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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  Im lovin it - 2005 Acura RL
  By richard m - August 3 - 3:44 am

  I use my RL for my short commute to work, and taking the family around the town, its just terrific. It has every feature that I need, and a lot I will never use. The 6 cylinder engine puts out more than ample power. This is a great car and i would recommend it to anyone who can afford its steep price.

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  Acura RL - 2005 Acura RL
  By Acura RL - August 3 - 12:32 am

  If you want to be pampered, this is the car to purchase. Though not short in performance, its strength is its smooth effortless ride and its on board technology. Best navigation package in the market with a full compliment of voice activated systems.

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  A "great" Deal - 2004 Acura RL
  By willie - July 29 - 12:22 pm

  I was fed up with high maintenance $$$ of my BMW. Refused to pay high price $$$ for Lexus. A friend, car salesman, suggested Acura RL which has everything but is not flashy! Got it for a steal "brand new" on ebay! I admit it doesnt handle like the BMW, BUT its a better value for the cost. I actually like the more classy, conservative look of the 04 vs the "all- look-the-same" look of the 05!

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  EXPENSIVE HONDA - 2002 Acura RL
  By RLK - July 25 - 1:57 pm

  Vehicle has many impressive points but sitting position still reminds me of my Honda. Lexus has better driver visibility. Its time for Honda to give these cars their own chassis. Lexus designs their cars for American size drivers but Honda/Acura designs their cars for Japanese size drivers. A lot of car for the money.

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  Great car - 1998 Acura RL
  By daddy6 - June 11 - 2:34 am

  Absolutely reliable. Smooth and quiet on the road, OK power. Layout of controls very convenient, esp. sound system controls on steering wheel. Design is very good, my car has been mistaken for Mercedes and Lexus. A tremendous value

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  RL Topped My Nearly Purchased 2K5 MB - 2005 Acura RL
  By BillFinkRI - June 7 - 10:16 am

  I was just about to purchase my 3rd brand new MB when I accidentally ended up in the Acura dealers parking lot. I was taking "that" drive to make that final purchase decision on the MB, but...the rest is history. There isnt any reason to purchase a Luxury sedan with half the features of the RL and at 1/3 a higher price. Compare the RLs features, size, and safety features against the MB "E" class. (Whoops, dont forget to look at the price tag after you do that.)

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  Excellent Car - 1998 Acura RL
  By Murray - May 10 - 1:57 am

  Ive only had for a year -- purchased used with 60000 miles on it -- mint condition. No problems so far -- runs well in winter and summer (live in cold climate). Very smooth ride -- brakes well -- and handling is surprising for the size. Very nice on highway. Previous car was an Accord -- for the money I get a lot more features -- and the used RLs are not much more money then the V6 Accords for same year. Highly recommended.

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  Nice Reliable but not cushy for luxury sedan - 2002 Acura RL
  By JDM - April 12 - 12:12 am

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  I Love these Acuras - 2000 Acura RL
  By Loves Acuras - April 11 - 7:20 pm

  I used to have a 1991 Legend and decided to replace it. It was a great decision. This car is well worth the money. It is the not the best on the gas but not worse than any other car in this class.

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  Great car - 2004 Acura RL
  By Arnold Tesh - March 24 - 10:11 am

  This automobile is exactly what you would expect when you talk luxury and comfort. Since I bought this car, I hate to fly--even first class.