound, Hands Free Link, Xenon Adaptive Front lights, Rear Sunshade, Onstar, XM Satellite Radio & Real Time Traffic, etc... The list goes on and is quite extensive. The ride is quiet and smooth. Complemented with the superb SH-AWD system with 290HP, the RL is fun to drive. This is not a sports car, but it has plenty of go to help you pass other people in the left lane. The Bad: The paint is thin and chips easily. Others have posted problems with the battery.
