Overview & Reviews

As a flagship luxury sedan, the Acura RL was always a bit of an oddity. It was never notably large or roomy, and always offered a V6 as its sole engine choice. Nor was the RL a style or design standout, and it generally received little notice among more prestigious makes or even models within its own family. In recent years, for example, the TL sedan has offered more excitement and the same premium feel for less cost.

Acura hopes the RL's replacement, the RLX, can distinguish itself among the luxury pack in a way the RL never could. From a used-car standpoint, older first-generation Acura RLs are rather ho-hum. The newer generation is a better car for sure, though in general it was still outclassed by other luxury sedans such as the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series.

Most Recent Acura RL
The second-generation Acura RL was produced from 2005-'12. It sported a tighter, more athletic look than the frumpier stance of its predecessor. The new car also introduced a 290-horsepower V6, a five-speed automatic transmission, an advanced all-wheel-drive system and only one trim level.

Although it didn't offer the posh reputation of other luxury vehicles, the Acura RL nevertheless featured a classy, sumptuous interior adorned in high-quality materials, leather and real wood trim. The dash was awash in buttons, but they served as a welcome alternative to the navigation system's iDrive-like control knob and voice commands. The RL's 10-speaker surround-sound stereo with six-CD/DVD audio changer, satellite radio and standard iPod integration was one of the best in the business. An optional Technology package included a voice-activated navigation system.

In road tests, we found that the Acura RL got better the harder it was driven, thanks to its SH-AWD system that tenaciously maintained traction. The ride was tuned on the cushier side of the spectrum, so despite offering notable handling abilities, the RL was principally designed to be a comfortable cruiser. Though the V6 offered impressive peak output, it still couldn't match the refined low and midrange thrust of its competitors' V8s.

The RL changed incrementally through the first few years of this generation. For 2006, the RL gained the Technology package that included adaptive cruise control, run-flat tires and a collision-preventing radar-based active braking system. The next few years brought no significant changes until 2009, when Acura face-lifted the RL with its controversial design language. The front grille in particular was described in rather unflattering terms such as "bagel slicer." Better news was under the skin, where the 3.7-liter V6 gained 10 hp and a six-speed automatic transmission replaced the five-speed unit.

Past Acura RL Models
Buyers looking at used Acura RLs built before 2005 will be dealing with the first-generation Acura RL (known as the 3.5 RL) produced from 1996-2004. The 3.5 RL debuted as a replacement for the popular Acura Legend, but its unimaginative name demonstrated an unfortunate change in Acura's philosophy that saw it move in a more staid, Lexus-like direction. This generation also had a high level of standard equipment and typically cost less than its competition, but it couldn't overcome its anonymous styling, unexciting V6 engine and lax driving dynamics.

While front-wheel drive is beneficial in smaller cars, most luxury car buyers seem to prefer the extra performance and handling that come from rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. This wasn't such a big issue during the RL's early years, but as newer competing models debuted with more power and more features, the Acura RL became increasingly outclassed.

Acura didn't change the 3.5 RL much during its first generation. In 2000, it received a standard stability control system and an improved navigation system. The most significant changes were made in 2002, when it gained a bit more power and a more firmly tuned suspension.

The RL's predecessor was the Acura Legend. Available in coupe and sedan body styles, the Legend largely lived up to its name, being praised for its sporty nature, strong performance and impeccable fit and finish. As with most Acura/Honda products, reliability was very good.

User Reviews:

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  This why you buy an Acura - 1998 Acura RL
  By Rod - March 26 - 6:36 pm

  Always reliable. Even after ten years, the build quality of this is incredible. Leather, paint, and all interior trim pieces are still in great shape. I have test driven several cars in the last two years and none offer anything new or better quality. When driving this car, there is a tangible perception that you are experiencing engineering at its best.

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  Best Car ever - 1999 Acura RL
  By timevans - February 24 - 11:05 pm

  I have 236,000 miles and climbing on my RL. It stills looks and drives like new. Original engine and trans! This car is awesome and has everything. Very reliable, and stylish. Japanese cars are enginered the best! This car proves it!!!

