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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  Lesters choice - 2005 Acura RL
  By Lester Gruda - October 5 - 7:54 am

  Of all the cars in this class, by far the best available options available come standard. If you can forego sleek design, the RL is by far the best car available.

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  Old Reliable - 2006 Acura RL
  By Don Meadows - October 1 - 5:25 pm

  Very reliable and comfortable car to drive. Has very good head & leg room for front passengers. Quiet ride & handles well. For some odd reason, get a few mpg less in the winter time vs warmer weather.

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  Best price/performer Ive ever driven - 2005 Acura RL
  By Bobthetomato - October 1 - 4:16 pm

  I looked at every equivalent Mercedes, BMW, and Audi before deciding on the RL. While each model had its pluses and minuses, the combination of price, features, and prior experience with the reliability of the RL made it an unbeatable combination. As with the first year of any new model, I certainly was in the break-in phase for much of the electronics. Lots of little glitches with OnStar, Navigation, and XM Radio, but they were all minor annoyances. The performance and handling of the SH4WD is just unbelievable, especially given youre technically driving a near- luxury sedan. Finally, this last winter was a tough one, and there were times when I got stuck in my 4WD F250, but not my RL

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  Best in its class - 2005 Acura RL
  By james - September 29 - 1:45 am

  Amazing! I have driven and owned the German competitors and nothing gives you the bang for your buck like this machine.

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  The best of two worlds - 2005 Acura RL
  By Murry Cohen - September 27 - 5:40 pm

  This vehicle is just the best all around vehicle from Acura yet . For its class which is the largest luxury size yet, it gives excellent mileage for this class as compaired to other ex. Mercedes Benz. Workmanship is top of the line, horsepower is 300 hp without sacrificing mileage. Its what one would call in the old days a sleeper that blows the competition away!

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  Acura RL - 2005 Acura RL
  By Theresa - September 21 - 5:02 pm

  My Acura RL is the absolute best automobile I have ever owned Previously Cadillacs)- it handles superbly (rain or shine)- looks/design fantastic - evaluation would honestly by 10 + + - headlights, suspension, interior, exterior - roominess - all excellent

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  My First Acura - 2005 Acura RL
  By MG - September 21 - 4:54 pm

  It is a fun car to drive - very responsive steering and suspension. The Bose stereo system is excellent - the quality of sound phenominal and it equalizes the outside noise so all you hear is the music - very unique. Good visibility from the drivers seat all around the car. The seats are very comfortable with automatic controls for an excellent ride. The telescoping steering wheel is easily adjusted for comfort. At night the lighting in the car provides very good visibility to all controls. An added feature includes little blue lights that provide visibility for the door handles and foot area so your not fumbling for things. The adaptive headlights are responsive and brightly shine.

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  Great Quality - 2002 Acura RL
  By Phx_RL - September 19 - 1:11 am

  Excellent car. We have had this car for a year now. Bought it as a certified vehicle. No issues to speak of. Smooth drive and comfort. Feels more solid and safe to drive vs a Lexus.

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  RL - 2005 Acura RL
  By tb - September 17 - 3:27 am

  GREAT

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  Love the Car! - 2005 Acura RL
  By tegman - September 16 - 7:19 pm

  Although 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.