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  Rock Solid - 1997 Acura RL
  By Rob - February 22 - 11:26 pm

  Bought the car as a lease return. The car has a great ride along with good road feel. Didnt have a repair until it had over 140k. I now have 169K. The leather interior still has no cracks. I use 87 octane gas. No problem. I cant find a good reason to buy another car. The 3.5 RL has lousy resale making it the best value in used car value.

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  Wheres the Road? - 2008 Acura RL
  By BlindedByTheLight - February 19 - 7:51 am

  An excellent car except for the ability to see the road at night. Excellent quality, handling and comfort. However, the HID headlight aiming system is way too low - a law suit waiting to happen. It is pure terror driving downhill on a windy country road at night. The headlights are aimed into the ground, but the dealer claims they are aimed correctly. I would rate this car a 10 during daytime driving, but a 2 for nightime. If I had test driven this car at night, I wouldnt have bought it! On the plus side, I am getting near 28 mpg highway, which is much better than the EPA sticker rating. Excellent steering and road performance.

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  Old Reliable - 1998 Acura RL
  By Frank P. - February 9 - 11:58 am

  I have owned this car since new. Its been an outstanding performer. Always reliable, inexpensive to maintain. It replaced a 1990 Acura Legend, also a great car. The RL is more of a cruiser, not too athletic, but high on comfort. I get 26 mpg on premium fuel. Looking to replace it finally at 148,000 miles.

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  Very Pleased: RL vs M35 - 2008 Acura RL
  By Steve - February 8 - 5:12 pm

  I compared the RL the M35x all wheel drive autos. I found them to be very similar. Although the M35 might be slightly faster off the line I felt more comfortable in the RL drivers seat and was surprised by the sporty/firm suspension. The M35 may also win the looks category but the RL dresses up nicely with the factory flaps and spoiler. Having owned an Infinity and a Honda/Acura previously, I expect the RL to be more reliable and less costly to service. What really swayed my decision to the RL was after negotiating on both cars, the 2008 RL ended up thousands less than the M35. After a couple thousand miles, I am extremely happy with the RL.

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  Best-kept secret among luxury sedans - 2006 Acura RL
  By dwboston - January 24 - 12:13 pm

  Hands down the best handling car Ive ever driven. SH-AWD completely transforms the drviving experience and benefits both inclement and regular weather driving. Build quality and materials are top-notch and the amount of technology in the car for the price is incredible.

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  Love this Car - 2005 Acura RL
  By Gary - January 11 - 9:19 pm

  I love my RL. It gets better with age. I put RonJon Legend 19" wheels on my car and get many compliments. Celestial Silver and Taupe. Love it!

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  Love it - 2008 Acura RL
  By Michael - January 3 - 9:54 am

  Traded in 2003 3.2 TL. Had A4 before that and living in Northeast missed the AWD. Ratings lower for fun to drive as it is a matter of what you want....a small fun car like an A4 or BMW 3 Series to zip around and corner in or the luxury of a bigger car. I went for the luxury and am happy I did. The lower rating for the exterior design is because lets be honest this does not have the flash of some rivals. Otherwise, I love this car. Great upgrades, interior, loaded with bose stereo, bluetooth, nav. system. AWD fantastic thru 3 snowstorms that would have crippled TL. Car is solid and feel safe. Lot of highway, getting 21 MPG! TL never a prob, anticipate same or better with RL

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  A Fine Automobile All Around - 2005 Acura RL
  By San Diego Bruce - December 31 - 8:30 am

  Ive been driving my 05 RL just over a month now, and am totally pleased with everything about it. My family feels safe and secure in it, and its been the car to drive here in So. Cal. during our wet, rainy winter. It is by far the best car Ive ever driven at night, because of the excellent headlights and overall handling. Its very quick, so I really have to watch my speed to keep it legal. The interior is quiet,luxurious, and supremely comfortable, and the Bose audio is awesome. I would recommend it to anyone interested in a long-term relationship with a world class machine. If youre an enthusiast, this is your car. I cant wait to drive it again today.